Table of Contents
Halloween is just a few weeks away! Do you already have a costume for your furry friend?
Buying a costume that your cat will only wear once is a waste of money, but these easy homemade Halloween costumes for cats will save you money and catch everyone's eye on Halloween night!
Commercial kitty costumes can cost upwards of $40, so if you've been looking for a cheaper option, these homemade Halloween costumes for cats may be just what you need.
Most cost less than $5, and you can reuse some of the materials after your Halloween festivities are over!
RELATED: 12 Fun Halloween Activities for Dogs
3 Easy Homemade Halloween Costumes for Cats
1. Stuffed Animal
One of the easiest ways to dress your cat up for Halloween is to dress him as a stuffed animal.
As you'll see in my video guide above, it's easy to make a quick TY Beanie Baby tag using some construction paper and a piece of yarn.
For your reference, this is the look we're going for:
Everyone will recognize the logo, and your kitty is certain to get lots of compliments on this easy Halloween costume for cats!
2. Business Cat
Turn your pet into a business kitty by using a clip-on children's hair bow.
You can secure the clip to your cat's collar, and he'll instantly look like a business professional.
You can purchase commercial collars that have a tie and collar attached, but they'll cost you 3 times as much as a hair clip.
3. Super Cat
A piece of scrap cloth can be quickly transformed into a cape for your super cat.
In my video guide above, I used a cape that was made for one of my daughter's dolls. Using doll accessories is a great way to dress up your cat without spending extra cash.
If you don't have children's toys lying around, a piece of scrap cloth will do the same job.
You can cut a piece out of an old t-shirt or towel. Secure it to your cat's collar, and you'll have a superhero kitty just in time to celebrate Halloween.
Safety Precautions for Halloween Cat Costumes
Dressing up cats for Halloween can be adorable, but it’s important to remember that not all costumes are safe or comfortable for them.
Cats are generally less tolerant of clothing than dogs, so safety should always be the top priority!
Here are a few precautions to keep in mind before slipping your kitty into a spooky outfit:
Check for Comfort and Fit
Costumes that are too tight can restrict your cat's movement and cause chaffing, potentially scratching his skin.
Costumes that are too loose may be dangerous if your cat trips on them. Loose costumes also pose a risk of becoming tangled around your cat's neck or one of its legs, causing serious injury.
Avoid Small or Dangling Parts
Buttons, sequins, bells, or dangling fabric may look festive, but can pose a choking hazard. Stick to simple designs that do not contain removable or chewable pieces.
Watch for Overheating
Heavy costumes can make them overheat quickly. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics.
Never Cover the Face or Restrict Vision
Masks, hoods, or costumes that block whiskers and vision can cause stress and disorientation. Cats rely heavily on their whiskers and sight to navigate, so keeping their face uncovered is crucial.
Limit Costume Time
Even if your cat tolerates a costume, don’t leave it on for long periods. A few minutes for photos is fine, but extended wear can cause stress and discomfort.
Always Supervise
Never leave your cat alone in a costume. Supervision ensures they won’t get tangled, stuck, or chew off parts of the outfit.
Consider Alternatives
If your cat clearly dislikes costumes, don’t force them on. A festive Halloween bandana, collar charm, or themed bow tie is often a safer, yet still very cute, alternative.
Costumes can be one of the biggest feline Halloween hazards, so you need to be very careful with the choices that you make.
If you're planning to buy a costume for your cat, make sure to measure your pet accurately.
It would also be wise to bring your cat with you while shopping, so you can try on the costume and ensure a proper fit before purchasing.
RELATED: 15 Halloween Safety Tips for Dogs
FAQs about Cats and Halloween Costumes
Can cats wear Halloween costumes?
Yes, cats can wear costumes, but only if they’re comfortable and not stressed by it.
The costume should fit well, not restrict movement or breathing, and never include small parts that could be chewed off.
Always supervise your cat while they’re dressed up.
Are cats safe on Halloween?
Halloween can be hazardous for cats due to loud noises, open doors, and potential exposure to harmful items, such as candy or decorations.
Keep your cat indoors, in a quiet room, and away from trick-or-treaters. Black cats, especially, should be kept safe, as they’re sadly targeted for pranks sometimes.
Is it okay to dress a cat in clothes?
It’s okay if your cat tolerates it and the clothes are safe, lightweight, and non-restrictive.
Some cats dislike wearing anything, so watch their body language closely.
If they show signs of stress, it’s best to skip the outfit.
Homemade Halloween Costumes for Cats: Before You Go…
When you're creating a DIY Halloween cat costume, try to think outside the box. A little imagination goes a long way when you're making a costume for your pet.
It's easy to come up with simple ideas, and when in doubt, the internet is full of them!
Try to choose a costume that matches your cat's personality, and ensure it is something he'll be comfortable wearing.
Remember to be safe on Halloween, as it is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pets.
Whether you'll be wandering the neighborhood or staying in to hand out treats, keep a close eye on your cat at all times and ensure that he is never left outside alone.
Secure him in an area of your home where he won't be bothered by trick-or-treaters and make sure he's away from the door so there is no chance of escape.
If you've made your own homemade Halloween costumes for cats, we'd love to see pictures in the comments below.
