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The 12 Best Cat Collars: We Tested Them All

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Best Cat Collars

Liz Coleman / Cats.com

If you have a cat that ventures outdoors or a curious indoor cat prone to escape attempts, a cat collar with identification improves their odds of returning home. Additionally, a cat collar alerts people that your cat is owned and lost, rather than a stray or feral cat.

Most cats have strong opinions about their neckwear, which highlights the importance of finding a collar that’s both comfortable and safe. We’ve rounded up and tested a variety of cat collars to suit a range of cats and preferences. Here are our top 12 recommendations.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Cat Collars

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We highly recommend looking at the comparison table we have below where we highlighted the features of each product. You’ll also find more detailed information about each product later in the article.

Overall Best
10.0
Picked by 31 people today!

Red Dingo Nylon Reflective Breakaway Cat Collar

  • Made from durable nylon materials
  • Reflective coating improves nighttime visibility
  • Easy to adjust the size
$10.99 At Chewy
Runner Up
9.9
Picked by 31 people today!

Made By Cleo Berry Bramble Cat Collar

  • Machine washable
  • Comes in a multitude of stylish designs
  • Sturdy and well-made
Budget Pick
9.8
Picked by 31 people today!

2 Pack Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

  • Comes in an affordable two-pack
  • Choose from seven adorable patterns
  • Adorned with a cat-shaped breakaway clasp and decorative tag
Best Nylon
9.6
Picked by 25 people today!

Safe Cat Snag-Proof Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

  • Choose from eleven different colors and styles
  • Simple, snag-proof design prioritizes cat safety
  • Made with durable nylon with thick plastic clasp and adjusters
Best Personalized
9.6
Picked by 31 people today!

GoTags Nylon Embroidered Breakaway Cat Collar

  • Perfect for cats that don’t like to wear dangling ID tags
  • Made from sturdy, lightweight nylon webbing
  • Choose from five collar colors and 15 thread colors
Best for Outdoor Cats
9.5
Picked by 25 people today!

Pawtitas Reflective Traffic Cat Collar

  • Reflects ambient light to provide maximum visibility
  • Made from a single strip of durable rip-stop nylon
  • Size is easy to adjust
Best for Large Cats
9.5
Picked by 21 people today!

Blueberry Pet The Power of All in One Breakaway Collar

  • Goes up to 13 inches to accommodate larger cats
  • Breakaway design
  • Fun colors and patterns
Best for Cats That Hate Collars
9.4
Picked by 18 people today!

Beastie Bands

  • Super soft and lightweight neoprene
  • Stretchy collar closes with Velcro
  • Available in a wide variety of colors and prints
Best Glow-in-the-Dark
9.4
Picked by 31 people today!

Rogz Breakaway Cat Collar

  • Glow-in-the-dark and reflective materials provide visibility at night
  • Adjustable breakaway mechanism for the perfect balance of security and safety
  • Made from soft, comfortable materials
Best Leather
9.2
Picked by 31 people today!

CollarDirect Leather Cat Collar with Bell

  • Made with full-grain leather and heavy-duty metal hardware
  • Nice balance of durability and style
  • Two sizes to accommodate kittens and larger cats
Best Silicone
9.1
Picked by 25 people today!

Kittyrama Breakaway Adjustable Cat Collar

  • Minimizes risk of rashes and irritation for sensitive cats
  • Soft silky texture
  • Waterproof
Best Flea Collar
9.0
Picked by 21 people today!

Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Cats

  • No prescription required
  • Effective for the entire flea and tick season
  • Kills fleas on contact, so they don’t need to bite your cat for it to work

Why Trust Cats.com

I’ve lived with cats my entire life. Before choosing several cat collars for testing, I researched the arguments for and against collars, focusing on the potential benefits and risks. I also learned about the different types of collars available and what to prioritize when shopping for one.

Next, I pored over product reviews to learn what other pet parents were saying about the most popular collars on the market. To make my selections, I considered a range of cat comfort levels, aiming to include various materials that might appeal to different cats.

