Cat leash walking has been a trend recently. Gone are the days that cats are just lying and running around the house. Nowadays, cats want to be as active with their favorite humans. For instance, cat hiking has now become popular and this trend allows for felines to be out in the wild doing some adventure with their families. Of course, free-roaming cats as well as the cat leash walking idea are two different concepts. Below, you will learn what cat leash walking is all about and if it’s okay for your cat.
Table of Contents
How to leash walk a cat successfully
Start young
If you’re going to commit to this task, it’s very important to consider the age of your cat. The younger to begin leash walking your cat, the easier it is for you to train him. Aside from that, the younger your cat is, the easier it is for you to establish and reliable routine as well as create a pack mentality. Walking a young cat is definitely a different experience compared to walking an adult cat.
Collar vs. Harness
Cat leash walking is proven to be more successful and effective if you use a harness. According to experts, a harness is a very secure and safe option for walking felines. In addition to that, there’s no way for your cat to slide out of his harness, unlike when using a collar. Surely, the use of harness, leash, as well as identification collar adds extra safety measures in case your cat gets lost.
Cat leashes
Walking with a leashed cat can be a very different experience than walking a leashed dog, because of the different styles of leashes. Essentially, cat leashes are typically looser compared to what the dogs use as they are designed to provide opportunities for felines to explore their spaces. Also, with the leash being looser, the walker can’t be able to fully control it. It gives you a chance to keep tabs on your cat, most especially if he wants to prowl on his own.
Routine
If leash walking your cat is incorporated into his daily routine, at his young age you’ll surely see a long-term form of habit. Surely, your furry pal will become even more accustomed to the family activity’s routine and it will also become even more familiar to them if you do this regularly.
Trust
There’s a trust level that comes with walking with your cat. Cats are naturally skittish and the act of leash walking your cat may be a scary experience for him at first but if you do this activity regularly, your cat will trust you even more. It is a good idea to build more trust over time with short outings and familiar places, and let your feline companion lead the way.
Patience
Leash walking your cat requires high patience. Whether you’re walking your cats professionally or you are just simply a loving feline owner, being patient and taking the time is a good step in the correct direction. Remember that this is a new and exciting experience for you and your furry pal.
How to put on a cat harness – video
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Common questions about cat leash walking
How long does it take for a cat to get used to a harness?
Generally, it might take days or even weeks to get your furry pal comfortable in his harness. But once your cat is already used to putting his harness on and walking normally, it is time to attach his leash. Again, remember that if your cat does not seem to adjust to his harness, that is totally fine and you shouldn’t force him. Instead, you can have an indoor adventure with your cat instead.
Do cats like to be walked?
Not all kitties would want to be leash walked, however, every cat must be given the opportunity. Leash walking your cat can actually provide him with a more enriched life aside from staying indoors. Many cats love to go outdoors and smell new things, roll around in grass, dirt, and sand, as well as see many things. They like to scratch real trees too.
Why does my cat fall over when I put a harness on him?
Many kitties will freeze or fall over when they feel their harness since it triggers a survival response, which they will employ if they are grabbed by their predator. As a cat parent, you need to help your cat move through this natural behavior using a highly attractive motivation such as a treat or toy, and lots of praises.
Conclusion
The most important aspect of leash walking your cat is the pet-human bond. The concept that your cat is part of your family is very engaging and promotes both human and feline healthy lifestyle. It is a unique and fun family-friendly activity that allows for interactive play and bonding. So, on your next family walk, make sure to take along your best feline companion.
