How To Leash Train A Cat

Make Sure Your Cat Is Safe

Cats that spend time outdoors are more likely to get fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other parasites. Discuss preventative options with your vet to make sure your cat is safe and protected while enjoying time outside.

Stay away from things that may startle your cat, such as busy roads and barking dogs, while outside. Even though a cat may be trained to walk on a leash, different situations may scare it and cause it to be afraid of going on a future walk.

Will Your Cat Walk On A Leash Outside

After spending several days of training our cat with the harness, we decided it was time to introduce Rajah to the backyard. Although your cat may be comfortable walking around the house in a harness, your cat may not be ready to go on walks yet. “It’s important to keep in mind that many cats who have been exclusively indoors may not be well-suited for spending time outdoors,” adds Dr. Koski. “Pay attention to body language, and respect what your cat is trying to tell you.”

If you have a fenced-in backyard, it’s a great place to start if, by chance, they get away from you. Our cats have gotten out on occasion without any restraint. Because they’re indoor cats, they are more apprehensive about scaling a fence or climbing up a tree because it’s a foreign environment . It’s safer to have any type of containment for your cat and for you, in case they get nervous or aggressive.

If you don’t have a yard, start somewhere outside where you have some control. Usually, if we leave a door open, both cats can’t wait to jump out like it’s a prison break. However, with a harness and leash attached, their first steps were a little more apprehensive.

Our approach was to be very mindful of his reaction to everything he was suddenly experiencing. We also spoke in soft tones and had treats ready to reaffirm this positive experience. What I noticed quickly was his sense of touch. He was much more comfortable on the cement patio or on the firm dirt of the garden beds, as opposed to the grass.

How To Get Your Cat Comfortable In A Harness

• Put the harness on the ground and when your cat goes over to investigate it, give her a treat for sniffing or touching it.
• Touch your cat with the harness, and then give a treat .
• Gradually work up to putting the harness on , and then fastening it loosely, then making it a proper fit, then leaving it on for longer periods of time. This can take several days or even weeks.
• When you finally get the harness on her, have her do things that distract her from wearing the harness, like playing with her favorite toy so that she runs and jumps.
• When she’s comfortable with the harness, then you can clip the leash to it and let her drag it so she gets used to the weight.
• Once shes comfortable with it, you can start taking her outside but remember that walking a cat will usually involve staying in one area to explore rather than walking a distance towards a destination.

But do pay attention to what your cat is telling you not all cats will tolerate a harness , and not all cats want to go outside, Dr. Koski explained.

Also keep in mind that if your cat is naturally skittish and shy, your cat might just be too afraid to have a pleasant experience outdoors.

In that case, focus on other types of indoor enrichment that will bring novelty and enjoyment to her life, Dr. Koski said.

In that case, make sure you have cat condos, tunnels and plenty of fun toys for your cat to play with inside!

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Walks Aren’t Just For The Dogs

Ever thought about actually doing it? Actually training your cat to walk outside on a leash?

It might seem strange, but some cats actually love getting outside and being able to safely explore the big, exciting world that theyre always watching from their window perches.

So in order to get you out of your comfort zone, and get your cat into a harness, The Dodo spoke to Dr. Marci K. Koski, a certified feline behavior and training consultant at Feline Behavior Solutions in Vancouver, for some tips.

Walking a cat with a harness and leash is a different experience than that with a dog while dogs will generally head in one direction towards a destination, cats tend to meander and explore their immediate area, Dr. Koski told The Dodo.

So keep that in mind when youre gearing up to leash train your cat you might have to adjust your expectations if youre used to walking a dog.

Here Are A Few Tips And Tricks For A Successful Walking Routine With Your Cat:

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Pros And Cons Of Outdoor Cats

Outdoor cats do have some advantages over a strictly indoor cat, but that benefit doesn’t come without risk. If you are thinking about letting your cat roam free outdoors, there are some pros and cons, so check out this list before you set your pretty kitty free:

Enhanced Activity

Pro – Outdoor cats get way more exercise because they can climb trees and leap fences on their daily adventures. They tend to be very muscular and are less prone to weight issues and joint problems as they age.