In testing, I assessed each collar’s breakaway function and how easy they were to adjust. I also considered features like reflective strips, glow-in-the-dark materials, and customizability. Finally, I observed how my own cat reacted to wearing the collars.

Our rankings are determined by a variety of factors. Each cat will have different needs and preferences, so while Red Dingo’s Nylon Breakaway Collar is our top choice, it might not be ideal for your unique cat. To help you choose the right toothbrush for your cat, we’ve broken down our recommendations by size, material, and other key considerations.

#1 Overall Best: Red Dingo Nylon Reflective Breakaway Cat Collar

Red Dingo Nylon Reflective Breakaway Cat Collar

  • Neck Size: 8 to 12.5 inches
  • Material: Nylon, synthetic fabric
  • Closure type: Quick release
  • Breakaway: Yes

This nylon reflective collar from Red Dingo is our top pick thanks to its simple yet functional design. Not only does it feature a breakaway clasp for safety, but it also has a cute fish motif that’s highly reflective.

Red Dingo Nylon Reflective Breakaway Cat Collar

Liz Coleman / Cats.com

The Red Dingo cat collar is made from abrasion-resistant nylon. Stitching at both ends makes it durable, but also a bit rougher than the other collars. You can attach your cat’s ID tag as a backup for their microchip with the steel K-ring. To prevent snagging, the quick-release safety clip comes undone with a reasonable amount of tension.

In addition, we love that this collar is affordable and machine-washable for easy cleaning. The half-inch width is ideal for cats, and the size can be adjusted between 8 and 12.5 inches. Finally, the bell is attached with a split ring, so it can be removed easily if it’s a nuisance.

What We Liked:

  • Made from durable nylon materials
  • Reflective coating improves nighttime visibility
  • Easy to adjust the size
  • Detachable bell
  • Available in five colors: red, green, orange, pink, and purple

What We Didn’t Like:

  • The materials were a little stiffer than others

#2 Runner Up: Made By Cleo Berry Bramble Cat Collar

Made By Cleo Berry Bramble Cat Collar

  • Neck Size: 8 to 13 inches
  • Material: Nylon webbing lining, cotton fabric, and nickel or brass-plated hardware
  • Closure type: Breakaway
  • Breakaway: Yes

This collar from Made By Cleo has a cute berry design, a metal adjuster and split ring, and a plastic breakaway clasp. It’s made of nylon and cotton, is machine-washable, and is adjustable from 8-13 inches.

Made By Cleo also sells a selection of collar designs in other listings. From the sweet flowers on their Aurora cat collar to the adorable mushrooms on the Forest Fantasy collar, it was difficult to pick a favorite! If you want your cat to look fancy, you can even purchase a matching bowtie (sold separately).

I found the collar sturdy and thoughtfully designed. My favorite thing about it is the buckle, which is breakaway but can also be pinched for easy removal. Many breakaway clasps have to be tugged, which can be uncomfortable for your cat.

While the collar does come with a bell, it can be removed from the split ring in the same way that you’d add or remove your cat’s ID tags.

What We Liked:

  • Collar can be unbuckled by a human without tugging on your cat’s neck
  • Comes in a multitude of beautiful designs
  • Thoughtfully designed for cat comfort
  • Machine washable

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Comes with a bell, but the bell can be removed easily

#3 Budget Pick: 2 Pack Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

2 Pack Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

  • Neck Size: 7 to 11 inches
  • Material: Cotton, plastic parts
  • Closure type: Buckle
  • Breakaway: Yes

This 2 pack of cotton breakaway collars from Liugjiau caught my eye due to their affordable pricing and the selection of cute patterns to choose from. The collars are designed with a cute cat-shaped breakaway clasp and decorative tags.

Unfortunately, they are quite cheaply made with plastic parts that don’t feel especially sturdy. The ring for the bell and tag is a simple loop, rather than the usual split ring which is much more secure, especially if you want to add your own ID tags.

While the clasp is super cute, it can be difficult to get onto your cat, especially if they have a long coat. Fur may get caught in the clasp, but it’s not difficult to remove and doesn’t pull your cat’s hair. I do recommend checking after putting the collar on, just so that your cat isn’t uncomfortable.

