For cat owners, the safety and well-being of their feline companions are paramount. While microchipping and attentive supervision remain essential, a Cat Collar Tracking Device offers an extra layer of security, especially for adventurous outdoor cats or those prone to escaping indoors. These devices provide real-time location monitoring, offering peace of mind whether your cat is exploring the backyard or traveling with you.
To help you navigate the options, we’ve rigorously tested a variety of cat collar tracking devices, evaluating their accuracy, ease of use, and suitability for cats. While the Tractive GPS Cat LTE + Tracker stands out as our top overall recommendation, the ideal cat collar tracking device depends on your cat’s lifestyle and your specific needs. Let’s explore the best options available to help you make an informed decision.
Top Cat Collar Tracking Devices at a Glance
1200hours of
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12brands
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9features
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9top
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For a quick overview, here’s a comparison table highlighting key features of each reviewed cat collar tracking device. Detailed product information follows later in this article.
Overall Best
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Tractive
10.0
Picked by 31 people today!
Tractive GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring for Cats
- Unlimited range tracking with no distance limitations
- Customizable virtual fence alerts to your phone
- Wi-Fi power-saving and extended 7-day battery life
$49.99 At Tractive
Runner Up
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Jiobit
9.8
Picked by 31 people today!
Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker
- Highly accurate real-time GPS tracking in Live Mode
- Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant design
- Versatile attachment to existing cat collars
Best Tracker for Small Cats
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Tabcat
9.7
Picked by 18 people today!
Tabcat RF Tracker
- Simple attachment, activation, and user-friendly operation
- Precise directional guidance for locating your cat
- Single handset supports up to four tracking modules
Best Bluetooth Cat Tracker
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CAT TAILER
9.6
Picked by 21 people today!
Cat Tailer
- Ultra-small and lightweight, ideal cat collar tracking device for kittens and small breeds
- Intuitive and straightforward mobile app interface
- Effective for indoor and backyard cat location
Best Radio Frequency Cat Tracker
9.5
Picked by 25 people today!
Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker
- Impressive battery life of up to 45 days on a single charge
- Customizable with four programmable “safety zones”
- Operates independently without Wi-Fi, GPS, or cellular networks
Best for Urban Areas
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Pawscout
9.3
Picked by 31 people today!
Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag
- Leverages a community network to aid in pet recovery
- Connects users with local pet resources via a neighborhood map
- Subscription-free app with no ongoing monthly charges
Best Tracker for Indoor Cats
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Apple
9.2
Picked by 31 people today!
Apple Air Tags
- Integrated speaker for remotely “pinging” the device
- “Lost Mode” alerts when your cat nears any iPhone user
- Extended battery performance with approximately 1 year of life
Best for Multiple Cats
Girafus
9.0
Picked by 21 people today!
Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder
- Exceptional 1,600-foot range, superior for an RF tracker
- Long battery life lasting up to 30 days
- Operates without requiring any monthly subscription fees
Best Budget Cat Tracker
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Tracki
9.0
Picked by 18 people today!
Tracki GPS Tracker
- Global coverage with unlimited distance tracking capabilities
- Lifetime warranty covering device loss and damage
- Waterproof design for all-weather use
Why Trust Cats.com for Cat Collar Tracking Device Reviews
At Cats.com, our commitment to cat well-being drives our rigorous product testing and reviews. For this cat collar tracking device review, we dedicated extensive hours to researching various types of trackers, examining market options, and analyzing countless customer experiences.
Our evaluation process focused on practical aspects, including the setup and assembly of each cat collar tracking device. We then tested these devices with our own cats, assessing their comfort and how securely each tracker attached to a collar. Our goal was to determine user-friendliness and security: Were these devices easy to attach and secure enough to remain on a cat’s collar, or were they cumbersome for feline users?
Following in-home observations, setup of data plans, and familiarization with accompanying apps and receivers, we moved to field testing. To simulate a real-world escape scenario, we conducted a “cat tracker hide-and-seek” game to rigorously assess each device’s performance.
tester holding several cat trackers outsideWe rigorously tested each cat collar tracking device for accuracy and connectivity. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
This test involved one person using the receiver (or smartphone for GPS trackers) while another person, acting as a wandering cat, took the trackers to various outdoor locations to evaluate accuracy and range.
Beyond our hands-on testing, we consulted with veterinary professionals and feline behaviorists. Their expert insights were invaluable in establishing key evaluation criteria for cat collar tracking devices.
Based on our comprehensive findings, we confidently selected the following nine cat collar tracking devices as the top performers currently available.
