The 7 Best Cat Collar Cameras to Buy in 2024
Many housecats spend their days lazily lounging like monarchs of their domain, but some are always on the move. Hunting mice, stalking birds, or just blazing around the house like their tail is on fire.
These excitable felines live adventurous lives, and it makes sense that we want to experience a part of that adventure for ourselves. With camera technology becoming more affordable, the ability to experience the world through our cat’s eyes is more readily available to us all.
- What to Look for in a Cat Collar Camera
- Top 7 Best Cat Collar Cameras 2024
- 1. Best Overall Pick: Supoggy Mini Spy Camera
- 2. Best Premium Pick: GoPro Hero8
- 3. Best Cat Collar Tracker: Jiobit Pet Tracker
- 4. Toughest Cat Collar Camera: Kodak PIXPRO SP1 Action Cam
- 5. Most Comfortable: Eyenimal NGCOLCAM002 Pet Agility Camera
- 6. Cutest: Purr Shop Mini HD Cat Collar Camera
- 7. Best Budget Pick: Uncle Milton’s Pet's Eye View Camera
- Guide to Buying the Best Cat Collar Cameras in 2024
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Follow Your Furry Friend Everywhere!
What to Look for in a Cat Collar Camera
On the market today are a range of miniature cameras that could easily fit on your cat’s collar or a simple harness. While many of these cameras market themselves specifically for pets, often the best choices are those marketed to the equally active extreme sports crowd.
By knowing what to look for in a camera for your cat’s collar, you can save money, record better images, and have a cat that is more likely to cooperate and wear the camera on their adventures.
Cat Collar Cameras can vary widely in size, ability, and prices. Knowing what factors to look for before looking at your options can save a lot of time and stress.
Size and Weight
When the average housecat weighs ten pounds, the last thing it wants is to feel like it has a yoke around its neck. Your cat will not be okay with you strapping a full-sized camera to its neck, even if it might be the one way to stop it from running around the house so much.
The best cat collar cameras are small and light, as noticeable as a nametag or an adorable bow-tie would be. A camera that weighs more than ten ounces should immediately be dismissed as dangerous to feline health. Fortunately, even our heaviest camera weighs only 5.6 ounces.
Image Quality
For security or play, any cat collar camera on our list provides an image more than suitable for seeing what your cat gets up to. But for the feline movie-star, you may want to fork out for the best. That means 4K video and HD streaming, which allows you to watch your cat’s adventures life from around the world at Blu-ray quality. Premium cameras also come with image stabilization, which means editing is far less of a headache.
When it comes to editing, you want a camera that uses common formats that can be used as easily on Windows Video Editor as it can on Adobe After Effects. All the cameras on our list use video formats that require no special codecs. For still pictures, you can’t go past the GoPro Hero8, which records in RAW format, the same as professional digital SLRs.
Knowing all the technical details around cameras and video quality can be difficult, and that is why we have included an easy guide below.
Durability
If a camera is to survive on the collar of a small beast that pounces, scratches and crawls through bushes, it has to be ready to handle wear and tear. For outdoor cats, having a waterproof camera is a must.
Our list of the best cat collar cameras includes types to suit every situation, and you are sure to find the perfect fit in your budget.
Top 7 Best Cat Collar Cameras 2024
1. Best Overall Pick: Supoggy Mini Spy Camera
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The smallest of the cameras, it is suitable for cats of every size. With high definition imaging and an easy-to-use clip, all you need to do is connect it to the collar and let it record.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 9 x 0.9 x 0.9 inches, 2.39 ounces
- Video: AVI Format, 1080p and 720p, 30fps
- Picture: 12MP, JPG
- Storage: Up to 32GB on microSD card (not included)
- Battery: 200mAh, offering 60min recording time (included)
- Includes: Bracket and clip, USB charging cable, user manual, USB/SD card reader
Something is amazing about modern technology, you can have a device so small record video that is better quality than a DVD. Also, one of the lightest cameras on the market, the Supoggy Mini Spy Camera will be no more a nuisance to your cat as a name tag. The icing on the cake comes in the price.
At under $25, this camera is less than 10% of the price of The GoPro Hero8.
The camera records to a standard microSD card and comes with its own reader to easily access the files. With the advent of smaller power-banks, the battery can be supplemented by connecting one to it with a short USB cable. Through this clever technique, combined with the motion-detector, this camera can run longer than any other on the market.
A bonus feature not found in any other small camera is the IR lighting, which provides a night vision better than many larger cameras. This means following what your cat gets up to in the middle of the night is an easy task.
If there is something negative to say about the Supoggy Mini Spy Camera, it is that there is no in-built image stability. This means a more active cat might provide a slightly nauseating film that may require complex editing to be worth sharing with others.
