How to Train Your Cat to Walk on a Leash
Nowadays, it's always a good idea if your cat goes outside, to have them walk on a leash. both urban and rural environments are dangerous and your cat's safety should be a factor in your cat's life. Many shelters will not even let you adopt a cat if they go outside, but will make exceptions for cats taken outside on leashes. So it's well worth your effort to train your cat to walk on a leash, because then you get to do cool things like take them on car trips!Things You Will Need
CatHarness
Quick-release leash
Step 1
First you will need to accustom your cat to the harness. Harnesses are much safer than collars, because if there is a pull, the force is distributed evenly over the cat's chest and back area. With just a collar, your cat could get tangled on something and choke.Rub the harness all over yourself, then lay it down on the floor and walk away. Let your cat smell and investigate the harness.
Step 2
Lay the harness over your cat, and pet him or her and talk in a reassuring tone of voice.Step 3
Close up the chest area buckle while petting and talking to your cat.Step 4
Still talking to and petting your cat, close the neck buckle loosely.Step 5
Now let your cat get accustomed to wearing the harness.Some cats will take to a harness right away; others will pretend that a one-ounce harness weighs ten tons. Simply remind yourself to be amused at your cat's antics if this happens; as soon as he or she sees a butterfly your cat will forget all about the harness and be off in a flash!
Step 6
Your cat may wriggle out of the harness; simply repeat the steps above. Repetition breeds familiarity.Step 7
Once your cat is accustomed to wearing the harness, it's time to add the leash. Choose one with a quick-release clip in case of an emergency, or if your cat suddenly takes it into his or her head to climb a tree. Fasten the leash to the middle of the harness, halfway between the neck buckle and chest buckle.Step 8
Allow your cat to come with you outside. Cats who are timid may need time and coaxing, but soon they will love going outdoors. Cats will pull on the leash at first; eventually they will settle down and walk with you.Training your cat to walk on a leash ensures your cat's safety, and allows them to accompany you, whether on short errands, or on longer car trips. Going for a walk with your cat is good exercise for both of you, and will serve to make your cat's life much more interesting and safer.
Tips & Warnings
If your cat suddenly decides to climb a tree, let the quick-release go. Don't risk getting the leash tangled in the branches. As your cat comes down, that is the time to reattach the leash.Please never let your cat roam free. There are too many dangers and you don't want to risk your cat's life!
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Comments
Very good article that has all of the features that readers look for including accurate content, interesting information, and great ideas!
My cat is fine once the harness is on, but sometimes, especially when he wants to go outside forget it I can't get it on him because he starts hissing and freaking out when I try to get it around his second leg (no problem with the first leg, he even lifts it up for me). I found that giving him treats or even hand feeding him his regular food while putting on the harness works best. Once its on him, no problems.
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