The Best Cat Cone Collar

No animal—dog, cat, or rabbit—likes the cone of shame. However, there are many reasons why a cat cone collar might become an important part of your cat’s life. Surgery and injury are only two of the reasons you may find yourself searching for the perfect model. These collars protect your cat from scratching or licking wounds as they heal. Today, you’ve got far more options than the white plastic cone the veterinarian provides.

We reviewed dozens of cat cone collars to identify the best of the best. We considered adjustability, size, and comfort among our criteria. Your cat should also be able to eat and drink with the collar on, so mobility was one of our number one concerns. And, if you’ve got a sense of humor, there are even collars that can double as a Halloween costume.

Best Cat Collar Overall
All Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original
This multi-size collar works for far more than cats, but it’s the tight weave fabric and stability of this model that make it a stand out.

A collar that shifts during wearing can be uncomfortable for your cat and increases the chances of it coming off. The All Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original has elastic bands that hold the cone to your cat’s collar, making it less likely to shift and more difficult to remove. The cone also includes three sizing strips to provide a comfortable, secure fit.

The 5 Top-Rated Cat Cone Collars

Editor's PicksBrandRating
Best Cat Cone Collar OverallAll Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original4.2
Best Soft Cat Cone CollarSunGrow Comfy Cone3.9
Best Budget Cat Cone CollarVivifying Recovery Pet cone4.0
Best Cute Cat Cone CollarAlfie Pet Noah Recovery collar4.0
Best Comfortable Cat CollarPETBABA Cat Cone Collar4.2

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Best Cat Cone Collar Overall: All Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original

The All Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original comes in nine sizes, but it’s the smallest two sizes that are the most cat-friendly. Every Comfy Cone comes with three adjustable Velcro strips to get a custom fit. That also gives you some wiggle room for long-hair breeds, who may have a smaller neck circumference than their mane suggests.

This collar’s foam-backed, padded nylon provides the majority of the protection. It’s easy to wipe clean and has a tight weave won’t catch claws. The fabric also bends and folds so your cat can still eat and drink while he’s wearing it.

We like this model’s versatility. It can fit either over the head or fold back over the shoulders, giving two protective options. One of our favorite features is the elastic loops through which you can put your cat’s collar. It might take some time for your cat to adjust. In the meantime, the elastic loops help hold the cone in place. The Comfy Cone also has removable plastic stays, which are basically plastic rods that hold the cone in shape. They can be essential in protecting your cat’s head and ears. When removed, the Comfy Cone becomes softer and more pliable, which may be more comfortable for your cat.

All Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original Key Features:

  • Three (3) Velcro strips for a custom fit
  • Elastic collar loops
  • Comfortable and easy-to-clean foam-backed, padded nylon
  • Nine (9) sizes
  • Removable plastic stays

Best Soft Cat Cone Collar: SunGrow Comfy Cone

Vest Soft Cat Cone Collar
SunGrow Comfy Cone
A soft, padded inner liner makes this cone cozy and comfortable for those picky pets.

The SunGrow Comfy Cone feels soft and comfortable but successfully protects wounds and incisions. Three Velcro tabs hold the cone in place and offer some adjustability in fit. We like the visibility the SunGrow offers. The cone stands out from the cat’s head so he still has some peripheral vision. It can also be folded back toward the body if necessary. Depending on the location and nature of your cat’s wounds, that extra versatility in use can give you extra options for protecting wounds.

This model isn’t designed for kittens. The Comfy Cone specifically targets adult cats (on the larger side) and small dogs with a neck circumference between nine to ten inches. You can choose from two color options, a yellow or pink polka dot and two stitch patterns. No matter which you choose, you’re getting a comfortable collar that will brighten your day, while protecting your cat.

SunGrow Comfy Cone Key Features:

  • Fits a neck circumference between nine to ten inches
  • Two (2) fabric/pattern options
  • Soft fabric
  • Three (3) adjustable Velcro tabs

Best Budget Cat Cone Collar: Vivifying Recovery Pet Cone

Best Budget Cat Cone Collar
Vivifying Recovery Pet Cone
Vivifying’s cat cone collar won’t break the bank but still offers adjustability and protection.

The Vivifying Recovery Pet Cone looks similar to the cone your veterinarian might provide. However, its unique comfort features make it far superior. The edges are surrounded by soft flannel to prevent uncomfortable rubbing and chaffing. The fabric covers the edges of a lightweight PVC material that won’t weigh down your cat’s head. You can customize the fit with a thick Velcro closure that fits neck circumferences around 8.1 inches.

