How to Adjust E-Collars for Cats

An Elizabethan collar, or E-collar, is a hard plastic cone used to keep your cat from licking or chewing wounds or hot spots. While it might be uncomfortable for a cat to wear an E-collar, it is an effective way to avoid reopening wounds or causing infection. After assembling the E-collar, if you find it's too loose or too snug, adjust it to the proper fit.

Things You'll Need

  • Treats (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the E-collar from the cat if necessary. Insert the plastic tabs into the outer slots of the E-collar. Gently slide over the cat's head, ensuring the cat's ears and whiskers are not caught under the collar.

    • 2

      Adjust the size of the collar by removing the tabs from the outer slots to the correct-sized inner slots. A proper-sized collar will not slide off, but is not too tight. Thread the cat collar through the tabs of the narrow end of the E-collar.

    • 3

      Connect the ends of the pet's collar to ensure stability. Pet your cat, and speak to it in soothing tones. Try to imply the E-collar is not a punishment. Consider giving him a treat to make the experience more enjoyable.