Halloween is upon us: there are pumpkin, ghost, and witch decorations everywhere! The autumn holiday can be fun, but pet parents should be aware that this can be a dangerous time of year for our animal companions. Read on for some Halloween safety tips from a Fayetteville, NC vet.

Cats

The best way to keep your kitty safe around Halloween is to keep her indoors. The increased traffic, shorter days, and colder temperatures all pose serious threats to cats. Toxins are also a concern at this time of year. Things like antifreeze, fertilizer, pesticides, mushrooms, mold, and even seasonal plants are all unsafe for Fluffy. Be extra careful with black cats! Unfortunately, those old folk tales associating them with witches and witchcraft still persist, and put many black cats at risk of harm from pranksters.

Dogs

If you have a yard for Fido to run around in, limit your pet’s outdoor time around the autumn holiday, especially if you live in a busy area. Some dogs get very worked up seeing people in costumes passing by. If you’re having company and/or expecting a lot of trick or treaters, you may want to put your furry pal in a quiet back room with toys, bedding, and a radio. Take extra care when walking your pooch. Use reflective gear, and stick to safe areas that are well lit.

Pocket Pets

You’ll want to take many of the same precautions with Floppy as you would with cats. Keep your bunny safe and sound indoors, and store candy and decorations well away from her. With smaller pets, just make sure they are warm and comfy as temperatures drop. Of course, you can let your little pal get in on the fun. Get a cute seasonal hide, or put decorations around your little pal’s habitat.

Birds

Birds often are fascinated by shiny things, so consider Polly’s safety as you are hanging decorations. Fumes are a big concern here. Many people love seasonal scents, but those vapors are toxic to birds!

All Pets

Some seasonal trappings can be dangerous to all pets. This includes anything small or sharp, plastic films and wraps, chemicals, and items with dangling wires or cords. Candy is also a risk: many of those sweets are poisonous to pets. Ask your vet for more information. Contact us, your Fayetteville, NC animal clinic, anytime! We’re here to help!