Sometimes solving a problem can turn into a bigger problem. Far from being a tongue twister, it is a reality that applies to many aspects of life. And it also impacts pet health, thanks to something as common as Elizabethan necklace. This is a device that is commonly used to prevent Dogs and cats get hurt after surgery or when they have stitches or some other damage to the skin, it does what it promises, but it can also affect them negatively.
This is especially a problem for cats, for whom it causes a lot of stress. Dogs adapt better to such situations. However, they can also suffer for various reasons. In general, in addition to stressElizabethan collar may affect ability eat, drink or play and interact with other animals. It can also irritate the skin on the neck and cause accidents as it impairs the vision of our pets, who may run into walls or even fall down stairs.
For this reason, although we cannot deny that there are times when an Elizabethan collar is necessary, more and more veterinarians are recommending leaving it on. only as a last resort and choose other, less intrusive alternatives.
Problems with the Elizabethan Collar
In 2020, a team of veterinarians from University of Sydney published a study that analyzed problems with the Elizabethan collar in dogs and cats who had used it over the past year. To do this, their caregivers were asked about their pet’s quality of life while using it. Belonging 434 people interviewed77.4% reported that the device impaired their furry friend’s quality of life. First of all, his ability to play with other animals and drink changed.
In particular, 67.5% of respondents spoke about problems with gambling and 60.2% – about difficulties with drinking alcohol. The next most cited issue was injuries, with 25% of caregivers noting that their pets experienced itching, sores, psychological distress, or accidents due to injuries. breaks and falls.
More problematic for cats.
In statements to Hypertextveterinarian specializing in cats Fatima Blanco explains what the Elizabethan collar symbolizes great source of stress for cats. “It’s hugely stressful,” he says. “A lot of them fight until they get rid of it, and in the post-op period it’s not recommended at all.”
Moreover, its use is sometimes as useless as it is counterproductive. “They are not very effective if there are more animals in the home because there may be licking noise coming from them,” adds the veterinarian. “They may stop eating, drinking and even moving.”
As the expert explains, dogs adapt better, but they also tend to suffer from their use. Therefore, it is important to consider when this is necessary and when it is possible to resort to alternative options.
The Best Alternatives to the Elizabethan Collar
Veterinarians are increasingly being made aware of the risks associated with Elizabethan collar and should not prescribe it unless necessary. Sometimes, according to Fatima Blanco, there is no choice but to use it. “There are pathologies such as corneal ulcers or facial problems in which there is no choice but to place them.”
However, in other cases there are interesting alternatives. For example, a veterinarian notes that cats bodysuits that cover the bodyto cover an area that should not be touched.
In other cases, there is no choice but to walk on the neck. However, for this there are fabric collars which are not as problematic as the Elizabethan collar.
When in doubt, the best option is to consult with our pet’s veterinarian. And of course, if we are unsure, we can raise concerns about the use of an Elizabethan collar. We all want what’s best for our furry friends, and to do that, we need to protect them when necessary, but in a way that protecting them doesn’t involve another serious risk.
Source: Hiper Textual
