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11 Best Breakaway Cat Collars in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

brown tabby domestic shorthair cat with breakaway cat collar outside

As a cat owner, your top concern is the safety and health of your cat. You take them to the vet when it’s needed. You keep them groomed and only feed them the best food out there. But what about keeping your cat safe?

You’ve considered putting a collar on your pet, but since they can fit into the tiniest of spaces, you’re worried that they could get stuck somewhere due to the collar or become injured.

A breakaway collar prevents that possibility with a safety buckle that unsnaps when pulled with force. The collars are ideal for sneakier cats who like to end up where they may not belong!

The reviews below will help you select the perfect breakaway collar for your feline friend. We’ll discuss the collars we think are the best and the pros and cons of each.

hepper single cat paw divider

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Hepper Hemp Breakaway Cat Collar Hepper Hemp Breakaway Cat Collar
  • Adjustable up to 11 inches
  • Hemp is naturally resistant to UV and damp
  • Tough, durable design will last
  • Budget Buy
    Second place
    Bemix Pets Reflective Cat Collar with Bell Bemix Pets Reflective Cat Collar with Bell
  • Reflective
  • Adjustable
  • 6 collars per pack
  • Third place
    GOTAGS Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar GOTAGS Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar
  • Adjustable
  • Comfortable
  • Reflective strip
  • Blueberry Adjustable Breakaway Cat Collar Blueberry Adjustable Breakaway Cat Collar
  • Affordable
  • High quality
  • Bright designs
  • Pawtitas Glow in the Dark Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar Pawtitas Glow in the Dark Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar
  • Durable, tear-resistant nylon
  • Glow-in-the-dark design
  • Comfortable
  • The 11 Best Breakaway Cat Collars

    1. Hepper Hemp Breakaway Cat Collar – Best Overall

    Cat with hepper collar in girl's arms_Magenta

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Quick release
    Features: Bell
    Neck Size: 7 to 11 inches
    Material: Hemp

    Since it’s made from 100% natural hemp webbing, the Hepper Breakaway Collar is tough, durable, and weather and wet-resistant while being soft and comfortable for regular wear. Hemp doesn’t discolor or fade in UV, and it won’t get moldy when damp. The collar will retain its integrity and strength regardless of the weather.

    It is an adjustable collar, which allows you to ensure it isn’t too tight or too slack. The collar extends to fit necks up to 11 inches. If you have a Maine Coon or a Ragdoll with a thick neck, you need to consider a collar explicitly designed for giant breeds. The collar also has a breakaway buckle, which will break apart if your cat gets caught on a fence or a branch.

    The Hepper Breakaway Collar includes a bell that will alert wildlife to your cat’s presence, preventing them from killing backyard birds. The collar comes in several pastel colors, and it can be washed, but it needs to be hand-washed using warm, soapy water and not put in the washing machine.

     

    Pros
    • Adjustable up to 11 inches
    • Hemp is naturally resistant to UV and moisture
    • Tough, durable design will last
    • Includes a bell to warn local wildlife of your cat’s presence
    Cons
    • Can’t be machine-washed

    2. Bemix Pets Reflective Cat Collar with Bell – Budget Buy

    Bemix Pets Reflective Cat Collar with Bell

    Life Stage: Any
    Closure Type: Quick release
    Features: Bells, reflective
    Neck Size: Adjustable
    Material: Nylon

    Our budget buy pick for breakaway collars is the Bemix Pets Reflective Cat Collar. These collars are perfect for someone who has multiple cats because they come in a six-pack of classic colors. The collar is safe for indoor and outdoor use. It’s made of a durable nylon material, and it is the best breakaway color for the money.

    Each collar has a tiny bell that lets you keep track of your cat but is not loud enough to be distracting. If you’re looking for adjustable collars that fit small puppies, this is the collar for you. Each collar is also reflective to keep your feline safe at night.

