Breakaway cat collars are a godsend for felines who love to explore the outdoors. Cats love adventures in nature, which, of course, is great for keeping them fit and healthy while also giving them the opportunity to hunt and hone their predatory instincts. That said, you’ll want to make sure your cat isn’t at risk of getting caught up in a tangle; branches, twigs, and fence spokes are common culprits for entangling your kitty cat. Yep, if their collar gets caught, they’re in a spot of trouble. However, with the best breakaway cat collar, your feline will easily be able to escape a tangle.
Designed to snap open when pulled with a little force, breakaway collars make an escape quick and easy. So, whether you’ve got a new cat at home and you want to keep them safe when they’re exploring outdoors, or your cat simply needs a new collar, consider one of the top picks from our guide. We’ve handpicked our favorites for a quick release when stuck while offering comfort and quality in the same breath.
Top Pick AirTag Breakaway Cat Collar
Airtag Cat Collar Breakaway, Reflective Kitten Collar with Apple Air Tag Holder and Bell for Girl Boy Cats, 0.4 Inches in Width and Lightweight(Black)
$12.99
Best Breakaway Cat Collar to Consider
Breakaway collars—also referred to as quick-release collars—are a saving grace for outdoorsy cats. We’d go as far as to say they’re an essential. If you’re not quite sure what a breakaway collar is or how it works, we’ve got you covered with our mini-lesson here:
What is a breakaway cat collar?
A breakaway cat collar or quick-release collar is specifically designed to help your cat free themselves in the case of getting tangled. Outdoor cats are particularly at risk of this since they’ll naturally spend more time in nature, where getting caught on a twig or branch can easily become a choking risk. If this unfortunate eventuality occurs, your cat will instinctually pull away in an attempt to get free—if they’re wearing a breakaway collar, it’ll automatically snap open when it’s pulled with sufficient force. Thankfully, lots of cat flea collars also feature breakaway buckles, so you can tackle those pesky bugs while keeping your kitty safe.
How do they work?
Breakaway collars are designed with a quick-release buckle that’ll come open with a bit of force. Aside from this extra (and, in our opinion, highly necessary) feature, these cat collars function just like any other. They often come with an attached cat bell or ID tag to the front, and it should be adjustable in size so you can easily find the right fit for your feline.
AirTag Breakaway Cat Collar
Offering not just a safe getaway system for your cat but also space to pop an AirTag, this cat collar is a great choice for worrisome cat parents. Slot the AirTag in and use it as a GPS tracker to stay on top of your kitty’s whereabouts, and stay safe in the knowledge that in the unfortunate event that they do get trapped or caught, they’ll be able to make a quick escape thanks to the breakaway feature. We like the addition of two reflective strips, making it far easier to spot your feline at night, too.
Adjustable between 8.66 and 13.78 inches, you should be able to find the right fit for your cat with ease. Additionally, the nylon material is soft and comfortable against your cat’s neck, so they shouldn’t be bothered by wearing this collar at all. Coming in at an affordable price tag and with heaps of colors to pick from, this breakaway cat collar is undoubtedly one of the best on the market now.
AirTag Breakaway Cat Collar
Offering not just a safe getaway system for your cat but also space to pop an AirTag, this cat collar is a great choice for worrisome cat parents. Slot the AirTag in and use it as a GPS tracker to stay on top of your kitty’s whereabouts, and stay safe in the knowledge that in the unfortunate event that they do get trapped or caught, they’ll be able to make a quick escape thanks to the breakaway feature. We like the addition of two reflective strips, making it far easier to spot your feline at night, too.
Adjustable between 8.66 and 13.78 inches, you should be able to find the right fit for your cat with ease. Additionally, the nylon material is soft and comfortable against your cat’s neck, so they shouldn’t be bothered by wearing this collar at all. Coming in at an affordable price tag and with heaps of colors to pick from, this breakaway cat collar is undoubtedly one of the best on the market now.
