Many types of collars are available for cats and below are some qualities you should consider. These include breakaway collars, flea collars, and collars with special features such as bells and reflective materials. Which collar you choose depends on your cat’s lifestyle and the habits of your cat.
Breakaway Collars
Breakaway collars are designed to break apart if the collar gets caught and pressure is exerted against the clip. It is possible for collars to get caught on just about anything (branches, fences, etc,) which can lead to injury or strangulation. Cats are known to roam quite far from home when allowed outdoors and if their collar gets caught you will likely not be able to find or help them. In this case, a breakaway collar can be life saving.
Reflective Collars
Another good option for outdoor cats is a collar with a reflective element. This will increase the likelihood of your cat being seen by drivers.
Collars with Identification Tags
Identification tags should be worn by outdoor cats. ID tags increase the chance of your cat being returned home if they become lost or are found by someone. ID tags also let other people know that your cat has a home, whereas cats without a collar or ID tags may be assumed to be strays.
When your cat has completed their core vaccinations, including rabies vaccination, you will receive tags from the veterinarian that verifies your cat’s vaccination status. If your cat bites a human or animal, or is bitten by a rabies infected animal, anyone coming in contact with your cat will know that he received the rabies vaccination.
Bell Collars
I have found bell collars to be helpful in locating tiny kittens and outdoor cats. Kittens can be hard to keep track of because they’re so busy! Wearing a bell collar makes them easy to find. I always liked to have my outdoor cat wear a bell because I could hear him trotting home when I called out to him.
Flea Collars
There are different brands of flea collars available over the counter and from some vets. Flea collars contain pesticide that is either emitted as a fume or the pesticide absorbs into your pet’s skin. Flea collars can cause illness or skin irritation for your pet. Although some pets may be able to wear flea collars without a negative reaction, you should do your research before deciding to put a flea collar on your pet.
A better option is to use one of the other flea preventatives, such as Advantage or Frontline. There are many brands on the market and your veterinarian can help you choose one.
Jennifer Kean is a writer and pet-lover who owns two rescue kittens (lifetime cat owner too!) and has a 40 gallon fish tank!