topic Re: Collars For Kittens? in Pet Lovers

Collars For Kittens?

NickNack — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:00:07 GMT

I ordered a collar for Henry from Etsy before I got him. I also got him a tag. I was going to put the collar on him, but when my friend saw it she saw it was adjusted to be so much smaller that he could catch his leg in it and break it. I was disappointed, because my cats have always worn collars. This is an adjustable break-away collar. I'm attaching a picture of it. I got him the gray chambray. What do you all think about what my friend said about getting his leg caught in it? I will get him microchipped, too, when my Vet says it's okay, and he will never go outside. I just want to take precautions just in case. It's a 6" to 9" collar, and I probably have it adjusted for him to 7" with 2" left over.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

Catty2 — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:02:06 GMT

My cats have all been 100% inside and haven't worn collars. But being a kitten you might want to have him wear it for awhile to see if he's a "door dasher" and might get out. But my dog wears her collar all the time, which has her tags on it.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

NickNack — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:22:59 GMT

@Catty2 wrote:
My cats have all been 100% inside and haven't worn collars. But being a kitten you might want to have him wear it for awhile to see if he's a "door dasher" and might get out. But my dog wears her collar all the time, which has her tags on it.

@Catty2 That's what I thought about having him wear it in case he slipped out the door. My friend had a point about getting his leg caught in the overlap, though, so I wasn't sure. Frankie, my dog, only wears her collar when we go out. I can open the door and she'll stand right there with me while it's open and never try to go out.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

Venezia — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:30:38 GMT

My current four cats are indoor cats, so they've never worn collars.

A friend of mine asked me to look after her cat for a couple of nights while she was away and I was happy to do it. Her cat wasn't the type to jump up in just anybody's lap or even socialize with them, so I wasn't surprised when I went round the first night to feed him and sit with him. He didn't move off the spot on the couch and at first I didn't think anything of it, but then I knew something just didn't "seem right".

So I walked over to him and he still didn't move. On inspection, I found he had somehow gotten his front leg caught up in his collar and he couldn't move. I was able to get his leg free, but I dreaded how he would've suffered, if I hadn't gone round, when I did. I made sure to check on him a few more times while she was away and told her, as soon as she got back.

If your cat is going to wear a collar, you're wise to do as you have done, and make sure it's a break-away style and also that the fit is correct. Even when my previous cats were outdoors, I never put a collar on them for fear of it getting caught on something.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

jewel3 — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:33:11 GMT

You will probably spend as much time as possible with your kitten. It is good for them to get used to collars, harnesses, etc when they are young. As a compromise, if you are worried, you could take the collar off if you will not be home for an extended time. If the kitten does not scratch the collar or struggle to remove it, it will probably be ok. Just make sure it is not too loose. If it is, get a ribbon or thin kitten collar that is smaller until he grows into it.

Enjoy your our new baby! They are such fun!

Re: Collars For Kittens?

NickNack — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:42:55 GMT

@Venezia wrote:
My current four cats are indoor cats, so they've never worn collars.

A friend of mine asked me to look after her cat for a couple of nights while she was away and I was happy to do it. Her cat wasn't the type to jump up in just anybody's lap or even socialize with them, so I wasn't surprised when I went round the first night to feed him and sit with him. He didn't move off the spot on the couch and at first I didn't think anything of it, but then I knew something just didn't "seem right".

So I walked over to him and he still didn't move. On inspection, I found he had somehow gotten his front leg caught up in his collar and he couldn't move. I was able to get his leg free, but I dreaded how he would've suffered, if I hadn't gone round, when I did. I made sure to check on him a few more times while she was away and told her, as soon as she got back.

If your cat is going to wear a collar, you're wise to do as you have done, and make sure it's a break-away style and also that the fit is correct. Even when my previous cats were outdoors, I never put a collar on them for fear of it getting caught on something.

That is so scary @Venezia! I'm glad you were there to rescue him. Maybe I shouldn't put a collar on Henry. Getting his leg stuck hadn't occurred to me until my friend mentioned it.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

LinaL — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:57:42 GMT

ABSOLUTELY NO COLLAR FOR A KITTEN.

A kitten is too small and weak for a break-away to work. It's very easy for a kitten to get caught on something and choke or hang himself. Kittens get into things faster than any toddler when you turn your back for one second. Also, as they hide, you don't know where they are or what trouble they're in.

There's no reason for a collar at that young age.

Be sure to get him chipped when the vet says he's old enough.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

Kachina624 — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 01:14:20 GMT

I keep collars with ID tags on both my dogs plus they're "chipped" even though neither is a door dasher. It just gives me peace of mind knowing I've done everything possible to get them back if they ever became lost.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

Lapdog — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 01:48:46 GMT

You could put the collar on the kitten while you are there, so, that when he is older he will be used to a collar when you are ready form him to wear one full time. He won't have to freak out as a bigger cat.

About Frankie's collar.......If there is a fire, God forbid, it might be safer for Frankie for a Fireman to grab her to safety with a collar.

I have trouble getting around, so I have leashes placed in several areas in my home so, I could hopefully have better control of my two if we need to leave.

Please be careful of something on the other side of that open door that would make Frankie leave you, for it.

Never is a big word.

IMHO only for the care and concern for your furkids.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

sandraskates — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 02:31:31 GMT

Our 3 cats all wear Beastie Bands collars and have tags (in addition to their microchips). I buy them at a thrift store dedicated to helping feral cats but they are also sold in some pet stores and online.

They can be cut down to size, although I'm not sure if they go small enough for kittens. They stretch so if the cat gets caught on something they can wiggle out.

