Elizabethan Collars (E-Collars)

Elizabethan collars, commonly referred to as e-collars, are protective devices used to prevent animals from accessing surgical sites, wounds, or external medical devices. In laboratory and veterinary settings, collar design plays a critical role in maintaining animal welfare while preserving study integrity.

Ludomed’s Elizabethan collars are engineered with species-specific anatomy in mind, offering secure fit, lightweight construction, and multiple sizing options for rodents and larger animal models. These collars are suitable for short-term post-procedure protection as well as extended research protocols where stability, comfort, and observation access are essential.

When are Elizabethan Collars Used in Research and Veterinary Care?

Elizabethan collars are typically used in the following situations:

Post-surgical recovery to prevent wound manipulation
Protection of externalized medical devices or dressings
Short- to mid-term behavioral control during healing phases
Studies where physical protection is required without restricting mobility

Proper collar selection ensures compliance with welfare guidelines while minimizing stress and interference with normal behavior.

Species-Specific Design and Fit

Animal anatomy varies significantly between species, which is why Elizabethan collars must be properly adapted.

Rodents (rats and mice): Lightweight, low-profile designs to accommodate small body mass and high mobility.
Larger animals (dogs or research models): Increased rigidity and size options to maintain protection while allowing normal movement.

Ludomed collars are designed to balance protection, visibility, and comfort based on species-specific needs.

Materials, Closure Systems, and Comfort

Our Elizabethan collars are manufactured using durable, lightweight materials selected for research and veterinary environments. Design considerations include:

Smooth edges to reduce skin irritation.
Secure closure systems to prevent accidental removal.
Transparency or open profiles for easy monitoring.
Materials compatible with cleaning and disinfection protocols.

Choosing the Right Size and Model

Selecting the correct collar size is essential for effectiveness and animal welfare. Collar diameter, neck circumference, and intended duration of use should all be considered. Ludomed provides sizing guidance and consultation to help researchers and veterinarians select the appropriate model for their protocol.

Our Elizabethan Collars

FAQs for Elizabethan Collars

What is the purpose of an Elizabethan collar?

An Elizabethan collar prevents animals from licking, biting, or scratching wounds, surgical sites, or medical devices, helping to ensure proper healing and study compliance.

Are Elizabethan collars suitable for rodents?

Yes. When properly designed and sized, Elizabethan collars can be used safely on rodents such as rats and mice for short- and mid-term applications.

How long can an animal wear an e-collar?

Duration depends on species, size, and protocol requirements. For extended use, lightweight designs and proper sizing are critical to reduce stress.

Can e-collars interfere with research devices?

When correctly selected, Elizabethan collars are designed to protect devices without interfering with telemetry, infusion lines, or other external equipment.

How do I choose the correct size?

Sizing is based on neck circumference, species, and application. Our team can assist with size selection or custom solutions.

Are custom Elizabethan collars available?

Yes. Custom sizes or designs can be developed based on specific anatomical or protocol requirements.