The 6 Best Cat Collar Bells to Keep Your Pet Safe

Written by Susan Olayode
Updated: March 25, 2023
© Jolanta Beinarovica/Shutterstock.com

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Did you ever hear the story “Who will bell the cat?” Well, it’ll be you this time, and the reason is to keep your lovely feline safe. Cat collar bells are also important if you want to keep your local wildlife, especially songbirds, safe from your cat.

Cats tend to be very independent and can sometimes be hard to find around the house. Cats also tend to sneak out without you knowing as they can be very stealthy. This can be dangerous, especially in areas with predators like coyotes and birds of prey that require you to keep your cat indoors.

Giving your cat a collar with a bell makes them easier to track. However, some owners worry about the noise from the bell harming their cat’s hearing.

Are Collar Bells Safe for Cats?

Most cat collar bells sound in the range of 50 to 60 dB. Studies show that cats are generally not affected by sounds that are below 80 dB. Some cats with anxiety might take some time to get used to the sound, but generally, cats are fine with bells.

Collar bells also successfully protect birds and other small wildlife from your cat. The noise warns the animal of your approaching cat and gives them time to run away. This is important as some wildlife species are endangered due to excessive hunting.

Are you worried the bell could alert a predator to your cat’s presence? As we mentioned earlier, in cases like this, it is important to keep your cat indoors if there are predators around. A cat collar bell in this situation could help to prevent your cat from getting out without you knowing. Below are six of the best cat collars with bells you can choose to keep your pet safe.  

  1. Country Brook Design Rainbow Hearts Cat Collar with Bell
    • Brightly colored so wildlife can see your cat coming and the bell will alert them, too
    • The breakaway collar will allow your cat to get out of it if it snags on something
    • Made from light, soft, smooth polyester, which won't irritate your cat's skin
    • Durable
    • Made in the U.S.A.
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  2. Red Dingo Cosmos Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell, Dark Blue
    • Budget-friendly
    • Lovely design made of nylon webbing that is comfortable and durable
    • Features a matching bell so you'll know where your cat is at all times
    • Adjustable for a perfect fit
    • Features a fish-shaped, quick-release safety clip that will release if the collar snags on something
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. Necoichi Kimono Bow Tie Cat Collar
    • Features a beautiful Japanese kimono print
    • Available in 3 colors
    • Kimono-grade rayon is soft and durable
    • Easily adjustable and has a breakaway feature to protect your cat if the collar gets stuck on something
    • The detachable bell looks like a gold charm and has a loud ring so you'll know where your cat is at all times
    Check Amazon
  4. Pawtitas Glow in the Dark Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell
    • Features a reflective ribbon
    • Made of tear-resistant nylon that's folded over for additional strength
    • Has a breakaway buckle that will release the collar if it snags on something
    • The bell can be heard from a distance
    • Available in a variety of colors and is adjustable, so it's comfortable for your cat to wear
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  5. Safe Cat Snag-Proof Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell
    • Made from no-snag material and it's lightweight
    • Adjustable
    • Features a loud bell so you'll always know where your kitten is
    • Has a breakaway buckle so it will release if it snags on something
    • Available in a variety of colors with a matching bell
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  6. Personalized Cat Collar with Bell And Breakaway Safety Release Buckle
    • Embroidered with your phone number and your cat's name
    • Chose between a variety of collar and embroidery thread colors
    • The bell is gold-colored stainless steel and clearly lets you know where your cat is
    • The embroidery makes the collar even more durable
    • The collar is adjustable and has a quick-release buckle in case your kitty's collar snags on something
    Check Amazon

A-Z-Animals’ Top Picks for the 6 Best Cat Collar Bells

#1 Best Overall: Country Brook Rainbow Cat Collar with Bell

The vibrant colors of the Country Brook Rainbow Collar make it our best overall. This is because in addition to the sound of the bell, a bird will be able to see your cat coming and escape on time. This collar with a bell is also a breakaway, so your cat can get out of it if it snags during a dangerous situation.

The Country Brook Rainbow Collar is light and soft, to keep your cat comfortable. It’s also made of polyester and is really smooth so that it won’t irritate your cat’s skin. This collar is durable and should last a long time, so you won’t have to worry about changing it anytime soon.