    Pros
    • Affordable with 6 collars per pack
    • Reflective
    • Adjustable
    Cons
    • The reflective strip peeled off in some cases
    • Some collars broke away too easily

    3. GOTAGS Personalized Nylon Reflective Breakaway Collar

    GOTAGS Personalized Nylon Reflective Breakaway Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Quick release
    Features: Reflective Bell, personalized
    Neck Size: 8 to 13 inches
    Material: Nylon

    The GOTAGS breakaway collar is another good option for keeping your cat from becoming entangled outdoors. The quick-release closure makes it possible for your cat to escape tricky situations. The collar can be personalized, so you don’t have to worry about your cat getting lost because the tag came off the collar.

    The reflective bell ensures you can hear and see your cat coming and that they can be seen when roaming the neighborhood. The bell also warns small animals and birds that a feline friend is coming. You can have up to 21 characters engraved on the collar.

    Pros
    • Adjustable
    • Features a reflective strip
    • Comfortable
    Cons
    • Has a 21-character limit for cat’s information
    • The strip peels away naturally after a couple of months

    4. Blueberry Adjustable Breakaway Cat Collar

    Blueberry Adjustable Breakaway Cat Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Break away
    Features: 2 for 1 deal, bell
    Neck Size: 9 to 13 inches
    Material: Polyester/nylon

    Since it is made with high-density polyester, the Blueberry Adjustable Breakaway Cat Collar is comfortable and durable. The collar is adjustable, so it is designed to fit most cats with a neck size of 9 to 13 inches. The Blueberry collar comes in various bright colors, and your kitty can explore the great outdoors in style.

    The collar is affordable, especially since you get two for the price of one. It’s simple to care for because of the material and durable enough to last your cat for years. The Blueberry collars are safe and easily break away if your feline is in trouble and needs to get free. The bell also warns small animals when your feline is near.

    Pros
    • Comes in adorable bright designs
    • High quality
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Some collars break away too easily
    • Collars may be too big for smaller cats

    5. Pawtitas Glow in the Dark Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar

    Pawtitas Glow in the Dark Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Quick release
    Features: Waterproof, bell, glow in the dark, training
    Neck Size: 7 to 11 inches
    Material: Nylon

    Being outside can be hazardous for any cat. That’s why the Pawtitas Glow in the Dark Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar is perfect for cats who spend time outdoors, especially at night. The glow-in-the-dark reflective strip makes it easy to see them, keeping them safe from harm. The bell makes it possible for smaller creatures to hear your pet coming and get out of harm’s way.

    It’s made of tear-resistant, waterproof material, and it’ll last quite a while. The collar is comfortable and durable and comes in various colors and patterns to suit your cat’s style and personality.

    Pros
    • Durable, tear-resistant nylon
    • Glow-in-the-dark design
    • Comfortable
    Cons
    • Very stiff
    • Some collars don’t glow as indicated

    6. Red Dingo Classic Nylon Breakaway Collar

    Red Dingo Classic Nylon Breakaway Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Quick release
    Features: Bell
    Neck Size: 8 to 12.5 inches
    Material: Nylon

    Red Dingo Classic Nylon Collar features a tiny bell and a fish-shaped clasp, and the collar can be purchased in five colors. The collar is made of durable nylon material and features an abrasion-resistant strip to add to the comfort of the collar for your cat.

    A stainless-steel K-ring makes it easy to attach your cat’s ID tags, and the quick-release safety clip gives you peace of mind that you can get the collar off your cat whenever you need to.

     

    Pros
    • Features fade-resistant material
    • Features abrasion-resistant ribbon
    • Easy to adjust
    Cons
    • Some fabric on the collars can fray and sag with time
    • Collar sizing can be too small for some cats

    7. Cholegift Kitty 3 Pcs Plaid Collar

    Cholegift Kitty 3 Pcs Plaid Collar

    Life Stage: Any
    Closure Type: Break away
    Features: Bell
    Neck Size: 7 to 11.5 inches
    Material: Cotton

    The Cholegift Kitty Plaid Collars are cute as a button and perfect for any stylish kitty. The collars come in a three-pack so that you can switch out collars every day. The plaid design fits cats in all life stages with neck sizes from 7 to 11.5 inches. The bell on the collar helps you track your adorable pet when they’re on the move, and it serves as a warning to smaller creatures.

