Scrag Tag Cat Collar

To provide suitable options for all types of cat, we offer both safety breakaway buckles and regular side-release (non-breakaway) buckles. You should choose a buckle that is right for your cat's lifestyle and activities.

If your cat has free access to go outdoors and is at risk of getting stuck in trees or on other objects, we recommend you choose the breakaway safety buckle. While there is a risk you will loose the collar and their identification tags - this buckle minimises the risk of your cat getting injured (or worse) by getting his/her collar caught.

If your cat does not have free access to go outdoors and/or is not into climbing, you could consider the regular side-release buckle (we offer both metal and plastic options). This will mean your cat is much less likely to loose their collar, which also means they won't loose their identification tags. Please consider the choices carefully and choose a buckle that will keep your cat safe. If you need more information - see our blog article on breakaway vs. standard cat collars.

A Scrag Tag is an etched or engraved tag that is riveted onto the Scrag Tag Cat Collar. This means that the tag is a permanent fixture that cannot be removed.

You can choose to have the tag engraved with any text or number: your cats's name, your phone number, their council registration number, or a short message such as 'do not feed'.

We offer both stainless steel and cast acrylic Scrag Tags. Our stainless steel tags are made from high grade 1.5mm thick T316 stainless steel. The tags are sourced and cut locally in Palmerston North, New Zealand and etched by us, using a specialised CO2 laser machine. Etching stainless steel results a smooth black permanent marking.

Our cast acrylic Scrag Tags are made from 1.6mm two-tone cast acrylic plastic. We offer a range of vibrant colours. These tags are both made and engraved by us, using a specialised CO2 laser machine. Engraving results in either bright white or black permanent marking (depending on the specified colour combination). 

Most cats can learn to accept a collar with patience and positive reinforcement. Start with a lightweight breakaway collar that fits properly (you should be able to slide two fingers comfortably underneath).

• Let your cat sniff and investigate the collar while you offer treats or praise, so it becomes a neutral or positive object.
• Put the collar on for very short periods (a few minutes) while giving high-value treats, petting, or playtime. Remove it before they get frustrated.
• Gradually increase the wearing time over several days, always pairing it with something enjoyable.
• Once they tolerate it for longer stretches, leave it on during normal activities and overnight. Check the fit regularly and watch for signs of irritation or distress.
• If your cat panics, hides, or refuses food, take the collar off and try again more slowly later. Never force it.

Most cats adjust within a few days to a couple of weeks. Use a breakaway style for safety, keep the collar clean, and combine it with a microchip as backup identification.

Not strictly, but a breakaway collar with an Scrag Tag is still recommended even for indoor-only cats. Windows get left open, doors get left ajar, screens fail, and cats escape more often than owners expect. A Slide-On Scrag Tag Cat Collar provides immediate, visible identification so a finder can contact you quickly - something a microchip alone does not do until the cat reaches a vet or shelter.

Pair the collar with a registered microchip as permanent backup, since collars can come off or be removed. Choose a properly fitted breakaway collar so it releases if snagged on furniture or other indoor objects. If your cat tolerates it well, the small inconvenience is outweighed by the higher chance of a safe return if they ever get outside.