Disclosure: Your support helps keep this site running. We may earn a referral fee for some of the services we recommend on this page.

Best Cat Collars for 2022

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.

Navigate this Article
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    Our Top Picks

    Image Product Details
    Kittyrama
    • Non-irritating
    • Anti-allergy
    • Easy to clean
    Check Price
    Seresto Flea and Tick Control Cat Collar
    • Safe to use
    • Eight months protection
    Check Price
    Rogz Nightcat
    • Fully reflective
    • Adjustable break buckle sensitivity
    Check Price

    The Top Cat Collars Reviewed

    1.
    Kittyrama

    An award-winning cat collar which has been featured in Vogue, no less. Ideal for any fashion-conscious kitties, but also for those who know the importance of a good quality cat collar.

    It isn’t just about the accolades, though. This collar is comfortable and lightweight so if your cat hates wearing collars because they make them uncomfortable, there is a good chance they’ll forget this one is even being worn. Made from silicone, it is also smooth so there is no fabric to irritate fur.

    This material also means it is breathable and waterproof, so your cat won’t be irritated by warm weather or water either, which can make other collars uncomfortable and too clingy.

    A quick-release breakaway strap will help them get free of any sticky situations, such as getting caught in bushes when out and about, with a load of 5.5 lbs. The patented buckle fastening allows you to select the right size and could allow for a bit of growth too if your cat is still young, but most importantly, fitting won’t adjust with wear, such as the holes becoming extended or breaking open altogether.

    Features

    • Non-irritating
    • Anti-allergy
    • Easy to clean

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: 19.5-26.5cm
    • Weight: 18.1 g
    • Colour: Choice of 9

    2.
    Seresto Flea and Tick Control Cat Collar

    As we have mentioned in our Buying Guide, the effectiveness and safety of flea collars is heavily debated. With some cats, they work just fine, and with others, there are side effects and loss of fur. Vets also say they are not as good as the topical applications you can now buy. But Seresto has solved all of that worry.

    This one belongs within the animal medicines legal category of POM-VPS or NFA-VPS, so not only is it safe for your cat, but there is also a strict set of instructions to ensure you know how best to use it and what to look out for. It has been rigorously tested, which is not a guarantee with other brands.

    Because of these high safety frames, it is suitable for cats over the age of just ten weeks, so perfect if you have a litter of kittens. The price may be a lot higher than other brands on the market but this shows the quality and testing which have gone into the product.

    Plus, as it can be worn for eight months, it could actually work out as cheaper than buying the spot-on treatments over this time. It’s odour free and water-resistant to round it off, and a zig-zag section will break free if under strain.

    Features

    • Safe to use
    • Eight months protection

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: Up to 38cm
    • Weight: 45g
    • Colour: Grey

    3.
    Rogz Nightcat

    Cats who snooze throughout the day when they have the house to themselves can sometimes be prone to exploring well into the night, under the fall of darkness.

    Obviously, this can make them very hard to spot, either by other animals or vehicles. When light shines onto this collar, the silver main colour illuminates to make them easier to spot. A removable bell will also alert anyone or thing.

    A snap-off fastening will set your cat free if the collar gets caught, and the flexible weave material is also slightly stretchy to help. We love the Variable Load Safelock Buckle idea, which allows you to adjust just how sensitive the breakaway function is, between three options. If your cat often scratches their neck and pulls it off, for instance, you can make it less sensitive.

    Features

    • Fully reflective
    • Adjustable break buckle sensitivity

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: 20-30cm
    • Weight: 9.07g
    • Colour: Lime, Orange, Purple

    4.
    ZACAL Don't Feed Me Collar

    Cats can have a bit of a habit of going into other peoples gardens (or even houses), pretending they’re hungry or have no home and then getting a little bit of ham or chicken before running back home.

    But not all cats should have these foods, whether they be allergic to certain ingredients, on a special vet diet, or take medication. This collar will warn any potential feeders that they can’t have any food and that they are indeed not homeless. It is also a good idea for any cats who will go wherever there is food and perhaps go on their holidays for a few days to your neighbour’s house while they finish off the leftover Sunday roast beef.

    A release safety clasp helps if they get stuck on a fence or between a tight space, and it features a bell to warn off potential prey.

    Features

    • Large choice of message and colours
    • Large bell

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: Multiple
    • Weight: 10g
    • Colour: Multiple

    5.
    Joytale Quick Release Cat Collar

    Fashion the main priority? If your kitty will wear any collar, you may be lucky enough to be able to put one on them which makes a real style statement.

