10 cone of shame alternatives for your proud pooch and free-spirited feline

Updated 10/10/23

If your furry family member is off for an operation soon or they're suffering from mange in dogs, it’s likely you’re on the lookout for a cone of shame alternative. And we can see why - they’re the bringers of embarrassment, discomfort and very awkward meal times. 

That’s why we’re here to help you find a few cone of shame alternatives for your proud pooch and free-spirited feline so that even after the vets, their heads can be held high (metaphorically speaking, at least). 

And while the Elizabethan collar does have its merits (or merit, should we say), your pet deserves to feel comfortable and confident while their wounds heal.

So whether you’ve got pet sitters due soon or you’re a house sitter interested in the topic, find some of the best cone of shame alternatives out there (here) to keep the fluffy friend in your life comfy, on the mend, and shame-free.

Cat and dog cone of shame alternatives

• Soft e-collars 
• Inflatable e-collars
• Neck control collars
• Comfy cones
• Recovery suits
• Homemade alternatives

Cat and dog cone alternative #1: Soft e-collars

Soft e-collars are similar in shape to the cone of shame but are much more comfortable for your pooch and more flexible. E-collar alternatives are the perfect, cushioned barriers that let your dog know not to chew or lick their wounds. With that said though, soft e-collars won’t always completely stop your dog from accessing the affected area, so if your pup is especially determined, a soft e-collar might not be the best cone of shame alternative for you. One of the key benefits of a soft e-collar is the mobility it allows for your pooch or cat - something that just can’t be guaranteed with the classic rigid plastic cone of shame. Often made of breathable, comfortable materials (which can also sometimes be water resistant), they won’t feel completely alien when your pet is settling down for the night or chill time during the day. Another thing we love about soft e-collars is that many of them don’t block your pet’s peripheral vision - something that could easily give especially nervous dogs anxiety when wearing a cone of shame.

Mano Mano soft e-collar

This e-collar from Mano Mano is just as cute and colourful as it is comfortable - the ideal dog or cat cone alternative. While helping to stop your pet from chewing or licking their affected area, your pet can stay comfortable in the soft cotton material that’s super lightweight and skin-friendly. Simply adjust the collar to fit snugly around your pet’s neck, and rest assured their peripheral vision won’t be affected. Plus, they can drink and eat safely and comfortably while wearing this cute, colourful soft e-collar. An ideal cone of shame alternative if you ask us!

Frienda soft e-collar

These are sure to make you smile - we’re loving these food-themed soft e-collars! Because the best dog cone alternatives can also be a fashion statement, right? Made in the shape of one of the most popular breakfasts around at the moment, i.e. toast and avocado, your cat can stay comfy in the soft, cushioned collar while remaining aware of their surroundings.

Dog and cat cone alternative #2: Inflatable e-collars

Inflatable e-collars provide a bit more protection than the thinner soft e-collars above. Depending on how much air you pump in, they’re a little more sturdy and will help to restrict movement and stop your determined pooch or kitty from chewing or licking their wounds. And that’s the beauty of an inflatable e-collar - you can choose how hard or soft you’d like it to be, depending on how adamant your pet is to access their wound themselves. For some pets, simply having the collar on will act as the perfect deterrent to turning around and finding the wound. Much like the soft e-collar though, inflatables still allow your furry friends to comfortably enjoy their food, drink and the world around them. 

Mano Mano inflatable e-collar for dogs

This blow-up collar from Mano Mano is a great alternative to the cone of shame if you’re looking for something affordable and straight to the point. While it might not come in the shape of your favourite breakfast food, it will certainly do the job. Not only will it stop your dog from licking their wounds, they’ll also be pretty comfy in it - it’s made of a soft material, so don’t worry - it’s not made of the plastic you’d find on a kid’s arm band!

HOMIMP inflatable cat collar

The food theme is real - especially if you’re a donut fan (and who isn’t, let’s be honest!). It isn’t nice seeing your kitty in discomfort after an operation or accident. So, brighten things up a bit with a fun, inflatable collar made from soft yet bite-proof material that’ll stop your cat from finding their wound.

Pet cone alternative #3: Neck control collars

If you’re after something a step up on the sturdy front, then look no further than neck control collars. They work by restricting the movement of your pup’s neck. It sounds a little brutal, but for dogs with an unwavering determination to reach their wound (and therefore stop it from healing), it’s a needs must kind of situation. 