Overall, this is a cute and cheap option for your cat, but is best for short-term use, such as in a growing kitten or if you have a cat who’s constantly losing their collar and needing replacements.

What We Liked:

  • Affordable two-pack
  • Sold in seven cute colors and patterns
  • Comes with a cute, cat-shaped breakaway clasp and decorative tag

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Decorative tag may clink against ID tags, causing irritation for the cat
  • Comes with a bell, but the bell is easily removable

#4 Best Nylon: Safe Cat Snag-Proof Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

Safe Cat Snag-Proof Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

  • Neck Size: 8 to 12 inches
  • Material: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric
  • Closure type: Buckle
  • Breakaway: Yes

The Safe Cat snag-proof breakaway cat collar comes in 11 colors. Most of them are thin like the one pictured above, while some are thicker. Although the Chewy title calls this collar polyester, the listing confirms that it’s made of nylon.

It’s a simple choice with a breakaway clasp and a small bell. Although the bell isn’t meant to be removed, I was able to pull apart the metal attachment and take it off easily. The collar does not come with a secure loop to attach ID tags, but the collar is thin enough to loop a split ring over top of.

The length is easily adjustable and ranges from 8 to 12 inches. The collar feels sturdy and well-made, with a thick plastic clasp and adjusters. Overall, I would recommend this one to someone looking for a simple, lightweight cat collar–especially if you’d like it in multiple colors to help identify cats who look similar.

What We Liked:

  • Comes in eleven variations, including different colors and thicknesses
  • Simple, snag-proof design
  • Made with durable materials

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Bell isn’t meant to be removed, but can be taken off if desired

#5 Best Personalized: GoTags Nylon Embroidered Breakaway Cat Collar

  • Neck Size: 8 to 12 inches
  • Material: Nylon, synthetic fabric
  • Closure type: Quick-release
  • Breakaway: Yes

Customizable embroidered collars offer the benefits of an ID tag without the discomfort of a dangling accessory around your cat’s neck. Because they’re lightweight and streamlined, this style of collar is a favorite among sensitive cats.

A customizable collar isn’t limited to your cat’s name and phone number, though. If your cat has special needs, you can have them printed on the collar. In the event that your cat goes missing, this message will increase the chances that they’ll receive appropriate care.

You can also choose your favorite color combination. GoTags offers five background colors and 15 thread (text) colors.

While still legible, the adjustment buckle might cover some of the text if you have it at a smaller setting. The bell is attached with a K-ring instead of a split-ring, meaning you could probably remove it, but you might need a pair of pliers to do so.

What We Liked:

  • Perfect for cats that don’t like to wear dangling ID tags
  • Made from sturdy, lightweight nylon webbing
  • Choose from five collar colors and 15 thread colors

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Sliding adjustment buckle might cover the custom embroidery (especially with smaller cats)

#6 Best for Outdoor Cats: Pawtitas Reflective Traffic Cat Collar

Pawtitas Reflective Traffic Cat Collar

  • Neck Size: 8 to 12 inches
  • Material: Nylon, synthetic fabric
  • Closure type: Quick release
  • Breakaway: Yes

Visibility is a top priority for cats that spend time outdoors. This Pawtitas Traffic Cat Collar features pronounced reflective material that covers most of the fabric surface. It’s also available in several bright colors that should be easier to spot outside. A bell attachment warns birds and wildlife that there’s a predator on the prowl, but it can be removed if you’re not a fan.

Pawtitas Reflective Traffic Cat Collar

Liz Coleman / Cats.com

Of all the collars I tested, this one was the easiest to adjust. It’s soft and flexible and includes a breakaway buckle for peace of mind.

