How to Fit a Cat Collar Safely: The Two-Finger Rule

A collar should be something your cat forgets it's wearing. Getting the fit right, and choosing the right kind of buckle, is what makes that possible. Here's how to do it in five minutes.

1. Choose a breakaway (safety) collar

Cats climb, squeeze through fences and explore under furniture, so a cat collar should have a breakaway buckle: a clasp designed to pop open if the collar gets caught, so your cat can pull free. Avoid buckle or belt-style collars made for dogs, which don't release.

2. Measure the neck

Wrap a soft tape measure around the middle of your cat's neck, where the collar will sit. Don't pull it tight. Most adult cats measure somewhere between 20 and 30 cm. Our charm collars adjust from 23 to 33 cm.

3. Use the two-finger rule

Once the collar is on, you should be able to slide two fingers flat between the collar and your cat's neck.

• Can't fit two fingers? It's too tight and may rub or restrict.
• Fits more than two, or slides over the ears? It's too loose: a paw or jaw can get caught underneath, or the collar can slip off.

4. Check the fit regularly

Re-check the fit every week. Kittens grow quickly, and long-haired cats can change shape when their coat sheds or grows back. If you see broken or flattened fur under the collar, loosen it slightly.

5. Introduce it gradually

Let your cat wear the new collar while you're around for the first few days. Short sessions with a treat help it feel normal. Most cats stop noticing their collar within a day or two.

6. Look after charms and accessories

If your collar has charms, check they're pushed fully in before each wear and remove any that are loose or chewed. Keep spare charms away from pets and young children, as they're small enough to swallow. Read our full collar safety guide for more.

Quick checklist

• Breakaway buckle ✔
• Two fingers fit under the collar ✔
• Fit checked weekly ✔
• Charms secure, spares stored safely ✔

If you notice any redness, hair loss or irritation under the collar, take it off and ask your vet for advice.