Con – Unsupervised, outdoor cats can be injured or get stuck with no one around to help them. They tend to do riskier things like climbing trees or even getting on the roof.

Natural Instincts

Pro – They get to hone their natural foraging and hunting skills. This is both physically and mentally stimulating and can lead to an overall more satisfied kitty.

Con – They could be bold enough to take on a foe that could injure them back or pass along something dangerous like rabies. Additionally, you have no control over what they catch and eat, so it can be hard to ensure they are getting a complete and nutritionally balanced diet.

Exciting Exploration

Pro – They have a much larger and more enriching environment to explore. They have a huge advantage over an indoor cat in this regard. Beautiful scenery, more stimulating sights and sounds, and they learn to adapt to changes in the environment, like the weather.

Socialization

Make Sure Your Cat Is Up

The outside world poses risks to your cat that you might not consider when she lives indoors full-time. All cats should be on regular preventative medications, like for fleas and ticks, and should have their essential vaccinations. This is especially true for cats that want to enjoy the outside world.

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Before You Venture Outdoors

While it may seem like a great form of exercise for any kitty, not all cats will enjoy going for walks with you. Some cats may find leaving your home to be just too overwhelming, and other cats won’t enjoy being tethered to any kind of walking tool. It’s important to ensure your kitty is confident and comfortable with the activity before you go outdoors. This begins with the harness!

Leash Training: How To Leash Train A Cat Or Kitty

Cat leash training may sound like a strange idea to some, but many cat owners have warmed up to the idea because of the benefits it brings. If youre raising an indoor cat, leash training provides a safe way for it to get some exercise and explore the world outside. A leash-trained cat would also be easier to take with you on holidays or trips to the vet. Apart from the health and practical benefits, taking regular walks together also offers unlimited chances for you to bond with your feline friend & because of the leash, there is less chance of getting lost, especially in the park.

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Go For An Indoor Walk

Once your cat is used to the leash tension, it is time to go for an indoor walk. During this training time, you are going to take the lead. Gently direct your cat the way you want him to go by using vocal cues like, Come on, kitty, or dropping treats for them to follow as you walk. Make sure to reward your cat with treats when they decide to walk on their own.

Slowly Introduce The Harness To Your Cat

When first showing your cat the harness, allow him to sniff and play with it before attempting to put it on. While spending time with or in the harness, give him plenty of treats and wet food to reinforce positive associations. If your cat seems disinterested or uncomfortable in the harness, Woodard suggests trying different strap thicknesses, or giving it a spritz of stress relief spray to make it more appealing.

Once you buckle the harness, allow your cat to move around the house freely and get comfortable. When sizing your cat, make sure the harness is snug, but not too tight, Woodard says. Observe your cat as he moves around in the house, checking that hes not wiggling out. When youre practicing in your home, it is really important to check for safety before ever going outside, Woodard adds.

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Leash Training My Cat

Ever since my cat Roxie was an itty-bitty kitten, she was absolutely fascinated with the outdoors. Shed sit by the sliding glass doors in our home and paw at them wistfully, absolutely enthralled by anything that moved. Like any pet parent, I was highly protective of her, but I knew that I eventually wanted to start leash training this cat and letting her venture outdoorshere goes nothing!

I do not recommend attaching a leash directly to the cat’s collar for two reasons, Shojai is sure to note.

First, pulling against the leash via the collar could potentially injure your cats neck. A cat’s head is about the same circumference as her neck and the feline neck is pretty fragile, she explains. Second, a cat’s collar readily comes off over the head with tugging, and your cat may become frightened and escape.

Consider a two-in-one harness and leash like the Red Dingo Classic Nylon Cat Harness & Leash. The harness is adjustable and features a safety release in case your cat gets caught in a tight spot.