What We Liked:

  • Reflects ambient light to provide maximum visibility
  • Made from a single strip of durable rip-stop nylon
  • Size is easy to adjust
  • Includes D-ring for attaching ID tags
  • Minority-owned small business based in the United States

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Might be too easy for some cats to get off

#7 Best for Large Cats: Blueberry Pet The Power of All in One Breakaway Collar

  • Neck Size: 9 to 13 inches
  • Material: Polyester, synthetic fabric
  • Closure type: Quick release
  • Breakaway: Yes

It’s important that your cat’s collar isn’t too snug. As a rule, you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your cat’s neck. This Blueberry Pet collar is designed for cats with neck sizes up to 13 inches.

These collars are simple to adjust, and they’re made with high-density polyester webbing. They come in packs of two, each featuring colorful bands with a coordinating flower adornment that attaches with an elastic loop. Each set also includes an extra flower in case one gets lost.

In my set, the collar with the printed pattern felt a bit softer than the solid-colored one. The bell can be removed thanks to a split-ring attachment.

What We Liked:

  • Goes up to 13 inches to accommodate larger cats
  • Breakaway design
  • Fun colors and patterns
  • Removable flower accessory adds a pop of fun

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Solid-colored collar was a little rougher than the patterned one

#8 Best for Cats That Hate Collars: Beastie Bands

Beastie Bands

  • Neck Size: Up to 12.5 inches
  • Material: Soft, flexible neoprene
  • Closure type: Velcro
  • Breakaway: No, but stretches to release cats

Beastie Bands don’t look like your average cat collar, and they don’t fit like your average collar, either. These unique cat collars are a cult favorite among breeders, people who foster kittens, and cat aficionados. They’re made from stretchy neoprene, and because you can trim them to fit, Beastie Bands are suitable for a range of sizes.

Beastie Bands

Liz Coleman / Cats.com

Beastie Bands are stretchy and have Velcro closures, so they’re safe for even the most adventurous cat. Plus, the inner surface is super soft and shouldn’t irritate most cats.

In lieu of the D-rings found on most collars, Beastie Bands feature a grommet through which you can attach an ID tag or bell.

What We Liked:

  • Super soft and lightweight neoprene is perfect for cats with sensitive skin or those that hate wearing collars
  • Stretchy collar closes with Velcro, making it easy for your cat to escape when in danger
  • Available in a wide variety of colors and prints
  • Compatible with ID tags

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Might not work for very large cats

#9 Best Glow-in-the-Dark: Rogz Breakaway Cat Collar

Rogz Breakaway Cat Collar

  • Neck Size: 8 to 12 inches
  • Material: Nylon webbing
  • Closure type: Quick release
  • Breakaway: Yes, adjustable

If you’re concerned about visibility, a glow-in-the-dark collar is better than those with just reflective accents—this Rogz collar has both.

Rogz Breakaway Cat Collar

Liz Coleman / Cats.com

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect this collar to glow as well as it did, but I was blown away by how bright it was. After holding it under a light for 30 seconds, the Rogz collar shone luminously in the dark.

Apart from its ability to glow, the buckle is what really sets this collar apart. It has a sensitivity setting based on your cat’s weight, allowing you to choose how easily the breakaway buckle will snap open.

The Rogz collar is adjustable from 8 inches to 12 inches, making it appropriate for larger kittens and cats. However, it might be too big for the smallest kitten.

What We Liked:

  • Glow-in-the-dark and reflective materials provide visibility at night
  • Adjustable breakaway mechanism for the perfect balance of security and safety
  • Made from soft, comfortable materials
  • Feels solid and durable

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Might not be small enough for very young kittens

#10 Best Leather: CollarDirect Leather Cat Collar with Bell

CollarDirect Leather Cat Collar with Bell

  • Neck Size: Small: 6 to 7 inches; medium: 9 to 11 inches
  • Material: Leather, metal hardware
  • Closure type: Buckle
  • Breakaway: No, but stretchy elastic allows cats to break away

Leather has a classic, chic look and tends to be long-lasting. This collar is made with genuine full-grain leather that’s soft and flexible. It doesn’t have a breakaway clasp; instead, it features stretchy elastic that will release your cat if they get snagged on something. I tested this on my cat, Floyd, and found that the collar easily stretched over his rather large head.