Note: This article is an updated version of a review originally written by Mallory Crusta. The current version features newly tested and reviewed products by Liz Coleman, ensuring the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Understanding Our Top Cat Collar Tracking Device Picks
While our recommendations have been updated, the core principles and product quality highlighted in Mallory’s original reviews remain relevant.
Our rankings are based on a comprehensive evaluation considering various factors. Recognizing that each cat has unique needs, while the Tractive GPS Tracker is our top overall pick, it may not be the perfect fit for every cat. To assist you in selecting the ideal cat collar tracking device, we’ve categorized our recommendations by size, technology, optimal usage environment, and other crucial factors.
| Product Name | Type of Device | Weight | Battery Life | Includes App? | Accuracy Level | Price | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tractive GPS Tracker | GPS | 1.2 ounces OR 0.9 ounces for Mini size | 2-5 days | Yes | Mid | $39.93 for regular device; 49.99€for Mini | 1-year |
| Jiobit GPS Tracker | GPS | 0.6 ounces | 7 days | Yes | High | $129.99 | 1-year |
| Tabcat RF Tracker | Radio Frequency | 6 grams | 4-12 months | Yes | High | $109.99 | 2-year |
| Cat Tailer Tracker | Bluetooth | 7.9 grams | 6 months | Yes | Low | $67.00 | 1-year |
| Eureka Marco Polo Tracker | Self-Contained RF | 0.8 ounces | Up to 45 days | No | High | $364.95 | 90 days |
| Pawscout Bluetooth Tag | Bluetooth | 1.28 ounces | N/A | Yes | $26.99 | 1-year | |
| Apple AirTags | Bluetooth | 0.39 ounces | 1 year | Yes | $36.99 | 1-year | |
| Girafus Pro-Track-Tor | Radio Frequency | 4.2 grams | Up to 30 days | No | High | $85.99 | N/A |
| Tracki GPS Tracker | GPS | 1 ounce | 3 days | Yes | $18.88 | Lifetime warranty |
#1 Overall Best Cat Collar Tracking Device: Tractive GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring for Cats
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
49.99€ At Tractive $49.99 At Amazon
Read Our Full Product Review
- Type of Device: GPS + LTE
- Weight: 1.2 ounces
- Battery Life: 7-day battery life
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: High accuracy
The newly enhanced Tractive GPS Cat LTE + tracker employs LTE cellular technology to accurately monitor your cat’s location via GPS. As a top-tier cat collar tracking device, it incorporates essential features, such as customizable virtual fences and instant mobile alerts if your cat ventures beyond designated boundaries.
Setup was straightforward: the app guides you through each step, from device attachment to collar to creating a personalized pet profile. The Tractive app is user-friendly, intuitive, and clearly designed. It also provides timely low-battery notifications.
A standout feature is the remote-activated LED light. This app-controlled light on the cat collar tracking device greatly assists in nighttime searches for your cat.
In default tracking mode, Tractive updates location every 2 to 60 minutes and every two to three seconds in live mode. For active tracking, live mode helps pinpoint your cat’s location, and Find mode further refines this. As you approach your cat, the app displays increasing rings, and you can activate the collar’s LED light or sound for easier location.
The tracker’s redesigned curved shape enhances cat comfort, and its light weight (1.2 ounces) ensures easy collar attachment. A smaller “mini” version (0.9 ounces) is available for smaller cats, though battery life is slightly reduced (2 days vs 3.5 days).
white cat wearing Tractive Mini gps tracker on collarThe Tractive cat collar tracking device is comfortable in both sizes, as tested by the Cats.com team, including Floyd wearing the “mini” version. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
While the updated model includes a Wi-Fi power-saving feature to conserve battery, it no longer includes a spare battery. However, battery life has been improved to up to 7 days, a notable increase from the previous 2- to 3-day lifespan.
Beyond location, this cat collar tracking device monitors health by tracking activity and sleep patterns. Significant deviations trigger Health Alert emails, enabling proactive health management.
What We Liked:
- Extensive range, operating without distance limitations
- Virtual fence feature with immediate smartphone alerts
- Wi-Fi power-saving and extended 7-day battery performance
- Competitively priced within the GPS tracker market
- Integrated LED light for nighttime visibility
What We Didn’t Like:
- Requires consistent cellular service for optimal function
- Necessitates a monthly data plan, costing $5–13 monthly
- Even the mini version remains somewhat bulky for very small cats
#2 Runner Up Cat Collar Tracking Device: Jiobit GPS Pet Tracker
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: GPS
- Weight: 0.6 ounces
- Battery Life: 7-day battery life
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: High accuracy
Originally designed for child safety, the Jiobit GPS Tracker is now effectively used as a cat collar tracking device, offering robust features in a compact design.
