Proximity Shock Collar Cat FAQ (12 Things to Know)

The majority of cats who are given the chance to explore outside without supervision, do not come back for up to 12 hours or more. Still, many cat owners want to give their cats the freedom to go outside.

Well, what about invisible fences for cats (aka proximity cat shock collars). The question is, “do these work?” Some people say yes and others say no. In this article we’ll give you the facts.

Note: If you click some of the links or pictures in this article we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

What is a Proximity Shock Collar?

The basic idea behind a proximity shock collar is the same as an electronic fence. When your cat tries to get too near the fence or to jump it, the collar gives them a warning shock. This sends them a very clear message that they need to stay as far away from the border of the fence as possible.

A proximity collar is basically designed to have the same effect but without the extra expense of an actual fence. The collar is also designed to send your cat a warning that they can heed so that they won’t need to get shocked.

Do Proximity Shock Collars Work on Cats?

Opinions do tend to vary as to whether or not a proximity shock collar is worth buying for your cat. In the end, it may come down to the temperament of the cat. Some people believe that a proximity shock collar can be useful to finally tame a high strung or bad tempered cat without causing any actual harm to them.

Do They Work Indoors?

Proximity shock collars definitely work indoors. They can be used to create an area around certain areas of your home, such as your bed or couch, where you don’t want them to go. The collar sends a warning beep, vibration, or static to give them a warning. If they don’t heed it in time, a shock will do the trick.

Do They Work Outdoors?

Proximity collars work even better outdoors. This is because the range of the collar can be adjusted to fit a wider area. You can use the same sequence of beep, vibrate, static, and then shock to keep them out of your garden or driveway. The trick will be to adjust the shock to just the right level.

What’s the Difference Between a Proximity Collar, a Perimeter Collar, an Invisible Fence, and a Shock Training Collar?

A proximity collar is used to keep your cats from getting too close to a certain forbidden area or object. A perimeter collar keeps them safely in the area that you have demarcated. An invisible fence relies on a wireless signal rather than actual wires. A shock collar is the means by which they get the correction.

Pros of Using a Proximity Shock Collar With Your Cat

The proximity collar will save you the expense and trouble of having to buy and install a conventional below ground electronic fence. The system is completely safe to use on your cat. Adjust the collar to send out a series of beeps, vibrations, and static to warn your cat before the actual shock comes.

Cons of Using a Proximity Shock Collar With Your Cat

How well your cat responds to the use of a shock collar will depend on their personality. If your cat is good humored, they should get the idea after only a few shocks. Aggressive or stubborn cats may need quite a few to finally give in.

How to Humanely Train and Use a Proximity Collar with your Cat Outdoors

• 1. Fit the collar to the neck of your cat. Make sure the contact points touch the skin
• 2. Set the collar to vibrate or static mode
• 3. Walk around the yard with your cat
• 4. Try to keep the cat from getting too close to the forbidden area
• 5. If they insist on getting too close or over it and the warning levels don’t work, give them a small shock
• 6. Repeat this operation over a few days

How To Train Your Cat To Stay Inside

• 1. Adjust the collar
• 2. Set the collar to the warning tones
• 3. Walk around with your cat near the forbidden areas and see if the warning does the trick
• 4. If they need correction, set the collar to the shock level that gets their attention
• 5. Repeat over a few days until the message sinks in

Best Proximity Collar for Outdoor Cat Use

The new PetSafe Stay & Play Compact Wireless Fence for Dogs and Cats is our choice for the best model to use for your outdoor cat. True to its name, it can be used on either cats or dogs. The system is capable of covering up to 3/4 of an acre and is fully rechargeable.

No products found.

What Are the Pros?

• Highly compact and portable with a total weight of only 5 pounds
• Collar has multiple warning settings to employ before the actual shock settings
• System is completely wireless and waterproof
• Backed by a full warranty of guaranteed quality

What Are the Cons?

• System may be a bit pricey for the budgets of some users
• Needs to be closely monitored in cold weather due to make sure it performs correctly

Best Proximity Collar for Indoor Cat Use

The PetSafe Indoor Cat Barrier is an excellent proximity collar for indoor use. This is a system that will allow you to fully adjust the range of your indoor electronic fence from an extent of 2 feet up to 10 feet. The system is very easy to learn and convenient to train your cat with.

No products found.

What Are the Pros?

• System can be used to accommodate as many pets as you own
• Collar is lightweight and durable
• Can be used on cats as well as smaller dogs
• Fully adjustable from 2 to 10 feet

What Are the Cons?

• Each additional pet needs to wear a collar that needs to be purchased separately
• Collar may need to be adjusted from time to time so as to avoid chafing