BiteNot protection collar

With this sturdy collar from BiteNot, your pooch won’t have to worry about seeing around corners! Flush to their necks, this protection collar won’t block any peripheral vision, which can be a huge cause of anxiety in dogs when a cone of shame is used. A handy pet cone alternative if you need something reliable and strong, your pup won’t stand a chance when they get the urge to lick or bite their wounds. Make use of the adjustable straps so that your pooch is comfortable and ready for a day of wound healing! And despite its durability, the material is surprisingly soft and lightweight, so shouldn’t be too taxing for your dog to wear.

BiteNot cat collar

Find a slightly smaller version of the neck control recovery collar above, ideal if your kitty has recently been wounded or is recovering from an operation. It’s especially handy if your cat is known for a somewhat one-track mind when it comes to licking and chewing at their wounds! Plus you’ll be glad to know that they can eat, drink and sleep easily, so no having to swap this one out for meal or bed time.

Pet cone alternative #4: Comfy cones 

If you’re more comfortable with the cone shape, then a comfy, soft cone should do the trick. While they block your pooch’s peripheral vision, some pet parents prefer the cone shape as it’s not as restrictive on the neck, allowing for movement while keeping them away from those healing wounds, rashes or post-operation areas. They’re a great alternative to a cat or dog cone after being spayed or neutered, as they’ll keep your pet comfy and away from the affected area, letting it all heal nicely.

The Comfy Cone for cats and dogs

The Comfy Cone seems to be one of the leading… you guessed it: comfy cones on the market! When it comes to durability, you can tick that box. It’s made of a padded, tight-gauge, foam-backed nylon material that’ll stop any sharp claws from ripping into the cone itself. And while most cones prevent our pets from seeing their peripheral vision, the clever minds at The Comfy Cone have thought about that. They’ve made sure that the material is fully opaque so that your furry family member can’t see any blurry objects through the cone - something that might freak them out (we don't blame them!), making this a great cone of shame alternative. 

Banoo dog cone

This handy recovery cone from Banoo is also fully opaque, which should reduce the likelihood of your pet getting fully weirded out when you put it on. Choose from a range of sizes to suit your cat or dog, post-operation or even during nail clipping! Something we love about this one - it’s got built-in massage dots so that your fluffy pal can enjoy themselves while they’re wearing it (it also helps to promote blood circulation).

Cone of shame alternative #5: Recovery suits 

If you’re really not keen on the idea of something around your dog’s neck and you’re after a cone of shame alternative on the opposite end of the spectrum, a recovery suit might be up your street. Rather than restricting your dog or cat’s neck, they’re designed to cover up the wound. With that said though, recovery suits do have a few drawbacks. Firstly, it may be painful to apply more pressure over the bandaged area with the suit. Secondly, they’re no good for leg wounds or post-spay or neuter, as your pooch or kitty will still be able to access those areas. So, if you’re considering a recovery suit as your pet cone alternative, have a think about whether it’s going to be painful for your pup, and effectively stop them from licking or chewing the affected areas. 

Dog recovery suit

This machine-washable suitical recovery suit is a handy way to stop your pup from licking, chewing, re-opening any wounds, or messing with any bandages. Its snug fit will help to keep bandages in place, providing a cosy barrier to stop them getting caught and coming undone. The stretchy fabric will move with your dog so it won’t feel restrictive, despite its snug fit. While the traditional cone makes it awkward to eat, drink and sleep, this suitical recovery suit allows for free movement. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your pup warm if they’ve been shaved for an operation!

Cat recovery suit

You didn’t think we’d forget our feline favourites, did you? It’s true - there are recovery suits out there for cats, as well as dogs. Like this handy pyjama suit set - it’s easy to put on and comes in a pack of three cute colours to keep your kitty looking fresh and healing as she should. And not to worry about your cat’s movement in these - they’re made of flexible material that’ll allow them to stretch, eat, drink and sleep as they please (and we know how some of our feline friends love doing nothing more than as they please).

Cone of shame alternative #6: Homemade alternatives

And if you’re more of a DIY pet parent, kudos to you! Have a go at a homemade alternative to a cone of shame (this is also a great pet photography tip, as you might find it more aesthetically appealing. If you’re a dab hand with a needle and thread, try making a recovery suit out of stretchy material for your dog or cat in need. Otherwise, there are a variety of ways you could make your own soft dog collar - just be careful that it’s secured properly and won’t get caught around your dog’s neck with any loose pieces of material.

On the lookout for more pet apparel?

If you’ve got a pooch in training, no worries. Check out these no-pull dog harnesses that’ll make walkies a whole lot simpler.