We all want our pets to heal quickly and comfortably after surgery or injury. But the traditional plastic cone — also called the “cone of shame” — may be doing the opposite.

Here’s why the cone isn’t always the best choice:

🐾 It causes stress and discomfort.
Cones make it hard for pets to eat, walk through doors, or even rest their heads properly. This discomfort can increase anxiety — and stress is known to slow down healing.

🐾 It messes with their senses.
Plastic cones act like a megaphone for sound, amplifying everyday noises. They also limit your pet’s peripheral vision, which can make them feel disoriented and vulnerable — especially in busy homes.

🐾 It doesn’t offer full protection.
Cones only stop your pet from licking or biting a wound with their mouth. They don’t stop them from scratching it with their paws or rubbing against furniture — and they leave the wound exposed to dirt and germs.