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Top 12 Cat Halloween Costumes to Hiss At

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Published:  October 11th, 2021

Cats and Halloween just go together… but have you ever dressed your kitty in a costume? Try on one of these cat Halloween costumes – that is, if your feline will let you!

Frisco Bread Costume

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If you can’t poke fun of your cat wearing a piece of bread in your social media, is it even Halloween? We don’t think so, which is why you need to have this one-piece cat costume that really is the best thing since sliced bread (c’mon, you knew that was coming!).

The simple hook and loop fasteners make it easy to put on and stay on, and your cat will only feel the inner lining of the soft material. Heck, she might even like it so much she won’t even wake you up at 2 am by sitting on your head as payback. Okay, maybe she will, because she IS a cat, but at least you’ll have had a good-natured laugh (at her expense).

Frisco Lion Mane Dog and Cat Costume

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By now, the lion mane costume has become legendary! The elastic drawstrings and sleeve design for your cat’s chin makes this one of the easiest Halloween costumes to put on a cat- and that alone is enough to make it a roaring success for most pawrents–pun intended. Of course, with the long-lived love for all things Lion King, you can say that your feline friend is dressed up as Simba, Scar, or Mufasa–anyone with a mane, really. Bonus points if your cat’s a ginger tabby, but let’s be real…every kitty is king of their own jungle, so the mane just makes it official.

NACOCO Halloween Octopus Cat Cap

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This costume brings new meaning to the term…octopussy! Whether you’re a fan of puns or not, you’ll certainly love this cute Halloween costume for cats (but clearly, an octopussy is a way cooler costume name). It’s a soft felt headpiece with adjustable hook-and-loop closures, making it a great choice for cats that aren’t comfortable wearing a full outfit. Each of the octopus legs extending from the headpiece is rolled felt, making them flexible with your cat’s movements.

For the Khtulhu worshippers or James Bond fans, this Halloween costume will be money well spent- too bad your cat might not share your opinion.

Cat Vampire Cape

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“I ‘vant to suck your…catnip?” Hey, whatever your kitty likes, no judging. And, if honest, she’s probably gotten a bit of blood here or there in those ‘love’ taps and ‘love’ bites and ‘love’ scratches she’s so famous for. That’s why this Vampire Cat costume is perfect. The satin vampire cape is super soft and just one piece your cat will need to be Count Catula. The durable chest button design ensures that your cat’s costume will stay on , and though your cat may hate you, the extended collar in the back is the piece de resistance.

Shark Attack Cat Costume

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Your kitty might not like water, but so what? They don’t like dressing up either and you’re putting them in a costume. So for the sake of some holiday fun, why not pretend your kitty is instead a ferocious attach shark, coming at you with full force to terrify you with their fins.

Okay, or maybe just to laugh at and put in fun poses so you can have a bang-up story on Insta. The hook-and-loop fasteners keep it snug on your kitty, and there’s even a leash hole in the back in case your cat wants to take Halloween by storm on land.

Fuzzy Panda Headpiece

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So it’s obviously near impossible to find a ‘scary’ costume for your kitty to wear because the reality is that cats are scariest when they’re totally themselves at 1:27 am, running around your house like literal bats out of hell.

So why not just go for the cutest animal on the planet instead? A fuzzy, adorable panda costume is just what the Halloween Witch Doctor ordered, we think, and this Fuzzy Panda Headpiece fits the bill. The costume is simple with just a hat, making it a little easier for some cats to accept. The hat ties below the chin, holding it in place while your cat’s cuteness attracts the attention of all your neighbors. You just *may* get a little bit of pandafabulous extra cuddles from your cat.

Maybe.

Rubie’s Taco Pet Costume

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If the two things you love most in the world are Mexican food and your furbaby, you’re in luck. This Halloween, your faves can have a mashup–but not in a creepy way. The Taco Bell inspired outfit transforms your feline friend into a literal snack, so there’s no doubt this comfortable, padded costume will have your kitty in the center of attention. Easy to put on and available in two different sizes, this cute outfit will fit any feline.

Frisco Dog and Cat Stegosaurus Costume

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Again, while this may be a costume for cats AND dogs, let’s just admit that there’s nothing better than Stegosaurus scales (called scutes, did you know that?) lining up the back of your kitty cat from head to furry tail. We’re pretty sure they had costumes in the prehistoric days, right? So why not pay homage with this one? The hook-and-loop fasteners will wrap around your cat in all the right places, and when you watch him walk with the weight of an ancient dino? You’ll maybe even feel a little proud before your start laughing your rear off and reach for the camera.