Some buyers, however, say that its smoothness can make it a little too easy for your cat to slip out of. So, ensure that the collar is snug and the buckle is well fastened. However, to make sure you don’t choke your pet, leave space enough for two of your fingers between the collar and your cat’s neck.

Pros and Cons of the Country Brook Rainbow Cat Collar with Bell

ProsCons
This cat collar with bell is brightly colored, so birds can see — as well as hear — your cat approaching and escape.Some buyers say that its smoothness makes it too easy for cats to slip out of.
It’s make of light, soft, comfortable polyester that’s smooth so it won’t irritate your cat’s skin.
It’s durable.
Best Overall
Country Brook Design Rainbow Hearts Cat Collar with Bell
  • Brightly colored so wildlife can see your cat coming and the bell will alert them, too
  • The breakaway collar will allow your cat to get out of it if it snags on something
  • Made from light, soft, smooth polyester, which won't irritate your cat's skin
  • Durable
  • Made in the U.S.A.
Check Chewy Check Amazon

2. Best for Affordability: Red Dingo Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

The Red Dingo Cat Collar with bell comes with all the features of a good collar at a great price. It has a lovely design and is made of nylon webbing that is resistant to abrasion. This makes the collar comfortable and very durable.

This cat collar also has a matching bell that will alert you of your cat’s whereabouts. It is also adjustable to give your cat the perfect fit. Buyers love that it has a quick-release safety clip that will come undone to release your cat if the collar gets snagged. The clip is shaped like a fish.

You’ll love that the Red Dingo Collar has space for you to attach an ID tag. It is also completely machine washable, but purchasers warn that it may shrink if washed. The bell on this collar tag is removable.

Pros and Cons of the Red Dingo Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell

ProsCons
This cat collar with bell has a lovely design and is made of nylon webbing that’s abrasion-resistant.Reviewers report that the collar may shrink if washed.
It’s comfortable and durable.
It features a matching removable bell.
You can adjust it to fit your kitty perfectly.
It has a quick-release safety clip that’s shaped like a fish that will break away if the collar gets snagged.
There’s a space for you to attach an ID tag.
It’s machine washable.
Best for Affordability
Red Dingo Cosmos Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell, Dark Blue
  • Budget-friendly
  • Lovely design made of nylon webbing that is comfortable and durable
  • Features a matching bell so you'll know where your cat is at all times
  • Adjustable for a perfect fit
  • Features a fish-shaped, quick-release safety clip that will release if the collar snags on something
Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best Premium: Neochi Cat Collar with Bell

While the Neochi Cat Collar with Bell is a little pricey, the design and features of this collar make it worth it. It comes with a unique look that will make your cat stand out. The beautiful Japanese kimono print is so gorgeous. You may also choose from three lovely colors.

This collar is made of kimono-grade rayon fabric that is soft and durable. It is easily adjustable and has a safety collar that will break away if your cat is stuck in a difficult situation. For cleaning, handwashing is advised, but the fabric makes it very easy.

Reviewers love that the bell on this collar comes as a gold charm that adds to its beauty. This bell is loud and can help you easily keep track of your cat’s whereabouts. The bell is also detachable for times when you just want to go with the collar.

Pros and Cons of the Neochi Cat Collar with Bell

ProsCons
This collar features a beautiful Japanese kimono print and is available in three colors.It’s pricier than some other options in this review.
It’s made from kimono-grade rayon fabric that’s soft and durable.It must be handwashed.
It’s easy to adjust.
The collar will “break away” if it gets snagged.
The bell is a gold charm that adds to the beauty of this unique collar.
The bell is loud and detachable.
Best Premium
Necoichi Kimono Bow Tie Cat Collar
  • Features a beautiful Japanese kimono print
  • Available in 3 colors
  • Kimono-grade rayon is soft and durable
  • Easily adjustable and has a breakaway feature to protect your cat if the collar gets stuck on something
  • The detachable bell looks like a gold charm and has a loud ring so you'll know where your cat is at all times
Check Amazon

4. Best Design: Pawtitas Cat Collar with Bell

With the Pawtitas Cat Collar with Bell you’ll not only hear your cat coming thanks to the bell, but you’ll also see them coming with the reflective ribbon. How cool is that?

