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Is it safe for my cat to wear a collar with a bell? Vets vs. shelters.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 4 months and 22 days old | 5 lbs

Is it okay to have a cat collar with a bell in it. I have been doing research and have been seeing vets say there is no research showing anything negative, but then animal shelters saying not to use a collar with a bell (or sometimes collars at all)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on December 24th, 2018

Unfortunately there is no clear cut answer either way. On the plus side, bells can be used to locate your cat indoors or to warn wildlife if your cat cat goes outdoors. On the negative side, it can give away your cat's location to predators or may get snagged on something which could lead to neck injury or strangulation. This last issue can be avoided with a breakaway safety collar, but that leaves your pet without identification. As you can see, it is a difficult question to answer! If your cat tolerates a collar with a bell and you have no issues with her wearing one, then it is your prerogative to use one.

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