How to get your cat to walk with you.

 

At Mother of Bengals, we love to take our Weimaraner, Christoph, for walks around the neighborhood. We wanted to join a movement of enthusiastic cat owners buying harnesses and allowing them to experience the world while keeping them from running out into traffic. 

For a while now, most cat owners have been confining their feline friends into their abodes.  We know that Vets recommend that this will significantly extend their life by protecting them from predators and disease.  They're also those that believe cats cause significant problems to ecosystems by killing mammals and birds.    Our kitties' ancestors survived deserts and jungles, and this is a part of their DNA. And getting in touch with what their ancestral activities will behoove you and them. 

 

When is it a good time to start?

It is best to start walking your cat when they are fully vaccinated. It will be safe to go on walks and protect your kitty from other animals.   The sooner you start, the better.   Elderly cats may be stubborn or frightened because they are stuck in their ways.  Your kitty may have a general fear of the outside or noises.  Taking them outside with you on a leash will help to get them acclimated.  Being patient is the key, as it could take months.   Use treats and praise, including gentle rubs and snuggles.   They will respond to you positively if you do the same. 

 

Selecting the Proper Harness

A simple collar will not be feasible.  Kitties are very agile, and they will slip out with ease testing your kitty catching skills.   A harness that wraps around the body and neck while adjustable is a deal.  The harness should fit snug but not too restrictive and tight.  If you can fit just two fingers within, it is a perfect fit.  Do not use breakaway collars or harnesses. 

  

Introducing the Harness

Start slowly and take your cat to its favorite area.  Please be patient and offer treats.  Bring the harness along.  Start to place the harness over their head a few times. Eventually, she will feel comfortable and not mind the harness.  Tighten the harness a few times while offering positive reinforcement. Leave it on for a short time then keep increasing the period each occasion.

Add a Leash

Once your cat has allowed a harness, it will enable her to wear it around the house. Feed her treats and provide positive reinforcements. Attach the leash to the harness and used to the extra weight. Make sure she doesn't get tangled, dragging the leash.

Try not to pull on the leash and don't follow her around yet.  Let her lead the show.

Now its time to go outdoors. Start with a short walk to get used to the outdoor scents and noise. Then it is time to go around the block. Choose the quietest and safest locations for your cat to walk.

 

 

How to Walk a Cat Safely

Always leave the collar on just in case your kitty gets away. A good collar will have identification.  Sometimes your kitty may have a panic attack, so bringing along a stroller or carrier will help. Also, in the event of a free-roaming dog or animal, you can place your kitty in a safe location.

If your kitty is spayed or neutered, there is a decrease chance of escape and getting out of control. Try to set a consistent walk schedule to have something you and your kitty looks forward too. Cats cannot be on a pole like a horse or a dog, even for a short time. If you plan on going into a store, be sure to take your carrier.

 

Walking your kitty will be an enjoyable experience for you and your furry best friend while increasing their lifespan and quality of life.

Have a gander at our harnesses

We have tested these on our Bengal friends and they are quality stamped and approved to last for many years.