This collar is available in 12 colors and in both small and medium sizes, making it suitable for a range of cats. The bell is removable, and there’s a metal D-ring for hanging ID tags. On the downside, a number of reviews mention that the excess length does not stay down with the metal ring—which is annoying at best and a potential chewing hazard at worst.

What We Liked:

  • Made with full-grain leather and heavy-duty metal hardware
  • Nice balance of durability and style
  • Two sizes to accommodate kittens and larger cats
  • Includes a metal D-ring for hanging ID tags
  • Available in 12 attractive colors

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Excess length doesn’t stay put

#11 Best Silicone: Kittyrama Breakaway Adjustable Cat Collar

  • Neck Size: 7.7 inches to 10.4 inches
  • Material: Silicone, plastic
  • Closure type: Quick release
  • Breakaway: Yes

Cats that are sensitive to materials like polyester or nylon might fare better with a silicone collar. Naturally hypoallergenic, this material is silky smooth, soft, and lightweight. It doesn’t absorb moisture or heat, and it won’t rub your cat’s fur.

On the inner surface, you’ll find a space to write your house number (though I have to question the likelihood of someone seeing it). This waterproof collar is also available in a kitten size that fits necks between 5.7 and 7.3 inches.

What We Liked:

  • Minimizes risk of rashes and irritation for sensitive cats
  • Soft silky texture
  • Waterproof
  • Available in three charming color schemes

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Quick release was slightly harder to open than others
  • Won’t fit very large cats

#12 Best Flea Collar: Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Cats

Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Cats

  • Neck Size: Up to 13”
  • Material: Rubber coated in Flumethrin and Imidacloprid
  • Closure type: Buckle
  • Breakaway: No

Flea collars aren’t always the best option for dealing with pests. But if your vet recommends a flea collar, it’s important to find one that’s safe and labeled for use in cats.

Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Cats

Liz Coleman / Cats.com

While there’s no way to be certain that your cat won’t have a reaction to a flea collar, this Seresto collar from Elanco is a pretty safe bet. It relies on flumethrin and imidacloprid—two insecticides that are considered safe for cats.

It’s not the cheapest flea collar, but it’s effective and has a reputation for safety. One collar should last for eight months, and it starts working within 24 hours.

It’s worth noting that the Seresto collar doesn’t have a breakaway clasp, but the company has designed it to widen for a quick release. However, I found that you’ll need to pull pretty hard to release it.

The Seresto loses some points for being messy—if you look closely at the photo, you can see white powder all over it. This is a common complaint with most flea collars, though.

What We Liked:

  • No prescription required
  • Effective for the entire flea and tick season
  • Kills fleas on contact, so they don’t need to bite your cat for it to work
  • Has a good reputation for safety

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Expensive (over $50)
  • Messy (as is the case with most flea collars)

What To Consider When Buying a Cat Collar

You’ve decided your cat would be safer with a collar—but how do you choose a good one? We lay several considerations to guide your shopping.

A Cat Collar Should Be Easy To Escape if Your Cat Gets Caught

When cats get into a tight spot, a breakaway buckle ensures that the collar won’t twist and tighten as they struggle. They offer quick release in an emergency situation. In addition to a breakaway buckle, some cat collars feature elastic segments for flexibility. Avoid cat collars with non-breakaway clasp designs, such as a traditional belt-style buckle.

A well-fitted collar is a safer collar. If your cat’s collar is too loose, it’s apt to catch on something, potentially harming or even strangling your cat. Adjustable collars are a necessity.

A Cat Collar Should Be Comfortable

Most cats don’t like wearing clothing or jewelry, and some of them will find a collar deeply uncomfortable. Choose a collar that’s made from soft materials and which has a reputation for kitty satisfaction.

Not only should you consider the materials from which a collar is made, but make sure it’s cat-appropriate in terms of size. Cat collars are generally only 3/8 to ½ inch wide. Anything wider could be uncomfortable and might catch on your cat’s claws when they scratch.

A Cat Collar Should Encourage Identification

When combined with custom embroidery or a cat ID tag, your cat’s collar increases their odds of being identified if they escape the house. Any collar will identify your cat as a housecat rather than a feral, but one with built-in identification gives your cat a voice.