    The little bow will make them look endearing to the public even if they are a bit of a devil when it comes to them getting their own way, and is the perfect accessory for a spoilt pet.

    Choose from various colours of tartan and plaid style material, and the bow can be removed thanks to the elastic tie. A bell will warn birds of their presence, and the safety buckle will quick release when they get into a tangle.

    Features

    • Large bow detail
    • Loud bell

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: 18-25cm
    • Weight: 22g
    • Colour: Various

    6.
    XLYYLWB Reflective Cat Collars

    Socks loses his collars at the rate of one per week, but you aren’t going to let that defeat you. Or maybe you have a few cats and need one for each, or a litter of kittens and are struggling to identify Lulabelle from Lily and Lola.

    Buying your collars in bulk could both save you money and time in the long run. This is a selection of 12, all different colours in case you need to identify them or fancy a change to match any other accessories from time to time.

    These bright colours combined with the reflective strip around the centre will make your moggy visible in the dark. A ringing bell will ensure you can hear them too, and will also warn wildlife of their presence.

    With the packet, you get two anti-loss ID Tags. This is a little tube which hangs on the collar, so you can roll up your address details on a piece of paper and insert into the tube. These are less likely to become scratched or damaged over time compared to the ID discs.

    Features

    • Reflective
    • Multipack

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: 19-33cm
    • Weight: 4g
    • Colour: Multiple

    7.
    Ancol Reflective Elasticated

    One of the best budget picks around, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on quality and effectiveness.

    The traditional design is reflective for any night cats, and the soft material makes it comfortable and non-irritating for any fussy felines. A safety buckle will release if they become snagged on a tree or fence, and there’s also a warning bell to help wildlife. There’s also an elastic section so they have a bit of leeway when it comes to stretching.

    This bell is one of the largest of all those reviewed, which also makes it one of the loudest – good if your kitty loves bringing back presents but you are less than ecstatic.

    Ancol is a trusted name in the pet product world and this collar shows that. It isn’t the fanciest or the most durable, but if your cat frequently loses theirs then the price tag will appeal.

    Features

    • Low price
    • Elasticated and safety buckle

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: 20-30cm
    • Weight: 5g
    • Colour: Silver, Red, Yellow

    8.
    Hunter Flashlight Blue Cat Collar

    This reflective collar is great for darker evenings and nights. The lining is subtle, but yet gives off a great level of shine so your kitty will be visible when out exploring.

    There is an audible bell on the D-ring so they can also be heard, and the length is fully adjustable to perfectly fit the neck. With nickel-plated metal parts, these won’t rust or tarnish so will always remain strong and intact.

    A push-fit clasp makes it easy to take on and off without too much of a fuss, and the elastic nylon gives a bit of leeway in terms of a stretch if needed in a dangerous situation.

    Features

    • Reflective lining
    • Nickel plated

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: 18-26cm
    • Weight: 4g
    • Colour: Blue

    9.
    Rosewood Catwalk Collection Dogtooth Cat Bandana

    Some collars are just impossible to spot on a cat with a lot of fur, or they are just not up to the task looks-wise. This bandana will ensure your kitty stands out.

    It is a quality collar, strong in build and with a quick-release buckle for safety needs. The black and white dogtooth print bandana will contrast any fur type while being large enough to spot in an instance. There is a large notable bell that will emit a sound when they move, and it is nice and adjustable for most neck sizes.

    Despite being stylish, it still has the ever-important quick release buckle too.

    Features

    • Stylish design
    • Stands out

    Specifications

    • Neck Size: 19-30cm
    • Weight: 4g
    • Colour: Black/White

    Buying Guide

    Factors we considered when choosing the best cat collars

    Size, safety and comfort were all taken into consideration. We went through thousands of reviews to ensure the collars really were the best. Unfortunately, hundreds were disregarded, and we want to ensure nobody buys anything that is unsafe.

    Unlike dog collars, most cat collars are quite thin. A thicker collar could affect their ability to balance and move efficiently, so always opt for one which is perfect for your cat’s neck length. We looked for any around 1cm wide.

    You don’t want the collar to be too tight but at the same time, it can’t be too slack as they could easily trap their paw when grooming. Measure around your cat’s neck, and add one or two finger-widths onto that. You should only be able to fit one or two fingers between the collar and neck when on. The collars we chose are adjustable, but you may still need to narrow down your search if you have a very large (or small) breed.

