How big should an E collar be?

Hello there! It sounds like you're trying to make sure your furry friend is as comfortable as possible while still keeping them from tampering with any healing wounds or surgical sites. That’s great!



Generally, an E-collar, or Elizabethan collar, should extend beyond your pet's nose by about two inches. This helps prevent them from reaching around the collar to lick or bite at the area you're trying to protect. To check the fit, slip two fingers comfortably between the collar and your pet's neck; it should be snug, but not tight.



If the collar is too big, it might be cumbersome for them to eat or drink. If it's too small, it won’t effectively prevent them from reaching the protected area. You can try some simple hacks, like raising their food dish to make eating easier or gently guiding them as they adjust to moving around with it on.



Be on the lookout for signs of distress or irritation, like excessive scratching at the collar, keeping their head low, or any redness around the neck. These could indicate that something isn’t quite right.



If you have any more questions or need further guidance to ensure your pet's recovery is on track, it could be helpful to book a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. They'll be happy to assist you and your pet more personally!