When people think of collars for pets, most people only think that dogs should wear collars. But what about cats? Some believe that all cats should wear collars, while others contend that collars are unnecessary and even dangerous for felines. So, who is right? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of cat collars to help you decide if your kitty should be sporting one.
The Benefits of Cat Collars
There are a few potential benefits of outfitting your cat with a collar.
- Perhaps most importantly, a collar with an ID tag can help ensure that your cat is returned to you if they ever get lost (make sure the ID tag includes your contact information).
- Additionally, a bell attached to the collar may help you keep tabs on your kitty’s whereabouts and deter them from stalking—and catching—wild prey.
- Last but not least, some collars come equipped with GPS tracking devices, which can be very helpful if your feline friend tends to wander off.
All of these things combine to offer a good, reliable safety net for pet owners.
The Disadvantages of Cat Collars
While there are plenty of advantages to cat collars, there are also a few potential drawbacks to consider.
- For one, some cats simply do not like wearing collars and may become agitated or uncomfortable when one is put on them. If your cat falls into this category, it is understandable that you wouldn’t want to force them to wear something that makes them unhappy.
- Additionally, collars can pose a choking hazard for cats—especially those who are prone to getting caught on things or who like to chew on their collars (In fact, for this very reason cat collars should always be the breakaway type, to prevent these kinds of injuries).
- Finally, it’s important to note that even the best-fitting collar can slip off, so don’t rely on a collar alone to keep your cat safe. Ensure your cat has a permanent backup such as a microchip, just to be safe.
With all of these things in mind, it begs the question, “Should all cats wear collars?” Let’s see what the American Humane Society has to say on the matter.
Yes, All Cats Should Wear Collars
The American Humane Society believes that all cats—indoor and outdoor—should wear collars with ID tags. They offer a few reasons for this stance, all of which are outlined above.
That doesn’t mean you still may not have concerns about outfitting your cat with a collar. Some cats simply don’t like wearing them. But when weighing the pros and cons, the pros win out every time.
Cat Collar Safety Tips
Now that we’ve settled the debate on whether or not all cats should wear collars, let’s go over a few safety tips to keep in mind if you do decide to put one on your feline friend.
- Choose the right size. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to put two of your fingers between your cat’s neck and the collar.
- Check the fit often. Cats grow quickly, so it’s important to check the fit of their collar often and adjust as needed.
- Choose a breakaway collar. As pointed out a moment ago, these collars release if they get snagged, preventing your cat from getting stuck or choked.
These are all simple but essential tips to keep in mind when choosing a collar for your cat. Following these guidelines will help ensure that your cat is safe and comfortable while wearing a collar—and that’s what we all want, right?
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Conclusion
At the end of the day, safety is the most important consideration when it comes to whether your cat should wear a collar. If you have any concerns about putting a collar on your feline friend, be sure to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose the right type of collar and offer additional safety tips.
Featured Image Credit: Daniel Rajszczak, Shutterstock