This tracker uses GPS for real-time, turn-by-turn tracking in Live Mode. Our hands-on tests confirmed exceptional accuracy, potentially surpassing even the Tractive tracker. The virtual fence function was consistently reliable, delivering instant notifications when the tracker crossed set boundaries.
Bluetooth connectivity enhances this cat collar tracking device, ensuring dependable indoor tracking. A sound indicator can also be activated to help locate your cat indoors.
The Jiobit tracker is small and discreet, easily clipping onto an existing cat collar. Weighing just 0.6 ounces, it is unlikely to bother your cat. It is also water-resistant and can be personalized with a fabric sleeve.
Battery performance is a strong point, with a 7-day lifespan on a single charge under ideal conditions, and a 2.5-hour recharge time.
Priced at $129.99, the Jiobit is in the higher price range, and requires a subscription starting at $8.99 per month.
What We Liked:
- Dependable and precise GPS tracking in real-time Live Mode
- Lightweight, robust, and water-resistant construction
- Compatible with any existing cat collar
- Long-lasting battery, up to 7 days per charge
- Bluetooth for reliable indoor tracking
What We Didn’t Like:
- Requires a monthly subscription starting at $8.99
- Bluetooth connectivity can occasionally be inconsistent
#3 Best Cat Collar Tracking Device for Small Cats: Tabcat RF Tracker
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Radio Frequency
- Weight: 4.2 grams
- Battery Life: 4–12 months
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level: High
- Warranty: 2 years
The Loc8tor Tabcat is a small, lightweight RF cat collar tracking device specifically designed for cats. The tracker module, encased in rubber, attaches to the cat’s collar and communicates with a handheld receiver.
The receiver uses color-coded lights and beeps to indicate signal strength and proximity to your cat. A single handset can manage up to four trackers, ideal for multi-cat households.
orange cat wearing the Tabcat tracker on their collarWessie showcasing the Tabcat cat collar tracking device in its splashproof silicone case. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
After quick activation, the tracker is ready. The handset is intuitive and consistently accurate indoors. However, outdoor performance is limited. Unlike GPS trackers, the Tabcat’s 400-foot range necessitates some initial searching before a signal is detected.
Once within range, the Tabcat is highly accurate, consistently providing precise location data.
What We Liked:
- Simple to attach, activate, and operate
- Provides precise directional information
- Supports up to four trackers with one handset
- Among the more affordable cat collar tracking devices
- Effective for both indoor and outdoor use
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited 400-foot range
#4 Best Bluetooth Cat Collar Tracking Device: Cat Tailer
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Bluetooth
- Weight: 7.9 grams
- Battery Life: 6 months
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level: Low
- Price: $67.00
- Warranty: 1-year
The Cat Tailer cat collar tracking device is designed like a bottle cap and weighs about the same, making it suitable for cats sensitive to bulkier devices. Its detection range is limited, making it less useful for cats who stray far.
With a 328-foot range, the Cat Tailer exceeds typical Bluetooth tracker ranges but is still short compared to other technologies. It’s helpful within this range, but requires initial searching to get within signal distance.
cat wearing the cat tailor tracker on their collarEven Forest, at 7 pounds, comfortably wore the lightweight Cat Tailer cat collar tracking device. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
In outdoor tests, the Cat Tailer offered minimal assistance beyond visual and auditory searching, often losing connection quickly. The interface lacks directional guidance, providing only radial distance, requiring trial-and-error navigation.
Location accuracy is inconsistent, with the app fluctuating readings by about 30 feet even when the tracker was stationary. Connection stability is also an issue, with false out-of-range notifications.
The Cat Tailer is best for indoor use and predictable outdoor behavior within a limited area. Its 328-foot Bluetooth range can help narrow down locations once you are in proximity to your cat’s usual spots.
What We Liked:
- Very small and lightweight, ideal as a cat collar tracking device for kittens and small cats
- Highly user-friendly app interface
- Useful for locating cats indoors or in a yard
What We Didn’t Like:
- Shortest detection range among pet trackers
- Inconsistent Bluetooth signal reliability
#5 Best Radio Frequency Cat Collar Tracking Device: Eureka Marco Polo Advanced Pet Tracker
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$364.95 At Amazon $274.95 At EurekaProducts.com
- Type of Device: Self-contained RF
- Weight: 0.8 ounces
- Battery Life: Up to 45 days
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level: High
- Warranty: 90 days
The Eureka Marco Polo Tracker is a unique self-contained cat collar tracking device, operating without GPS or cellular networks. This eliminates monthly fees and makes it ideal for travel.
