Cat collar: safety and well-being first. At the beginning of my life as a cat keeper, the first thing I did was buy a collar for my cat Luna. As I had no experience, I chose the prettiest one – a pink collar with a bell. I liked the sound of the bell, so I knew where she was.
However, I found that this was harming my kitten as the sound of the bell was very stressful for her and there was also a risk that she could hang herself.
Therefore, it is very important that the beginner tutors of cats seek information and avoid making the same mistakes I made. With that in mind, I wrote this article with the aim of helping other cat tutors not to make the same mistakes.
Cat collars are a controversial topic among pet owners and animal health experts.
Some people believe that the collar is an effective way to identify their cats and keep them safe, while others argue that the collar can be detrimental to the cat's health and well-being.
In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of the collar on cats and help you decide if it's appropriate for your feline.
Pros of the cat collar:
Identification: One of the main reasons cat owners put collars on their pets estimation is for identification.
If the cat leaves the house, the collar can help identify it and help it find its way back home. Some collars even come with identification tags attached, with contact information for the owner.
Safety: The collar can be an additional safety measure for cats that live in high traffic areas or in environments where there are wild animals.
Some collars are equipped with safety devices that release in an emergency, which can help prevent the cat from being trapped or suffocated.
Decoration: Some people like to put collars on their cats as a fashion accessory. There are many different collars available on the market, in a variety of colors and styles, so owners can choose one that matches their cat's personality or their own personal preference.
Cat collar cons:
Hanging hazard: The collar can be dangerous for the cat if it gets caught somewhere. If the collar gets caught on any object or part of the cat's body, this could lead to a risk of hanging.
Some cats are more likely to get tangled up in objects, making the leash a greater risk for them.
Risk of injury: If the collar is too tight, it can cause irritation to the cat's skin or even serious injury.
It can also impede the cat's normal movement, which can lead to muscle or skeletal injuries.
Stress: Some cats may find the collar uncomfortable or stressful especially those with a little bell (rattle) they hate it. They may try to take it away, which can lead to fights with other cats or injure themselves.
Types of cat collars that are safe
With Anti-hanging Safety Clasp
There are some types of collars that are considered safer for cats and reduce the risk of hanging, injury and stress. Some examples include:
1. Elastic collars: also known as stretch or breakaway collars, they are made with an elastic band that stretches when the cat curls up on an object, allowing it to release easily. These collars are designed to release in an emergency, reducing the risk of hanging.
2. Safety collars: these are collars with a safety system that release when the cat applies enough pressure to the collar. These collars are a safer option than standard collars, but it's still important to fit them correctly to prevent them from being too tight or too loose.
3. Identification Collars: These collars are designed to include owner contact information such as name, address and phone number. They are an effective way to identify your cat in the event of a loss or escape, but it is important to make sure the collar fits correctly and that the identification tag is securely attached to the collar.
In general, the decision on whether or not to put a collar on your cat depends on your cat's lifestyle and your own personal preference. If you live in a busy area and want to identify your cat, it might be a good idea to put a collar with an identification tag on it.
However, if your cat is prone to getting tangled up in objects or is sensitive to pressure on its neck, a collar may not be the best option. It is important to remember that your cat's safety and well-being must always come first.
If you decide to wear a collar on your cat, it is important to choose a quality collar that fits correctly and has a safety device to release in an emergency.
After reading this article, you will have no more excuses to make mistakes with your cat. If your cat is still wearing a collar with a bell, remove it immediately. Stop torturing your furry friend and only use collars with anti-choking systems, even if your cat doesn't have access to the street.