Halloween can be lots of fun for families and young children, and you may be tempted to get your pet involved this spooky season. However, your pet probably would not be as keen and may even be quite overwhelmed. Here’s how you can keep them safe and content throughout the festivities.

Pumpkins!
Carving pumpkins is a favourite family Halloween tradition and many homes will proudly display more than one spooky creation. While pumpkins are generally considered non-toxic, eating large amounts can lead to an upset stomach in pets. The seeds can also be a choking hazard or cause digestive discomfort. Once Halloween is over, dispose of pumpkins responsibly, don’t leave them to rot where curious pets (or wildlife) might try to nibble on them

Glowsticks and Candles
If you purchase a pack of glowsticks this spooky season, keep them out of reach of your pet as they may mistake for a toy or a treat stick. Glowsticks contain an oily liquid which can cause severe drooling and foaming at the mouth. As we’re sure you can imagine, it also wouldn’t taste very nice!

Candles and sparklers can also pose risks, from burns to getting knocked over by wagging tails. Place real candles safely out of the way or choose flameless options instead. If you’re using sparklers, keep pets indoors in a calm space to avoid stress and accidents.

Bonfires
Before lighting a bonfire, always check underneath and around it, cats and other wildlife often take shelter in piles of wood, leaves, and compost, especially during fireworks season when they may be frightened and looking for a safe place to hide.

Whenever possible, avoid building bonfires in advance. If you do plan to have one, try these wildlife-friendly tips:

  • Wait to build until the day you are going to light it. The longer the bonfire is left unattended, the more likely an animal is going to find its way under it.
  • If you do need to build it a few days before you light it, placing a chicken wire one metre all the way round the bottom can make it difficult for pets and creatures to access. 
  • Check the entire bonfire before lighting by lifting each section with a broom. Avoid checking with a rake in case you injure an animal. When you do go to light, only light one corner so anything underneath can escape if necessary.
  • Finally, always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies. If you notice a pet or another form of wildlife struggling to escape, the bonfire can be quickly put out. If you notice a pet or wildlife creature has been injured, take it to your local vets immediately.

Trick or treat?!
Remember, Halloween sweets are for humans only! Chocolate is toxic to pets, and boiled sweets, sugary treats, and wrappers can also cause serious illness or choking. Keep all treats stored securely and remind children not to share their sweets with furry family members (no matter how cute the begging eyes).

If your pet eats any Halloween treats, contact your vet immediately for advice.

Halloween costumes
Dressing pets in Halloween costumes can look adorable, but many animals find outfits uncomfortable, restrictive, or scary. Cats, in particular, may feel stressed and try to wriggle free, which can lead to swallowing loose fabric or decorations. Dogs may tolerate costumes better, but it’s still best to avoid dressing them up unless absolutely necessary.

If you do choose to use a costume, make sure it’s lightweight, pet-safe, free from loose parts, and not made from flammable material. Always supervise your pet, and remove the outfit immediately if they seem distressed or uncomfortable. Allow them to retreat to their safe space and return when they feel ready.

Sometimes the best costume for your pet is their natural fur coat!

Fireworks

Firework advice

Extreme sounds caused from fireworks are very common in dogs and reactions can vary. While a certain degree of fear is normal, it becomes distressing for both you and your dog if this fear becomes severe.

Signs to look out for in dogs include:

  • Ears back
  • Excessive panting
  • Drooling
  • Shaking
  • Hiding away
  • Barking excessively
  • Messing in the house

You can try to help through sound therapy. Whilst it’s best to start this sound therapy a few months earlier, it can help to get your dog used to the noises of fireworks. Here is a good website for sound therapy music.

Although loud noises are very frightening for cats too, they may not show as many behavioural changes as dogs do. The bigger problem for cats is often stress caused by changes to their environment or routine, especially when they are used to being outdoors and this changes to being kept in the house more.

Signs to look out for in cats include:

  • Excessive grooming
  • House soiling/ anxiety
  • Less interaction with you
  • Acting withdrawn
  • Hiding away
  • Loss of appetite or increased appetite

Ways to help depends on your pet. They may want you to comfort them and give them a reassuring cuddle, whereas some may just want to be on their own in a safe space. Whatever they choose, just make it easy for them to hide away in a quiet room, or come to you for a warm secure hug.

If you’re ever unsure about anything this time of year, please do have a word with your local veterinary practice for tips and advice on how to help keep your pet safe, happy and content. 

Stay safe and Happy Halloween from all at Vetsure!