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When Should I Use an E-Collar for Cats? Vet-Approved Tips & FAQ
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An Elizabethan collar, commonly called an E-collar or "cone of shame", is a protective cone that fits around your cat’s neck. It's made of plastic or material and has an opening for the cat’s head. The collar protects the cat from scratching and biting at sores on its body. Keep reading to learn more about when you should use an Elizabethan Collar for cats.
An E-collar is most often used by veterinarians to protect wounds on cats. In addition, your veterinarian may recommend using an E-collar after surgery to protect the site while it heals. Cats have very rough tongues and mouths full of bacteria, so it is important to keep them from licking wounds.
Who Should Use an Elizabethan Collar?
If your cat has an open wound or sore that is likely to be scratched or licked, it may need an E-collar. The collar will protect the wound and keep your cat from re-infecting the area or damaging the skin. For example, your cat may need an E-collar if it has any of the following:
These wounds may require an E-collar for a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the seriousness of the wound.
How Do I Know If My Cat Needs an E-Collar?
Your veterinarian will evaluate your cat’s wounds and determine if an E-collar is needed. If your cat has a wound that is likely to be licked or scratched, the veterinarian will likely recommend an E-collar.
What Are the Types of E-Collars for Cats?
An E-collar may be made of plastic or material. And each type has advantages and disadvantages. Your veterinarian will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of E-collars with you and recommend the most appropriate type for your cat. Plastic E-collars are soft, easy to fit, and can be used for a variety of wounds. They come in different sizes so you can select the one that will best fit your cat. There are alternatives such as inflatable neck collars, body suits, or even foam e-collars.
How to Fit an Elizabethan Collar on a Cat?
If your cat is uncooperative, your veterinarian may need to fit the collar for you. If your cat is friendly enough, you can measure its neck and use a ruler to select the correct size. Place the E-collar around your cat’s neck and adjust it so that it fits snugly. The collar should be placed one finger width below the jawline. The collar should not be too tight.
If you're able to fit two fingers between the collar and your cat’s neck, the collar is the correct size. If the collar is too loose, remove it and put it on again. If the collar is too loose, your veterinarian can provide you with a different size. Note that the collar should be removed for cleaning.
How to Clean and Maintain an E-Collar for Cats?
For plastic E-collars, use warm water and mild soap. Rinse the collar thoroughly. Dry the collar with a clean, soft cloth. For material E-collars, use warm water and mild soap or follow manufacturers' cleaning instructions. Make sure it is completely dry before putting it back on your cat. You will need to monitor them closely so that they don’t damage the wound while the collar is off.
Tips to Keep Your Cat Comfortable While Using an E-Collar
Cats typically get used to wearing the collar after a day or two, but they can still be very irritating for them. So here are a few ways to make sure that your cat is as comfortable as possible while it recovers from injuries with the collar on:
Wrapping Things Up
An Elizabethan collar is an important part of wound care. It protects the wound and prevents your cat from scratching or biting it. The collar is removed when the wound has healed and the collar is no longer needed. Your veterinarian will advise you when to remove the E-collar.
See also:
Featured Image Credit: Vera Aksionava, Shutterstock
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Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. She’s the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. She’s always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat can live happy, healthy, and care-free.
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