Pet Cones to Prevent Licking

At one point or another in your pet's life, it may need to avoid licking, biting or chewing on its skin. Most times this results from surgery, after which your pet will feel the urge to lick the incision site. Anxiety problems can also cause a pet to excessively groom itself, causing bald spots and skin problems. To prevent any additional injury, your pet will need to wear an Elizabethan collar, also referred to as a cone collar or E-collar.

  1. Use

    • An E-collar -- so named because it resembles the large, stiff collar Queen Elizabeth I wore -- is used to prevent an animal from causing itself injury by licking, biting or chewing its skin. The collar is placed around your pet's neck, where its usual collar goes, and extends upward, looking like an inverted lamp shade over your pet's head. This prevents the animal from licking any part of its body, allowing injuries and surgery sites to heal properly.

    Materials

    • Although the basic shape remains standard, E-collars are available in a variety of materials, colors and designs. Hard plastic versions are the most common ones found in veterinary offices and pet stores, and are available in opaque, clear or colored versions. Collar fasteners vary and include simple tab and notch systems, snaps or hook and loop fasteners.

    Homemade Collars

    • Due to the simple design and operation of an E-collar, many pet owners prefer to make one themselves as opposed to buying one. Any stiff material will do, including plastic, cardboard or poster board. Full instructions are available online, but the basic construction is to simply cut a few circles and some straight lines. The collar can be discarded if soiled or damaged, and a new one made quickly and inexpensively.

    Considerations

    • While useful and necessary to your pet's health, an E-collar impedes your pet's vision and ability to move well. Keep watch over your pet when you first put the collar on, as it may move clumsily until it gets used to it. If the E-collar becomes too bulky or upsetting to your pet, you may want to try an alternative to prevent unwanted licking, such as a bandage on the wound. Depending upon the location of the injury, a pet sweater or baby clothes may cover the area and prevent your pet from aggravating it. Discuss any problems with your veterinarian, as different options may be available.