Whether you call it the cone of shame, the dreaded doughnut, the treat funnel, or the Elizabethan collar, this essential medical device is rarely a favorite among pets or their owners. Despite its unpopularity, veterinarians frequently recommend the e-collar to protect injuries or surgical incisions during the recovery period. A recent study examined how wearing an e-collar affects pets from their owners’ perspectives.
It’s no surprise that pet owners noted the e-collar obstructs their pets’ daily activities, such as eating, drinking, and playing. Pets often bump into furniture, walls, and people while wearing the collar, leading to accidents and minor injuries. Three-quarters of pet owners reported that the collar diminished their pet’s overall quality of life.
While most pets wear an e-collar only for a few days after surgery, some with chronic skin issues may need it for months. Interestingly, one inventive use of the e-collar was to shield owners from bites while giving insulin to a needlephobic dog. Short-term use of the e-collar may be less burdensome than prolonged wear, yet the study suggests exploring “alternative methods of preventing self-trauma.”
This study focuses on the drawbacks of using an e-collar but doesn’t address the consequences of not using one. I’ve seen numerous cases where incisions reopened, hot spots were licked raw, and bandages were chewed off because an e-collar wasn’t used. The additional cost of treating these complications—such as needing a second surgical closure or extended healing time—can be significant. This aspect is crucial to consider while dealing with the inconveniences of e-collars.
While your pet is adjusting to the e-collar, assist them with eating and drinking to make the transition smoother. Keep an eye on them to prevent injury and protect your home’s furnishings from any e-collar-related damage. To minimize the impact of the e-collar, discuss its use during your pet’s pre-surgery consultation.
Shenoda Y, Ward MP, McKeegan D, Fawcett A. “The cone of shame”: welfare implications of Elizabethan collar use on dogs and cats as reported by their owners. Animals. 2020 Feb 20;10(2):333.
