A new feline addition to the family is incredibly exciting. But, you may have a learning curve when it comes to cat care and keeping your cat safe. Cats are territorial creatures, and this leads to potential problems when joining a new family and home. Some cats may become disoriented and will try to get back to their prior turf. For animal welfare, it is very important to keep tabs on your pet.
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If your cat wanders and gets lost, you will want to maximize your chances of finding them again. So, if you're asking questions like: "is a microchip enough for a cat?" "Does my cat need a collar?" and if so, "what type of collar for my cat is the best?" — then you've come to the right place!
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Is a microchip enough to keep my cat safe?
If the collar fits, wear it! While microchips are great tools, according to the VCA Animal Hospitals, the more identification a lost cat has, the better. It is preferable to also have a collar around your cat's neck with an id tag and contact information. If your cat has a microchip, you should register it with your contact information, and update the information if you move — or when you take a long trip with your cat!
Why should cats wear collars?
Cats should wear collars as a form of identification if they get lost. If you have an outdoor cat who wanders freely, it is essential for them to wear a cat collar — so that your pet is not scooped up or mistaken for a stray. Indoor cats should also wear a collar. A cat collar with an id tag will maximize your chances of finding your pet, should your cat go missing.
What are cat collars?
Cat collars are designed specifically for felines. Unlike dog collars, (which function as a form of identification that can be clipped to a leash) cat collars tend to be smaller in size. They come with special features like breakaway or quick release features — to prevent an injury if your cat gets caught on something. Certain collars also have a reflective coating to keep your cat safe in the dark. Others, such as smart collars can track your cat's activity in real-time.
Types of cat collars
Not only are cat collars important, but there are also many varieties and styles to help keep your cat safe. Different types of cat collars include:
- breakaway collar
- quick-release collar
- reflective collars
- flea collars
- smart collars
Depending on your cat, their behavior patterns, and their needs, you will want to do your due diligence to find the perfect collar for them.
Do indoor cats need collars?
Yes, collars are still advised for indoor cats — even if your cat only stays indoors. According to American Humane, if an indoor cat does get out, and does not have a collar, a person may mistake them for a stray cat. Having a collar around your cat's neck with an id tag increases the chance of you and your cat reuniting.
In summary
It can be a gut-wrenching experience to lose a pet, and it's very important to do everything in your power to keep your cat safe. This involves multiple forms of identification for your pet, including microchipping and wearing a collar. Your cat should wear a collar and ID tag to keep them safe and increase their chances of getting back home to you. Even if your cat doesn't venture outside, cat collars are important for both indoor and outdoor cats. If an indoor cat does escape, or an outdoor cat wanders too far from home, having a collar and ID tag with contact information can help get your feline back home.