RSPCA warning over cat collars
Cat owners have been warned against buying certain collars by the RSPCA, which said there were too many 'dangerous' collars on the market.
The warning comes after more than 100 cats were injured by their own collars across the UK since the start of the year.
Animal welfare experts are so concerned they have advised owners only to buy quick release collars, allowing cats to escape if they become trapped, and have warned against collars that are elasticated or have buckles.
A one-year-old black and white cat, named Brian by RSPCA staff, was found in Brierley Hill earlier this month with his front leg trapped in his collar.
Brian is now recovering at Birmingham’s Newbrook Farm Animal Centre
Alice Potter, RSPCA cat welfare expert said: “All too often we get called to cats that have become injured due to a collar as there are too many dangerous collars on sale. We would strongly advise against purchasing a collar with buckles that don’t snap open, or collars made from elastic.
“The majority of flea collars are also not advisable as they do not have safety buckles, so we would encourage pet owners to prioritise safety first and give your cat flea treatment another way.
“Cats are natural hunters and curious explorers that enjoy climbing trees or pushing through tight spots and for these reasons it is imperative that any collar is designed to free the cat should they become snagged during their adventures."
