A cat collar will tell everyone else that your kitty has an owner at a quick glance.
While microchipping your cat is always advised in case of loss or theft, an identification tag could save everyone a lot of time. There can also be a bell on a cat’s collar to warn birds that they need to quickly escape. Cats who are out at night could also benefit from a reflective collar.
But despite these benefits, professionals are torn over whether cats should wear collars. Some argue that they can be dangerous, increasing the risk of cats becoming caught on trees or brambles. They can also catch their paw in there while grooming, and they could irritate their skin.
But don’t be put off. While microchips and flea treatment can cut out the need for ID tags and flea collars, plenty of collars out there are now made with safety in mind.
A cat collar should have a snap-open option. This is usually a quick-release plastic buckle, which will come apart and release the cat if they become trapped. Some may instead have large elasticated sections which stretch, allowing your cat to get their head free.
You also need a collar that is the correct size. You should only be able to get one or two fingers under the collar, to ensure their leg cannot become trapped in the collar.
Also, look for great quality materials. Too many are made from cheap fraying fabrics which could harm your cat if they chew on the threads.
There is a huge choice out there, and unfortunately, we found most don’t follow this guidance. So we’ve found the best when it comes to safety, practicality and benefits.