It comes as no surprise that this cat collar camera comes with no wireless connectivity, nor does it have any location tracking. Choosing to live without these premium options, however, is well worth such a low cost.
Pros
- Smallest camera that is available with HD recording
- Connects to the cat collar with a simple clip
- Uses USB connections and standard microSD cards
- Motion-sensor means not wasting battery on sleeping cats
- IR low-light recording possible
- Extremely affordable
Cons
- No image stability
- No streaming
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: 4K video, internal image stabilization, and the ability to live-stream make this the ultimate choice for feline superstars.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 14 x 1.89 x 2.6 inches, 4.4 ounces
- Video: h.264, 4K, 60fps., live streaming at 1080p, can choose 720p for longer battery life
- Picture: RAW format
- Storage: Up to 256GB on microSD card (not included)
- Battery: 1220mAh lithium‑ion rechargeable battery offering up to 50 minutes of recording at 1080p (included)
- Includes: rechargeable battery, a USB-C charging cable, a curved adhesive mount, a quick-release mounting buckle, and user manual
Your cat is ready to be an internet sensation, and you can’t settle for anything less than a film-maker’s camera. Sadly, no cat could handle the size of modern film cameras. It’s a good thing the GoPro Hero exists.
The only cat collar camera that films in 4K, and takes pictures in pure RAW format, the GoPro boasts the ability to stream directly to the internet in high definition, save recordings directly to the cloud, and be controlled by your voice.
Extra mods are purchasable so that, when you finally take it off the collar, you can add a shotgun mic and display screen. Waterproof, shock-proof, and with stabilization unlike any other camera, it truly does have it all.
The only hesitation one might have in buying the GoPro Hero8 is the size. At 4.4 ounces, it is one of the heavier cat collar cameras. Fortunately, you can easily purchase a simple pet harness, which is far more comfortable.
While the Hero7 can save you a little money, it does come with a loss of film quality that we would not recommend when most streamers today work in HD or better. The Hero9 has recently come out but, at double the price, you are not getting specifications that will make a difference. If you have a few hundred dollars to spare, the GoPro Hero8 is worth it.
Pros
- Highest quality video and photos with multiple modes
- Audio and streaming as well as remote control via WiFi or Bluetooth
- A range of extra mods are purchasable
- Waterproof to 30 feet
Cons
- Too large for some small cats, and may require a harness
- Expensive
3. Best Cat Collar Tracker: Jiobit Pet Tracker
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: NOT a camera, but a highly accurate tracker that is the gold-standard. Perfect for the feline escape artist.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 6 ounces
- Battery: Lasts 2 weeks on a single charge
- Communicates via: GPS, cellular data, WiFi, and Bluetooth
While the Supoggy Mini Spy Camera is a great choice for both security and entertainment, sometimes the former is far more important than the latter.
When keeping track of your kitten is your number one priority, it might be worth forgetting about a camera altogether. Instead, get your hands on the Jiobit Pet Tracker. This product is the absolute best way to help owners find their lost cat.
It looks like any ordinary nametag, and can even be engraved, but underneath that hard case is a tracking device unlike any other. GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth, and even cellular connections all ensure you can find your cat within 1-inch, wherever you are in the world. The battery lasts two weeks before needing a charge and uses military-grade encryption to ensure only you get to know the activities of your precious pet.
The only bad thing we can say about the Jiobit Pet Tracker is that it requires a monthly subscription to work at full functionality. However, if you prefer to use only the WiFi and Bluetooth features, this subscription is not required.
For the best security, choose the device that even Wired magazine raved about. Pick the Jiobit Pet Tracker.
Pros
- Barely bigger than a nametag
- Highly accurate, from across the world to the backyard
- Easy-to-use apps with a wide range of features
- Military-grade security features for peace of mind
Cons
- Not a camera
- Requires monthly subscription
4. Toughest Cat Collar Camera: Kodak PIXPRO SP1 Action Cam
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: For the most adventurous of cats, you want the toughest of cameras. There is nothing tougher than the PIXPRO.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 55 x 3.33 x 2.02 inches, 5.6 ounces
- Video: MOV, 1080p
- Picture: 14MP JPG
- Storage: Up to 32GB on microSD card (not included)
- Battery: 1250mAh lithium‑ion rechargeable battery offering up to 120 minutes of recording at 1080p (included)
- Includes: AC adapter, USB cable, standard lens cover, underwater lens cover, CD-ROM, quick start guide, warranty card, and service card
For the wildest of outdoor cats, nothing beats the Kodak PixPro. With the camera technology you would expect from such a well-established brand, images are clear and steady under all weather conditions. This means that being dragged through the mud during a rainstorm by an angry cat isn’t going to do any harm.
