How to Choose the Right Collar for Your Cat or Dog

Quick answer: Cats should wear a breakaway collar that releases if it gets caught. Dogs need a flat buckle collar for their ID tag, and many do better on walks with a harness. For the right fit, you should slide two fingers under the collar.

Cats: always breakaway

Cats climb and squeeze through gaps. A breakaway collar pops open if it snags, so your cat can't get stuck.

Dogs: collar and harness

• A flat buckle collar holds the ID tag, all day.
• A harness is gentler for walks, especially for dogs that pull, and flat-faced breeds.
• Many vets and trainers advise against choke and prong collars.

The two-finger fit test

Slide two fingers under the collar.

• Too loose: it slips over the head.
• Too tight: it rubs and hurts.

Check puppies and kittens every week or two. They grow fast.

Materials

• Nylon: light and affordable.
• Leather: strong and soft once worn in.
• Reflective: good for evening walks.

Keep the tag secure

A collar is only useful if the tag stays on. Check the ring every few weeks.

Coming soon: Tailswatch collars, made to pair with your tag. Be the first to know.

Read next: What to put on a pet ID tag · New pet checklist

FAQs

Are collars safe for cats? Yes, if it's a breakaway collar that releases when caught.

Collar or harness for dogs? Both: a collar to carry the ID tag, and a harness for walks.