Frisco Walking Teddy Bear Cat Costume

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If we’re being honest, I’d endure whatever scratching and hissing my cat would throw at me for trying to dress them up just to see them look like a walking teddy bear. Preferably one with an angry face, now when I think about it because that just makes it even cuter. Made from plush material, this costume gives your cat a soft and cuddly look- even while they are trying to rip you to shreds for putting them in this outfit. All jokes aside, even though it’s not difficult to put on, this elaborate Halloween costume is a better choice for dressing up pros.

Unicorn Costume For Cats and Small Dogs

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Always be yourself, unless you can’t be a unicorn. Then always be a unicorn. Of course, this only works if you’re human, because cats are more awesome than unicorns. That’s just a fact. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun dressing your cat up as a mythical creature for Halloween-complete with a fun rainbow mane for that bit of ‘extra’ that every unicorn clearly needs. The hook-and-loop strap under the chin will keep the costume on nice and snugly and really?

What’s not to love about a Kitti-Corn? Cat-i-corn? Felin-i-corn? Whatever you want to call her. Just get the costume and start the magic flowing.

Harry Pawtter

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Are you looking for a little magical fun this Halloween? While your cat may not be taking you for a magical adventure starting at Platform 9 3/4, it certainly will attract the attention of any wizard or muggle at your Halloween party.

The Gryffindor cloak is easy to wear with its soft, breathable fabric. The sizing is based on your cat’s neck measurements, with three different sizes available to fit any cat. Partner it with the adorable glasses if your cat is patient enough to keep them on.

Just be cautious… Dressing up a Harry Pawtter may just attract He Who Must Not Be Named to join the festivities too!

Sailor Costume for Cats or Small Dogs

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Ahoy, matey! Let’s take off to the high seas with this adorable sailor costume. Batten down the hatches and prepare yourself for a sea of Halloween party guests swarming your cat as he or she shows off the dapper necktie and sailor hat. Are you planning on spending Halloween celebrating one-on-one with your cat? This seaworthy costume could make for some fun and imaginative adventures.

The soft polycotton hat and collar is breathable and comfortable for ongoing wear. A Velcro buckle under your cat’s chin will hold the hat firmly in place with the assistance of ear slots to prevent it from sliding off. Velcro is also used to secure the necktie, completing the look. The one-size-fits-all design is suitable for cats of all sizes as well as smaller dogs.

How to Introduce a Costume to Your Cat


Is this your first time dressing your cat up for Halloween? If so, she may not be interested in wearing clothing. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t train her to confidently rock that costume – It’s just going to take some time and patience.


The best place to introduce something new to your cat is at home where she’s most comfortable. Be sure to offer a lot of praise and rewards throughout the training. This will help to build a positive association with wearing the costume. A great reward that also serves as a distraction is to spread a tasty treat or a little canned food onto a lick mat. Licking the tasty treat off the mat will help to calm and relax her.


The first piece of clothing that most cat owners will start with is a bandana or cape. These items are worn around the neck like a collar, making them more comfortable and far less restricting. From there, you can move to a shirt or vest that fastens around the cat’s waist like a harness. Avoid anything that must be pulled over her head early in the training process.


Most cats dislike having anything placed over their heads, or on their heads. For this reason, the last thing that you should consider introducing is a headpiece. Don’t be surprised if your cat isn’t interested in wearing it at all in the beginning. Start small. Reward her for allowing the headpiece to even touch her head, then move to fasten it. When you can confidently put it on, start building up the length of time that she’s wearing it without taking it off.


Cat Costume Safety Tips


When choosing a costume for your cat, steer clear of anything that is overly tight or will restrict her movement. This could leave her feeling trapped causing significant stress or anxiety. Check the inside of the outfit for any pieces that may rub against her or cause irritation. Cats have very sensitive skin, and it doesn’t take much to make them feel uncomfortable or cause a skin lesion.


If you’re putting a costume on your cat that can be adjusted, don’t tighten it up too much. Whether it’s around your cat’s neck, chest, or stomach, it could cause significant discomfort or even create a dangerous situation.