They are also very long lasting. . .and cute!!

Re: Collars For Kittens?

LinaL — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 03:09:29 GMT

@sandraskates wrote:
Our 3 cats all wear Beastie Bands collars and have tags (in addition to their microchips). I buy them at a thrift store dedicated to helping feral cats but they are also sold in some pet stores and online.

They can be cut down to size, although I'm not sure if they go small enough for kittens. They stretch so if the cat gets caught on something they can wiggle out.
They are also very long lasting. . .and cute!!

(my bold)
Actually, the stretch ones are the most dangerous.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

sandraskates — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 03:17:20 GMT

@LinaL- they velcro on. Never had a single problem with them and our cats have lost them around the yard on occasion.

I don't think the rescue organization that runs the thrift shop would sell them if they were dangerous.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

LinaL — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 22:01:46 GMT

@sandraskates wrote:

@LinaL- they velcro on. Never had a single problem with them and our cats have lost them around the yard on occasion.

I don't think the rescue organization that runs the thrift shop would sell them if they were dangerous.

(my bold) That's, simply, not true. There are plenty of ignorant, well-intentioned people and organizations.

There are plenty of articles and websites. T

Also, please note, collars ARE NOT recommended for kittens under 5 or 6 months.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

NickNack — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 10:22:36 GMT

The reason Frankie doesn't wear a collar unless we're going out is that she got her leg caught inside it one time. I was home at the time, thank goodness, and found her. I had forgotten about this when it came time to buy Henry a collar. I don't think I'll put one on him, at least not now. I agree it would be easier for a fireman to grab hold of Frankie if she had a collar on, but I wouldn't want her leg to get stuck in it again.

When looking at collars for Henry, I also read several articles about not buying stretchy collars for cats because they were dangerous.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

candys mine — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 10:23:41 GMT

The only tme my cats wore collars is when they traveled. Both microchipped but I wanted something visible if they got out of the carrier. I leave the collar clipped to the handle of the carrier so I can find it when I want it. Baby cats can get into too much trouble to be wearing a collar.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

cookie16 — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 13:21:40 GMT

Our cat never got his leg caught in his collar, however, he did get his lower jaw stuck, i guess trying to chew i, luckily we were home when that happened. He was young at the time and was quite the curious, nosey and smart little guy we had ever had. The collar was a breakaway type and he figured out how to pop the plastic clip and take it off. This time, however, it didn't open and he got stuck. We found, as he got bigger, and wanting a collar on him, we started using a thin dog collar. We also got him used to a harness and leash since he loves to sit on our deck with us but knows he needs his leash to do that. Just mention going on the deck, let's get your leash and he comes over and sits till he is attached. it also makes it easier to catch him when needing to go to vet. It used to be an exhausting chase before, now we just attach the leash to the collar, if he runs, step on end of leash. I would refrain from using a collar on a kitten but introduce it a little at a time and see how he/she handles it as it grows.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

LinaL — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 13:48:55 GMT

@cookie16 wrote:
Our cat never got his leg caught in his collar, however, he did get his lower jaw stuck, i guess trying to chew i, luckily we were home when that happened. He was young at the time and was quite the curious, nosey and smart little guy we had ever had. The collar was a breakaway type and he figured out how to pop the plastic clip and take it off. This time, however, it didn't open and he got stuck. We found, as he got bigger, and wanting a collar on him, we started using a thin dog collar. We also got him used to a harness and leash since he loves to sit on our deck with us but knows he needs his leash to do that. Just mention going on the deck, let's get your leash and he comes over and sits till he is attached. it also makes it easier to catch him when needing to go to vet. It used to be an exhausting chase before, now we just attach the leash to the collar, if he runs, step on end of leash. I would refrain from using a collar on a kitten but introduce it a little at a time and see how he/she handles it as it grows.

(my bold)
I was going to mention a harness. I do the same as you.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

feline groovy — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 16:16:01 GMT

Do what's most comfortable and least worrisome for you.

But it's good that you'll get the vet's expert opinion, too.

All of my kitties have been indoors-only and never wore collars, but I now wish they had just in case the unexpected happened.

Microchipping is most important though, just as you've done with Frankie and will do for Henry.

Love the collar style, plus the denim fabrications and colors. 8)

Re: Collars For Kittens?

noodleann — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 17:08:46 GMT

I've never put collars on any of my cats, since they've all been indoor animals, except the one I'd take for walks. I put a Zack & Zoey dog halter on her (nicer than the strap variety) with a leash on it, and off we'd go into the back. I no longer have that property mowed, and am wary of the problems of walking a hilly, hole-riven country property, so no more cat walks. The cat is 9 now and sleeps most of the day anyway now.

I agree with all here that microchipping is the best way to protect against loss. Microchips can't fall off and they can't trap a cat's leg or jaw.

Re: Collars For Kittens?

NickNack — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 17:16:38 GMT

Thanks @feline groovy and @noodleann. I've decided not to put the collar on him. I guess there is too much risk of his leg or teeth/mouth getting stuck in it. I'll just have to put him up whenever I answer the door.

He had his first Vet appt. today and second set of vaccinations. The Vet thought he looked great, of course. She doesn't want to microchip him until she neuters him. I can get him neutered as early as four months old if I want to. I've always waited until six months old, but I really want to have him microchipped so may do it sooner this time. He goes back in three weeks for his last vaccinations. He meowed all the way there and back.

I just got back from running errands, and I think Henry is asleep in his room. When he wakes up I'm going to put Frankie on a leash again and let him out. I'll take her off the leash in a few days and let them really meet face to face and see how it goes. I'll bet they'll be fast friends.