Available in single or multi-pet systems, additional tags can be purchased separately. The durable tags are built to withstand rough conditions and water immersion. They attach securely to a cat’s collar with a ballistic nylon holder, and boast a 45-day battery life.
This system allows monitoring within four programmable safety zones or using a lost pet feature with real-time distance and direction feedback.
Unlike smartphone-dependent GPS trackers, the Eureka Marco Polo uses a handset locator, functioning like a personal radar with up to a 2-mile range in open areas. While you may need to search to get within range, it is effective for cats that stay relatively close.
The Eureka Marco Polo is suitable for local tracking. Its lack of GPS or cellular reliance means tracking is limited to a 2-mile radius, potentially less in rough terrain or weather. Its key advantage is portability for travel and the absence of subscription fees.
What We Liked:
- Long 45-day battery life per charge
- Four programmable safety zones for pet monitoring
- No reliance on Wi-Fi, GPS, or cellular networks
- Expandable for multiple pets with additional tags
- One-time purchase, no monthly subscriptions
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited tracking range
- Range can be further reduced by terrain and obstacles
#6 Best Cat Collar Tracking Device for Urban Areas: Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Tag
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Bluetooth
- Weight: 1.28 ounces
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level:
- Price: $25.62
- Warranty: 1 year
The Pawscout Bluetooth Tracker, while not providing precise location, serves as a cat collar tracking device by alerting you if your cat exits a designated safe zone.
It utilizes a community-based digital network to aid in reuniting lost pets. App alerts are sent to nearby Pawscout users if your cat goes missing. Finders can scan the tag to access your contact information and arrange a return.
The comprehensive app allows for pet profiles with photos, contact info, medical details, and even behavioral notes. Microchip and license numbers can also be stored, aiding rescuers.
A social feed connects you with the pet community for advice or hazard alerts. Pawscout tracks walks and allows virtual boundary setup. There are no subscription fees, and the app is free.
What We Liked:
- Community network assists in locating lost pets
- Connects to local pet owners and businesses via a map
- Free app, no monthly fees
- Water-resistant
- Includes a spare CR2032 battery
What We Didn’t Like:
- Somewhat bulky for smaller cats
- Limited long-distance range (about 300 feet)
#7 Best Cat Collar Tracking Device for Indoor Cats: Apple Air Tags
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Bluetooth
- Weight: 0.39 ounces
- Battery Life: 1 year
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level:
- Price:$39.98
- Warranty: 1 year
Apple AirTags, designed for items like keys, are used by many as an affordable cat collar tracking device, despite Apple’s recommendation against pet use.
Using Bluetooth, AirTags have a limited 100-foot range, making them more suitable indoors. You can “ping” the tag to emit a sound, useful for finding hiding cats inside your home.
AirTags can also leverage the network of iPhones to locate your cat if they are near another iPhone user. This is particularly useful in populated areas with strong cell coverage.
Priced at $29 with no subscription, AirTags are economical. “Lost Mode” in the “Find My” app sends notifications when the tag nears an iPhone, providing location and allowing for contact messages to be sent to the iPhone user who finds your cat.
However, AirTags are less effective in sparsely populated areas due to the reliance on nearby iPhone users.
What We Liked:
- Built-in speaker for remote “pinging”
- “Lost Mode” alerts when near any iPhone user
- Long 1-year battery life
- No subscription fees
- Lightweight and water-resistant
- Affordable cat collar tracking device option
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited effectiveness in areas with fewer smartphone users
- Requires a separate compatible collar attachment
- Not compatible with Android devices
#8 Best Cat Collar Tracking Device for Multiple Cats: Girafus Pro-Track-Tor RF Finder
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
- Type of Device: Radio Frequency
- Weight: 4.2 grams
- Battery Life: 30 days
- Includes App: No
- Accuracy Level: High
- Price: $97.49
- Warranty: N/A
The Girafus RF tracker is a long-range radio frequency cat collar tracking device, reaching up to 1,600 feet. It supports up to four color-coded tags.
The Girafus Pro-Track-Tor requires more initial setup than other trackers. Assembly involves battery insertion into both tracker and receiver, case closure, and learning the tracking initiation process, taking about 18 minutes in total.
orange cat wearing the Girafus tracker on his collarThe Girafus cat collar tracking device features a low-profile, cat-friendly design. Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
The tracker’s silicone case fits slim collars or larger ones using included Velcro straps, and it sits lightly on the cat’s neck. It is the most low-profile tracker tested, well-suited to smaller cats.
