How to Walk a Cat in Snow

Cats are always curious about the outdoors and they don't stop to think about weather. Even when there is snow in the winter you can take your cat outside on a walk. A good way to do this and still be safe is to use a leash. Follow these steps to get your cat used to a leash so you can both take a walk together in the snow.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Harness
• Cat leash

1. Purchase a harness (not a collar) and a short leash made for cats if possible. The harness should fit snugly so the cat cannot get loose and leashes made for cats are lighter in weight and should not be too long or retractable. Let your cat become comfortable with the harness and leash by setting them near his favorite sleeping spots for about a week.

2. Get your cat used to the harness inside the house first by preparing a meal, then place the harness on the cat and immediately offer the food as a reward. Spend a week or more practicing inside the house and rewarding frequently and remove the harness once the cat relaxes.

3. Add the leash and let the cat drag it around for awhile to get used to it ensuring that you watch at all times so she does not get hurt. Once she relaxes again pick up the leash, walk around the house with her rewarding with praise and treats.

4. Shovel some snow away from the driveway and begin by walking the cat outside for a short time up and down the driveway. Praise every move in the right direction and quickly move past any mistakes (cats do not respond to discipline like dogs). Allow him to stop and explore things. Be sure to have enough water for your cat to drink before, during and after the walk and keep any water bowls free of ice and snow.

5. Practice taking your cat out for longer times. Bring her out more frequently, but not too long since the cold weather can damage her paws and is unhealthy. Continue clearing spots beforehand since your cat is low to the ground and it's harder for her to get around in deep snow.

Tips & Warnings

• It's easier to teach a younger cat or cats used to being outdoors to walk on a leash in the snow.
• Make sure your cat has tags (or even a microchip) in case she gets loose and make sure she's up to date on her shots before she goes outdoors.
• Do not walk your cat where there is anti-freeze, windshield de-icer or certain salts used to melt ice because it can get on your cats paws and if he licks his paws it can be harmful and even cause death.
• Cats do not walk like dogs so reset your expectations.

[catsachusetts]

on 1/19/2009 SHUT UP! open the door and let your cat out! freaks