Cat Leashes

Leash training your cat begins with getting your feline comfortable wearing a harness and leash. This process often requires diligence and patience. Every cat is different, and some will take longer to train, while others may never learn to accept a cat harness and leash. For these cats, cat carriers and containment can be another option when moving locations with them.

First, to start putting your cat harness and leash on, fit your cat with a comfortable cat collar. Next, place the harness near them while they eat, so they begin to connect it with a positive experience. Click the snaps or peel back Velcro of the harness, so your pet gets used to the sound.

After a while, place the harness on your cat but don’t cinch it. Give your cat treats or put on the harness right before they eat in order to quickly move their attention to something positive. Your cat may freeze or wriggle out of the harness. Keep trying. Each day, keep the harness on a bit longer and reward your kitty with food or praise.

When your cat gets used to the harness, begin securing it. The harness should be snug enough that your cat can’t back out of it but loose enough that you can fit two fingers between the harness and your cat.

Continue securing the harness. Next, clip on the leash. Let your cat drag the leash for a few days around the house for short periods, and then hold the leash loosely. Once your cat grows accustomed to the leash, you and your feline are ready to go outside.

Don’t expect to walk your cat the same way you would walk a dog. Cats prefer to explore the outdoors in their own way and at their own pace. Let your cat take the lead. Many felines enjoy sniffing plants, rolling in the grass and lazing in the sun.

Many pet parents can train their cats to walk on a leash. Begin by calling your cat’s name and tugging gently on the cat lead. When your cat responds by moving toward the direction you indicated, give them a treat. Over time, you can teach your cat to tolerate moving in the direction you want or returning to you when it’s time to go inside.

Leash training a cat can add a lot of fun, excitement and stimulation to a cat’s day. It can also allow pet parents to take their cats on trips and make bringing felines to the vet easier. For some cats, learning to accept a cat leash is a very positive experience. However, not every cat will accept leash training. Some cats are more adventurous than others.

Additionally, leash training takes a lot of dedication and patience on the part of the pet parent. If your cat continues to show discomfort or anxiety during any part of the leash training even after weeks of practice, consider professional training, or that leash training may not be a good idea for your particular feline. There are still many other ways you can bond with your kitty indoors.