Cat - Veterinary Collars (Elizabethan)

What is a veterinary collar?

These are also commonly called 'buster collars' and 'Elizabethan collars'. They are usually made of fairly rigid plastic but softer ones are now available and are fitted to the cat’s collar so that they project forwards over the head.

Why does my cat need to wear a collar?

The collar separates your cat’s head from the rest of its body which is useful in two ways. Firstly, it prevents your cat from pawing or scratching at its face which is needed if your cat has had surgery or an injury to the face which is bothering it. Secondly, collars prevent chewing, biting or excessive grooming of wounds, bandages and other skin lesions which may be necessary in some instances.

Although most cats will initially resent wearing a collar and may put all their energy into trying to remove it, the majority soon settle and become accustomed to it.

How long does my cat need to wear this collar?

A collar is needed for as long as it is necessary to prevent the cat interfering with its injury or dressing. This may only be a couple of days, or may be much longer. It is important to follow the instructions you receive from your veterinary surgeon.

Can I take the collar off?

In general, this is not a good idea since collars can be a fiddle to re-fit once removed. However, in some situations, as advised by your vet, it may be possible to remove your cat’s collar for periods when you are able to offer constant supervision. When re-fitting the Elizabethan collar, always ensure that you can fit two fingers comfortably under the neck collar which secures the Elizabethan collar in place. This will ensure that although the Elizabethan collar will not be able to slide forwards over your cat’s ears, breathing will not be restricted in any way. If you are unable to re-fit the collar, contact your veterinary surgeon immediately.

Is it safe to let my cat go outdoors?

Elizabethan collars restrict your cat's vision and if startled your cat may panic. It is also easy for the collar to catch or bash into objects which may also be distressing for the cat. It is therefore normally advisable to keep your cat indoors whilst wearing a collar.

What special care does my cat need?

You may need to feed your cat from plates or saucers since the collar can affect ease of access to food bowls. Some cats pretend that they can't eat with their collar on, but most of the time they can! Keep an eye on your cat to ensure it works out a way to eat with the collar on. With some cats, it may be necessary to remove the collar to enable them to eat, but it should be remembered to re-fit the collar again immediately after eating. Bits of food often stick to the inside of the collar and should be wiped off as frequently as necessary. It is also important to check that the collar loops are not rubbing on your cat’s neck. Your cat will be unable to groom whilst wearing a collar and it is particularly important that long-haired cats are brushed on a daily basis to prevent matting of the coat. Short-haired cats may also enjoy being groomed.

Do I need to make any other allowances?

Since your cat may take some time to get used to wearing a collar, it is a good idea to remove valuable possessions which may be knocked over by the collar. Your cat may also be more nervous until accustomed to their reduced range of vision.