This collar is made of tear-resistant nylon that ensures longevity. The material is also folded over, reinforcing it for strength. This is a collar that will last. It comes with a breakaway buckle that releases your cat if it gets caught in a difficult situation.

Buyers love that the bell with this collar can be heard from a distance. You also have 13 color options to choose from. You can pick one that fits your cat’s personality. The bell is removable, and the collar is also adjustable, making it comfortable to wear for cats of all ages.

Several reviewers said that it doesn’t glow in the dark.

Pros and Cons of the Pawtitas Cat Collar with Bell

ProsCons
This cat collar is made of durable, tear-resistant nylon that’s folded over to reinforce its strength.Several reviewers said that it doesn’t glow in the dark.
It features a breakaway buckle to release your kitty if the collar gets stuck on something.
You can hear the bell, which is removable, from a distance.
You can choose from 13 colors.
The collar is adjustable for comfort and security.
Best Design
Pawtitas Glow in the Dark Nylon Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell
  • Features a reflective ribbon
  • Made of tear-resistant nylon that's folded over for additional strength
  • Has a breakaway buckle that will release the collar if it snags on something
  • The bell can be heard from a distance
  • Available in a variety of colors and is adjustable, so it's comfortable for your cat to wear
Check Chewy Check Amazon

5. Best for Kittens: Safe Cat Collar with Bell

The Safe Cat Collar is best for kittens because of its no-snag material and the fact that it’s so lightweight. It also works for all kitten breeds, since the collar is adjustable. The bell on this collar is loud, making it easy to know where your kitten is as it plays.

Kitten parents especially love that the breakaway buckle on this collar is adjustable. Kittens are so very playful and could soon find themselves in a bind. This collar is designed to release your kitten if it gets in that situation.

You’ll love the eye-catching color of this collar, and the bell matches, too, which will make your kitten look even cuter than it is already. Depending on where you make your purchase, you can choose between multiple color options but check this out fast as they are high in demand. They tend to go out of stock quickly.  

Some reviewers said that the dye stained their cats’ fur.

Pros and Cons of the Safe Cat Collar with Bell

ProsCons
This collar is made of lightweight, no-snag material.Some reviewers said that the dye stained their cats’ fur.
It’s ideal for kittens because it’s adjustable.
The bell is loud, so you’ll always know where your kitten is.
This collar features an adjustable breakaway buckle that will release if it gets snagged.
Best for Kittens
Safe Cat Snag-Proof Polyester Breakaway Cat Collar with Bell
  • Made from no-snag material and it's lightweight
  • Adjustable
  • Features a loud bell so you'll always know where your kitten is
  • Has a breakaway buckle so it will release if it snags on something
  • Available in a variety of colors with a matching bell
Check Chewy Check Amazon

6. Best Deal: DayDay Patch Embroidered ID Cat Collar with Bell

When you buy the DayDay Patch Embroidered ID Cat Collar with Bell, you get safety, durability, and customization, all at a fabulous price. You also have the opportunity to choose between five collar colors and eight different embroidery colors!

The bell on this collar is made of stainless steel and clearly lets you know your cat’s whereabouts. It has a lovely gold color adding to the beauty of the design. What buyers, however, love most is that this collar is embroidered with their phone number and cat’s name.

Since the embroidery is stitched into the collar, it makes the collar even more durable. The collar itself is adjustable and made of nylon with smoothened edges for comfort. There is also a quick-release buckle that makes breaking away easy.

Several reviewers indicated that the breakaway feature didn’t work.

Pros and Cons of the DayDay Patch Embroidered ID Cat Collar with Bell

ProsCons
You can customize this ID collar by selecting between five collar colors and eight embroidery thread colors for your cat’s name and your phone number.Several reviewers indicated that the breakaway feature didn’t work.
The embroidery makes the nylon collar even more durable.
It features smoothened edges for comfort and a quick-release breakaway buckle.
Best Deal
Personalized Cat Collar with Bell And Breakaway Safety Release Buckle
  • Embroidered with your phone number and your cat's name
  • Chose between a variety of collar and embroidery thread colors
  • The bell is gold-colored stainless steel and clearly lets you know where your cat is
  • The embroidery makes the collar even more durable
  • The collar is adjustable and has a quick-release buckle in case your kitty's collar snags on something
Check Amazon

How to Choose the Best Cat Collar Bells for Your Cat

Have you found a great cat collar with a bell that you might like? It can be a bit overwhelming with so many wonderful options. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the best cat collars with bells for your cat.

