How to Get a Cat Used to a Collar

Not every cat can wear a collar, but those that can, should, even if they never go out. If your cat gets lost, a collar with ID tag will greatly increase the odds that he will be returned to you. Here are some tips for getting --and keeping -- a collar on your cat.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. GET A GOOD FIT. Nothing will sabotage your efforts to get your cat to wear a collar like a bad fit. Not only will an ill-fitting collar be uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous. Too loose, and the collar could slip off, or worse, get caught on something. Too tight, and it could choke the cat. To get a good-fitting collar, measure the circumference of your cat's neck with a tape measure before you go shopping. Be sure the collar you buy is adjustable so you can fine-tune the fit. Once you have the collar in place, slip two fingers between the collar and the cat. You should be able to do this easily, with no slack left over. Some people like break-away collars. As the name implies, these collars break apart if they snag on something. I like soft cotton collars, which are hard to find in mass market pet stores, but I have found a good source for both cats and dogs (see link under "Resources") below.

2. DISTRACT. If your cat seems bothered by the collar at first, try to distract him with a treat or a toy. After awhile stop and see if your cat is still focused on the collar. If he is, keep distracting and checking until the collar is no longer a novelty. If after several attempts to distract your cat, he is still bothered by the collar, take it off and try again a little later. Some cats never take to a collar. If yours is one of them, consider micro chipping instead.

3. OBSERVE. Never, EVER, leave a cat unattended after putting a collar on him for the first time. Your cat could hurt himself trying to pull it off. He may have an allergic reaction. Or he may simply be very distressed by the strangeness of it. Be sure to watch your cat until you are sure he is comfortable wearing the collar and will not be hurt by it.

Tips & Warnings

• Start young. Kittens are more adaptable than older cats.
• Stick with it (up to a point -- see warning below).
• Never leave a cat with a new collar alone. Watch him until you are satisfied he is comfortable wearing it.
• Be persistent, but keep in mind not all cats can wear a collar. If yours can't, you might want to consider having him micro chipped.
• Do not hook a leash to a neck collar. It could slip off or hurt your cat. If you want to walk your cat with a leash, buy a harness and hook the leash to that.
• If your cat is still growing, make sure to check his collar periodically to make sure he hasn't outgrown it.

Resources

• Soft Cotton Pet Collars

[ScarlettOHairy]

on 10/28/2009 Great tips for collar wearing. None of my cats have never liked it, but they are micro chipped these days almost always.