Airtag Cat Collar Breakaway, Reflective Kitten Collar with Apple Air Tag Holder and Bell for Girl Boy Cats, 0.4 Inches in Width and Lightweight(Black)
$12.99
Pros:
- Designed to hold an AirTag
- Reflective strips
- Comfy nylon strap
- Affordable price tag
Cons:
- Reflective strips may peel off after a few months
Extodry Reflective Breakaway Cat Collar
These reflective cat collars come in at incredible value, with 14 in a pack. So, whether you’ve achieved your crazy cat lady goals or you just want to have a few collars spare for future, this set is for you. The breakaway feature is well-made and reliable, easily snapping open if your kitty gets caught in a tricky situation.
We like that this pack comes with two anti-lost ID tags, so you can pop your information on there to be easily contacted in case your cat takes an unexpected wander. Designed with an adjustable fit, reflective strips, and attached bells, these collars offer everything we’re looking for, and for a great price, too.
Extodry 14 Pack Reflective-Breakaway Cat Collars with Bells,Safety Buckle Kitten Collar,with Name Tag,Adjustable,Ideal for Girl Cats Male Cats,Pet Supplies,Stuff,Accessories(12 Colors & 2 ID Tags)
$14.98
Pros:
- Reflective strips and bells
- Great breakaway feature
- Soft and comfortable
Cons:
- We’d like a few more ID tags thrown in
Taglory Reflective Breakaway Cat Collars
This 2-pack of breakaway cat collars isn’t just a pretty face. Serving up a comfy fit for your feline plus a host of extra safety features, these collars are a one-and-done solution. Featuring the all-important breakaway buckle, attached bells, and a reflective design, you’ll be able to let your cat out and about safe in the knowledge they can free themselves from any tangles.
And, of course, the bells and the reflective strips help you locate them in the dark, too. You can adjust the fit between 7.5 and 12.5 inches, so these collars should fit smaller and larger cats alike. And, adorned with cute pawprints, your kitty will look dreamy wearing one of these.
Taglory Reflective Cat Collars Breakaway with Bell, 2-Pack Girl Boy Pet Kitten Collar Adjustable 7.5-12.5 Inch, Black
$6.99
Pros:
- Cute pawprint design
- Reflective strips
- Adjustable fit
- Great price
Cons:
- Reflective strips can wear down with time
Faygarsle Cotton Breakaway Cat Collars with Daisy Print
Want to find a collar that puts safety first and style at a close second? Snap up this 2-pack by Faygarsle, designed with ultra-cutesie floral daisy prints that really give the style some extra zing. There are a few different color schemes to pick from, too, so you can choose the best palette for your feline. Both collars come with not just a bell, but also a lovely daisy charm on the front to elevate those aww vibes even further. And for the safety features? Let’s take a look:
You can let your cat out with peace of mind thanks to the reliable breakaway design, easily coming loose if your cat gets stuck somewhere. The soft cotton makes for comfortable wear, and the adjustable sizing means you can find the right fit for your feline, too. All in all, this set of stylish cat collars combines style with safety and functionality, which earns it a high rating from us.
Faygarsle 2 Pack Cotton Breakaway Cat Collars with Bell Daisy Pendant Kitty Kitten Collars Green Orange Collar for Female Girl Cats Male Boy Cats
$7.98
Pros:
- Beautiful design
- Bell and charm attached
- Adjustable fit
Cons:
- No reflective strips here
waaag Breakaway Cat Collar
If you love your kitty to the moon and back, snap up this gorgeously mystical cat collar built with a breakaway buckle to give you peace of mind. Available in two adjustable sizes (6.5 to 10 inches and 9.5 to 15 inches), you can pick up this collar up for your cat or kitten, no matter whether they’re a lean machine or a porky pussycat.
We love that the collar is handmade right here in the US, so you get that touch of care and love with every one. Complete with a bell and a crescent moon charm, as well as glow-in-the-dark details, this cat collar is a fine choice.
waaag Cat Collars, Gold Moons and Stars Cat Collar, Safety Breakaway Cat Collar, Glow in The Dark (Kitten 6.5"-10" Neck, Emerald)
$8.99
Pros:
- Moon design and matching charm
- Bell included
- 2 sizes available
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- A very determined cat may be able to remove this collar
Benefits of a Breakaway Cat Collar vs Traditional Collar
Breakaway cat collars offer several benefits over traditional collars, making them an excellent choice for your feline friend’s safety and comfort. Let’s take a look at some of the main ones:
Safety First
The primary advantage lies in the collar’s ability to release automatically when it encounters significant pressure, such as when your cat becomes entangled in a tree branch or fence. This feature can go a seriously long way in preventing injuries and even save your cat’s life by allowing them to escape from potentially dangerous situations. In our opinion, a breakaway collar is a no-brainer.