Check the costume over for any loose strings or dangling pieces. Your cat may see this as a toy and try to play with it or chew on it. Strings that are ingested can quickly become tangled up in your cat’s digestive tract leading to serious health complications. Small pieces that can easily be chewed off can be swallowed creating a dangerous blockage.


If you believe that your cat has eaten any piece of her Halloween costume, contact your veterinarian. Explain what you believe she has eaten, how much of it, and how long ago it could have happened. They will be able to suggest the best course of action to make sure that she’s going to be okay.

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Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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Should your pet forego bubbly baths when the temperatures drop or should you bathe your pooch regularly all year long? There’s no universal answer to this question as situations can be wildly different from one pet or the other – how harsh is the climate you live in, would you bathe your pooch in a well-heated bathroom or not, how thick is their coat, and so on. All of these factors will influence the answer you’re given! To find out what’s the verdict for your own pooch when it comes to winter bathing, read on.Should I Bathe My Dog During Winter?The fact that it’s cold outside doesn’t have to mean your four-legged bestie has to smell funky for weeks on end – at least not in most cases. You can bathe your dog in the winter as long as you follow some ground rules that are meant to ensure your dog's well-being. Here’s what you need to know:#1 Don’t Do It Too OftenDogs don't need bathing as frequently as we do (duh), so if your dog isn't visibly dirty or smelly, you should be able to extend the time between baths to a couple of weeks. Overbathing can strip essential oils from your dog's skin, which can lead to dryness and irritation, so too much bathing isn’t good either. You can probably get through the winter with just one or two baths.#2 Keep The Water ToastyEnsure that the water you use for the bath is warm, not hot. Hot water can dry out your dog’s skin, so don’t be tempted to overly increase the water temperature just because the weather is cold outside. Of course, you should also make sure the bathing area is warm, and have towels ready to dry your dog quickly.#3 Fast Drying Is Key 

Do Cats Slow Down in Autumn?

As the sunshine starts to fade, replaced by the cool autumn winds, cat owners may notice an interesting change in their furry friend’s behavior. Cats are often known for their boundless energy and curiosity. However, as we move into the fall months, many cat owners will notice their pets are slowing down into a new, more laid-back routine.In this article, we dig into the reasons why cats slow down in autumn, including answering the question: “Do cats experience seasonal depression?” We will also share some tips and tricks to cheer up your sad cat and help them enjoy the colder months ahead.Do Cat Behaviors Change with the Seasons?The short answer is yes. Many cat owners report that their feline friends act differently during the fall and winter months. Some common changes include a difference in your cat’s sleep patterns, appetite, and overall mood.For outdoor cats or indoor cats that are leash and harness-trained, the arrival of a new season means new experiences, including new smells, sights, and sounds. Anytime cats are faced with something new or different, the possibility exists that their reaction to their environment may change as well. But this isn’t the only impact on your cat…From season to season, we see two key changes affecting a cat’s behavior – the temperature and the amount of daylight. A drop in temperature triggers a natural survival response in which your cat will slow down to conserve energy, allowing its ancestors to stay warm on the bitter cold nights in the wild. Meanwhile, a change in daylight has been shown to impact hormone levels.Each of these factors will impact every cat differently. If you have multiple cats in your home, you may notice one slowing down considerably while the other doesn’t alter their behavior much at all – and that’s okay! Just like people, no two cats are the same.Can Cats Get Seasonal Depression?There currently is no research confirming that cats suffer from seasonal depression. However, many experts suspect they may suffer from a similar struggle to their human counterparts because of the shorter days and loss of daylight. This low mood and depression may also occur due to (or be escalated by) the lack of exercise that cats experience during the colder months.Are Cats Less Active in Fall? Have you noticed your cat lazing around or sleeping more during the autumn months? If so, you’re not alone! As we previously discussed, the temperature change often triggers a survival response to conserve energy. Your cat may prefer to spend their time curled up in their favorite cat bed, napping through the day, or cuddling in your lap, soaking up your body heat. Keep your eyes open for any other signs of concern. But if you do not see any other reason to worry, the cozy fall attitude is normal. Enjoy the extra cuddle time with your best friend. How Can I Tell if My Cat is Depressed? As cat parents, we all want to provide the best life for our feline friends, both physically and mentally. This starts with learning to recognize when something is “off” or if there is something that we should address. Like us, our cats can suffer from mental health struggles like depression, which isn’t always easy to spot. Here are a few signs your cat may be suffering from depression: Sleeping more than usualLoss of appetite Weight loss Becoming more vocal Failure to keep up with grooming needs Loss of energy Hiding or retreating from family membersOut-of-character aggression or fearfulness If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian and discuss your concerns. They will likely ask questions about your cat’s home life and whether they have recently experienced any changes that may have triggered their mental health struggles. This can help to guide their treatment recommendations. Mental health problems are not always treated with medications. In fact, many of the most effective treatment options are things that you can do at home.

