Choosing a collar for your cat looks simple, but many owners get the size wrong and end up with a collar that's too tight, uncomfortable or even dangerous. Good news: all it takes is one measurement and two fingers to find the perfect cat collar size. Here's how.
How to measure your cat's neck
Your cat's neck circumference is the only measurement you need to choose the right collar size. Here's how to do it in 3 simple steps:
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1Grab a soft measuring tape A sewing tape measure is ideal. If you don't have one, a piece of string that you then lay along a ruler works just as well.
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2Place the tape at the base of the neck Position the tape where the collar will sit: at the base of the neck, just above the shoulders. This is the widest part of a cat's neck.
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3Slip two fingers under the tape The golden rule: you should be able to slip two fingers between the tape and your cat's neck. Write down this measurement: it's your reference neck size.
Cat collar size chart by breed and build
The average neck size of an adult cat is between 20 and 35 cm. This chart gives you a guide based on your cat's breed and build:
| Build / Breed | Estimated neck size | Recommended collar size |
|---|---|---|
| Kitten (3-6 months) | 15-20 cm | XS (adjustable 15-25 cm) |
| Slim / small cat Siamese, Abyssinian, Sphynx, Rex |
18-24 cm | S (adjustable 18-28 cm) |
| Medium-sized cat European Shorthair, Bengal, British Shorthair |
22-28 cm | M (adjustable 22-32 cm) |
| Large cat Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Norwegian Forest Cat |
28-38 cm | L (adjustable 28-38 cm) |
| Overweight cat | 30-42 cm | XL (adjustable 30-42 cm) |
⚠️ These values are for guidance only. Always measure your cat's actual neck size before ordering: every cat is unique!
How to check the fit
Once the collar is on your cat, run these quick checks:
- Two fingers slip easily under the collar
- The collar doesn't spin around the neck on its own
- Your cat isn't frantically scratching at the collar
- They eat, drink and groom normally
- No irritation or marks on the coat
If all these boxes are ticked, the collar fits well. If not, adjust the buckle one notch at a time until you find the ideal position.
Collar too tight or too loose: the risks
A collar that's too tight
This is the most serious risk. A collar that's too snug can cause skin irritation, painful rubbing or even breathing difficulties. In severe cases, it can become embedded in the skin if the cat gains weight or the collar isn't checked regularly.
A collar that's too loose
A collar that's too big can get caught in your cat's mouth or front legs when they scratch, which is traumatic and sometimes dangerous. It can also fall off easily, which defeats the whole purpose of identification.
What about kittens?
Kittens grow very fast: their neck size can change within a few weeks. Here are the best practices:
- Wait until the kitten is at least 3 months old
- Choose an adjustable collar with a wide adjustment range
- Check the fit every 2 weeks
- Go for a lightweight collar (under 20g)
- Choose a safety elastic rather than a rigid buckle
Why choose an adjustable personalized collar
Beyond size, a personalized collar with your cat's name is the best protection there is if your cat goes missing. If your cat gets lost, anyone who finds them can contact you immediately, with no microchip to scan and no app to download.
An adjustable personalized collar combines the best of both worlds: it adapts to your cat's exact build and clearly identifies them. It's a must-have accessory for every responsible owner.
FAQ: your common questions
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See personalized cat collars Fancy collarsThe measurements and recommendations in this article are for guidance only. If you're unsure which collar suits your cat, feel free to contact our customer service.
