7 Funny Halloween Costumes for Cats & Small Dogs (2026 Guide)

Cat wearing a knight armour Halloween costume

Halloween isn't just for humans anymore. Every October, millions of pet parents dress up their cats and dogs, and it's easy to see why: a costumed pet gets the biggest laughs at a party, the most likes on social media, and it makes the whole family feel festive. But pick the wrong outfit and you end up with a grumpy cat, a costume that's off in ten seconds, and no photos worth sharing.

This guide will help you get it right. Below you'll find 7 funny, easy-to-wear Halloween costumes for cats and small dogs, how to choose the right style for your pet's personality, a simple measuring guide, a step-by-step plan to get your pet used to wearing a costume, photo tips for the perfect Halloween picture, and the safety rules every pet owner should know.

Quick answer: The best Halloween costumes for cats and small dogs are light, adjustable styles that leave the head, legs and tail free, like bat wings, a vampire cape or a riding-ghost outfit. Measure neck, chest and back length, size up if in between, and introduce the costume slowly with treats.

Key takeaways

  • Nervous pets do best in minimal costumes such as bat wings or a cape.
  • Chest measurement matters most; choose the larger size if in between.
  • Train with short, treat-rewarded try-ons for about a week before Halloween.
  • Never cover eyes, nose or mouth, and never leave a costumed pet alone.
  • Keep chocolate, xylitol sweets and real candles away from pets.

By the GreytCart Team · Updated September 27, 2026

🎃 Order early: orders are processed within 1–3 business days, then US delivery takes 5–10 business days (free Economy) or 3–5 business days (Standard), and international delivery takes 8–20 business days. To be safe for October 31, order as early as possible.

What's in this guide

Choose a costume that suits your pet's personality

The best costume isn't the most elaborate one. It's the one your pet will actually keep on. Before you choose, think about which of these three types your pet is:

  • The nervous pet: hides from visitors and hates collars or harnesses. Choose something minimal that only touches the back or shoulders, like bat wings or a light cape.
  • The easy-going pet: doesn't mind being handled and already wears a harness or sweater. Most costumes will work, including hoodies and ride-on styles.
  • The show-off: loves attention, treats and being the centre of the room. Go big with a full jumpsuit or a statement costume that gets everyone laughing.

Cats in particular tend to prefer costumes that leave their head, legs and tail free, while many small dogs are happy in full-body outfits once they've been introduced slowly.

7 funny Halloween costumes for cats and small dogs

1. Cat Knight Costume – the ultimate photo prop

If you want a picture that goes viral, this is it. The Cat Knight Costume is a 3D-printed "headless knight" armour piece that sits over your cat, so it looks as if a tiny medieval knight has lost its head and your cat is peeking out of the armour. It's absurd, clever and instantly shareable.

  • Why we love it: a unique, conversation-starting design that looks amazing in photos.
  • Keep in mind: it's best used as a photo prop for short sessions rather than worn all evening.
  • Best for: costume contests, Instagram and TikTok.

2. Riding Ghost Pet Costume – double the spooky

The Riding Ghost Pet Costume makes it look like a little ghost is riding on your pet's back. It's recognisable from across the room, it's funny rather than scary (so it's great around kids), and it comes in sizes S–XL for most cats and small-to-medium dogs.

  • Why we love it: a big visual impact that still lets your pet walk normally.
  • Keep in mind: measure chest and back length carefully so the rider sits upright.
  • Best for: trick-or-treat walks and Halloween parties.

3. Vampire Cat Costume – classic, elegant and easy

Sometimes a classic wins. The Vampire Cat Costume is a dramatic cloak with a matching hat. Because it's mostly a cape, it's light and quick to put on, and many cats will tolerate it far better than a full outfit. You can even skip the hat for more sensitive pets.

  • Why we love it: a timeless Halloween look with a minimal-fuss fit.
  • Keep in mind: introduce the hat separately if your cat is sensitive around the ears.
  • Best for: cats who only tolerate a simple cape, and family "Dracula" themes.

4. Cat Bat Wings – the easiest costume ever

If your pet has never worn a costume before, start here. The Cat Bat Wings Costume is a soft black felt harness with bat wings that sit on the back. It's adjustable, takes seconds to fit, and leaves the head, legs and tail completely free, so most cats barely notice it.

  • Why we love it: it's the most comfortable way to get your pet into the Halloween spirit.
  • Keep in mind: adjust the straps so you can slide two fingers underneath.
  • Best for: first-time costume wearers, black cats and nervous kitties.

5. Pet Nun Costume – funny and a little cheeky

The Pet Nun Costume is a guaranteed laugh. It includes a black habit and a cross detail, and it's available in sizes XS–XL for cats and small dogs. It pairs brilliantly with a human priest or nun outfit for a family group costume.

  • Why we love it: an unexpected, comedic look that stands out in contests.
  • Keep in mind: make sure the head covering doesn't sit over your pet's eyes.
  • Best for: costume contests and group photos.

6. Dinosaur Pet Hoodie – a costume and a winter coat in one

Want something your pet can keep wearing after October? The Dinosaur Pet Costume Hoodie is made from warm fleece with a cute dino hood. It works as a Halloween costume and then as a cosy sweater through the colder months, which makes it the best value on this list.

  • Why we love it: it's cute, warm and wearable all winter.
  • Keep in mind: the hood can be left down if your pet doesn't like it up.
  • Best for: small dogs, hairless or short-haired cats, and pets who feel the cold.

