Halloween Pet Safety: Candy, Chocolate & Decor Dangers
Last reviewed October 2026
Halloween is one of the busiest nights of the year for pet poison lines. Candy bowls sit within reach, wrappers end up on the floor, and the doorbell keeps ringing.
Here is what to watch out for, in plain language, with links to the details for each item. If your pet already ate something, call your vet or a poison control line now.
Chocolate
Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous, but any chocolate can make a pet sick. Fun-size bars add up quickly.
Sugar-free candy, gum and xylitol
Xylitol is a sweetener found in sugar-free gum and some candy. It is especially dangerous for dogs. Check labels before treating any gum as harmless.
Raisins and grapes
Raisin snack boxes are a common Halloween handout. Grapes and raisins can harm dogs even in small amounts.
Wrappers and lollipop sticks
Pets often swallow candy wrappers and sticks along with the candy. These can cause choking or a blockage.
Glow sticks
The liquid inside glow sticks tastes very bitter. Pets that bite one usually drool a lot and may foam at the mouth. It is rarely serious, but call your vet if you are worried.
Candles and jack-o'-lanterns
Lit candles are easy to knock over. Plain pumpkin flesh is fine for pets, but carved pumpkins that have gone moldy are not. Put old pumpkins out of reach and keep pets out of the compost.
Costumes and decor
- A costume should never restrict breathing, sight, hearing or movement. Skip it if your pet seems stressed.
- Fake cobwebs, small plastic parts and string decorations can be swallowed. Keep them up high.
- Keep pets away from the front door during trick-or-treating. A quiet room is ideal.
- Make sure your pet wears an ID tag and that the microchip details are up to date.
Cannabis edibles
THC gummies and brownies are increasingly common at parties. Many also contain chocolate or xylitol.
Safe treats instead
Want your pet to join in? These are generally considered safe in small, plain portions.
Halloween checklist
- Keep the candy bowl and kids' candy bags out of reach, including on tables and low shelves.
- Pick up wrappers and sticks straight away.
- Read labels for xylitol on gum, mints and sugar-free candy.
- Use battery candles in jack-o'-lanterns and throw out moldy pumpkins.
- Give your pet a quiet room during trick-or-treating.
- Check the ID tag and microchip details.
- Save your vet's number and a poison control line in your phone.
Frequently asked questions
My dog ate Halloween candy. What should I do?
Find out what kind of candy and how much, then call your vet or a pet poison control line. Chocolate, xylitol (sugar-free) candy and raisins are the most concerning. Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Is a little chocolate dangerous for cats and dogs?
It depends on the type of chocolate, the amount and your pet's size. Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. Call your vet or poison control for advice specific to your pet.
Are glow sticks poisonous to pets?
The liquid tastes very bitter and usually causes drooling, but it is rarely serious. Rinse your pet's mouth with a little water and call your vet if you are worried.
Can pets eat pumpkin?
Plain cooked or canned pumpkin is generally safe in small amounts. Moldy carved pumpkins, pumpkin pie and spiced pumpkin products are not a good idea.
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