Almost everyone who has a dog, also has a collar and leash that let’s them going walking together on lovely days. But, only an elite few can walk their cats. If you would like to give your cat an opportunity to explore the out-of-doors safely, a cat harness and leash may be right for you!

Most cats can be harness trained. For a cat, the advantage of a harness and leash versus a collar is that a harness you will allow you to control your cat without accidentally choking them. There are several types of harnesses for cats: the figure eight, the H-harness, the V-style harness, and the walking jacket.

In a cat harness, you should look for light weight materials that can be cleaned. The harness should be adjustable and the correct size for your cat. You will have a choice of colors which you can use to complement your cat’s color or personality.

Avoid a leather harness as these are heavy. Try for a lightweight nylon or cotton harness. The figure eight style harnesses are a safer choice since they tighten if the cat pulls, thereby preventing the cat from slipping out.

However, the H-style or V-style harnesses tend to be a little easier for owners to put on. A new harness style that seems to be catching on is the Walking Jacket for cats. The Walking Cat Jacket is manufactured by Metpet and available on-line. The jacket is easy on your cat and easy on you.

Give your cat time to get used to the harness indoors before you try your first walk. Being confined by the harness will be a new and perhaps unpleasant experience, at first.

Go slowly, praise your cat, and never yank on the leash. If you start training your cat for walking with you when it is a kitten - about 6 or 7 months old, it will be easier. However, training an adult cat to walk on a leash is possible.

Cat Walking Jacket   

Posted by Barbara.