The Best Cat Collar
Cat collars are not only stylish, but they can also be a lifesaver if you have an outdoor cat or if your indoor cat gets loose. Tags with their name and your phone number can help a lost cat get home, and some collars even have GPS locators to help you find your kitty. A collar with a small bell is great if you have an outdoor cat because it will foil their hunting plans by warning birds that someone’s on the prowl. Not all cat collars are created equally, so we’ve helped you out by researching and gathering up all the best options available.
What to Look For
When deciding which collars were worthy of our list, we looked for three key characteristics: A breakaway design that won’t hurt your cat if they get caught on something, the option for ID tags, and a slim, comfortable band. Our overall favorite was Nuvuq’s collar because it boasts a breakaway button design and is made from soft, hypoallergenic rubber that won’t irritate sensitive skin. But if you want an all-in-one purchase, we’d steer you towards GoTag’s personalized collars. You can embroider your phone number directly on the collar, so you don’t need to worry about a tag falling off while your kitty is on an adventure. Read our reviews below to learn more about all the best cat collars on the market.
Nuvuq Cat Collar
If your frisky feline doesn’t seem to love wearing a collar, try this comfortable option from Nuvuq. Its soft, flexible, high-quality rubber won’t dig into your cat’s neck or rub off her fur. It’s also hypoallergenic, which makes it a great choice if your fur baby has skin problems. Finally, it’s long-lasting, and you don’t have to worry about it fraying or losing threads over time.
Pros:
- The rubber is durable and easy to clean with soap and water.
- We found that this collar is very smooth and lightweight, so it’s less likely to irritate your cat.
Cons:
- While the collar includes a loop for a nap tag, you’ll have to provide your own.
Smpili AirTag Cat Collar
Finding your lost cat can be challenging, especially if they get scared and hide. Smpili’s collar includes a space for an AirTag so that you can track your cat’s location from your phone. Hopefully, it’s a feature you’ll never need, but its security and peace of mind make it worth every penny. The collar also comes with a reflective strip and a bell, so your cat will be equipped for every outing.
Pros:
- There’s a metal loop on the collar that’s the perfect place for a name tag.
- The length is super adjustable, so it’ll fit everyone from your slim Hairless Rex to your bulky Maine Coon.
Cons:
- This collar is designed to be used with an AirTag, which is sold separately.
GoTags Personalized Cat Collars
Name and number
Some cats can’t stand the jingling sound of bells and tags, which means they’re more likely to try and wiggle out of their collar. GoTags’s personalized collar is ideal for noise-sensitive cats because their name and your phone number are stitched directly on the band. They’re available in several different band colors and embroidery colors, so you can customize your collar exactly how you want it.
Pros:
- The safety buckle releases easily so your cat won’t get stuck if her collar gets caught.
- The nylon band uses a tapered edge; it won’t dig into your cat’s skin or catch on to his fur.
Cons:
- This collar is more expensive than other options, but it is custom-made.
TagME Personalized Reflective Cat Collars
All-inclusive
If you own an outdoor cat, TagME’s collar will help keep him as safe as possible. The band is covered in reflective tape, which makes your cat easier to spot at night. Because the tag is built onto the collar, it doesn’t dangle and won’t get pulled off accidentally. It’s also customizable, so you can add your pet’s name and a phone number right when you order.
Pros:
- We like that the collar is very adjustable for the perfect fit.
- This collar’s smooth, round buckle won’t poke your kitty’s neck.
Cons:
- Because your cat’s information is attached directly to the band, it can be hard to read on furrier cats.
CollarDirect Leather Cat Collar
CollarDirect’s cat collar is the ideal combination of function and fashion. It’s made from hand-stitched leather and finished off with a sleek buckle. It comes with a colorful bell, and there’s also room to add your own ID tag. The collar is available in a few different size options, so you can find one that comfortably fits your kitty.
Pros:
- This collar is available in many different colors, so you can find the perfect option for your cat.
- Although the buckle is not a breakaway, the elastic strip lets your cat escape if her collar gets caught.
Cons:
- There isn’t a strap on the collar, so if you have it adjusted to a smaller size, the belt flaps around unless you trim the excess.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my cat used to wearing a collar?
Have your cat wear the collar for a few minutes at first, and reward her with lots of pats and treats. Repeat this for a week or so, gradually increasing the amount of time wearing the collar until your kitty is comfortable. Think of it like wearing a watch — it feels foreign and heavy at first, but once you get used to it, your arm feels naked without it.
Does my indoor cat need a collar?
A collar for your outdoor cat is a no-brainer, but it is good practice for all cats to wear collars. If your indoor cat gets out of the house without any ID, it can be much harder to find him again. Even if your cat is microchipped, someone might assume your collarless cat is a stray and adopt him without taking him to a vet or shelter.
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