How to Leash Train a Cat

Most people know how to train a dog to do many things, including walk on a leash. That doesn't mean you can't teach your cat how to walk on a leash.

If you have an indoor cat, but you want to help him or her get some fresh air while being safe, leash training is a great option.

Training a cat to walk on a leash is actually not that difficult, but it does take patience and time. The steps are actually how I trained my cat to walk on a leash.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Something to measure your cat's neck and chest with.
• A harness
• A leash
• Patience, patience, patience.

1. Measure your cat's neck and chest. Keep these measurements on hand when you visit the pet store.

2. At the pet store find the aisle with collars, harnesses, and leashes. Pick out the best sized harness based on your cat's measurements. (You remembered to bring the measurements with you, right?). Then pick out a leash that is short enough to keep your cat by your side when walking.

3. When you get home, take any tags off the harness and leash. Simply put both on the living room floor and encourage your cat to check them out and play with them. You want your cat to get comfortable with the new harness and leash.

4. After your cat has had a few days to become acquainted with the harness and leash, put the harness on your cat. Just put it on the cat for 30 to 60 minutes at a time. Do that two to three days in a row.

5. Once your cat is used to the harness, then it's time to attach the leash. Practice walking together inside the house. Reward your cat for doing a good job. Keep practicing until you feel that your cat seems comfortable enough with the harness and leash. Then you can try taking your cat out for their first walk.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not get your cat a collar if you plan on taking them outside on a leash. They can wiggle out of a collar in no time. Make sure to get a secure harness.
• The first time you try to take them outside for a walk, don't be discouraged if they're very nervous and try to get back inside. It takes them a little while to get used to the idea of their new "freedom."

[1kimmi]

on 12/29/2008 Wow, cool article. Thanks for sharing!

[AprilThomas]

on 12/13/2008 Great idea. My old cat has been gone for 4 years now and I really miss having him around. If I get a new one, leash training will definitely be on the agenda.

[LilBlackDress]

on 12/5/2008 great for cat owners!

[diggitydogg]

on 12/4/2008 This is great advice. Leash training a cat can be a great alternative to a carrier for some cats.

[Pamelateda]

on 12/1/2008 I had no idea you could leash train a cat. Thanks!