Vet experts explain why it’s often cruel to dress up your cat 

Dressing up is fun for us, especially for special occasions. Whether it’s costumes for Halloween or festive outfits for Christmas, we love to get creative with fancy dress. But is it okay to dress up your cat too? Let’s explore whether cats like being dressed up and some fun alternatives to costumes for cats. 

Do cats like being dressed up?

“There may be some cats who tolerate wearing items of clothing, but this is quite rare,” said Registered Veterinary Nurse Helen Crofts. “They would have had lots of positive experiences of being handled when they were very young, during their ‘socialisation period’ when they were between two and seven weeks old. This is when their brains are still developing and they learn what is safe. If they are introduced to clothing in a positive way during this time, they may learn to tolerate it. But if you are caring for young kittens at this age, it’s much more useful to spend time getting them used to things like gentle handling, different people and common household noises. Dressing them up for your own amusement is not recommended.”

“For most cats, having any sort of clothing or accessories placed on them will be a stressful and uncomfortable experience. Even if it’s for a short period of time.”

Find out more about kitten socialisation.

Reasons why cats don’t like being dressed up

1. It restricts their movement. Cats like to have full control over their movements. This is why they often don’t like being held tightly or being put inside a cat carrier. If an outfit restricts them from being able to move how they would like, they can find this very stressful. Clothing can also prevent cats from being able to groom their fur, go to the toilet or run away from danger. Taking away their choice to do these things can make them anxious and scared. 
2. They’re unable to regulate their body temperature. A cat’s fur is usually all they need to keep them warm. Putting a layer of clothing over the top can make them overheat. Cats keep themselves cool by grooming. When the saliva they leave on their fur evaporates it helps to cool them down. If they’re wearing clothes they may be unable to groom and keep themselves cool.  
3. It’s uncomfortable. Putting clothing on a cat often involves handling them a lot and moving their body into different positions. This can be very uncomfortable and stressful for them, especially if they’re not used to it. Some outfits for cats can also be heavy, hot or itchy on their skin. 

Why do people put clothes on cats? 

“As cat owners, we often see our pets as part of the family and want to involve them in the things we enjoy,” said Helen. “This might include taking them out with us for adventures or dressing them up for special occasions. But although cats are valued family members, it’s important to also remember that they are a different species from us. The things we find fun, might not be as enjoyable for our cats. 

“Social media is also no doubt behind the growing trend to dress cats up. People are influenced by what they see happening on social media, especially from those they admire or trust. Sharing photos of cats in costumes often gets ‘likes’ and followers, but it’s not in the best interests of our cats. 

“It’s important to see things from your cat’s point of view. Cats are happiest when they are in control and are able do things on their own terms. Make sure you give your cat the choice to run away and hide when they want to, as this helps them feel safe. And learn how to read their body language so you can tell when they are stressed or anxious. There are lots of ways you can have fun with your cat that don’t involve dressing them up. Try bonding with them by having some playtime instead.” How to play with your cat.  

Signs your cat isn’t comfortable being dressed up

• Trying to run away
• Hiding
• Hissing
• Licking their lips
• Biting 
• Clawing at the clothing
• Freezing or going floppy. Find out more about this below. 
• Hunched body posture 
• Whiskers pointing forwards
• Ears flat 
• Wide pupils in their eyes

Why do cats flop over when you put clothes on them? 

“When cats are stressed, they will usually try to run away and hide. This helps them to calm down and feel safe,” said Helen. “But if they are unable to escape the situation, they may ‘shut down’ instead.

“If they can’t escape from the clothing you’ve put them in, they may go floppy or stop moving. Many people mistake this behaviour for cats being relaxed and happy. But it doesn’t mean your cat is comfortable in their new outfit. It means they are very distressed and the only way they can cope with it is to disassociate from the situation. If you notice this behaviour in your cat, remove any clothing from them and give them space to calm down.” 

When is it okay to put clothes on your cat?  

1. Medical reasons. If your cat is unwell or has had surgery, your vet may recommend your cat wears a special medical vest. This is designed to protect a wound, surgical site or area of skin. It aids recovery by helping to keep the area clean and preventing your cat from licking it when they groom. You should only put a medical vest on your cat if advised by your vet. They will guide you on how long the vest should be worn for. 
2. Warmth for hairless cats. Some breeds of cat, such as Sphinx cats, are born without fur. This means that in cold weather they can struggle to keep warm. If you have a Sphinx cat, make sure their environment is sufficiently warm and offer extra bedding and blankets for them to snuggle up in. Speak to your vet about whether they would recommend your cat wears a jumper or sweater to keep them warm. 

Fun alternatives to dressing up your cat 

1. Toys and accessories. Instead of buying your cat a new outfit, get them a fun toy, bed or blanket. You could even get them something themed for the season, such as Halloween or Christmas. There are lots of cat accessories you can buy, or you could have a go at making your own. Try turning a Christmas jumper into a cat bed, or decorate a cardboard box for your cat to sit in. You can then take some cute photos of your cat interacting with their new accessories on their own terms. 
2. Use photo editing. If you’re determined to dress up your cat, do it digitally instead. Take a cute photo of your cat when they’re relaxed and happy. Then add fun accessories and effects using photo editing software or apps on your smartphone.