How to Buy a Fancy Collar for a Cat

Cats love to look their best. Help yours show off his good looks with a fancy collar.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring Tapes
• Scales
• Cat Collars
• Identification Tags

1. Go to local pet stores, specialty shops that carry pet supplies or even a discount market in your area. Or if you prefer, browse pet supply stores online.

2. Consider all of the different collar styles that exist. The sky's the limit!

3. Look for special details such as rhinestones, patterns or the name embroidered into the fabric.

4. Try not to sacrifice practicality for style. Find a collar that combines a breathable fabric that is waterproof and washable with a design that you find pleasing. Leather styles are also popular.

5. Make sure the collar is well-made and that the decorations on it will not fall off when your cat jumps and plays.

6. Be sure that the collar is the right size for your cat's size and weight.

7. Remember that an adjustable collar is a good choice for a kitten, since he still has lots of growing to do.

8. Realize that standard collars are usually under $10, but fancier options can cost much more.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a collar with a color and design that will complement your cat's markings.
• Make sure to put an identification tag with your address and phone number on it in case your cat wanders off.
• For an outdoor cat, attach a bell to warn birds.

on 12/16/2005 Breakaway collars are safe, but if your cat is unfamiliar with the outside then you may never see it again. My roommate received her cat's collar from a neighbor down the street but hasn't seen her cat since then. Yet I don't recommend regular collars either. Instead, pull out some chump change and get your pet micro chipped and registered. It's harmless, very reliable, and may last forever. And only for under $50. Study more about micro chipping online or ask you veterinarian.

on 11/22/2005 Most cats don't like anything around their neck. If you must invest in a collar, regardless if they're indoor or outdoor - PLEASE get one that is a "break-away" design. Cats are curious and can strangle themselves easily while climbing around - especially in basements! I had tried to get a various collars on a cat for years and she'd remove it over her neck like Houdini every time. Tells you something, huh?

on 11/22/2005 It might be a good idea to buy a softer fabric for a cat. The real hard or even leather fabrics can make the cat's fur around its neck get matted and clump up, especially if it is a long-haired cat.

on 11/22/2005 If you have a cat or baby kitten, please do not keep the collar so loose that it gets caught in his mouth and can't be opened quickly! My cat Max got his collar stuck in his mouth and started running around like crazy. Elastic collars are the best to use!

on 11/22/2005 It may be a good idea to purchase a collar with a quick release. If your kitty falls out of a tree or gets caught on a fence (or whatever else), the collar will let go when he pulls so he doesn't choke.