You can quickly take a measuring tape and wrap it around the neck of your cat to get an estimate of how large the e-collar should be. However, experimenting with different settings on the e-collar is the only way to verify what setting makes for the best fit. Ideally, your first fitting should be done by a veterinarian. If you feel the need to remove and replace the collar, use the same settings that your veterinarian used when first applying the e-collar. The Elizabethan collar should fit snugly, so that the cat cannot move its head much.
How far these two sides overlap will depend upon how tight the collar will be. Most collars are adjustable. Experiment to see what size fits your cat. If the sides are not labeled “top” or “bottom,” put the side with the long plastic tab hanging from it on top.
By the time you complete this process the collar should be securely shaped like a cone. This is a good time to slide the cone on to your cat’s head to determine if it fits appropriately. Remember, you will use an additional collar to secure the e-collar in place when you are done.
Check to verify that the loops are secure and cannot easily be pulled out. You might want to bend the end of the plastic a little bit and pull on the loop to keep the plastic firmly in place. [6] X Research source These loops will be used so that you can wrap your cat’s normal collar around the inside of the e-collar to help secure it in place.
You should be able to get your fingers under the collar, but it shouldn’t come off with a gentle tug. [9] X Expert Source Molly DeVossCertified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 15 July 2021.
If your cat is frightened, place a towel over it. Let it sit for a couple of minutes until it calms down. Then wrap the towel around the bottom of your cat and pick up it up, so that it is bundled up in the towel. Try putting on the E-collar while your cat is tired, relaxed, or sleeping. [10] X Expert Source Molly DeVossCertified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 15 July 2021.
Talk to your cat in a calming voice to reassure it and make it more comfortable.
Alternatively, something like a ribbon can be passed through the loops and then tied around your cats neck to secure the e-collar in place.
If you do feel the need to remove the collar, the process should not be too difficult. Simply undo the secondary collar that is wrapped through the loops of the Elizabethan collar. Then pull the Elizabethan collar directly off your cats’ head. Leave the remainder of the collar constructed so that it can easily be slid back on your cat when the time comes. Never let your cat go outside while they’re wearing an E-collar. It can restrict their vision and prevent them from seeing potential dangers. The collar can also get hung-up on foliage and hamper your cat’s movement or ability to fit in tight spaces. [15] X Expert Source Molly DeVossCertified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 15 July 2021.
