Throwing a Halloween party this year? While you're busy sorting the decorations and playlist, it's worth planning for your pets too. A house full of costumes, noise and new faces can be a lot for them to handle, so here's how to keep things fun for your guests and stress-free for your furry housemates.

Give them a quiet space of their own
With guests arriving throughout the evening, the constant knocking, doorbell and unfamiliar voices can be overwhelming. Set up a den in a quiet room away from the party, with their bed, a favourite toy, and water. If there's noise coming from outside as well, closing the curtains helps muffle it further.

Plan the evening around them
Walk dogs before it gets dark and before guests start arriving, so they've had their exercise before the house fills up. For cats, bring them in and get them settled earlier than usual by moving dinner time forward, and make sure a litter tray is ready if they'll be shut away from the party for the night. It's also worth double-checking microchip details are up to date, just in case a spooked pet slips out the door with your guests.

Keep party food out of paws' reach
Halloween sweets are an easy thing for a curious pet to steal at a party, so make sure bowls of treats are kept well out of reach. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic even in small amounts, and xylitol, found in some jelly sweets, can be dangerous too. If your pet does get into either, call us immediately.

Watch the pumpkin displays
Lit pumpkins look brilliant for party decor, but keep them away from curious noses and wagging tails to avoid any burns. Once the party's over, dispose of pumpkins properly rather than leaving them out, so pets can't sneak a bite of mouldy leftovers.

Skip the pet costumes
As fun as a themed photo might be, dressing pets up can be stressful and uncomfortable for them - our advice is to let them enjoy the evening in their own fur.

Find out more from the PDSA's Halloween survival guide for pets.