The Comfort Soft Mesh Cat Harness is another option. It offers great support and evenly distributes leash pressure across your kitty’s chest to prevent neck discomfort. The harness should feel snug but not too tight you should be able to place two fingers between the harness and your cat’s body.

Taking Your Cat For A Walk: How I Leash Trained My Cat

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If youve ever considered taking your cat for a walk, it can be a great way to introduce your inside cat to a safe and enriching outside experience. I have had both outdoor and indoor cats, and although its a much safer option for cats to be inside, theres no reason you can’t have your cat enjoy the outdoors.

We have a great article on How to Walk Your Cat on a Leash, so I wanted to see if I could leash train my two cats and if they would enjoy walking outside.

First, its important to note that you shouldnt just put a harness and leash on your cat and walk right out the door. Introducing any new experience to your animals should be well planned, and you need to be mindful of your cats mental and physical health. Signs of stress you will want to look out for include:

• Trembling
• Trying to escape
• Hiding under something
• Freezing in place

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Leash Training For A Happier More Confident Cat

Leash training your cat can be one of your most rewarding experiences as a pet parent:

• It makes for a cat who is more self-assured and outgoing.
• Your cat can explore the outdoors more safely.
• It enhances the bond you have with your cat.

Many people who have tried leash training their cats give up as soon their feline friends flop over in a harness and refuse to get up, but you can successfully leash train your cat if you learn a few tricks.

First, you need a harness the cat cant easily slip out of. Best are walking vests, but they are also the most confining. A well-fitted strap harness that is made specifically for cats can work well. You should be able to just fit a finger or two under the strap. The D ring should be right behind the shoulder blades. There are a lot of cute dog harnesses, but your cat might be able to slip out of a harness made for a dog.

Once you have a harness and a lightweight 6-foot leash, you need to persuade your cat that using them is something he would enjoy.

Once your cat is used to being on leash and moves comfortably, gradually introduce him to the outdoors. Take him out in your backyard or somewhere that is quiet and close to home. He may be nervous at first, so take him out for only a few minutes at a time. Gradually, hell learn that its a fascinating world out there and start to explore and have fun.

Words of caution:

Never Pull On The Leash

As the cat is an independent animal,it will never appreciate that you pull on the leash to give it direction. This will only create kitty frustration and cause him to rebel.

In addition, if any element causes panic in your feline and he gets agitated, do not pull the leash to direct him towards you, because he will be totally lost between the element that makes him panic and you. who pull him in your direction in spite of himself. Instead, take him in your arms and stroke him to reassure him, and once calm, put him down again and get back on the road.

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Ready To Go Walking With Your Cat

Now that you’re ready to go walking, Jones recommends that you bring with you:

• Something with you that can get their attention in an emergency, such as a favorite toy or a very special treat
• A heavy towel or blanket to throw on the cat in case of an emergency to keep them from bolting, protect them, or pick them up with
• Your cat carrier

Take the cat outside in the carrier and take them out in the area you will be walking. Keep your initial walks very short and look for any possible behavioral problems with your cat. If all is going well, you can extend your walks further. Don’t forget when you’re done, the cat goes in the carrier before you bring them back inside the house.

Picking Out A Cat Leash

There are many different leashes on the market. Retractable leashes, bungee leashes, braided leashes, nylon leashes the list goes on. A basic 5 or 6 foot leash is the best kind to start with though. These leashes are lightweight, which is what you want in a cat leash. The length is ideal as well. You dont want something too long, especially when youre first starting out. A shorter length gives you more control and keeps your cat close by.

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Final Thoughts: How To Leash Train A Cat

Although weve often taken a lighthearted approach here, our bottom line is that training your cat to accept a leash is a great way to ensure a longer, happier life for that precious feline.

When the process gets slow and frustrating, just remember that ancient kings had leash-trained Cheetahs at their sides. If they were able to train cheetahs, you can learn how to leash train a cat!

Good luck it can really work, and in the end, your cat will be grateful for it.