Operation is straightforward post-setup. Calibration involves 360-degree turns, after which the tracker emits a tone and uses lights to indicate distance.
The Girafus performed reliably indoors and outdoors. It successfully located a hidden tracker in woods when Bluetooth trackers failed.
What We Liked:
- Exceptional 1,600-foot range among RF trackers
- Battery life of up to 30 days
- No monthly fees
- High accuracy in location pinpointing
- Smallest, most cat-friendly tracker design
- One handset supports up to 4 trackers
What We Didn’t Like:
- Battery can sometimes loosen inside, causing inconsistent performance
- Receiver is bulky and not pocket-friendly
#9 Best Budget Cat Collar Tracking Device: Tracki GPS Tracker
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
$18.88 At Chewy $18.88 At Amazon
- Type of Device: GPS
- Weight: 1 ounce
- Battery Life: 3 days
- Includes App: Yes
- Accuracy Level:
- Price: $18.88
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty, including lost and damaged device
The Tracki Pet Tracker is an affordable GPS cat collar tracking device option under $20. Prepaid two-year subscriptions are available at $3.99/month, with month-to-month at $9.95. Tracki offers global coverage in GSM cellular areas.
Designed for dogs, it may be bulky for smaller cats but suitable for larger breeds.
The app allows pet profiles and a lost pet alarm feature with image and contact sharing. Location sharing is available with up to ten contacts.
Real-time live tracking is available 15 times daily, and geofences can be set with perimeter alerts.
What We Liked:
- Global, unlimited distance coverage
- Lifetime warranty covers device loss and damage
- Waterproof design
- App displays battery level
- Includes silicone sleeve and ring for varied attachments
What We Didn’t Like:
- Heavier device, potentially uncomfortable for smaller cats
- Live tracking limited to 15 uses per day
Understanding the 3 Types of Cat Collar Tracking Devices
Cat collar tracking devices utilize three main technologies: GPS, Radio Frequency (RF), and Bluetooth. The best type depends on your cat’s outdoor habits and your tracking needs.
1. Global Positioning System (GPS) Cat Collar Tracking Devices
GPS cat collar tracking devices use satellite navigation to provide precise location data. They offer the strongest location accuracy and longest range, often transmitting signals over miles to your smartphone.
These trackers connect to phone apps for features like safe zone creation, activity monitoring, and real-time location viewing. Some even provide health metrics like calorie burn and sleep duration.
However, GPS trackers have limitations. Satellite signal blockage can occur under dense cover, indoors, or in heavy weather.
GPS trackers tend to be larger and heavier, best suited for cats over 8 lbs. They are also the most expensive, typically costing $70-$200, plus monthly data plan fees up to $10.
2. Radio Frequency (RF) Cat Collar Tracking Devices
RF cat collar tracking devices use a transmitter on the cat and a handheld receiver. The receiver beeps and lights up when it detects the cat’s signal, indicating proximity and direction.
RF trackers pinpoint location within centimeters and work indoors and outdoors, even through obstructions. They are lightweight, streamlined, and have long battery life measured in months.
However, RF trackers lack GPS mapping and alerts. Their range is also limited to about 1,600 feet, requiring a more active search approach. Most RF cat collar tracking devices cost around $100.
3. Bluetooth Cat Collar Tracking Devices
Bluetooth cat collar tracking devices are affordable, lightweight, and have long battery life. However, they are the weakest option.
With a maximum 300-foot range, Bluetooth trackers are only useful for close-range finding, like under furniture or in the yard. They are not effective for locating lost cats beyond short distances.
Key Features to Look for in a Cat Collar Tracking Device
Choosing the right cat collar tracking device involves considering several key factors:
1. Reliability and Accuracy Are Crucial
A reliable and accurate cat collar tracking device ensures you know when your cat leaves home, their location, and how to find them quickly.
Optimal devices offer long battery life, stable connections, and sufficient range for various scenarios, from backyard play to neighborhood exploration.
2. User-Friendly Apps or Receivers Enhance Monitoring
Effective cat collar tracking devices feature intuitive interfaces, whether through a phone app or a standalone receiver. Ease of use is paramount for quick access to tracking information.
Valuable features include night lights, behavior alerts, and customizable settings. Essential app features include virtual fences or safe zones that notify you if your cat strays from designated areas. Customizable safe zones that align with your property lines are ideal.
3. Comfort and Collar Compatibility Matter
Most trackers are designed for dogs and can be bulky, heavy, or incompatible with standard cat collars, especially those with safety quick-release buckles. The best cat collar tracking devices are lightweight, comfortable for cats, and compatible with their existing collars or harnesses, prioritizing both safety and functionality.