Your cat won’t be wearing this cone forever, which is why we like that it lays flat for storage. On the downside, it’s deep enough you may have to remove it for eating or drinking. If that’s the case, keep a close eye on your cat. You’d hate to go to the effort of keeping his wounds protected only to have them pulled open while he eats.

Vivifying Recovery Pet Cone Key Features:

  • Fannel edge cover
  • Adjustable Velcro closure
  • Lightweight PVC material
  • Lies flat for storage

Best Cute Cat Cone Collar: Alfie Pet Noah Recovery Collar

Best Cute Cat Cone Collar
Alfie Pet Noah Recovery Collar
Turn your tiny feline into the king of the jungle with this soft, adorable collar.

The Alfie Pet Noah Recovery Collar protects your cat and puts a smile on your face. This adorable lion–inspired collar could not be cuter. No doubt you’ve noticed the similarities between your cat and his wild cousins. This collar solidifies that relationship, at least visually. It comes in six sizes, fitting neck circumferences from 6.5 inches to 14 inches. That provides enough sizes for kittens up through large breeds. An adjustable, two-strip Velcro closure lets you get a good fit, but you should measure carefully to make sure you order the right size.

Most cats should be able to eat or drink with the Noah Recovery Collar on, though you’ll need to keep a close eye at first. If he has trouble, you might need to fold the fabric back or remove the collar while he eats. We like that the soft fabric won’t chafe or irritate the skin. We love that it can double as a Halloween costume when October rolls around.

Alfie Pet Noah Recovery Collar Key Features:

  • Soft, lightweight fabric
  • Adjustable Velcro closure
  • Six (6) sizes
  • Lion’s mane design

Best Comfortable Cat Cone Collar: PETBABA Cat Cone Collar

Best Comfortable Cat Cone Collar
PETBABA Cat Cone Collar
The simplicity of this collar makes it comfortable and safe for cats of almost any size.

The PETBABA Cat Cone Collar provides a unique take on a traditional cone collar. An incredibly lightweight PVC plastic prevents your cat from scratching or licking injuries and wounds while still giving him clear visibility. He won’t be running into your legs or stumbling into walls with this model. The PETBABA has a shallower depth than models designed for dogs. That shallow depth allows your cat to eat or drink at his pleasure without getting food or water on the collar.

A soft padded neckline prevents uncomfortable rubbing or chafing. The two sizes cover neck circumferences between five to nine inches, making the smallest size kitten-friendly. We also like that you can purchase the edging in either blue or pink.

PETBABA Cat Cone Collar Key Features:

  • Lightweight PVC
  • Excellent visibility
  • Padded neckline
  • Two (2) sizes

Who Should Buy a Cat Cone Collar

Cat cone collars prevent your cat from scratching or licking wounds, incisions, and rashes. Surgery, cat fights, skin allergies—there are any number of ways your cat may end up in a cat cone collar. Cone collars may envelop the head to prevent licking the body or protecting a head wound from scratching. Other types of cones can also fold back over the body protecting the shoulders and chest. Your cat’s wound location will determine which type will be the most beneficial. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian about the type that he recommends.

The important thing is you have several choices to meet your cat’s needs.

Best Cat Collar Overall
All Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original
This multi-size collar works for far more than cats, but it’s the tight weave fabric and stability of this model that make it a stand out.

Important Features to Consider

A cat cone collar should have a few key features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a cat cone collar:

  • Cone collar type. Cat cone collars are made in several types, including soft, plastic, and inflatable.  Soft cone collars are made of fabric like nylon or cotton with padded layers in the middle. They come in various colors and prints. Soft collars are often more comfortable than plastic or inflatable collars due to their flexibility. However, the fabric should have a tight weave that prevents claws from getting caught. They can also start to smell if they get food or water on them. Waterproof fabrics or machine washable fabrics are often a good choice. Plastic cone collars look like the cones of shame that come out of the veterinarian’s office. However, these models have soft fabrics like felt, cotton, or velvet at the edges to prevent chafing. Inflatable models look similar to a pool float but with thicker material that can’t be punctured by claws. These models are not as popular as soft or plastic cone collars, but they work for well for some cats and are easy to store.
  • Size. You’ll need to carefully measure your cat’s neck and, in some cases, chest to get the right size. Not all collars will fit kittens, while others don’t accommodate large breeds. Measure twice to be sure you order the right size.
  • Adjustability. A cat cone collar has to have a snug but comfortable fit. Models with adjustable straps and snaps, Velcro closures, or elastic loops that hold the cone to the cat’s regular collar provide the best fit and adjustability. A custom fit will, hopefully, prevent your cat from slipping his head out. That being said, cats are escape artists. At first, you’ll need to keep a close eye on him to make sure the collar stays on. He’s less likely to pull it off once he gets used to it.
  • Cleanability. If your cat can eat and drink with the collar on, you’ll probably be cleaning it often. Look for soft collars that are machine washable. Plastic collars are often easier to clean, but if they have fabric along the edges, make sure it’s water repellent and can easily be wiped clean.
  • Versatility.  You never know when you may need a cat collar for a different injury or wound. Collars that fit around the head or fold over the shoulders offer you more versatility in use. Then, of course, there are the collars that double as Halloween costumes. Lion’s manes and bread are the two most popular. Why not get a cone collar that will make October more festive?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cat cone collar, and what is it used for?