Not only does the PixPro film in high definition, but it can also stream to any phone that uses Android through its unique app. What’s more, that same app can be used to control the camera, including taking stills and turning it off to save power. Not that you would use that last feature often, its battery life being the best on the market. For users who want to be able to edit their feline’s footage, the MOV format suits video editing suites well, and the ability to film at 120 fps means being able to create slow-mo action shots of those most thrilling moments.
The PixPro is, however, the largest of the cameras, and frankly not suitable for small cats or kittens. Its shape also makes sitting on the collar for any period of time quite uncomfortable. We would highly recommend testing one out on your cat before buying.
If your cat can handle the bulk, the Kodak PixPro offers high-quality video and streaming to your phone at half the price of the GoPro Hero8. This makes it a cat collar camera you shouldn’t overlook.
Pros
- Dust-proof, waterproof, and shock-proof, it is hard to break
- Can stream to and be controlled by your phone
- Can film in 120fps for slow mo video
- Long battery life
Cons
- Large and heavy, not suitable for many cats
5. Most Comfortable: Eyenimal NGCOLCAM002 Pet Agility Camera
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Unlike more expensive devices, this “built for pets” camera is the best fit for the majority of cats.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 75 x 3.75 x 3.75 inches, 1.23 ounces
- Video: AVI, 640×480
- Picture: 14MP JPG
- Storage: 4GB internal memory
- Battery: 150min battery life
- Includes: USB cable, user’s guide
The Eyenimal Pet Agility Camera was designed from top-to-bottom with pets in mind. The balanced design of the light case is comfortable for even the fussiest of felines. The battery life on this camera is the longest of any that we found while no microSD card is necessary. Despite having only 4GB memory, this is more than enough for the lower resolution image that is recorded.
Yes, the image is lower resolution, which means the Eyenimal is not as well suited for creating videos to share with the world. However, for your own home videos, or a way to see what your cat really is up to, the quality is more than adequate. There is no internal stabilization, but the recording often comes out steadier thanks to the external design.
The Eyenimal Pet Agility Camera is uniquely the only camera we found that was confirmed to be used in scientific research and the French company that creates these devices is dedicated to animal welfare when using technology.
Pros
- Lightweight and designed for collars
- Long battery life
Cons
- Low-quality images
- Low storage
6. Cutest: Purr Shop Mini HD Cat Collar Camera
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: This small camera is the one you would leave permanently on the collar, using it only when you want to.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 02 x 1.02 x 1.06 inches
- Video: AVI 640x 480
- Picture: 1280 x 1024 JPG
- Storage: Up to 32GB microSD (not included)
- Battery: 2 hrs Battery life
- Includes: USB cable, user’s guide, loop for a collar
One of the smallest cat collar cameras in the bunch, the Purr Shop Mini HD Cat Collar Camera also happens to be one of the cheapest. It offers the same resolution recording as the Eyenimal Pet Agility Camera while being one-third the size. Because of how small it is, and its adorable design to look like a modern SLR, this camera is one that you could easily leave on your cat’s collar at all times. The camera is not water or dirt resistant, however, so we would only recommend this for indoor cats.
Accessing the recordings on this camera is by far the easiest. Simply plug it into your computer and drag the file across. The camera itself has only a single button and you will never feel like you need more.
For ease of use and the most aesthetically pleasing design, the Purr Shop Mini HD Cat Collar Camera is the camera to choose from.
Pros
- Small, adorable design
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not water or dirt resistant
- Lower quality video than more expensive counterparts
7. Best Budget Pick: Uncle Milton’s Pet's Eye View Camera
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The cheapest cat collar camera by a large margin, it offers time-delayed photos as clear as the Eyenimal.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 6 x 1.6 x 2 inches, 5.6 ounces
- Video: None
- Picture: 640×480 JPG
- Storage: 4GB internal memory
- Battery: 2xAAA batteries (included)
- Includes: USB cable, user’s guide
Uncle Milton’s Pet’s Eye View Camera is the epitome of economy. Less than ten dollars, it offers time-delayed photos, rather than video, saving both memory and battery life. It is the only camera that is powered by standard AAA batteries, while no microSD card is necessary.
The images of the photos are as good as those taken by both the Eyenimal and the Purr Shop cameras, and retrieving the photos is just as easy. While the design of the case is not as brilliant as the Eyenimal, it is a far sight better than the Kodak PixPro.
It was a disappointing surprise to discover the Pet’s Eye View camera is so heavy but, again, not worse than the Kodak PixPro. While not something you would want to be kept on the collar permanently, for a source of home entertainment at a low price, this camera is perfect.
Pros
- Designed for collars
- The cheapest device on the market
- Easy to use
Cons
- Only photos, no video
- Heavier than expected
Guide to Buying the Best Cat Collar Cameras in 2024
A cat collar camera can be a luxury or necessity; an expensive device used to turn your feline friend into the next internet sensation or an inexpensive way to keep track of their comings and goings. Knowing how you are going to use the camera informs the type of camera you need. When you know that, finding the right camera will come easily.
