FOUR PAWS urges pet owners to protect animals from stress, toxic treats and escape risks during Halloween.
Cape Town, 26 October 2026 – With Halloween approaching, FOUR PAWS is reminding South Africans to take extra precautions to keep their pets safe. While Halloween celebrations are popular across the country, costumes, decorations, treats and a steady stream of visitors can create stressful and potentially dangerous situations for animals.
Dogs and cats are particularly sensitive to changes in their environment. Unfamiliar costumes, masks and strangers at the door can cause fear and anxiety, while sweet treats and decorations can pose serious health risks if swallowed.
“Halloween may be fun for people, but it can be overwhelming for animals,” says Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa. “Pets do not understand why people suddenly look different or why there are unfamiliar visitors coming to the door. These situations can cause stress and place their welfare at risk.”
One of the most common mistakes during Halloween is dressing pets in costumes. While these outfits may appear harmless, they can restrict movement, interfere with natural behaviour and prevent animals from communicating through body language.
“Animals should never be forced to wear costumes for our entertainment,” says Miles. “What might seem cute to us can be uncomfortable, confusing and even frightening for them. Respecting an animal’s needs and comfort should always come first.”
Halloween treats can also be dangerous. Chocolates, sweets containing xylitol and raisins are toxic to many companion animals, while wrappers and decorative items can become choking hazards or cause internal blockages if swallowed.
At the same time, the frequent opening of doors for trick-or-treaters increases the risk of pets escaping. A frightened animal may run out unnoticed, become lost or be injured while trying to find its way home.
FOUR PAWS is also encouraging owners of black cats to be especially vigilant during the Halloween period. Although myths associated with black cats have no basis in reality, these animals can face increased risks of harassment or cruelty linked to harmful superstitions. “Keeping cats and dogs safely indoors and ensuring pets are properly identified can go a long way towards protecting them during Halloween.” says Miles
FOUR PAWS Halloween safety tips
To help keep pets safe this Halloween, FOUR PAWS recommends:
- Keep pets indoors in a quiet, secure room with water and a litter box during Halloween activities.
- Avoid costumes and accessories that may cause discomfort or distress.
- Store sweets, chocolate and wrappers well out of reach.
- Supervise pets around decorations and remove potential choking hazards.
- Ensure identification tags are secure and microchip information is up to date.
- Provide pets with a calm space where they can retreat if they feel anxious.
FOUR PAWS also encourages community members to report any suspected cases of animal cruelty or animals in distress to the NSPCA, a local SPCA or another recognised animal welfare organisation.
“Every animal deserves to feel safe and protected,” says Miles. “By taking a few simple precautions and putting animal welfare first, South Africans can help ensure Halloween is a positive experience for both people and pets.”
For more information, please visit our website at www.four-paws.org.za