Adjustability
In addition to safety, breakaway collars often come with adjustable sizing, ensuring a comfortable fit for your cat. A well-fitted collar allows for two fingers to fit snugly between the collar and your cat’s neck, reducing the risk of irritation or choking.
Style and extras
For those big on style, you’ll be pleased to know that breakaway collars are available in various colors and styles, allowing you to choose one that suits your cat’s personality and your aesthetic preferences. Many of these nifty little collars also include a small D-ring for attaching identification tags, ensuring that your feline can be easily identified and returned to you if they ever go MIA (and hey, it’s been known to happen). You can also pick up a breakaway reflective cat collar to enhance after-dark visibility, which is great if your cat errs on the side of nocturnal.
In summary, breakaway cat collars provide an essential safety feature, comfortable fit, and stylish options, making them a superior choice compared to traditional collars. By selecting a breakaway collar, you are prioritizing your cat’s well-being and giving yourself peace of mind.
How a Breakaway Collar Works
If you’re about to splash out for a breakaway collar, it’s wise to get clued up on how they work:
Basically, breakaway cat collars are designed with your cat’s safety in mind. They typically feature a special buckle or clasp that can easily open when a certain amount of pressure is applied to it.
Imagine your adventurous cat is wearing a breakaway collar, and gets caught on a tree branch while exploring outdoors. Instead of the collar staying tight and putting your cat at risk of injury or choking (we know, it hurts to even think about), the breakaway buckle will sense the pressure and release, allowing your cat to safely slip out of the collar and avoid getting stuck or hurt.
This clever design ensures that your indoor/outdoor cats stay safe during their travels, and you can have peace of mind knowing that their collar won’t cause them any harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats take off breakaway collars?
A cat can take off any collar if it’s been put on too loosely. It’s unlikely that your cat will work out the method of removing a breakaway collar, but that’s not to say it’s impossible. To minimize the risk, make sure your cat’s collar is comfortable, soft, and snug-fitting; this way, your cat won’t mind wearing their collar and will (hopefully!) not take measures to attempt to remove it.
How tight should a breakaway cat collar be?
With breakaway collars (and any other collar type), you should be able to easily slide your fingers through it when it’s on. It needs to be snug enough to stay put and not get caught but loose enough to allow for easy and effortless breathing. Any cat’s collar worth its salt will be adjustable, anyway, so you can play around with the sizing until you get it right.
Do you leave a cat collar on all the time?
Cat collars are designed to be left on all the time. Just make sure it fits well and is comfortable for your cat. If you discover that your cat is developing a rash or skin irritations under the collar, it may be because they’re having a reaction to the materials or the collar is too tight.
How safe are breakaway collars for cats?
Breakaway collars are actually the safest type of collar for your feline. This is because, unlike traditional buckle collars, a breakaway collar will snap off if your cat gets caught on something. For example, if your outdoor cat gets caught on a branch, they’ll instinctively try to pull away. The pulling motion will cause a breakaway collar to snap off, freeing your feline without choking or injuring them.
Why does my cat keep losing his breakaway collar?
If your cat keeps coming home without his cat collar, don’t worry, you’re not alone. As you know, cats are curious creatures and love to explore, climb, and squeeze into tight spaces. During these adventures, their collar might snag on something, causing the breakaway mechanism to release, and the collar to fall off.
Thankfully, there are things you can do to prevent shelling for new collars every five minutes. First up, ensure that it fits correctly. A well-fitted collar should allow for two fingers to fit snugly between the collar and your cat’s neck. If the collar is too loose, it may be more likely to catch on objects and release.
Additionally, consider observing your cat’s behavior and the environment they explore. If there are specific areas or objects where they tend to lose their collar, you can try to cat-proof those spots, making it less likely for the collar to get caught. Consider getting a cat gate to stop them from accessing these areas of your home.
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