Should Cats Wear Collars? What Every Cat Owner Should Know

RBC Ashley
5 days ago
3 min read

One of the questions I hear from new kitten owners is, "Should my cat wear a collar?"

The honest answer is: it depends.

Many veterinarians and shelters recommend breakaway collars because they provide immediate identification if a cat is found. On the other hand, many experienced cat owners and breeders, including myself, choose not to use collars on their own cats.

There's no single right answer, but there are a few things to consider before making your decision.

Why Some Owners Choose to Use Collars

A collar can provide several benefits, especially if your cat spends time outdoors or has a history of slipping out the door.

Some reasons owners choose collars include:

Quick identification if their cat gets lost.
An ID tag with a phone number.
Many collars are just plain cute!
A place to attach a GPS tracker or AirTag holder.
Peace of mind knowing someone can contact them immediately if their cat is found.

For outdoor cats, these are significant advantages.

Why I Don't Use Collars on My Own Cats

Personally, none of my cats wear collars.

My cats are indoor-only, microchipped, and live in a controlled environment. For my situation, I don't feel the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Some of the reasons I choose not to use collars include:

Even breakaway collars can occasionally catch on objects before releasing.
Some cats simply don't enjoy wearing anything around their neck.
Collars can become dirty, worn, or hazardous.
In a multi-cat household, rough play can happen and I don't want to cause a strangulation risk
British Shorthairs have incredibly plush coats, and collars can leave flattened fur around the neck.

That doesn't mean collars are a bad choice- it simply isn't the choice I've made for my own cats.

If You Decide to Use a Collar

If you choose to put a collar on your cat, I strongly recommend using a breakaway collar designed specifically for cats.

Unlike traditional buckle collars, breakaway collars are made to release if they become caught on something, reducing the risk of injury.

A properly fitted collar should allow you to comfortably slide two fingers between the collar and your cat's neck. Be sure to check the fit regularly, especially while kittens are growing.

Avoid using dog collars or any collar that doesn't have a safety release.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats

Whether your cat goes outdoors plays a big role in this decision.

For outdoor cats, a breakaway collar with an ID tag can be extremely valuable if they wander farther than expected, but you definitely run the risk of losing a few collars!

For indoor-only cats, the decision is much more personal. Some owners like the added identification, while others prefer not to have their cat wear a collar at all.

Don't Forget the Microchip

Whether your cat wears a collar or not, I believe a microchip is one of the a simple, but important investment you can make. It isn't a guarantee since some people don't have good intentions to return a beautiful cat, but it's always worth the hope!

Unlike a collar, a microchip can't fall off or be removed accidentally. If your cat is ever found and taken to a veterinary clinic or shelter, they can be scanned and identified. In fact, all kittens that leave my cattery are microchipped before they go!

Just remember to keep your contact information up to date if you move or change phone numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can kittens wear collars?

Yes, but if you decide to use one, choose a lightweight breakaway collar and check the fit often as your kitten grows.

Are bells on collars okay?

Some cats don't seem to notice them, while others dislike the constant noise. If your cat appears bothered by a bell, it's perfectly reasonable to remove it or choose a collar without one.

Should I put an AirTag on my cat?

Some owners like using an AirTag or GPS tracker, especially for cats that spend time outdoors. Just be sure the tracker is attached to a properly fitted breakaway collar and isn't too heavy for your cat.

Final Thoughts

There isn't a universal answer to whether cats should wear collars.

For my own cats, I choose not to use them because they're indoor-only, microchipped, and we take extraordinary precaution when moving through external doors. However, I completely understand why some

owners- especially those with outdoor cats- prefer the added identification a breakaway collar provides.

Whatever you decide, make sure your choice fits your cat's lifestyle and always prioritize safety. If you do use a collar, choose a breakaway design. If you don't, I highly recommend having your cat microchipped and keeping that information up to date.