How to Leash Train Your Cat

When you think of a leash, you probably think of a dog. But for indoor or declawed cats, a leash can be a great way to explore the outdoors without the threats of cars or other animals.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• your cat
• a collar
• a leash
• possible a small harness

1. GETTING STARTED
   
   If you cat has never worn a collar before, start slow with jut that. Put the collar on her and let her get used to it for a few days. Make sure the collar is not too tight. While your cat is getting used to her new collar, consider getting a personalized name tag with your phone number on it.

2. THE LEASH
   
   After your cat is used to the collar, trying adding the leash (and harness, if you are using one). Stay inside, in a safe area, where the cat can't run away and get hurt with the leash attached. Don't hold the leash, and let the cat explore around the room with the leash dragging behind. This may take a couple of times.

3. MOVING OUTDOORS
   
   Pick a nice day, at a quiet time. Indoor cats get spooked easily from outside noses. Car doors, traffic, even people can be very intemidating to a first timer. Put the collar/harness and leash on before going out. Then bring your cat out. You can either hold the leash, or attach it to something (like a tree or your stairrail). Stay outside with the cat (she'll probably hang out by the door the first time). Bring treats, food, water or a favorite toy. Make the first few attempts short. Soon your cat will be sitting at the door, waiting to go out!