Tractive Cat 6 Mini Review: Battery Life, Fit and Collar Comfort

Lightweight Design and Cat Size Requirements

The Tractive Cat 6 Mini tracker weighs just 1.1 ounces and is designed for cats weighing between 6.6 and 17.6 pounds. Staying within that range helps ensure the breakaway collar opens when needed. Basil weighs 17 pounds, and the Cat 6 Mini fit him comfortably.

The smart collar fits necks between 7.5 and 9 inches. Previous Tracker Mini models attach to an existing collar, so they can fit almost any neck size.

Battery Life Fell Short During Testing

Tractive claims the collar’s battery can last up to seven days for indoor cats. However, the company says it may need to be charged almost every day if a cat regularly roams outdoors. When we tested the smart collar with Basil, an indoor cat, the battery needed to be charged by the fourth day.

Because the tracker is built into the entire collar, I had to remove Basil’s collar more often than I would have liked to charge it. I disliked that he had to go without a collar while it was charging. My anxiety told me that, during this brief period, he might run away. The collar also took several hours to charge, and there were a few times when I forgot to put it back on until the following day.

Adjusting and Removing the Collar Can Be Difficult

Another issue was how difficult it was to remove the collar and adjust its diameter. I have a physical disability that reduces my grip strength and fine motor skills. Although the collar uses a simple loop clasp, its thick material made it difficult to slide the loop under the plastic buckle.

The collar was often either too long or too short and could not be removed without pulling on it to activate the breakaway function. This was stressful for Basil, particularly because the collar needed to be charged every four days.

I wish the clasp could be removed more easily by squeezing the top and bottom. This may not be a significant issue for every pet owner, but it could present a challenge for people with reduced mobility.