Pets & Halloween

Did you ever wonder why you can’t adopt black cats from local shelters around Halloween?? 

Many people will adopt them to be a part of their Halloween festivities and then return them as soon as the festivities are over.  While there are no statistics on black cats being tortured around Halloween, we have all heard the stories.  Of course we all know some of these stories are exaggerated, it still puts the idea into people’s heads.  And unfortunately, some people will act on those ideas.  Some are ritualistic and some are just because.  Not matter the reason, it is still cruel!!

Superstition has plagued the black cat over the centuries.  Even as far back as Greek Mythology black cats were believed to be priestess’ of the goddess Hectate, the Dark Mother.  Of course we all know about them being witches familiars.  During the witch-burning era they were placed in baskets and burned alongside the witches.  Around the world today black cats still represent bad luck.  How many of you have heard the saying, don’t let a black cat cross your path?

If you own a black cat, keep it inside this month to keep it safe.  Better yet, keep your cat inside no matter what color it is.  The week leading up to Halloween you should keep all your pets inside and safe.  Many different communities allow trick or treating on different nights during that week and the extra traffic will be disorienting and could be distressing to your pet.  There will be a lot of noise and strangers in your neighborhood.  This can be very upsetting to your pet as well and it is best to take precautions to keep your pet safe.

Here is a link to the ASPCA with suggestions on pet safety during Halloween.

You definitely want to keep the candy away from your pets.  Chocolate especially can be toxic to your pet.  There is a chemical called Theobromine in chocolate that is poisonous to your pets.  Here is a link with more information on Theobromine poisoning.  This substance can also be found in tea, cola, acai berries, and some other foods as well.

Candles can also be dangerous to you and your pets during Halloween.  Try to keep your jack-o-lanterns out your pets reach.  I know my cat Merlin used to be fascinated by candle flames.  He wanted to try and catch the moving flame.  I was fortunate enough to be right there and saw him trying to swat the flame.  I immediately blew it out and only burned candles where he would not be able to reach them or where I could supervise him around them. 

 If you want to dress your pet up for Halloween, make sure the costume fits him properly and are not constricting.  You also want to make sure it does not block your pets vision.  Think of how your pet reacts when you put an Elizabethan collar on them, you know the lamp shade collars?  J  If your pets costume is held on by those rubber bands, keep an eye out to make sure they don’t cause injury.  They may rub a raw spot that may turn into a sore or they may be too tight causing constriction which can cut off the blood supply and be very dangerous.

Here is wishing you and your pet a Safe and Happy Halloween.

Be Well & Be Happy,

Pet~Pourri