Halloween and Bonfire Night are full of fun, fireworks and a fair bit of noise! But while we might love the spooky season, our feline friends often find it a little less exciting. Here’s how to make sure your cat stays safe, calm, and comfortable during festivities.
Halloween – Fun for You, Frightening for Them
Keep Them Indoors
With trick-or-treaters knocking, doors opening, and strange costumes everywhere, it’s safest to keep cats tucked up indoors. It is possible that your cat could get a fright and escape through the door!
Decorations & Candles
Carved pumpkins and fake cobwebs might look great… but they’re irresistible toys for your furry friend! Keep flames, cords, and small decorations out of reach to avoid accidents.
No Treats, It’ll End in a Trick
Chocolate and sweets are not cat friendly. Make sure your cat doesn’t sneak any sugary snacks while you’re handing out treats. It may end in a trick – a trip to the vets!
Create a “Do Not Disturb” Zone
If you’re expecting visitors, give your cat their own quiet space with a comfy bed, litter tray, water, and a few favourite toys. A little background noise from the TV or radio can help drown out festive chaos!
Bonfire Night – Big Bangs, Small Paws
Bring Them Inside Early
Fireworks often start before dark, so bring cats inside well before sunset and close windows, curtains, and cat flaps to keep them safely in.
Muffle the Mayhem
Draw the curtains, put the TV/radio on. It might also help to keep the lights low to help mask the flashes and bangs.
Keep Calm and Carry On
Cats can sense our stress – so make sure you keep calm, and don’t act any differently to normal. Let them hide if they want to, and don’t force cuddles, even if you want to comfort them.
Microchips & Calm Tricks
Check that your cat’s microchip details are up to date, just in case they do escape the house. Calming sprays or plug-ins like Feliway can also help them feel more at ease.
A bit of planning can make all the difference! Keep your cat cosy indoors, stay calm, and make their space feel safe – then you can both relax and enjoy the season.
How to Prepare for your dog?
Now you’re prepared for Halloween and Bonfire night with your cat, how do you prepare for your dog? Our friends at Agria Pet Insurance have you covered! Read their article here
From all of us at the GCCF, have a purrfectly safe Halloween and Bonfire Night!