Cat in Heat: Signs and What to Do

If you have an unspayed female cat, it’s just a matter of time before she goes into heat and is ready to mate. But will you be able to recognize that she’s in heat, and will you know what to do? Here’s some basic information on the signs that a cat is in heat and what you can do to make sure your cat doesn’t get pregnant and produce an unwanted litter.When Do Cats Start Going into Heat?A cat can go into heat (known as estrus) at a surprisingly young age. On average, her first heat can occur at roughly 6 months old. But some cats will go into heat sooner, such as around 4 months old, or later, such as closer to 1 year old.Several factors, such as the cat’s breed, her weight and body condition, and the time of year and amount of daylight, influence when a female kitten that hasn’t been spayed will go into heat for the first time. So, it can be difficult to predict when it will happen.Note: A nursing mother cat with a litter of kittens could go into heat and get pregnant again.How Long Is a Cat in Heat?On average, a cat will be in heat for seven days, but it is possible for a cat to be in heat longer, such as for 14 days, or for a shorter period, such as two days. If she doesn’t mate, the heat will end but restart a short time later, such as a couple of weeks later. But if she mates, she’ll ovulate and move out of heat in a couple of days. Note: Cats can be in heat multiple times throughout the year. The environment they live in and the number of daylight hours can affect if they go into heat.Signs a Female Cat Is in HeatBehavioral changes are the main things to look for to determine if your cat is in heat. Here are some of the common signs:Vocalizations – your cat will yowl and meow more loudly and more often than usualAttempts to get outside – your cat will try her best to sneak or dart out the door in search of a mateChanges in posture – your cat will stick her rear end up in the hopes she’ll grab the attention of a male kittyIncreased urination or spraying – your cat may urinate more often, and she might mark spots around the house by spraying urine on themSeeking attention – your cat will be more demanding, seeking your attention and affection, and will rub her face and body on people and objects around the houseRolling – your cat will roll around on the floor more than usualGrooming more – your cat will groom herself more, and you may notice her grooming the genital area moreWhat to Do When Your Cat Is in HeatOnce your cat is in heat, there’s really nothing that you can do about it except wait for it to end. In the meantime, she can easily get pregnant, so it’s important to keep her indoors and away from intact males.In addition to that, you can try calming her down by giving her your attention. If she’s acting restless, you can encourage her to play with a wand toy, which is perfect for interacting with your pet and showing her you care.  A good example is the Our Pets Play-N-Squeak at Night Twinkle Mouse Cat Wand. It features a stuffed mouse that squeaks when hit, along with feathers and a long string so your kitty can chase down or jump up and grab her “prey.”

Is AI Making it Easier to Have a Conversation with Your Pet?

We ask the question: Is there really an app in the works that will help us talk to animals?