You might also want to consider additional visibility features such as glow-in-the-dark coating or a reflective strip. A reflective cat collar increases your cat’s visibility at night.

A Cat Collar Should Be Durable

What’s the use of a collar that falls apart after a few weeks of wear? Strong, sturdy collars made from high-quality materials will serve your feline friend for years. While premium materials like a leather cat collar might be nice, synthetics like nylon webbing tend to be more waterproof and are less likely to get caught in long hair.

Does my Cat Need a Collar?

Whether your cat needs a collar will depend on your individual cat, their lifestyle, and your tolerance for risk. Some people decide to keep a collar even on their indoor cats just in case they get out, while others are confident in their abilities to keep their cats indoors unless supervised.

When it comes to outdoor cats, a collar can let neighbors know that your cat belongs to someone and isn’t just a friendly stray. However, collars can get snagged as your cat crawls beneath shrubbage and furniture, and an adventurous cat may lose them just as fast as you buy them!

If your cat does wear a collar, experts recommend using breakaway collars only. These are collars that unclasp if pressure is put on them. This way, if your cat gets their collar snagged on a branch outside or under the bed, they won’t be trapped or choked.

Experts also recommend including ID tags on your cat’s collar so that they can be returned home if lost. A collar isn’t a replacement for a microchip, which is implanted in your cat’s neck and can’t be lost.

However, a microchip also isn’t a replacement for a collar. Many lost cats are never brought to the vet or shelter in order for the chip to be found, but collars are plainly visible.

How Tight Should a Cat Collar Be?

Figuring out how tightly to adjust your cat’s collar can be a challenge. You don’t want them to get out of it, but you also don’t want it to choke them!

Most professionals recommend that you tighten the collar until you can fit just two fingers between it and your cat’s neck. This should pull it snug, but not tight enough to choke them.

If you have large fingers or a tiny cat, one finger may be sufficient. After putting the collar on, pay attention to your cat’s comfort level and make sure they’re able to comfortably breathe and move their neck.

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About Liz Coleman

Liz is a professional member of the Cat Writer’s Association, and her work appears in several pet-related publications. Liz shares her home in Western New York with two cats, two birds, and (arguably) too many plants.

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17 thoughts on “The 12 Best Cat Collars: We Tested Them All”

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  1. Vita Kairys

    Hello,
    I’m wondering if a reflective collar might hinder the cat’s safety, for example if out at night in a dark field or woods – a predator may be able to see them better. Just a thought.

    Thank you,

    Reply
    1. small mallory photoMallory Crusta

      I doubt it—predatory animals are generally not hunting for reflective materials but for movement. In fact, the reflective material may scare them off a bit, as it’s an unnatural and unfamiliar sight out in the wild. Hope this helps!

  2. Debra Barnabee

    For those considering tracking devices, a couple of things to consider 1) ones that use Bluetooth have limited range and trees, etc interfere with signal; 2) ones that use gps/ with Bluetooth do work, but have a monthly/yearly cost for subscription plans. I have a tractive brand for my indoor/outdoor cat. There is a learning curve with any tracker. I did not get the additional insurance for replacing a lost tracker. I admit, I panicked the first time the cat lost the tracker. But I have been able to find the tracker the 3 times that he has lost it since. I have got the breakaway collar adjusted, and he has not lost it since. The first time he lost it, I probably took a couple of hours to find it. 2nd time, it probably took around 1 hour. Now it takes me 5-10 minutes and that is hunting in underbrush and trees. Like I said learning curve. Got the collar because the cat went on walk about for 3 days – feared the worst that a coyote had got him. And while he has not done that since, he has gotten stuck up in trees twice and I was able to locate him with the tracker-though the tracker does not really clue you that the cat is overhead. Is it worth the cost – so far for me it is (have had it for @ 7 months). It gives me peace of mind – when he’s out and I haven’t seen home for a few hours, I can check in and see where he’s at or was last. Plus you can also see where the cat’s been during their time out, which is interesting. And if you wonder how much cats can remember, he has been giving the woods where he was up a tree both times – a big pass.