    Cats don’t like a heavy collar around their neck either, as it affects balance. A lightweight collar will both ensure they are more comfortable, don’t try to remove the collar and also won’t make their neck too hot in warmer weather. Low weight (but without loss of quality) was key in our choices.

    They need to be able to alert prey when outside, especially birds, and give them a chance to escape before being killed too. A bell can also let you know where they are if you call them in for their dinner and they come running. Most collars will come with one, but stronger and louder options are available if needed.

    We looked for a ring that would allow you to attach anything required, from bells to ID tags.

    But a must-have for us when choosing the best cat collar – the breakaway function. If your cat gets caught on a tree or bush, they need to be able to break free. You should opt for a collar that has an elasticated extender and will allow them to pull their head free or a buckle that opens if strained.

    The material was also key. This usually differs depending on the properties of the collar. For instance, many are usually woven polyester for durability and a reduced chance of wearing away. Those which are lightweight may be made from silicone, and there are some rubber-based collars out there too.

    You may want one which is less likely to rub on your cat if they either have very short or very long hair (opt for a soft padded collar) or may want something which can be cleaned.

    Other Buyers Ask...

    Does my cat need a collar?

    There is no law to suggest they do, but what is your first reaction if you see a cat without a collar? Some people’s maybe to think that it was a stray.

    You don’t want people thinking this about your cat. Admittedly, many can lose their collar when out exploring, and others really don’t like wearing them, so it is to an owners discretion. But a collar shows the neighbourhood that they have a home to go to.

    If your cat often explores during the evenings and overnight, a reflective collar could go way beyond helping to identify them, and could actually be a necessary safety precaution. A bell could also not just warn prey that they’re nearby, but you could also hear where they are for peace of mind.

    Collars are also available which can alert people that your cat must not be fed. Cats can have a habit of wandering into someone else’s house for some chicken, particularly if that person has a fondness for your cat. But if yours is on a diet or has allergies, this needs to be avoided.

    Are flea collars safe?

    There is a large debate over both the effectiveness and safety of flea collars for cats.

    For this reason, the one we have included is the Seresto Flea and Tick Control Cat Collar, which has been legally approved and requires strict usage but is safe for cats.

    Most experts do not recommend flea collars, as they can cause reactions on your cat’s skin. They work by either releasing fumes and gases which are toxic to the fleas, or by releasing chemicals onto the skin of your cat.

    These smell unpleasant, and if they happened to be ingested through grooming, they could make your cat very ill. This includes symptoms such as sickness, trouble breathing and weakness. Depending on how sensitive your animal is to the chemicals, this could eventually lead to paralysis and even death.

    Plus, many are left on way beyond their effectiveness, and usually are not the best collars in terms of safety aspects or reflectiveness for your cat. Then there is the fact that most veterinarians argue they don’t even work, just keeping fleas off the head of your cat.

    They’re fine for short-period use and if you have a nasty case of fleas, but do not allow your cat to keep the collar on long-term and keep a really close eye on them. You’re best getting flea treatment from the vet if you have an infestation, as well as treating your home of fleas.

    Do cats need an ID tag?

    Unlike dogs, where a form of identification is a requirement by law when they are out in public, cats aren’t obliged to have a tag on their collar. But it can help if somebody is wondering whether they’re owned, and they can see at a quick glance who owns them.

    Even if you do choose to give them an ID tag, it is still a good idea to get them microchipped. This way, if the tag and collar fall off when they are out, there is still a method in which they can be identified.

    A really good form of cat tag is the small barrel holders which can hold more information in regards to addresses and telephone numbers, and are less likely to become damaged.

    Tags can still be a great backup, however, especially if your cat doesn’t like being held or put into a crate – whoever finds your lost cat would have to do this in order to get your cat to the vet and get the chip scanned after all.

    Should I wash my cat’s collar?

    If they’re an outdoor cat, their collar could pick up all sorts of dirt and grime. This could irritate their skin and become smelly.

    Rather than replacing their collar after a matter of weeks or months, you should give it a wash. Not all can be washed, so you may want to think about this before buying. But most will be able to be hand-washed.

    Do this before bed, and ensure their catflap is closed or they have a spare one until it dries.

    Should I take my cat’s collar off when they’re inside?

    If your cat is allowed to go in and out as they please, it could risk that they go out without wearing it. But if not, and they don’t mind you putting it on them again, you may want to take it off when they’re inside to stop it rubbing on their skin. This applies particularly when they’re asleep.

    This is a matter of personal choice, however, so think about your cat’s comfort and outdoor habits.