Having one or more cats in the family makes us feel several states throughout the day. It ranges from fun to annoyance to joy. To further enhance the pleasure of sharing moments with your cat, consider dressing it up, or even disguising it. Why do this you say? Can your cat like wearing clothes? And is it a necessity or just a whim in 2024? In this article we will answer all your questions about cat clothing.
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Why put clothing on your cat?
It seems unusual at first glance, but having your cat wear something has many benefits. Why then adorn an animal that already has fur with a piece of fabric? It has never crossed your mind because you probably think it is unnatural. However, there are a few reasons that might change your mind.
It’s the trend of the moment
Having a cute little kitten is a dream for many people. Making it wear a sailor’s outfit or even a lion costume makes it even more adorable. On social networks, owners constantly post photos and videos of their cats wearing all kinds of clothes. Having a page specially dedicated to your furball is the trend. Sharing these images with others also makes you feel good.
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It’s good therapy for the owner
Remember that the mere presence of the cat in your life already helps you psychologically, because it allows you to de-stress. The idiocies and cuteness of your furball stimulate your body to secrete endorphin, a hormone that soothes you. Although it seems like a simple hobby to some, dressing their cat is a therapy used by many French people. In fact, this allows you to reduce anxiety and stimulate good mood.
Keep your cat warm
Of course, fame isn’t the only reason you can make your cat wear clothes. Indeed, some cats need clothing to stay warm, especially in winter. If you have an Egyptian cat for example, the absence of hair is not an advantage when it snows outside. Even if you have heating, remember that the animal moves at ground level, where the temperature is not as ideal as we think.
Cat clothing is also recommended for old cats and kittens. Younger children quickly catch a cold, especially if their mother is not nearby. As for those who have aged, the body is no longer able to provide the level of heat necessary for their good health. The risks of catching a disease are therefore high.
Does your cat like to be decked out in clothes?
Many owners have experienced this; the majority of pets do not feel any discomfort when wearing clothing. Of course, it depends on what kind of outfit you make it wear. So how do you know if it likes to wear clothes?
Observe your companion
Doing an experiment will give you the answer to the question. To determine for sure whether or not your cat likes to wear a special outfit, choose one and have it wear it. All you have to do is observe it for a whole day to get your answer. Once dressed in this outfit, look at it regularly. Study your cat’s behavior.
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If it stays the same as usual, it’s because he’s taking it well. Indeed, by living with your cat, you become familiar with its daily reactions. So this allows you to know whether or not your cat likes to wear clothes.
Otherwise, if it does not accept it, it will spend its time scratching or even chewing the clothing. It also happens that the animal constantly rubs against furniture, the wall or something else. This gesture means that the garment must be removed. Other cats simply stand frozen because they don’t really know what to do with the item of clothing.
Also, if it becomes aggressive, it is really starting to get stressed. Then remove the clothing immediately, because your cat’s mental health depends on it.
How to get it used to wearing clothing?
Yes, this can happen in certain cats. Yours can get used to an outfit under certain conditions. First of all, rub the animal’s clothes to infuse it with its scent. This should be done for two or three days before putting it on him. Unlike some people, cats are not interested in the scent of new clothing. It could even categorically reject this fabric which is completely foreign to him.
Then have it wear the prepared outfit. If it continues to feel embarrassed, leave it as is for at least a day. If it rubs less, scratches less or chews less on the item of clothing in the evening, it is because it is starting to understand that it will not be able to get rid of it. The habituation is also seen in the way it acts. If it gradually resumes its habits, open the bottle of champagne, because you have succeeded in your mission.
If it keeps scratching where there is fabric, remember to check that area regularly to see if there is any trace of allergy.
How to choose the perfect cat clothing?
Cat clothes come in all shapes, colors and even different styles. Please note, however, that even if your kitty does not refuse to wear one, that does not mean that all the outfits are suitable. It is therefore important to choose the right cat clothing.
