Do Cats Like Wearing Clothes?

Across the internet, you can find plenty of viral cat content where owners dress their cats up in costumes. Around December especially, we see content where cats are dressed in festive jumpers, Christmas pyjamas and headwear (sometimes even matching their owners!).

At Applaws, we know that you’re just as worried about what is going on your cat’s body as what is going in your cat’s body. The most important question to us is a cat’s autonomy, their comfort and how they feel about the experience of wearing clothes.

Learn here about whether or not your furry friend enjoys wearing their ugly Christmas jumper.

Why you shouldn’t dress up your cat

For the most part, cats don’t enjoy wearing clothes. Not only do they struggle with the restrictive and invasive process involved in getting them into the clothing, but being forced into something physically unnatural for them can cause them stress.

Cats are not used to wearing clothing like we are, so the feeling of having something contacting their fur, ears or whiskers doesn’t feel pleasant to them. Like many human costumes and jumpers, pet clothing is often made of materials that are scratchy and irritating. The extra layer of insulation interferes with air flow to skin and the ability to groom – all of which cause cats to overheat.

Beyond discomfort, clothing can restrict how cats move about by affecting their posture, muscle and joint movement. Costumes can also get caught on furniture and walls. While your kitty knows exactly how to jump up on the couch while undressed, adding clothing can change their spatial awareness, range of motion and ability to move in necessary ways like jumping. In this way, clothing can quickly become a safety hazard for your pets.

Times where your pet might need clothing

While putting them in pyjamas on Christmas morning may not be fun for anyone in the family, there are instances where your pet cat might benefit from some extra layers:

• Going for a walk. When you take your cat on a walk, it’s important to use a cat-safe harness to keep them safe.
• Hairless cats. During the colder months, hairless cats could benefit from something warm. As always, make sure to gauge their reaction to the material to make sure they’re comfortable – let your cat’s individual personality and lifestyle guide you.

Cats love their independence and space

Just like when trying to hug your cat, you should always be attentive to signs that your cat is enjoying or not enjoying what they’re experiencing. Pay attention to their body language during any activity to check they’re happy.

On the whole, putting your cat in clothing isn’t advised and can be a health hazard. Whilst you might enjoy wearing your scratchy Christmas jumper, chances are, your cat doesn’t want to participate.