Halloween comes with all kinds of fun, and it's only natural to want to share it with your pet. But it’s important to remember the basic safety rules that can keep your furry family member healthy and even save their life during the spooky day.
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These are the dangers to look out for.
Candy and chocolate
According to Ahna Brutlag, a vet who works with the Pet Poison Helpline, cats and dogs shouldn't be allowed to eat candy and chocolate, so it’s important to keep them out of reach of your pets.
If you suspect that they ingested any of the treats, contact your vet as soon as possible.
Halloween costumes
If you manage to dress your pet in a Halloween costume without them running away and hiding under a sofa, make sure you don’t leave them unattended at any time. Watch out for loose pieces that pets might chew on or eat. And avoid zippers and metal buttons, especially, as they may contain toxic amounts of zinc.
Candles
Clumsy dogs and curious cats can get too close to lit candles or pumpkins and singe fur or skin. This is a serious risk that shouldn't be underestimated. If you want flickering candles indoors, opt for the electric variety.
Glow sticks
Many pets find glow sticks attractive and like to chew on them, so it’s best to keep them out of reach. The chemicals inside these party decor items can irritate pets' mouths, especially cats, and can cause excessive, foamy hypersalivation.
If your fluff-balls bites through the glow stick, wash its mouth and give it something tasty to get rid of the foam.
The noise
All the comings and goings can be pretty stressful for your pet this Halloween. Think ahead to make the day go as smoothly as possible for your furry friend. Consider keeping them in a separate room, away from the front door and trick-or-treaters.
As a nighttime escape is always a risk on Halloween, make sure your pet is microchipped.
Electric cables
If you’re putting up tons of light-up decorations, disguise the wires so your pet doesn’t trip over or chew them. You can do this by hiding them under carpets, behind furniture or in cord wraps.
Sources used:
- Daily Paws: '5 Tips to Keep Pets Safe This Halloween'
- The Dodo: 'Here’s How To Keep Your Pets Safe This Halloween'
Read more:
⋙ 10 cutest cat Halloween costumes ever
⋙ Halloween: 10 dog costume ideas that are so hilarious they'll make your day