Start with the type of clothing
A wide variety of clothes are available to you to dress your feline. Many animal stores offer trendy items that are sure to please you. You can therefore choose between pajamas, coats, T-shirts, or even dresses. To keep its head and ears warm, you can also make it wear a cat hat, especially during the winter. If you have an old cat, the cat sweater, fleece and coat are more suitable. These have the advantage of keeping it warm. It is indeed known that older cats have fragile health and are no longer able to heat themselves completely. This will then prevent them from catching cold and getting sick.
Manufacturing quality
In general, cat clothes offered on the market have a soft and fluffy texture. This greatly guarantees comfort and helps the cat get used to it more quickly.
If it scratches often even though your cat is already used to wearing clothes, tell yourself that the fabric is not suitable for its hair and skin. So avoid buying this same type of textile for him. You have the choice between different materials. Cotton is among the most appreciated for its quality and longevity. In close competition with it, there is also wool which stands out for its elegance.
Of course, the greatest durability goes to polyester. You should therefore also think about a cat outfit that does not tear quickly. Indeed, the first time you make it wear clothing, the animal may bite and scratch the fabric, hence the importance of resistance.
Obviously, you must also opt for clothing that is easy to wash. Since cats lose a lot of their hair, it goes without saying that a lot of it will stick to this fabric. Also take into account the fact that your companion likes to rub against anything and everything and will regularly lounge on the ground. So make sure that its manufacturing style allows for quick and easy maintenance.
Comfort
Even if it is not allowed to go outdoors, a cat must have the opportunity to walk to stay healthy. Illness can quickly occur if there is a lack of physical exercise. Therefore, you must choose clothing that does not restrict your movements. Their mobility must in no case be reduced by the t-shirt, coat or other clothing. Then check that it is the right size, whether at the level of the legs, the neck or even the torso.
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It is also essential to take into account the thickness of the garment to guarantee its well-being. This criterion depends mainly on the seasons. When selecting, opt for models that suit the climate to prevent your cat from being too hot or, on the contrary, too cold.
Disguise your cat to brighten your days
The cat costume is also very popular with the French, as well as thousands of owners around the world. Some use it to make their kittens famous by having them participate in competitions and cosplays, while others do it simply for their personal pleasure. But, whatever your motivations, you can find all the articles and accessories you need on our site dedicated to cats.
Typically, an owner chooses the cat costume based on an event. The trend changes regularly depending on the time and holidays. You can therefore transform it into a reindeer or even a rabbit for Christian occasions. If you like cats and manga, opt for a costume of a famous character, such as Pikachu or why not Simba in the Lion King. You can also make it wear a superhero costume, like that of Batman or simply a police officer.
Of course, you don’t have to choose complete cat clothing. Various accessories also allow you to disguise it. For example, opt for a cat hat or a beautiful scarf. Also give it bat wings or a helmet for its head to give it a cute look without cluttering it up.
Avoid excess weight and bulk
Certainly, some cat costumes can be particularly attractive at first glance. Remember, however, that the comfort and well-being of your furball must come first. If you have a kitten, do not make it wear clothing that is too heavy. So insist on lightweight items to allow it to move around normally.
Putting too many accessories on the cat’s back is also not a good idea, as it could cause discomfort. Forget bracelets and pompoms to place on the legs. Also, unless you offer it clear vision, do not put a mask on him.
So is cat clothing necessary?
At first glance, cats do not need clothes, whether they are indoors or can go out of the house. The body of felines generally adapts to their environment, which allows them to avoid contracting an illness. However, depending on the weather, adequate clothing will only be beneficial. In winter, for example, we recommend wearing a coat or fleece to protect your cat from the cold. During the sunny season, you can choose between small accessories like a tie or give it a t-shirt.
Of course, making your cat wear something does not necessarily depend on its physical condition. Some owners use it mainly for viewing pleasure. Obviously, not everyone always agrees with this practice. Whether you are for or against cat clothing, we are interested in your opinion. Come in the comments to share your opinion. We would be delighted to debate and discuss with you.