To get a cat to wear a Christmas costume, pick something light that leaves the legs, tail, ears and whiskers free (a hat, bib or cape), let your cat sniff it first, put it on for a few seconds with treats, and build up slowly. Keep every session short, supervise the whole time, and take it off the second your cat looks stressed. Some cats will never be costume cats, and that is a perfectly respectable criminal record.
We make costumes for cats and small dogs, so we have a lot of practice getting felons into disguise. Here is the method that works, plus the signs that tell you to call off the heist.
Which Christmas costumes do cats tolerate best?
Cats tolerate small, light costumes far better than full suits. The RSPCA advises that many cats will not tolerate costumes at all, and that any pet in one should be supervised and only wear it for short periods, so start with the smallest piece you have.
A rough order from easiest to hardest for most cats:
- Bibs and scarves. A Santa face bib or candy cane scarf sits on the chest and shoulders, nothing on the head.
- Hats and antlers. A Santa hat or reindeer antlers sit on top of the head, so watch that the ears can still move freely.
- Hooded capes. A Santa or reindeer hooded cape drapes over the back and leaves all four legs free.
- Full looks. The standing Santa and Santa rider give the biggest laugh in photos and are the ones to save for your most relaxed felon.
How do you get a cat used to wearing a costume?
You get a cat used to a costume the same way you get them used to a carrier: small steps, good snacks, zero wrestling. Plan on a few days of short sessions rather than one long fight on Christmas morning.
- Introduce it as an object. Leave the costume near their favorite spot for a day so it smells like home.
- Touch and treat. Rest the costume on their back for a second, reward, remove. Repeat a few times.
- On for a few seconds. Fasten it loosely, give a high value treat, then take it off before they ask you to.
- Stretch the time slowly. Add a few seconds each session. Stop while it is still going well.
- Shoot fast. Have the camera ready before the costume goes on. The photo window is short for most cats, and that is fine.
Fit matters as much as patience. A costume that pinches, slips over the eyes or catches a paw will undo every treat you have spent. Check our fit guide before you order, and loosen anything that leaves a mark in the fur.
How long can a cat wear a Christmas costume?
A cat should wear a Christmas costume only for as long as it takes to get the photo and enjoy the moment, usually a few minutes. Costumes can stop a cat grooming normally and some fabrics hold heat, so short sessions are kinder and safer. Never leave a cat alone in a costume, never let them sleep in it, and keep it away from candles, tree lights and the fireplace.
What are the signs a cat is stressed in a costume?
A stressed cat in a costume usually tells you fast. Take it off right away if you see any of these:
- Freezing in place or refusing to walk
- Rolling, scratching or biting at the costume to get it off
- Ears flattened back, tail lashing or tucked, body held low
- Hiding, hissing, growling or unusual meowing
- Panting, dilated pupils or excessive licking
Pet behavior experts list the same body language as signs of fear and stress in cats. A cat that is merely putting up with a costume is not the same as a cat that is relaxed in one. If yours hates it, let them sit this one out and dress up the tree instead. A cat in a Christmas sweater made of attitude is still a great photo.
Is it better to buy one costume or a few?
A few small pieces beat one big costume for most cats, because you can find out which piece your cat tolerates and swap between looks for different photos. A cat who flatly refuses a hat might be completely calm in a bib.
That is why every Fuzzy Felons look is sold separately and you can mix any of them in a bundle. The more looks you add, the more you save, and 5 or more outfits ship free in the US. Grab a bib, a hat and a cape, test all three, and keep the winner for the card. Browse every option on our Christmas costumes for cats page.
When should you order a cat Christmas costume?
Order early enough to leave a week or two for practice sessions before you need the photo. Fuzzy Felons orders arrive in 8 to 17 business days in the US, and our Christmas order cutoff is November 29 at 11:59 pm ET.
FAQ
Do cats actually like wearing costumes?
Most cats don't love costumes, and some will never accept one. Relaxed, confident cats can tolerate a light hat, bib or cape for a short photo session with treats and patience.
Can a small dog wear the same costume as a cat?
Yes. Our costumes are one size, cut roomy for cats and small dogs. Check the fit guide for the measurements before ordering.
What if my cat won't keep a hat on?
Try a bib or scarf instead. Plenty of cats who shake off a hat ignore something that sits on the chest.
Is it safe to leave a costume on my cat?
No. Supervise your cat the whole time they are dressed up and take the costume off as soon as the photos are done.
Written by the Fuzzy Felons team. Last updated October 2026. Sources: RSPCA Knowledge Base, Sure Petcare on cat stress body language.