If you are the owner of an adorable feline furbaby, you probably know about the risks that Halloween can pose. From toxic candies, open flames and rotten pumpkin to dangerous decorations and the fearsome sight of people in costume, there are many different aspects of Halloween that could cause your cat to become anxious, stressed and scared. However, if you have a black cat you should be especially wary since there are a few further hazards that you should be aware of that mean you should really keep your dark kitty indoors.
Here is why you should keep your black cat close during Halloween season.
Black cats are much harder to see
Unsurprisingly, one of the biggest reasons you should keep your black cat close over Halloween is the fact that they can be difficult to see. With dark, shimmering coats, black cats blend seamlessly into the night and your kitty doesn’t want to be found, she can camouflage herself so well that it will be near impossible to spot her. Unfortunately, if she is harder to see then it will be much more difficult to get her back indoors where she is safe if she manages to run away. Equally, she is at much greater risk of being hit by a vehicle or even bicycle if she cannot be seen clearly. For this reason, it is recommended that you fit your cat with a reflective collar that she can wear all year round – making her much more visible whatever the occasion.
Black cats could potentially be at risk from people
There is a great deal of urban mythology and fascination surrounding black cats and Halloween. This color feline has always been associated with magic, and not always the good kind. While for many people, Halloween is just a time to dress up and have some fun with their family and friends, a small number of people will use the event as an excuse to cause trouble. While many stick to purely antisocial behavior, other twisted individuals have been known to target animals, with some reports suggesting that black cats are particularly vulnerable due to their negative image.
Black cats are at risk of being taken and abandoned
Unfortunately, black cats are also more likely to be abandoned after Halloween. This is because a lot of people choose to adopt a black cat to use as a costume accessory or feature at their party, and then, once they realize the commitment involve, try and sell or dump their kitty a few weeks later. Since black cats are universally less popular than other colors (perhaps a result of superstition about this color furbaby), shelters are already overrun with them, plus all the other animals desperate for loving homes. Perhaps then it is little surprise that many shelters will refuse to allow the adoption of black cats up to 6 weeks ahead of Halloween. Nevertheless, this could mean that your cat is at risk of being taken by some opportunist looking for a black feline for the event.
As a loving and responsible cat owner, your priority is keeping your furbaby safe this Halloween. If you would like more advice on how to prepare for this Halloween season with your pet, our experienced veterinarians in Memphis, TN are here to help. Please contact our vet offices in Memphis, TN to schedule an appointment.