    Reply
  3. Darlene

    Well here I am with the Delmas of needing one for a cat that does go out and just recently found the woods and is learning new things and I am.afraid she will get lost. So I purchased a Marco Polo but if I get a brake away color I’ll find the color not her not to forget to mention I will be outta a lot money and no cat. So any suggestions being the expert? If I get her a regular color then she might get hung up and choke. Do I just give up? On top of things I’m getting called by land lord for being the crazy cat lady

    Reply
    1. small mallory photoMallory Crusta

      Hey Darlene, my apologies for the late reply. I hope you and your cat are doing well. I agree that breakaway colors present a dilemma with these trackers, but although a non-breakaway color would reduce the risk of losing the collar, the hazard to your cat is too significant, in my opinion. I understand that you may be in a situation where you need to let your cat outside, but realistically, I would advise keeping her inside as the safest option. Alternatively, just as you’d use the tracker to find your cat, you may also be able to use it to find the receiver if it’s popped off. Hope this helps, and I wish you all the best with your landlord and cat.

  4. Laura

    I am SO frustrated by the emphasis on breakaway collars. My cats don’t like collars. I know my Siamese can have a breakaway collar off and deep under a couch somewhere within 15 minutes, TOPS. If he’s had that particular collar on before, he can have it off in under 5 minutes. It will NEVER stay on him long enough to help him get home to me. I’m planning a move and looking to put collars and tags on 3 cats who aren’t usually wearing them, for extra safety during the trip, but if they’re breakaway I might as well not bother.

    Reply
    1. kateKate Barrington

      That’s a valid point, Laura. While safety is important, you’re right that the collar won’t do any good to help a lost cat find its way home if the cat isn’t wearing it. Some sources I’ve consulted lately suggest that breakaway collars are best for cats who spend a lot of time outdoors – cats who are allowed to wander freely. Traditional collars, however, can be appropriate when the cat is supervised, such as a walk on a leash.
      In your situation, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with using a regular collar since it will be a limited amount of time under supervision. A move can be scary and if your cat gets loose and finds himself in an unfamiliar place, the likelihood of a breakaway collar staying on long enough to be any good sounds low. It’s worth considering the potential risks, but since you won’t intentionally be letting your cat outside during the move, a traditional collar could be a good option.

  5. Scooper Cleaner

    Great article! Very happy to see that you stress the fact that a cat collar should have a breakaway design for safety and a removable bell as some cats and owners may prefer no bell. We’d love if you could include our collars in your next review!

    Reply
  6. Benjamin

    Cat Collars seems to be a subject of much debate. It seems that no matter the collar, many claim that there is a chance of choking if it gets caught in a particular way. For instance I was looking through reviews of the Beastie Bands collar and I’ve seen comments on forums, ‘this may kill your cat’, ‘never put an elastic collar on’ etc. I would love to see an article here surrounding the topic presenting some facts and weight by up the overall pros and cons of whether a collar is a good idea or not and perhaps it’s on a case by case basis.

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  7. Saskia

    I don’t understand the “pros” of collars that don’t require a dangling name tag. Rabies tags dangle, and every cat should have one attached to her or his collar.
    I also don’t like the recommendation of the “bib” that keeps a cat from moving quickly and freely enough to hunt. I assume it also keeps a cat from moving quickly and freely enough to escape from something hunting it.

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  8. Katt Tu'lani

    Hey girl Hey! ?

    I have a feral cat that I feed. I named him Ethan which means survivor, but sometimes I think of buying him a glow or reflective color, maybe even with a bell. Then at same time I think cats are pretty low key and if I was out here in the streets as a feral cat I wouldn’t want anything to make me more noticable.

    What do you think? I want to help him be safer but don’t wanna ruin his low key feral swag I guess ?

    Thanks,

    Lani

    Reply
    1. Avatar photoAll About Cats

      Meow Lari,

      As an ex feral cat myself, I must say I do like collars but it every cat is different so you would just have to try and see how it goes.