7. Funny Pet Cosplay Jumpsuit – for the show-off

For pets who love attention, the Funny Pet Halloween Costume is a soft cosplay jumpsuit with a foam prop that really completes the look. It comes in sizes XS–XL and is the boldest option here.

  • Why we love it: maximum wow factor for parties and contests.
  • Keep in mind: full outfits need a slower introduction, so follow the training steps below.
  • Best for: outgoing, easy-going pets.

Quick comparison: which costume is right for you?

Costume Coverage Best for
Cat Bat Wings Minimal Nervous pets, first costume
Vampire Cat Cloak Light Cats who tolerate capes
Cat Knight Prop Viral photos
Riding Ghost Medium Parties and walks
Pet Nun Medium Contests, group costumes
Dinosaur Hoodie Full body Cold weather, all-winter wear
Cosplay Jumpsuit Full body Show-off pets

How to measure your pet for a costume

A costume that's too tight is uncomfortable, and one that's too loose slips and trips your pet. Take these three measurements with a soft tape measure:

  1. Neck: measure around the base of the neck, where a collar sits.
  2. Chest: measure around the widest part of the rib cage, just behind the front legs. This is the most important measurement.
  3. Back length: measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.

Compare your numbers with the size chart in the product photos. If your pet is between two sizes, choose the larger one. A slightly loose costume is always more comfortable, and you can use the adjustable straps to tighten it. Once it's on, check that you can slide two fingers under any strap and that your pet can walk, sit and lie down naturally.

How to get your pet used to wearing a costume (5 steps)

Start this at least a week before Halloween. It makes a huge difference, especially for cats.

  1. Let them investigate. Leave the costume near your pet's bed or favourite spot for a day so it smells familiar.
  2. Pair it with treats. Touch the costume to your pet's back for a second, then give a treat. Repeat a few times.
  3. Short try-ons. Put the costume on for 30–60 seconds, give plenty of praise and treats, then take it off before your pet gets fussy.
  4. Build up slowly. Increase the time a little each day. Play with your pet or feed a meal while they wear it, so it feels normal.
  5. Know when to stop. Flattened ears, a tucked tail, freezing, hiding or trying to wriggle out mean your pet is stressed. Go back a step, or choose a lighter costume.

How to take the perfect Halloween pet photo

  • Get everything ready first. Set up your background and lighting before the costume goes on, so your pet only wears it for a few minutes.
  • Use natural light. Shoot near a window or outdoors in the late afternoon. Avoid flash, which startles pets and causes glowing eyes.
  • Get down to their level. Photos taken at your pet's eye level look far more professional.
  • Use burst mode. Pets move fast, so take lots of shots and pick the best one.
  • Grab their attention. A squeaky toy or treat held just above the camera gets that perfect head tilt.
  • Add some decor. A pumpkin, a few Halloween LED string lights or a Happy Halloween door sign in the background instantly makes the shot look seasonal. Keep candles and real flames well away.

Halloween safety tips for pets

  • Never cover the eyes, nose or mouth. Your pet must be able to see, breathe, pant, drink and bark or meow freely.
  • Remove chewable small parts. Buttons, pom-poms and loose trims can be swallowed.
  • Supervise at all times. Never leave a pet alone in a costume, and take it off when the photos or party are over.
  • Watch the temperature. Full-body costumes can make pets overheat indoors, so take them off if your pet is panting heavily.
  • Keep candy away. Chocolate, raisins and sugar-free sweets containing xylitol are toxic to pets.
  • Beware of open doors. Trick-or-treaters mean the front door opens constantly. Keep nervous pets in a quiet room, and make sure they're wearing an ID tag.
  • Choose flameless lighting. Swap real candles for LED options like our LED pumpkin lanterns so wagging tails don't knock over a flame.

FAQ

Do cats actually like wearing costumes?

Most cats don't love full outfits, but many will happily tolerate a light cape, bat wings or a harness-style costume for short periods, especially if you introduce it slowly with treats. Always let your cat's body language decide.

How long can my pet wear a costume?

For most pets, a few minutes for photos or up to an hour at a supervised party is plenty. Take the costume off as soon as your pet shows signs of stress or gets too warm.

What size should I buy if my pet is between sizes?

Go one size up and use the adjustable straps for a snug fit. A slightly loose costume is safer and more comfortable than a tight one.

What's the best costume for a pet who hates being dressed up?

Start with the Cat Bat Wings or the Vampire Cat Cloak. They only sit on the back and shoulders and leave the head and legs free.

When should I order to get my costume before Halloween?

Orders are processed within 1–3 business days, then US delivery takes 5–10 business days with free Economy Shipping or 3–5 business days with Standard Shipping. International orders take 8–20 business days, so we recommend ordering as early as possible.

Complete your spooky season

Dressing up the whole family? Explore our full Halloween collection for human costumes, LED decorations and trick-or-treat party favours. For year-round comfort, visit Pet Supplies for pet beds, cooling mats, toys and travel carriers.

More Halloween guides from GreytCart

Which costume will your pet wear this year? Pick your favourite, order early, and get ready for the cutest Halloween yet! 🎃🐾

About GreytCart: GreytCart is an online store for toys and games, pet supplies, Halloween costumes and decorations, shipping worldwide from greytcart.com. Our guides are written by the GreytCart Team using the details of the products we sell.