The Wonderful World of Cat Celebrities
Since the internet was born, we have wanted to use it to look at cats. They are cute, crazy, and full of life. Some of these cats became celebrities, the most famous of them even getting Hollywood movies made about them. It comes as no surprise, then, that there exists a documentary filmed by cats.
Of course, no cat could ever be as beautiful, as full of personality as our own. That is why the world needs to see them, see how amazing they are, and, most importantly, see the world through their eyes.
To find the right cat collar camera for our budding cinematographers, we need to consider image quality and stabilization. To edit the videos, we need to make sure we have files that can easily be accessed and are easy to manipulate. We might even consider the desire to stream our cat’s adventure’s live, for the world to experience in-the-moment.
Knowledge Is Security
It’s not only the star-struck that consider the need for a cat collar camera. Having the ability to see through the eyes of your furry friend means you know what they are doing, where they are, and if they are safe. Video quality isn’t as important as battery life.
The ability to stream becomes not as important as a cat’s willingness to wear their camera all the time. Small, unobtrusive cameras, like the Supoggy Mini Spy Camera, appeal to us for their size and weight as much as the quality of the image.
The knowledge that the Eyenimal Pet Agility Camera has been chosen by universities undertaking research is encouraging too.
We might not even need a camera at all. If we are not worried about the what, and only the where, then a high-quality device like the Jiobit Pet Tracker may actually be a better option.
Understanding Camera Specifications
When looking for the right cat collar camera for your pet, you find yourself bombarded by numbers and jargon that can be quite scary at first. You might ask yourself, “What is “h264” and why do I need 32GB of space?”
It’s helpful to understand what you are looking at and why the camera manufacturers think you might care. Fortunately, with the best cameras, there are only a few numbers we need to worry about, and only one rule of thumb is needed. Good videos don’t need large numbers. But for the best quality available, the bigger the number, the better the recording.
Quality
The quality of a video is often also referred to as the “resolution”. It is measured in the number of “pixels” an image uses, and the larger that number the better. 4K is currently the standard of the best TVs and is the highest resolution offered by services like YouTube.
More commonly, videos you see online are in 1080p, the resolution of a standard Blu-ray disc. That isn’t to mean a lower quality video or picture, like 640×480, is hard to watch. This was the quality of our computer screens only a while ago.
Framerate
Measured in “Frames Per Second” (fps), the framerate of a video is the other important number when considering cameras. Unless it is mentioned otherwise, a video camera films at 30fps. This is slightly more than what you see in cinemas. However, cameras that film at higher rates often playback on our screens smoother, especially when there is a lot of movement on-screen. When we get to frame rates as high as 120fps, we have the benefit of slowing down records to create quality “slow-motion” videos.
Storage
Most of the cameras on our list use microSD cards, small pieces of plastic and metal that hold a large amount of information. How much? Well, a 32GB card can hold the same space as 7 DVDs.
If we are filming in high-resolution, each frame can take up a lot of space, and it can be surprising how quickly such a large amount of storage can fill. On the other hand, a lower quality video allows hours of recording time to be stored on the same card.
Frequently Asked Questions
In case you still have questions, we’ve answered the most commonly asked ones below.
My Cat Already Doesn’t Like Her Collar. Will She Even Wear a Camera?
Some cameras can indeed be quite bulky. However, some cameras, like the Eyenimal Pet Agility Camera, were specifically designed with comfort in mind. Others, like the Supoggy Mini Spy Camera, weigh less than a AA battery and will be noticed no more than a nametag.
Can Cat Collar Cameras Be Used for Other Animals or Me?
YES! While we have picked the best cameras for cats in this list, all can be used for home security or attaching to the collar of a more canine friend. Cameras like the GoPro Hero8 are also perfect for taking on holiday or capturing those crazy moments (like jumping out of planes or surfing big waves).
What Do I Need to Know About Privacy Laws?
It is important to look up laws in your local jurisdiction around filming others and their property. This may be of particular importance if your cat tends to enter your neighbor’s yard.
If I’m Streaming My Video, Who Else Can See It?
This depends on where you stream it! If you are streaming to your phone, like the Kodak PixPro can, only you (and anyone looking over your shoulder) can see it. However, if you decide to use the streaming choices available on a camera like the GoPro Hero8, you need to make sure to choose the right settings if you don’t want the whole world to watch along with you.
Everywhere! While YouTube is the most common place to find our favorite cat videos, they can be put up everywhere, from TikTok to Facebook. You can even submit them to international film festivals!
Follow Your Furry Friend Everywhere!
Cat collar cameras can come with a wide variety of functions, benefits, and prices. From the Hollywood-quality camera for your feline superstar to the long-lasting, form-fitting devices used by researchers, this list is sure to have the camera for your specific needs.
