When Halloween rolls around, black cats always get a bad rap around this time of year.
But why is this?
The History Channel wrote a fascinating article on Why Black Cats Are Associated with Halloween and Bad Luck – stating that this negative (and totally unfair) association with them goes back as far back as the 13th century.
The article stresses that this is an unearned reputation for our lovable black kitties. But regardless, they’re still considered mysterious and a little eerie, so they get lumped right into the whole idea of Halloween anyway. No fair!
In reality, black cats are not creepy or frightening at all. In fact, they’re no different from any other cat.
So to help them beat their spooky stigma and help keep them safe and soothed on Fright Night, we came up with these three paw-sitive Halloween safety tips for black cats.
1. The 'Inside' Scoop
Even if your furry fave loves to take a stroll outside every now and again, it’s best to keep them indoors on Halloween and the days leading up to it.
Black cats can get picked on, even today, and they’re tough to see at night because of their dark color. Think of all the extra cars on the road as families go Trick or Treating.
If your cat was outside and got scared by all the commotion, they might dart into traffic or run until they get lost. Indoor cats usually don’t know how to take care of themselves outdoors.
It’s even a good idea to ensure your indoor cat has a collar with an ID tag and a microchip just in case they dash out when you open the door to give out candy. That way, you have a better chance of getting them back if they get lost.
2. Keep Them Fee'line Fine
Even if they’re tucked up all nice and safe inside with you, the constant ringing of the doorbell and glimpses of noisy kids wearing strange costumes and masks can be overwhelming for any pet.
It’s a good idea to help keep your kitty calm by cuddling them or putting them in a safe place, such as a quiet room away from the ever-opening door. You might also want to play some soothing music and give them a tasty calming treat to settle them down until the excitement subsides.
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3. A-mewsing Activities
Halloween safety tips for black cats should always include some family fun. Playtime with your beautiful baby will keep them distracted from all the ghostly goings-on and exercise their mind and body. Then they’ll naturally get tired and want to sleep it all off.
Our article on Best Ways to Keep Your Cat Entertained is a great starting point, and these ideas are fur-tastic, too:
- Try a simple game of fetch. Yes! It’s not just for dogs! Pick small toys your cat can pick up easily and throw them for them to chase. We all know they love that! Encourage them to bring it back with tasty treats and some smoochie talk! Reinforce a result with petting and love. If you’ve not tried it before, give it a whirl.
- Bring out the hunter in your cat! Make forts with your furniture and some covers, so your cat has a place to hide. Then choose their favorite dangle toy to entice them out. They’ll love batting it or trying to pounce on it.
- How about a game of hide and seek? Cats love to hunt, so hide some of their favorite treats or toys around the room where you’re playing and encourage them to find them. If you’re feeling a bit fancier, get a treat-dispensing toy and watch them try to figure it out.
Black Cats and Halloween
While most hoomans look forward to October 31, it can be a stressful time for our pets. We know you want to be the best kitty mom or dad you can be, and your furry besties will thank you for all that special love and care.
Extra playtime will strengthen your bond with your black cat, and keeping them calm further protects them. No kitten around!
One more thought before we finish up. Because of how people generally view black cats, they’re often the last ones to be adopted in our shelters. If you don’t have a cat or kitten yet, and you’re thinking of getting one, consider rescuing a black one. They’re just as paw-some as any other type of cat, and you’ll be helping to dispel the unfair myths surrounding them.
We hope our Halloween safety tips for black cats have given you some fur-tastic ways to get through the festivities. Let’s make it fun for all!
Let’s Hear From You!
What are your thoughts on black cats and Halloween? Do you have any other ideas on how to keep them safe on Spook Night? Put your thinking cat on and let us know in the comment box below. Sharing is caring!
We’re always here for you, too! If you want to learn more about our range of cat supplements, let us know. You can contact us directly at 1-800-738-0661 or bark@zestypaws.com.
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