    The cotton material makes the collars durable and comfortable for your kitten or cat. Featuring a break-away design, the Cholegift collar is perfect for outside cats who might find themselves in a bit of a fix and need to get free quickly.

    Pros
    • Easy to adjust
    • Comes in 3 colors
    • Stylish and durable
    Cons
    • The bell can’t be removed
    • Some collars break away too easily

    8. Necoichi Japanese Kimono Bow Tie Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar

     

    Necoichi Japanese Kimono Bow Tie Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Quick release
    Features: Bell
    Neck Size: 8.2 to 13.7 inches
    Material: Cotton, PVC

    Keep your feline friend safe in style with the Necoichi Japanese Kimono Bow Tie Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar. The collar easily stands up to daily use because it’s made of kimono fabric that’s soft yet durable. The safety breakaway buckle will give you peace of mind when your cat is exploring outside.

    The Neocoichi comes in different colors and is shaped like a bow tie for added style and cuteness. The gold bell is a cute added feature that warns you when you need to find your cat and protects other small prey animals nearby.

    Pros
    • Bow tie design makes it unique
    • Made of sturdy, soft, chirimen fabric
    • Adjustable
    • Doesn’t irritate most cats’ necks
    Cons
    • Some collars come unbuckled too easily
    • Doesn’t fit very small cats

    9. Pettsie Bow Tie Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar

    Pettsie Bow Tie Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Quick release
    Features: Matching friendship bracelet
    Neck Size: 8 to 11 inches
    Material: Cotton

    The Pettsie Bow Tie Cotton Breakaway Cat Collar is another collar with a bow tie decoration. This collar also comes with a matching friendship bracelet, which is the perfect excuse for a photo op with your favorite feline! It’s made of 100% cotton, and the collar won’t irritate your pet’s skin. The quick-release breakaway collar is perfect for a cat that likes to get into sticky situations.

    The bowtie is made out of lightweight wood that’s not only comfortable but adorable at the same time. Your kids will love that the friendship bracelet matches the collar so they can be twins with their favorite cat.

    Pros
    • Comes with a matching friendship bracelet
    • Made of natural cotton for less irritation
    • Features a quick-release clasp for safety
    Cons
    • Friendship bracelet doesn’t fit well
    • Collar breaks too easily
    • Wooden bowtie falls off easily

    10. Safe Cat Snag-Proof Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar

    Safe Cat Snag-Proof Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Buckle
    Features: Bell, snag-proof
    Neck Size: 8 to 12 inches
    Material: Polyester

    Since it’s made of snag-proof materials, the Safe Cat Snag-Proof Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar prevents your feline from getting caught on a branch or bush. The collar fits cats with a neck size of 8 to 12 inches and has a bell that alerts smaller animals and birds to your cat’s presence. Plus, it comes in a range of seven color options.

    The bell also makes it easier for you to find your cat if they become lost. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor cats, and the collar features a buckle that is easy to release should your cat become stuck somewhere and need to get free. However, it doesn’t come with a ring for an ID tag, and the buckle can be tricky to open.

    Pros
    • Comes with a matching bell
    • 7 colors to choose from
    • Made from snag-proof material
    Cons
    • The buckle can be difficult to open
    • The collar doesn’t have a ring for an ID tag
    • Some users reported it breaking away too easily

    11. Country Brook Design Summer Pines Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar

    Country Brook Design Summer Pines Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar

    Life Stage: Adult
    Closure Type: Buckle
    Features: Bell
    Neck Size: 8 to 12 inches
    Material: Polyester

    The Country Brook Design Summer Pines Polyester breakaway cat collar is full of vibrant colors and fits cats with neck sizes ranging from 8 to 12 inches. It’s made out of a soft polyester material that’s lightweight and durable. Its attractive, multi-colored pattern makes it easy to spot your cat coming.

    The break-away buckle ensures your cat can get out of tricky situations with ease, and the bell on the collar even has a ring where you can attach an ID tag for added peace of mind. The Country Brook collar is made of high-quality materials and is perfect for decking your cat out in style.

