How to Measure Your Cat for a Sweater or Costume

Write down three measurements

Use a soft measuring tape while your cat is standing comfortably. Measure around the base of the neck where the neckline would sit, around the fullest part of the chest behind the front legs, and along the back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Keep the tape level around the body, touching the coat without pulling it tight. If your cat moves away, stop and try another time.

Record the units as well as the numbers. One inch equals 2.54 centimeters. Keep your original measurements so you can compare them with either an inch or a metric chart.

Find out what the chart measures

A body-measurement chart describes the cat the garment is designed to fit. A garment-measurement chart describes the finished item itself. A chest width measured across a sweater laid flat is different from a measurement taken all the way around a cat. Look for a diagram or an explicit label before comparing the two.

When a product page lists only S, M or L, a chart for another product cannot establish fit. Choose an item with measurements for its own options or ask for the missing dimensions.

Once you have the three numbers, compare them with the size chart on each item in our cat clothes range before you order.

Check the neckline, leg openings and hem

Look at how the garment opens and where it fastens. Check that the neckline passes comfortably over the head or opens wide enough, the front-leg openings allow normal steps, and the back hem leaves the tail and litter-box area clear.

For a costume, check where decorative parts hang when the cat walks. Avoid putting anything over the eyes, ears or whiskers. Supervise wear, and remove the garment if your cat freezes, struggles, or repeatedly tries to pull it off. A seasonal photo can work just as well with a blanket or decoration beside your cat.