This Revolutionary Drug Could Help Extend the Lifespan of Dogs

In a groundbreaking trial that is set to launch in the United States, around 1,000 elderly dogs will be given a pill – in the form of a sweet treat – in the hope that their lives will be extended because of it. Behind this innovative work stands Loyal, a startup company based in Silicon Valley. They are currently gathering a number of senior dogs through a well-developed network of veterinary practices in all US states. The tests are set to launch before the end of 2023, after four years of complex studies.In this case, all dogs must be over 10 years old in order to be included in the study. The study itself is set to be a “randomized double-blind placebo trial”. The director of veterinary medicine at Loyal, the company behind this trial, Dr. Brennen McKenzie, said for  Telegraph that this will “probably be the largest clinical trial in veterinary medical history”.“We’re hoping to show that we can both increase the length of life and, more importantly, the length of time these dogs live healthy and happy and functional lives,” McKenzie states. “We’re looking at the length of time that dogs live on the drug and the placebo, hoping to show that we can extend their lifespan and also hoping to show that they develop less disease.”What the study will potentially show is that dogs who receive the drug will live one year longer - on average compared to those who are taking the “placebo” drug. Still, the length of life gained is only one aspect, Dr McKenzie said at the North American Veterinary Community’s Veterinary Innovation Summit in Kansas City. McKenzie also added that increasing health was their number one priority.“We think of lifespan as the amount of time that you live but healthspan is the amount of time that you have good health, good function, good quality of life,” Dr McKenzie said. “That’s clearly the most important thing”.All of this sounds quite “larger than life”, no pun intended. And, of course, with such advanced propositions, the trial drug and its contents are a closely guarded secret, especially due to commercial reasons. This will be the situation until the trial of the drug is finished. And if the drug happens to be as efficient as hoped, Loyal plans to place it on the market immediately, offering an affordable daily supplement that can extend the lives of dogs. “If we get through this four-year trial and we achieve our endpoints, the FDA will license us to sell this as a prescription medication and it will be the first medication ever to extend lifespan in any species,” Dr McKenzie said. “We are absolutely interested in a product that is accessible to the majority of pet owners.”It is worth noting that the drug in question was already proven to be safe for consumption, and there is a low risk of this potential supplement causing any unwanted side effects. Loyal is a company that has two other products in the works, and they are also scheduled to undergo extensive tests. However, work is not yet finished, and one of the two is expected to go on trial around 2026. 

Study Confirms Dogs Prefer Food Over Toys

If someone asked you to pick between your favorite toy or your favorite food, what would you choose? If your answer is food, you’re not alone - researchers have found that dogs prefer their favorite food over their favorite toy. It’s no secret that dogs like playing with their toys, but the goal of this new study was to determine whether toys make an effective training reward.In the first study of its kind, researchers from the University of Florida found that nine out of 10 dogs will choose food over toys. For the purposes of this study, researchers used social media advertisement and word-of-mouth to recruit 10 dogs from the local area. The dogs participating in the study come from a range of breeds, including two German shepherds, a labrador, a German shorthaired pointer, and six mixed breeds. Researchers allowed the dogs to pick their favorite food and favorite toy. Each dog was shown six food items - including a hotdog, cheese, carrot, hard dog treat, soft dog treat, and kibble - and six toys -  such as a ball, squeak toy, bone, tug toy, stuffed animal, and empty plastic water bottle. Each dog had an opportunity to pick their favorite food and favorite toy. During the next phase of the experiment, the dogs were given progressively more difficult tasks to get a reward. The dogs were rewarded with either their favorite food or favorite toy. The researchers discovered that nine out of 10 dogs gave up on the task earlier when rewarded with their favorite toy, as opposed to when given their favorite food. These findings show that dogs are more motivated to work for food than toys.Previous studies have shown that dogs prefer human attention to food but, until now, there has been little research into how dogs rank their favorite toys. “I was surprised, but nobody’s looked at how dogs will work for toys versus food before,” said Dr. Nicol Dorey, the lead author of the study.The researchers hope that these new findings could be useful for dog owners trying to train their dogs. “Understanding a dog’s preferred reward can be essential for shaping behavior effectively,” concluded the researchers.Some dog trainers recommend using toys instead of treats while training, to prevent excess calorie intake and to keep the training more fun for the dog. If you decide to train your puppy using toys, the key is not to offer food at any step of the training. “You can definitely train your dog with toys if you start really early,” Dr Dorey said. “This is what’s done with search and rescue dogs, they start really early with toys as a reinforcer.”The researchers noted that more research is needed, especially since human attention acts as a strong reinforcer when training dogs. “I think the next study should look at all three - attention, food, and toys - and what dogs really like the best when training,” said Dr Dorey. Regardless of what the next study finds, I’m sure my pooch would pick food over me and toys any day of the week. What about your dog -  are they team food or team toys?

Can Cats Suffer From Depression?