    Pros
    • Features vibrant colors that stand out
    • Features a bell
    • Made of high-quality, soft polyester material
    Cons
    • Isn’t as durable as other materials
    • Some users reported the clasp not working

    hepper cat paw divider

    Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Breakaway Cat Collars

    Now that you know what we consider to be the best breakaway cat collars on the market today, it’s essential that we discuss how to choose the best collar for your feline pal. In this section of your guide, we’ll go into what you need to know to ensure the collar you choose for your feline is stylish, fits well, and is, above all, safe.

    Size and Adjustability

    No matter how nice and stylish a breakaway cat collar is, it does you no good if your kitty can’t wear it. If the collar is too loose, it will slide right off. If the collar is too tight, it could restrict your cat’s breathing and even cause them to choke.

    It’s essential that you check the size and adjustability options when ordering a collar for your cat, and it’s best to measure your feline’s neck before ordering.

    Quality and Resilience

    The last thing you want is to pay good money for a breakaway cat collar only to find that it falls apart within days of putting it on your cat. Also, like dogs, cats tend to play with and eventually destroy anything you give them. The same goes for a collar, and you want to make sure any breakaway collar you choose is high-quality and can withstand your kitty’s playfulness.

    The Collars Reflective Capabilities and Visibility

    Brightly colored collars and ones with reflective strips are more accessible for people to see. Purchasing a brightly colored model will decrease your cat’s chances of being taken for a stray should they become lost or wander off. The reflective strip on many collars helps people see your cat if they have a habit of roaming at night.

    Since many of the collars in our guide have bells, it’s also a good idea to choose a collar with one so you can hear your cat if they become lost. Between the reflective capabilities, the bright colors, and the bell, you can be sure your feline companion is safe and stylish at the same time.

    cats with bright-colored break away collars

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can a Collar Bother Your Cat?

    The answer to this question isn’t a simple yes or no. This depends on the collar and your cat. Most cats get used to and are comfortable wearing a breakaway cat collar in a matter of days. If they are still chewing on the collar and trying to get it off after a week, you might need to try another brand.

    Is It Important to Put a Collar on Your Cat?

    Sometimes, if you have a kitten or an adult cat that’s never worn a collar, it may seem like a hassle to get them to keep it on. However, even if you have an indoor cat that’s never set foot on the dirt, it is a possibility that they could get outside.

    Whether an indoor or an outdoor cat, neighbors may take them as strays and call the pound if they become lost. If they have a collar with a tag, you’re likelier to have your feline returned home to you instead of risking them being lost forever.

    orange-and-white-tabby-cat-with-collar dark background inside tile
    Image Credit: Sydneymills, Shutterstock

    What Is the Safest Cat Collar?

    Cats are curious creatures and can quickly get themselves into dicey spots. Therefore, the safest cat collar for your feline is a breakaway collar like the ones listed above.

    Since there are so many hanging hazards inside and outside your home, you want one with a quick-release feature, so if your cat gets hung up somewhere, the collar will release before they’re injured.

    Do Breakaway Collars Break Too Easily?

    You would think that since the collar is a quick release, it would break too easily. In reality, if the collar is durable and made right, you shouldn’t have a problem. If your feline is too active and rambunctious for a breakaway collar to work, there are other options available, such as a collar that stretches to let a cat out of unsafe situations instead.hepper cat paw divider

    Final Thoughts

    This concludes our buying guide and reviews on the best breakaway cat collar for your feline companion. For the best overall breakaway collar, the Hepper Hemp Breakaway Cat Collar combines a reasonable price with all the bells and whistles you need in a collar. The Bemix Cat’s Reflective Collar is our budget-friendly option, which includes a reflective strip and is ideal if you have several cats.

    The Gotags Personalized Breakaway collar allows for customization and keeps your feline safe. The breakaway collars on this list are durable, stylish, affordable, and keep the security of your cat in mind.


    Feature Image Credit: Baramyou0708, Shutterstock

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