Pets are members of your family and should be treated with care and protection, as you would a child. In fact, pets rely on you, their owner, even moreso than a child does as they grow because they are completely dependent on you for their food, water, and basic care. Getting your cat a cat collar is a simple way to protect them from getting lost, or worse.

It’s always sad to see a poster in your neighborhood telling the story of a “Lost Cat”. Cats that are not wearing cat collars have a much lesser chance of being returned to their owners than cats that do wear personalized cat collars. Outfitting your cat with a cat collar and ID tag is an easy way to show that you care about your cat!

photo by piez

Whether your cat is an indoor cat or an outdoor cat, keeping your cat safe from harm is of utmost importance. If your cat is an outdoor cat, consider a collar with a bell (especially if you love seeing birds in your yard!). If your outdoor cat is outside at night, you should consider cat collars with reflective elements so he or she can be seen from a distance.

Although collars are generally thought to be for the canine kind, many cat owners choose to purchase collars for their favorite felines. There are many different kinds of cat collars on the market, so it is imperative that you choose the best option for your cat’s needs and body. Consider taking your cat along on a shopping trip to your local pet store—most welcome animals of all types—and try on different models to find the perfect fit. Keep in mind that although color, material, and style is important, these aspects should come second to the fit of the collar.

Traditionally, cats wear collars that hold their identification information and a bell. Ensuring your pet is properly identified is critical for any animal, especially one that you intend on letting outside. In case your cat becomes lost, you will have a much better chance of finding your lost loved on if he or she has the appropriate information securely attached to the collar. Most cat owners choose to attach a small bell or another type of noise making device in order to make small animals or birds aware of a predator’s presence. Cats tend to have retained more hunting instincts than domesticated dogs, so this is a viable concern with many cat owners tired of finding their feline bringing home helpless animals.

A buckle collar is the easiest type for a cat to wear, since it can be put on and taken off quickly and easily. Another name for this type of collar is ‘breakaway’ cat collars. Try the collar on your cat to ensure he or she cannot wiggle out of the collar. Just as a loose collar is unacceptable, having a collar fitted too tight can cause discomfort or even pain if your pet feline. For a younger cat that will need a collar that grows with them, consider choosing an adjustable cat collar to save you from purchasing new ones in the future.

Some owners choose elastic cat collars that slip on and off over the cat’s head. These are great for cats that do not need the extra weight and bulk of a buckle. Keep in mind that any elastic collars should be fitted to your cat to ensure the collar is not too loose or too tight.

If you have an outdoor cat, look into a collar that uses reflective materials. These reflective materials will keep your precious feline safe at night. This is quite important, since animals are more likely to become injured or even killed since they cannot be seen. A reflective cat collar is also a good idea for indoor cats, since you can see the animal in the dark to avoid stepping on your pet.

Once you have determined the specific type of collar for your cat, choose a color that fits his or her personality. Whether your feline wants a rocker look with black leather and metal studs or a pretty princess with pink rhinestones, the options are limitless!

by: Mike Barus

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