Many cat owners consider a collar for their cat, but wonder if it is safe. A collar can offer several benefits, such as identification and visibility in the dark, but there are also risks. In this blog we will look at whether a collar is safe for your cat, what risks there are and how to make the right choice.
Why would you put a collar on a cat?
A cat collar has multiple functions. For outdoor cats, it can help indicate that the cat has an owner. In addition, a reflective collar can increase visibility and a collar with a bell can warn birds and small animals. Some cat owners also choose a GPS collar to be able to track their cat.
What are the risks of wearing a collar?
Although a collar has benefits, there are also risks that should not be underestimated.
1. Choking hazard
One of the biggest dangers of a cat collar is that the cat gets caught on something. This can happen when the cat climbs, walks through bushes or crawls under something. If the collar does not have a safety lock, the cat can panic and injure itself or even suffocate.
2. Neck injuries
Collars that are too tight can cause cuts or skin irritation, while collars that are too loose can catch on the jaw or front leg, causing painful injuries.
3. Stress and discomfort
Not all cats accept a collar. Some cats continually try to remove the collar, which can cause stress and discomfort. This can result in scratching, licking or hair loss around the neck.
4. Collars can get lost
Even with a safety lock, a cat can lose its collar, meaning any identification information, such as a name tag, will be lost.
How to choose a safe cat collar?
To minimize risks, it is important to choose a safe and comfortable collar. Here are some features to look for:
1. Safety lock
A safety lock, also called a breakaway or quick-release lock, releases when pressure is applied. This prevents the risk of suffocation if the cat gets caught on something.
2. Proper fit
The collar should not be too tight or too loose. A good guideline is that you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and the cat's neck.
3. Soft and light materials
A light, soft collar is more comfortable for the cat and reduces the chance of irritation. Materials such as nylon and soft leather are often good choices.
4. Reflective or luminous properties
For outdoor cats, a reflective collar can help them be more visible in the dark, reducing the risk of accidents with cars.
5. Nameplate or address tube
A collar with a name tag or address tube makes it easier to quickly reunite a lost cat with its owner. Always include your phone number on the tag.
6. GPS tracker
For cats that roam far from home, a GPS collar can be useful. This allows you to keep track of your cat's whereabouts via an app. Note that GPS trackers are a bit heavier, and therefore not suitable for every cat.
Alternatives to a collar
If you have any concerns about the safety of a collar, there are alternatives you can consider.
- Microchip : This is the most secure and permanent way to identify your cat. A vet can scan the chip and retrieve your contact details.
- Cat run or fenced yard : This allows your cat to be outside safely without the dangers of traffic and predators.
- Harness and Leash : For cats who want to explore outdoors without being able to roam freely, a harness can be a safe alternative.
Is a collar safe? It depends on the choice
A collar can be safe if you choose a model with a safety buckle and a good fit. However, it is important to consider whether a collar is really necessary. For outdoor cats, a collar can be useful for visibility and identification, but a microchip is a safer and more reliable alternative.
Do you still want to use a collar? Then choose a safety collar made of light material and let your cat get used to it slowly. Check regularly that the collar fits well and that your cat is not bothered by it.
Conclusion
Whether a collar is safe for your cat depends on the quality and fit of the collar, and how well your cat is used to it. A microchip is a more reliable form of identification, but a collar with a safety lock can offer additional benefits. Always make a well-considered choice that suits the living environment and the character of your cat.
