An inflatable collar is a great dog cone alternative which looks just like a neck pillow. These are puffy and padded and are ideal for taking a break from a plastic cone, but are generally not a good idea for constant wear.
Inflatable dog collars are a great option for pet owners who are looking for an alternative to traditional cone-shaped recovery collars. They can provide comfort and protection for your pup while still allowing them to move freely and go about their daily routine as normal as possible.
Inflatable collars are more than capable of protecting pets' bodies, but because inflatable collars are less obstructive, they can still allow enough room for licking and biting of their limbs.
If your pet has a short face or doesn't tolerate cones, an inflatable collar may be a better option. The donut-shaped Kong Cloud Collar is ideal for short-nosed dogs because it still prevents them from licking most surgical sites but lets them eat more easily than a traditional cone.
You can confidently let your cat or dog eat, sleep, and play knowing that the collar is highly durable.
Inflatable collars
Your dog will have increased mobility and may still be able to get access to their wounds, so this type of collar should only be used on dogs with upper body injuries as they will still be able to access their lower body.
Some dogs do not mind wearing dog cones any more than they mind wearing other clothing, whereas it causes quite a bit of distress to others. For those dogs who do not tolerate a cone well, an inflatable collar may be a better option. A word of caution though, inflatable collars do not offer full-body protection.
Store-Bought Dog Cone Alternatives:
Soft Collars. Flexible Fabric E-Collars. Inflatable E-Collars. Onesies or Clothing.
All you have to do is roll or fold a towel or cloth lengthwise, gently wrap it around your pup's neck, and secure it with duct tape. For smaller dogs, use a kitchen or tea towel. For larger dogs, use a beach or shower towel.
You should avoid taking off your dog's cone while they are sleeping, as they are designed to allow dogs to sleep normally. It may take them some time to get used to, and it may be tempting to remove it to help them sleep more comfortably, but cones should be kept on as long as possible, including at night.
What can I do? Solid deodorant sometimes will work to stop licking—same thing, apply it around the incision. Too much of this can be bad for your pet, though, so if he or she continues licking, you will need to find another solution. T shirts and onsies can also work to help block licking.
Alternatives to the “cone of shame” are inflatable collars, soft E-collars and neck brace collars. Try covering the wound with soft fabric secured by medical tape to prevent licking. Keep pets busy with other fun things to distract them from licking wounds.
Inflatable Elizabethan cat collars are big and bulky, but they're very effective at keeping your cat from biting or licking a sore area.
An E-collar should fit snugly thus preventing removal by a pet. A good rule of thumb is that if two fingers can fit between whatever is securing the collar and the neck than it is not too tight.
The short answer is yes! But why is it so important that your dog or cat sport the 'cone of shame' for so long? An Elizabethan collar is also known as an e-collar, cone or 'the cone of shame' and is generally prescribed by a veterinarian after a surgical procedure.
Have Patience. Regardless of what type of cone you use, or how easy you make navigation and eating for your dog, they will likely still be somewhat uncomfortable in their cone. This is normal, and it's best to be patient because usually, they won't have to wear the cone long term if they are healing properly.
You can use anti-itching sprays and creams, bandage the area, or use a T-shirt to cover the wound. You can also use cold compresses or topical treatments to reduce the temptation to scratch. All of these measures will be effective, but only to a limited extent and only in the short term.
Having a rolled blanket or pillow to prop their coned head on can be much more comfortable. Lots of rewards. Provide lots of positive reinforcement when they're calm and relaxed in the cone. Treats and affection help to show them they're doing the right thing and eases their tension.
The Recovery Suit® is an animal-friendly alternative for the cone. The Suit protects and covers the pet's body after a medical procedure like neutering, during recovery, in case of skin problems or whenever protection is needed.
Even if the dog continues wearing the Elizabethan collar for the recommended two weeks, some dogs are still able to reach their foot or hind leg to lick and chew.
Generally, neck stretchers are suitable for most people and there are few adverse effects. If you notice that your neck becomes more painful or stiffer after use, we recommend discontinuing its use.