Choosing the Right Cat Collar

Before choosing the right collar for your cat, an important question must be asked: will your cat remain indoors only or will you allow it to wander outside on occasion? Once you decide, choosing that right collar becomes much simpler. Cat collars come in a variety of styles, all of which are designed for a specific need, and those needs range depending on both owner and cat.

1) Collars for flair and fun:

Fancy cat collars can contain various designs like rhinestones or flashy colors. Though these sorts of collars tend to lean more towards fashion than function and will cost more, some owners may wish to seek out designer cat collars just for that added flair. All collars, however, should be safe to wear, adjustable and snag-proof.

2) Collars for the outdoor kitty:

If you choose to allow your cat to go outside, it is highly recommended that you invest in some sort of identification tag, one that provides the appropriate contact information. Yet another option would be to look into getting a personalized cat collar. Personalized cat collars come in a variety of colors, but they also can contain vital information: a name and contact information, such as a phone number. What you choose to inscribe upon the personalized cat collar is up to the owner, but a personalized cat collar is the best way of incorporating both fun and important information into one. Contact information is essential for an outdoor cat because if your cat turns up missing, knowing just how to contact the owner is the first step in getting your beloved pet home safely.

If your cat enjoys the perimeter of your yard, the electronic cat collar could be another option. This would only be needed for an outdoor cat, and it is designed to keep your cat within close proximity to your house. The yard would need to be marked with an electric wire, which in turn would send a signal to the collar whenever the cat tries to cross it. The cat would learn the free-range space it is permitted to roam, and keep away from the street. Yet the downsides to an electronic cat collar is it opens up the possibility for misuse and abuse. Also, the cat should be made aware of its boundaries by some physical presence, like a sidewalk, and those boundaries should remain consistent.

3) Collars for the indoor only kitty:

If you choose to only keep your cat indoors, a brightly colored collar with a little bell attached to it is suitable. The regular jingling of the bell allows the owner to hear whenever the cat wanders the house, and thus can help if the cat needs to be located. You can also get a personalized cat collar or a designer cat collar if you wish, and the owner can get creative with what he or she chooses.

Ultimately cat collars should be safe, easy to wear, and durable. Many pet stores as well as vet clinics sell cat collars, and if you are still unsure, talking to a professional at one of these locations can help you decide the best collar for you and your beloved feline.