Most cat lovers know that black cats should be kept strictly in the house during the times just before and after Halloween.
But there are dangers to all cats during this holiday season, both outside and in.
Here are eight things every cat owner should be aware of: 1.
Chocolate can be toxic to cats.
Because there is so much candy available around Halloween, it is very important to keep it out of your cat's way.
If kitty does happen to eat some chocolate, please contact your veterinarian right away for advice.
The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is.
2.
Curious cats can get burned easily.
Think twice about having any lit candles around the house.
Although candles can lend a lot of atmosphere to a darkened house, it can be very easy for a cat to get into them, which could be disastrous.
If you must have candles, keep them in a room where your cat will not be going.
3.
Carved pumpkins start to go bad quickly.
Don't let your cat get too close to a pumpkin that has been carved and sitting out for a while.
The smell and taste might be very tempting for him, but a raw carved pumpkin can start to grow mold and bacteria within a few hours, which could give your cat stomach problems or diarrhea.
4.
Decorations should be kept out of reach.
Please keep your Halloween decorations to areas where your cat cannot reach them.
Foil, plastic, batteries, electric cords, fake hair and "spider webs" and other typical decorative items may look like cat toys to your cat, but they were not meant to be chewed on and could harm your cat if he tries to bite or swallow them.
5.
Keep your cat inside on the big night.
Halloween activities are disruptive, and can be loud and scary for a cat, even one who normally goes outside.
Many cats run away on Halloween.
Please don't let yours be one of them! 6.
Your cat may prefer a nice, quiet hiding place away from the noise.
If you are expecting a lot of "trick or treaters" at your house, consider letting your cat stay in a quiet bedroom or den, where she won't get frightened by the noise and all the strange people coming in and out.
Cats who are scared can tend to bolt away, and you do not want to risk losing your cat in the crowds at night.
7.
Watch out for candy wrappers! If you or your kids are munching on wrapped candy, please keep the wrappers away from your cat.
Kitty will find the look and feel very exciting, but if they eat one it could cause serious damage to his internal organs.
8.
Don't force your cat to wear a costume.
Cats look adorable in Halloween costumes, but not every cat enjoys wearing them.
If your cat is one of these, then please let him go without it, he will be much happier and more comfortable.
If your cat does seem to like his costume, make sure that he can get around easily and his movement is not restricted.
These are just a few things you can do to help ensure that you and your cat have a happy and healthy Halloween.