How to Walk Your Cat On a Leash

Harness and Leash

Purchase a leash and harness (you might have better luck in the dog isle finding the right products). The more lightweight and less noticeable the leash, the better. I have found a retractable leash to be the best fit, as it allows for a greater circumference of movement and freedom. Because it retracts, it also keeps the leash from resting on the cat’s back (very annoying to cats). The harness should fit snug, but loose enough for two fingers to slide under it. Attaching a leash to a collar is not appropriate, as it will choke your cat uncomfortably and is easier to escape from.

Getting Used to the Harness

Slowly let your cat get used to the harness by letting him or her sniff it, play with it, and hang out with it for a few days.

Putting On Harness

When you’re ready, fasten the harness on the cat in a place where he or she feels safest and relaxed.

Playing With Harness On

Once the harness is on, practice playing with your cat while he/she is wearing it to get him or her used to it and to associate harness-wearing with fun-having. Eventually, attach the leash, and continue with play-time.

Walking a Cat on a Leash

Once your cat is used to wearing the harness and leash, you are ready to take him or her out to explore (I don’t use the term “walk”, because “explore” is a more accurate description of what it will be like).

More Exploring

Try not to get frustrated if you don’t go too far at first. It will be a more enjoyable experience for you and your cat if you just allow him or her to discover the outside at his or her own pace. Your cat might want to take time to sniff things, stop near the safety of a tree to look around, jump up to higher points to look around, or just rest in the shade.

Sitting Defiantly

If you try and force your cat to walk in a straight line like an obedient dog, it is most likely your cat will simply stop, sit, and stare at you defiantly.

Branching Out

Eventually, as your cat gets more used to the route you explore, he or she will feel more comfortable branching out and “walking” further each time.

Treat Time!

Once you’re back home and the harness is off, reward your cat with his or her favorite treats.