A cat dressed as a pumpkin or a tiny bat is the Halloween photo everyone falls for. But a cat isn't a kid in a costume: some love it, many tolerate it for a few minutes, others hate it. Here are our 7 rules to keep dress-up fun, for you and for your cat.
7 rules for a successful cat costume
1. Keep it light and minimal
The smaller the accessory, the better it's accepted. A Halloween hat or bat wings go on in seconds and leave the legs and tail free. Full costumes, like the spider costume, are best for calm cats who are used to being handled.
2. Get the right size
Measure your cat's neck and chest before ordering. An accessory should stay on without squeezing: you should be able to slide two fingers under each strap.
3. Nothing over the eyes, ears or mouth
Your cat must be able to see, hear, move their whiskers, eat and breathe freely. Avoid masks, dangling pieces near the face and small parts that could be chewed and swallowed.
4. Introduce it gradually
- Leave the costume near their bed for a day or two so they can sniff it.
- Put it on for a few seconds, then take it off and reward with a treat.
- Gradually increase the time, always staying with them.
5. Watch for signs of stress
Ears flattened back, tail lashing, frozen body, trying to escape, growling or lying flat: take the accessory off right away. A cat who keeps walking, playing and rubbing against you is relaxed.
6. A few minutes is enough
Long enough for photos, then everything comes off. Never leave a costumed cat unattended, and never for sleeping or going outside.
7. Set up the photo shoot first
Get the light and camera ready before dressing your cat. A Halloween teaser wand held above the lens draws their gaze toward you: a classic pet photographer trick.
The real Halloween dangers for cats
- Chocolate is toxic to cats: keep candy out of reach.
- Candles in jack-o'-lanterns: a tail gets too close and accidents happen. Use LED candles instead.
- The doorbell ringing all evening stresses many cats. Set them up in a quiet room with their bed and water.
- The front door opening constantly: watch out for escapes. Keep your cat indoors on the night of October 31.
- Wrappers and ribbons can be swallowed: throw them away as you go.
Our Halloween picks for cats
- Pumpkin or little devil hat with wings: the easiest to accept.
- Adjustable bat wings: light, soft felt.
- Bat cape: with or without a pumpkin bell.
- Plush spider costume: guaranteed wow effect.
- Halloween teaser wand: for playing (and posing!).
FAQ
Can a cat wear a costume all evening?
No. A costume is worn for a few minutes, under supervision. Even a calm cat ends up bothered by an accessory worn for too long.
What if my cat refuses any costume?
Respect that: an orange bandana or a photo next to a pumpkin works just as well. Playing with a Halloween toy is still a fun way to celebrate together.
When should I order to receive it before Halloween?
Order by October 15 to get it before Halloween. Shop the full Halloween collection for cats.