Buster collar tips and tricks
A buster collar helps prevents self-trauma caused by scratching, licking, or rubbing on objects such as carpets and furniture. We realize the frustration of using the collar, but the pet may cause further damage and delay healing if the collar is not used. Some patients take up to three days to adjust, but most will grow accustomed to the collar within a few hours. Often it is best to leave it on for a bit to give them that chance to get used to it.
If you remove the buster collar, the animal must be under direct supervision (in the room with you and your attention on it), and it should be replaced as soon as possible.
Common problems:
"My pet will not eat or drink."
Elevate the dish 2-4 inches (with a shoebox or similar)
Add low-sodium chicken broth or tuna water to warm food to entice.
Hand-feed food and water (caution-your pet may become spoiled!).
If necessary, remove the cone during meal times. Remember to replace it immediately.
"My pet won't eliminate (go bathroom)."
Be patient for 12-24 hours. Take dogs out for frequent walks
Keep kitty litter clean and use a large box. For those not used to eliminating inside, try different
litters, maybe even bringing in dirt for them to use.
If no elimination within 24 hours, or if any straining is seen, please call the vet.
"My pet's ears smell."
To decrease the build-up around a cone, keep the hair inside dry and trim long hair.
Wipe food particles away with a damp cloth, then dry.
If ears are red or hot or the pet is shaking its head, consult the vet about possible infection.
"My pet won't move."
Encourage them with treats and be patient
Keep the routine normal
When trying to go through doors/in kennels etc., lift the cone for them so they do not bang it on
the frame/entrance.
"There is another pet in the household."
Monitor initial interactions; sometimes they are spooked by the cone!
Ensure the other pet cannot lick incisions. Sometimes all members in the household get to
wear cones to protect one!
If you remove the buster collar, the animal must be under direct supervision (in the room with you and your attention on it), and it should be replaced as soon as possible.
Common problems:
"My pet will not eat or drink."
Elevate the dish 2-4 inches (with a shoebox or similar)
Add low-sodium chicken broth or tuna water to warm food to entice.
Hand-feed food and water (caution-your pet may become spoiled!).
If necessary, remove the cone during meal times. Remember to replace it immediately.
"My pet won't eliminate (go bathroom)."
Be patient for 12-24 hours. Take dogs out for frequent walks
Keep kitty litter clean and use a large box. For those not used to eliminating inside, try different
litters, maybe even bringing in dirt for them to use.
If no elimination within 24 hours, or if any straining is seen, please call the vet.
"My pet's ears smell."
To decrease the build-up around a cone, keep the hair inside dry and trim long hair.
Wipe food particles away with a damp cloth, then dry.
If ears are red or hot or the pet is shaking its head, consult the vet about possible infection.
"My pet won't move."
Encourage them with treats and be patient
Keep the routine normal
When trying to go through doors/in kennels etc., lift the cone for them so they do not bang it on
the frame/entrance.
"There is another pet in the household."
Monitor initial interactions; sometimes they are spooked by the cone!
Ensure the other pet cannot lick incisions. Sometimes all members in the household get to
wear cones to protect one!