Does your otherwise playful and friendly cat no longer seem interested in their favorite toys? It’s natural to worry when you notice a change in your best friend’s behavior. Changes in your cat’s mood or activity level may signal that something more serious is happening. We often watch for the warning signs of physical illness, but what about depression? Did you know that your cat can also struggle with their mental health? This article will examine the very real risk of feline depression, including the warning signs, what to do if you suspect your cat may be struggling, and prevention tips. Discover helpful strategies to boost your cat’s mental health and help them get back to their usual playful, purring self today. Can Cats Get Depressed? Cats are known for their independence and aloof attitude, but this doesn’t mean they don’t feel things – sometimes very intensely. Just like people, your cat can suffer from mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. Not only does depression impact them mentally and emotionally, but it can also affect their physical health and well-being. This is why it’s important for us to acknowledge the risks, identify signs that something is “off,” and seek help for our cats when needed. How Can I Tell if My Cat is Depressed? We all know cats are masters of hiding when they aren’t feeling well. This is why physical illnesses and sicknesses can be so difficult to spot. The same is true for cats who are facing challenges with their mental health. The signs are often subtle, meaning we, as cat parents, must be hyper-vigilant. Some of the more common warning signs to watch out for include: Increased vocalization (constant meowing, yowling)Loss of appetite Unexplained weight loss Sleeping more than usual or at times they’d typically be active Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyedDecreased grooming or attention to hygieneDull, matted coat No longer seeking attention or interaction Out-of-character aggression or irritability Hiding or isolating themselves Many of these signs can also be associated with physical illnesses or diseases. If you notice any of these changes, make an appointment with your veterinarian. They will run tests to rule out any physical health problems before discussing recommendations to help manage your cat’s mental health.

Shelter Cat's Brutally Honest Adoption Ad Goes Viral: She Will Own You

Last month, the Humane Society of Washington shared a brutally honest adoption post in which they introduced a cat who is up for adoption. The adoption post, which went viral, describes the feline in question as “a more lively houseplant.”The three-year-old tortoiseshell cat named Quinn arrived at the Humane Society of Washington County in Hagerstown, Maryland, in August as a stray. According to the post, Quinn is currently the shelter’s longest-term cat resident.This is not the first time the shelter advertised Quinn’s adoption. However, since the first post hasn’t helped Quinn find her person, the shelter decided to change tactics with a brutally honest profile.“Do you want a cat who doesn’t want you? Do you crave the feeling of being judged in your own home? Do you need someone who will slap you back into reality without notice? If you answered yes to any of these questions we have a cat for you!” posted the Humane Society of Washington County on Facebook. “Meet Quinn!” the shelter added.The post went on to say that Quinn’s not for everyone. “But surely there’s someone out there who would appreciate her icy stare and her sudden smacks.”Continuing to highlight all of Quinn’s quirks the post said “She has an uncanny ability to make people feel unwelcome in her presence!” This particular trait makes Quinn perfect for people who are tired of visitors and just want to enjoy the peace of their home. Additionally, Quinn isn’t an overly energetic feline. “Quinn only seems to want to play about once a month,” making her an ideal companion for people who aren’t big fans of physical activity.“Quinn is essentially a more lively houseplant, because all she really needs a human for is food, water, and changing her litter,” said the shelter.“If you adopt Quinn you will not be her owner, because Quinn cannot be owned. She will own you, your house, your belongings, and everything you hold dear.” The shelter also noted that Quinn isn’t on the main adoption floor with other felines and must be asked for by name. The feisty feline has taken up residence in an office where she rules with an iron paw. Anyone interested in being “Quinn’s servant” should not have canines or small children in the house. “Quinn would challenge any dog to a fight. For the dog’s safety, it’s best that she goes to a home without any canines,” said the shelter. The Humane Society of Washington County added - “Quinn is like a more physical version of someone yelling ‘Get off my lawn!’ at small children.” - leaving teens and adults as only suitable housemates. “We originally [shared] a conservative post highlighting Quinn’s strengths, but when no one came for her, we decided the best way to find her a home was to rip off the band-aid and just let her true colors shine,” said Collin A. Berry, executive director of the Humane Society of Washington County, to Fox News Digital. Soon after Quinn arrived at the shelter it became clear that she wasn’t a particularly social feline. She didn’t allow any of the staff to touch her for close to a week. After being sedated for an exam, and given a clean bill of health, it became clear that her behavior wasn’t the result of pain or an underlying health condition. “Everyone thought time and space would help, but as it turns out, Quinn is just Quinn,” said Berry. “She’s a lady who knows what she wants and when she wants it.”We’re happy to report that Quinn has been adopted! It turns out honesty is the best policy! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How To Tell if a Dog Is Cold

You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

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