24 days until Halloween!

Make sure the holiday is fun—not frightening—for your cat or dog with these tips from the ASPCA:

Potential danger #1: Treats:
-Ingesting chocolate is dangerous for dogs and cats—it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and increased heart rate.
-The artificial sweetener xylitol (commonly found in sugar-free candy) can cause a drop in blood sugar in dogs, leading to depression, lack of coordination, seizures or even liver failure.
-Throw away all candy wrappers: ingesting foil or cellophane packaging can cause choking or intestinal blockage in pets.
-If you think your pet has eaten something dangerous, call your vet immediately.

Potential danger #2: Jack-o-lanterns:
Watch pets closely if you put a candle in your carved pumpkin. Pets can easily knock the jack-o-lantern over and accidentally start a fire, or become curious and get burned by flames.

Potential danger #3: Trick-or-treaters:
The doorbell rings every few minutes and groups of giggling kids are at your door—all of the commotion is enough to stress out even the mellowest pet. Keep your cat or dog in a room (stocked with food, water, toys and a litter box, if you have a cat) away from the front door on Halloween night.

Potential danger #4: Pet costumes:
We love to see doggies dressed up, but be sure your pet doesn’t mind masquerading as a caveman, pirate or pumpkin. Otherwise, your pet could become super stressed. If you do play dress up, make sure that the costume fits properly and doesn’t restrict your pet’s ability to move or breathe. Also be sure there are no strings or pieces on the costume that could come off and become a choking hazard.

Posted by Emily Hendricks Turnier, Associate Editor

See also:

Haunt your house for Halloween

Make a Halloween playlist

Throw a ghoulishly glamorous Halloween party

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