Cat cone collars fit around the cat’s neck and project out from the body. The collars don’t allow the cat to reach back and lick their body and prevent them from scratching their head. They’re used to protect wounds after an injury or surgery. They may also be used for a time to prevent your cat from scratching a skin allergy or rash.

Can a cat sleep with a cone on?

Yes, cats can sleep with a cone collar on. In fact, they should sleep with the collar on as it will prevent them from pulling out stitches or reopening wounds. The cone should fit properly so that it is as comfortable as possible. It certainly won’t be as comfortable as sleeping without the cone, but the alternative (an open wound) is worse.

Can cats eat with a cone?

If the cone fits properly, your cat should be able to eat with it on. Here’s where you need to be careful. Dog cone collars tend to have deeper sides because dogs have longer snouts. Cat cone collars, on the other hand, have shallower sides because of a cat’s shorter snout. Some cones are shallow enough that your cat can eat and drink without a problem. Flexible, soft cones may easily bend or flex so your cat can eat and drink.

Keep a close eye on your cat the first day or two that he’s using the cone. If he can’t eat or drink with it on, you could have a bigger problem than reopening a wound. You may have to supervise his eating until he no longer has to wear the cone. You don’t want him to become dehydrated, but you also don’t want him to scratch or lick his wound while he eats.

How do you keep a cat collar on a cat?

Cats are not always the most cooperative animals. The first step is to get a good fit. A cat can easily escape from a cone that’s too big. If it’s too small, he could have trouble breathing, drinking, and eating. Carefully measure your cat’s neck and chest circumference. Check and recheck those measurements against the collar’s fit guide, but don’t stop there.

Next, look for a collar that’s adjustable. The length of your cat’s hair could make a big difference in how the collar fits. Some models come with elastic bands through which you can fit your cat’s regular collar to help keep it in place. Others have drawstring cords or adjustable Velcro strips to help you get the right fit.

The final step is to keep a close eye on your cat. He may fight or resist the collar at first. However, cat cone collars are often essential to proper healing. Make sure he keeps it on 24/7 until the veterinarian approves its removal.

Other Cat Cone Collars We Reviewed

Best Cat Collar Overall
All Four Paws Comfy Cone the Original
This multi-size collar works for far more than cats, but it’s the tight weave fabric and stability of this model that make it a stand out.

We looked at 20 other cat cone collars. These models didn’t make our 5 best cat cone collars list. However, there are still some great models that might be perfect for your cat and circumstances.

Soft Cat Cone Collars

ANIAC Pet Soft E-Collar

ANIAC Pet Soft E-Collar

Three sizes and fabric patterns give you plenty of options to keep your cat looking adorable and safe.

Key Features:

  • Three (3) pattern choices
  • Three (3) sizes
  • Made of sturdy cotton canvas

Cost: $11

CAFILRA Pet Recovery E-Collar

CAFILRA Pet Recovery E-Collar

These disposable collars are often a temporary solution, but they come in packs of ten and provide a comfortable way to recover.

Key Features:

  • Three (3) sizes
  • Packs of 10
  • Disposable

Cost: $22

KONG EZ Soft Collar

KONG EZ Soft Collar

A drawstring neckline lets you get the perfect fit with this basic soft collar.

Key Features:

  • Machine washable
  • Flexible for eating and sleeping
  • Adjustable, drawstring neckline

Cost: $13

Pethouzz Soft Cat Recovery Collar

Pethouzz Soft Cat Recovery Collar

This cone collar’s adjustable neckline allows you to get the perfect fit, while the soft, breathable fabric prevents rubbing and chafing.

Key Features:

  • Two (2) sizes
  • Adjustable neckline
  • Soft, flexible fabric

Cost: $9

wake zeal Cat Recovery Cone

wake zeal Cat Recovery Cone

This model’s soft fabric and filling protect your cat in comfort. We like the adjustable neckline so you can get the perfect fit.

Key Features:

  • Two (2) sizes
  • Cats can still lick their paws
  • Soft, breathable cotton

Cost: $10

Cute Cat Cone Collars

Alfie Pet Kora Recovery Collar

Alfie Pet Kora Recovery Collar

Protect your cat while turning him into a precious flower. You might get a laugh out of this one, but it protects, too.

