Pets in Halloween Costumes: Cute or Risky?

Searches for cat and dog Halloween costumes surge online! 

Spooky season is creeping closer, and it’s not just humans getting into the spirit. A quick scroll through TikTok shows pets stealing the spotlight, with #catcostume trending – this hashtag alone is up +39% in the past month, and user-generated costume videos surging +141% in just the last week.

Google searches for ‘dog Halloween costumes’ are also up by +120% over the past 30 days, with pet parents clearly eager to get their furry friends involved in the fun. 

But here’s the tricky part: while costumes might make for a great photo, Halloween costumes for pets aren’t necessarily a good idea. In fact, most vets and animal experts would suggest avoiding pet costumes altogether. They can cause stress, restrict movement and – in some cases – even lead to overheating or accidents.

Expert vet Dr Siân Burwood says: “Dressing up is a big part of Halloween and you may want to get your pet a cute outfit to join in… But is your pet used to wearing clothes?

“For most, it’s best to leave them out of the costumes as it feels unnatural to them, and may result in them hurting themselves when they try to get themselves out. This is especially true for cats! Your pet may also try and hurt you if you try to dress them, and both dog and cat bites can be very serious.”

So, should you dress your pet up this Halloween? Our advice: we wouldn’t recommend it. When done without their safety in mind, this could result in unexpected trips to the vets, which only emphasises the importance of having pet insurance cover. But if you do decide to, then here are some important safety tips to keep in mind. 

Fun or frightful? 

There’s no denying that pet costumes can be absolutely adorable, and for some, a way to bond and make those everlasting memories. However, what looks cute or funny to us can feel frustrating (or even frightening) to them.

Costumes that are too tight limit natural movement. Likewise, if they’re too warm or too fussy, this can make your pet uncomfortable, stressed or at risk of injury or overheating. You should also avoid costumes that make it difficult to go to the toilet.

The key here is balance and look out for obvious signs – Halloween should never come at the cost of your pet’s wellbeing. If your pet shows signs of discomfort – scratching at the outfit, refusing to move or generally looking anxious – it’s best to ditch the costume and celebrate in another way, such as themed treats, toys or an extra long walk. 

For cats, the outfits can often limit their ability to show natural behaviours, such as grooming, and they can try to ‘back out’ of outfits in a panic, potentially getting hurt if they bump into something.

Why do cats freeze when you put clothes on them?

If you notice that your cat does freeze up when in costume, this is usually a sign that they’re uncomfortable and restricted in clothing. Wearing clothes isn’t natural for cats, so it may take some time for them to get used to the material.

If you notice they’re unhappy or feel limited in their breathing, it’s probably best to think of another costume, or simply not use one at all. You know your cat best, so go by their reactions and don’t force them into something that could distress them.

Always remember that your cat is in charge!

How to choose safe Halloween costumes for pets

If you do want to get your furry friend involved this spooky season, here are a few guidelines to help keep things safe and stress-free: 

• Comfort first: opt for soft, breathable fabrics that don’t restrict movement 

• Check the fit: costumes should be snug enough to stay on, but not tight (check around the neck and chest) 

• Avoid dangling parts: strings, beads or loose fabric can be a choking hazard 

• Keep it short and simple: sometimes the best costumes are the simplest, such as a themed collar or bandana 

• Monitor constantly: your pet will make it clear if they’re not happy. As mentioned, cats tend to freeze when dressed up, so keep an eye on them and never leave your pet unattended while in costume 

Celebrating Halloween with pets: fun alternatives to costumes 

Halloween is a great opportunity to create special memories with your pets, but their comfort and safety should always come first. If they seem to enjoy the attention and don’t mind being dressed up, go for something simple and lightweight.

On the other hand, if you think they might rather skip dressing up all together, then there are plenty of other ways to celebrate – including long walks, cosy nights in and plenty of cuddles. 

This year, whether your pet is sporting a pumpkin bandana, or simply enjoying the extra treats, the trick is making sure that they’re safe, happy and part of the family fun. After all, a happy pet is the best treat of them all.

Find out how to make Halloween dog treats.

Other pet-safe Halloween tips

Dr Siân Burwood has more useful tips for avoiding your pets getting too spooked out and keeping them happy this Halloween:

Beware trick-or-treaters

“Your house is your pet’s safe space, and having lots of visiting trick-or-treaters can make them feel attacked in their own home. For cats, this can cause stress-related urine infections or overgrooming in the days that follow, but for dogs a threat to their territory may mean they try to defend it.

“On Halloween night, keep your pets restricted in a safe space with their favourite bed and toys, perhaps with the radio on, and never answer the door with your dog loose to avoid injury for everyone.”

Keep sweets out of reach

“There’s lots of yummy treats around at Halloween! Remember that these aren’t meant for pets, and that chocolate and artificial sweeteners can be fatal if eaten. 

“Keep your pet away from all the goodies you are giving out or have collected, and if they do manage to eat anything, call your vet straight away.”

Be mindful of candles

“A pumpkin filled with lit candles can look wickedly appealing.. Remember to keep them out of the way of curious pets to avoid burns!”

It’s also not a bad idea to invest in some flameless LED candles, which look great, while being much safer than their combustible counterparts.

Find out more fun cat enrichment and dog enrichment ideas.