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11 Best Breakaway Cat Collars in 2023 – Reviews & Top Picks

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

brown tabby domestic shorthair cat with breakaway cat collar outside

As a pet parent, you’ve definitely heard of dog collars, but what about cat collars? Being a cat owner, your top concern is the safety and health of your cat. You take him to the vet when it’s needed. You keep him groomed and only feed him the best food out there. But what about keeping him safe?

You’ve considered putting a collar on your pet, but since they can fit into the tiniest of spaces, you’re a bit worried that he could get stuck somewhere due to the collar or become injured. A breakaway collar avoids that possibility with a safety buckle that unsnaps when it’s pulled with force. These collars can be an especially good choice for sneakier cats that like to end up where they may not belong—emphasizing an even greater need for a collar!

If you’ve decided that you might give a breakaway cat collar a try instead but aren’t sure which is the best choice for you.

The reviews below will help you make the right choice when it comes to the best breakaway collar for your feline friend. In this review, we’ll go into the collars we think are the best and the pros and cons of each.

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2023

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

    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 go moldy when damp or wet. The collar will retain its integrity and strength no matter the conditions or weather.

    It is an adjustable collar so will fit most cats and allows you to ensure that the collar 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 and it does have a thicker neck than this, you will need to consider a collar designed specifically 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, enabling them to get to safety without injuring themselves.

    The Hepper Breakaway Collar includes a bell that will alert wildlife to your cat’s presence, preventing them from predating backyard birds. The collar comes in a variety of pastel colors, and it can be washed, although 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 damp
    • 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 collar  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 differing classic colors. The collar is safe for indoor and outdoor use. It’s made of a durable nylon material. It’s also the best value for what you’ll spend because there are half a dozen collars in each pack.

    Each collar comes with a tiny bell that lets you keep track of your cat but isn’t loud enough to be distracting. If you’re looking for collars that are adjustable and will even work on small puppies, this is the collar for you. Each collar is also reflective, so you can see your feline pal even outdoors 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 in a traditional collar. The quick-release closure makes it possible for your cat to get away in tricky situations. The collar can be personalized, so you don’t have to worry about your cat getting lost because her tag came off her collar.

    The reflective bell ensures you can hear and see your cat coming and that she can be seen when she’s out and about in the neighborhood as well. The bell also warns small animals and birds that a feline friend is coming. You can also 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

    Made with primarily high-density polyester, the Blueberry Adjustable Breakaway Cat Collar is comfortable as well as durable. The collar is adjustable, so it’s designed to fit most cats that have a neck size of 9 to 13 inches. A two-for-one deal, this collar comes in a variety of bright colors, so you can dress your kitty in the height of kitty 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 prettiness of the collars doesn’t take away from the fact that the collars are safe and easily break away if your feline is in trouble and needs to get free. The featured 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 tricky 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 featured bell makes it possible for smaller creatures to hear your pet coming and get out of harm’s way also. Made of tear-resistant, waterproof material, it’ll last quite a while. The collar is comfortable, durable, and comes in a variety of 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, this collar can be purchased in five different 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 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’s musical, which means you’ll be able to find your adorable pet should they become lost, and it serves as a warning to smaller creatures.

    The cotton material makes the collars not only durable but comfortable for your kitten or cat. Featuring a break-away design, the 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—chirimen rayon—that’s soft yet durable. The safety breakaway buckle will give you peace of mind when he is out and about.

    This one comes in different colors and is in the shape of a bow tie for added style and all the cuteness. The gold bell is a cute added feature that warns you when you need to find your cat or other small creatures are about, and your feline pal is hunting.

    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 sounds like the perfect excuse for a photo op with your favorite feline! Made of 100% cotton, this bow tie collar won’t irritate your pet’s skin, and the quick-release breakaway collar is perfect for a cat who likes to get into sticky situations.

    The bow tie is made out of lightweight wood that’s not only comfortable but adorable at the same time. You kids will love the fact that the friendship bracelet matches the collar so they can be twinsies 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 bow tie 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

    Made of snag-proof materials, the Safe Cat Snag-Proof Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar is a safe way to put a collar on your cat but still make sure they don’t get hurt during play. 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 different color options.

    The bell also makes it easier for you to find your cat if they become lost. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor cats, the collar features a buckle that is easy to release should your cat become stuck somewhere and need to get free. Beware, this collar 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 different 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 color and fits cats with neck sizes ranging from 8 to 12 inches. It’s made out of a super-soft polyester material that’s lightweight and durable. Brightly colored with a vibrant multi-colored pattern, the collar 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 collar is made of high-quality materials and 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

    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’s going to slide right off. If the collars are too tight, it could end up restricting your cat’s breathing and even causing them to choke.

    It’s essential that you check for size and adjustability when it comes to ordering any type of collar for your cat. It’s best to measure your feline friend’s neck for exact measurements before ordering any of the breakaway collars on our list, or any collar for that matter.

    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 feline friend. Also, just like your canine pal, cats tend to play with and eventually destroy anything you give them. The same goes for a collar, so you want to make sure any breakaway collar you choose is high-quality and able to withstand your kitty’s playfulness.

    Always search for collars that are high-quality, heavy-duty, yet lightweight for comfort, and able to stand up to the abuse your kitty will dish out.

    The Collars Reflective Capabilities and Visibility

    Brightly colored collars and those that have reflective strips are more accessible for people to see. Purchasing a brightly colored one will decrease your cats’ chances of being taken for a stray should he 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 he is still chewing at the collar and trying to get it off after a week, you might need to make other arrangements, however.

    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 try to get them to keep it on. However, even if you have an indoor cat that’s never set its tiny feet on the dirt, it is a possibility that they could get outside.

    Whether it’s an indoor or an outdoor cat, neighbors may take them as strays and call the pound if they become lost. If they have on a collar with a tag, you’re more likely to have your feline friend 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 of your home, you want one with a quick-release feature, so if your cat gets hung up somewhere, the collar will release before he’s 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 just too active and rambunctious for a breakaway collar to work, there are other options out there, such as a collar that stretches to let a cat out of unsafe situations instead.

    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 with functionality for multiple cats and includes a reflective strip.

    The Gotags Personalized Breakaway collar, allows for a personalization that enhances his safety. 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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