  • Material
  • Life Stage or Breed
  • Safety
  • Price

Below, we’ll discuss these in more detail.

Material

You’ll find cat collars with bells made of nylon, cotton, polyester, leather, or other materials. These materials could affect the price and durability of the cat collar. It is also possible to have a cat that is allergic to particular materials. So please ensure they are safe for your cat before making a purchase.

Life Stage or Breed

The right cat collar with a bell for your pet could also depend on their life stage or breed. Some collars are made with smaller cat breeds or kittens in mind. Our review contains one such cat collar that is best for kittens. Our advice is to take measurements of your cat and add about two inches before making a purchase. You need a cat collar that won’t choke your pet or fall off too easily.

Safety

Cats have a natural curiosity and love to explore. As a result, they could find themselves in sticky situations. One of these could be getting their collar stuck on something. As a result, most cat collars come with a breakaway feature that allows your cat to safely escape such a situation. All of the collars in this review have this feature to help keep your cat safe.

Price

Some cat collars are handmade and have many lovely features, which could make them pricey. One of such is our premium cat collar with bells option. You could, however, find a beautiful collar at a great price or go for our best deal option, which offers cat owners a cat collar with a bell and other great features at an unbelievably low price.

Why Do Cats Need Collars With Bells?

Pet owners choose to put collars with bells on their cats for many reasons. Some people do it simply because it makes cats look cute, but there are some important practical reasons, too. Here are some of the reasons why your cat needs a collar, especially one with a bell:

For Easy Identification

Cat collars make it easy for your cat to be identified if they sneak off and lose their way home. It says to whoever finds your cat that they belong to a loving home. Most collars also come with a way to attach an ID tag so people can contact you. One of the collars in this review even allows you to embroider your cat’s name and your number on it.

For Tracking

A cat collar with a bell is useful as it helps you know your cat’s whereabouts. It can help you catch your cat before it sneaks off and gets into trouble. It can also aid you in locating your cat if they have sneaked off. Pet parents with kittens especially love this feature as kittens can get into much mischief and need to be monitored closely.  

To Protect Wildlife

Your cat is a great hunter by nature, and this instinct will appear every once in a while. It is not unusual to have your cat come home with a dead or injured bird or small animal on occasion. For those trying to conserve wildlife, this can be problematic.

Collars with bells take the stealth factor out of your cat’s hunting. The bell will ring and warn the prey in time for them to escape. A collar with a bell and a bright color will give that wildlife or bird even more of an advantage. It makes seeing your cat coming and running (or flying) away on time easier.

How to Get Your Cat Used to a Collar

As a pet parent, it can feel like subjecting your cat to a collar is a bit cruel. But honestly, the benefits, especially of a cat collar with a bell, make it necessary. Some cats might, however, need some time to adjust to having a collar with a bell on them.

Step 1: If your cat has never had on a collar before, you might have to take things a little slower. First, take measurements of your cat’s neck, add about two inches and get a collar that meets those specifications. Adjustable cat collars are best.

Step 2: Put the cat collar on your cat without a bell to enable them to get used to it. When wearing the collar, make sure there is space for two of your fingers between the collar and your cat’s neck. That’s the best way to get a snug fit that isn’t uncomfortable or choking for your cat.

Step 3: After your cat gets used to the collar, you can then add the bell. Most of the collars in this review come with detachable bells, which makes this easy. Some pet parents may also decide not to use the collar with the bell all the time.

The 6 Best Cat Collar Bells to Keep Your Pet Safe FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Is it safe for cats to have collar with bell?

Yes, cat collars with bells are safe for cats. The noise frequency of the bell is well below the sound threshold that could annoy your cat. It might, however, not be best if you have a cat that suffers from extreme anxiety.

Do bells on collars hurt cats' ears?

No, this review shows that cats have no issues with sounds under 80 dB. Most cat collar bells make sounds in the range of 50 to 60 dB. The noise from a bell will not hurt your cat’s ears.

How do you get a cat used to a collar with a bell?

If your cat has not had a collar previously, putting on a bell with a bell could spook them. Start by trying out a good collar and letting them get used to that first. You can then attach the bell at a later date.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.