Key Features:

  • Five (5) color options
  • Three (3) sizes
  • Adjustable Velcro closure

Cost: $15

Amankunft Adjustable Cat E-Collar

Amankunft Adjustable Cat E-Collar

There’s another slice of bread in the bag, and it’s made to protect your cat!

Key Features:

  • Soft, breathable cotton fabric and filling
  • Adjustable neckline
  • Lightweight

Cost: $12

AnnaEye Pet Recovery E-Collar

AnnaEye Pet Recovery E-Collar

Your cat becomes an adorable flower. More importantly, the soft petals protect his body while allowing him to eat and drink.

Key Features:

  • Three (3) sizes
  • Three (3) color options
  • Adjustable Velcro closure

Cost: $16

Petseek Cat Cone

Petseek Cat Cone

A soft ring filled with fluffy cotton prevents your cat from licking himself.

Key Features:

  • Three (3) sizes
  • Adjustable neck strap
  • Washable

Cost: $13

Pssopp Pet Recovery E-Collar

Pssopp Pet Recovery E-Collar

Bring your garden indoors with a sunflower recovery collar. This model will brighten your day and protect your cat.

Key Features:

  • Soft, breathable cotton
  • Adjustable Velcro closure
  • Lightweight

Cost: $12

Stock Show Pet Recovery Collar

Stock Show Pet Recovery Collar

We liked the watermelon collar, but you can order this model in strawberry or donut sprinkles designs, too.

Key Features:

  • Cotton canvas with padding
  • Three (3) sizes
  • Three (3) pattern options

Cost: $13

USAMS Adjustable Cat Recovery Collar

USAMS Adjustable Cat Recovery Collar

Your cat’s head poking through a piece of bread may be a realistic scene you’ve witnessed before. This cute collar protects your cat, gives you a good laugh, and doubles as a Halloween costume.

Key Features:

  • Breathable cotton fabric
  • Adjustable size between 6.7 to 11 inches
  • Cats can lick their back and front paws

Cost: $12

WZPET Adjustable Cat Cone

WZPET Adjustable Cat Cone

Soft and adorable, this cat cone makes your cat look like a flower while protecting his wounds.

Key Features:

  • Machine washable
  • Two (2) sizes
  • Adjustable neckline

Cost: $18

Plastic Cat Cone Collars

Bolbove Clear Cone E-Collar

Bolbove Clear Cone E-Collar

The Bolbove has sizes small enough for kittens. It also preserves visibility so your cat won’t run into furniture if he gets rambunctious.

Key Features:

  • Clear plastic
  • Two (2) sizes
  • Adjustable closure and stores flat

Cost: $10

Depets Adjustable Recovery Pet Cone

Depets Adjustable Recovery Pet Cone

This plastic collar has soft piping to protect your cat from rubbing and chaffing.

Key Features:

  • Two (2) sizes
  • Adjustable Velcro closure
  • Clear plastic preserves visibility

Cost: $4

IN HAND Adjustable Pet Recovery Collar

IN HAND Adjustable Pet Recovery Collar

Cats will only fit in the smallest of this collar’s eight sizes. The clear plastic preserves visibility, while the soft neckline won’t rub or chafe.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable, button closures
  • Lightweight with good visibility
  • Padded velvet neckline

Cost: $11

SCENERAL Cat Recovery Collar

SCENERAL Cat Recovery Collar

Elastic loops attach this collar to your cat’s regular collar. It also has a wide band of Velcro to get a snug but comfortable fit.

Key Features:

  • Soft piping
  • Fits necks six to eight inches in circumference
  • Made of lightweight PVC

Cost: $11

Supet Adjustable Cat Cone

Supet Adjustable Cat Cone

This plastic collar has an adjustable button closure and comes in three sizes.

Key Features:

  • Three (3) sizes
  • Made of flannel and PVC
  • Plastic leaves some visibility

Cost: $10

Vet One ElizaSoft Recovery Collar

Vet One ElizaSoft Recovery Collar

A simple tie and soft piping make this a comfortable, adjustable collar worth considering. It’s not technically plastic but a stiff, flexible fabric.

Key Features:

  • Drawstring closure
  • Lightweight, flexible fabric
  • Allows cats to eat and drink

Cost: $12

Inflatable Cat Cone Collars

MorTime Protective Inflatable Collar

MorTime Protective Inflatable Collar

With four sizes, you’ve got plenty of options with this simple inflatable collar.

Key Features:

  • Soft design protects furniture
  • Removable, washable cover
  • Adjustable Velcro closure

Cost: $10