Curious about leash walking your cat?

  

Your cat loves sniffing the air through the window, and you’d love to take them for a walk for some exercise too, but leash walking a cat? Yes, it’s possible and leash walking is a great way to provide your cat with mental stimulation, exercise and socialization with your neighbors. And it keeps them safe from outdoor hazards like vehicles, wild animals and risks like becoming stuck in a tree or getting lost.

Keep in mind that not all cats will love the idea of walking on a leash, while other cats, especially cats that are trained young, may be excited to head out on a walk when they hear their leash come out! Many cats fall somewhere in between and will happily walk alongside of you, greet people they meet along the way and watch all the activity of your neighborhood.

Teaching your cat to use a harness and a leash

• The first step is purchasing a harness that’s the right size—and specifically designed for cats. Many cats can wriggle out of collars or harnesses designed for dogs.
  
• Next, allow your cat to get used to the harness indoors. Use treats as encouragement and try spritzing the harness with cat-calming pheromones. Both of these steps may help your cat form a positive association with leash walking. 
  
• Once your cat is comfortable with their harness, add the leash. Use a lightweight, cat-friendly leash that’s about 4–6' long. 
  
• Avoid retractable or long leashes—your cat could easily scamper up a tree or bound over a fence.
  
• Once the leash is attached, follow your cat as they wander through your home. Next, with the help of treats, lure your cat to start following you around the house (never drag your cat).
   

Stepping outside!
Now that your cat is used to their harness, it’s time to explore!

• Encourage your cat to follow you outdoors. Move slowly, allowing them to set the pace. They’re adjusting to all the new sounds, smells, sights and textures like asphalt or grass.
• Keep the treats on hand, reward your cat and be patient. 
  
• Depending on how busy your neighborhood is, your first few walks should be limited to your yard. 
  
• Over time, increase the length of your walks, taking your cat around the block.
  
• If you encounter off-leash dogs, pick up your cat immediately and look for ways to quickly change your route if needed. 
  
   

Leash walking is the safest way to allow your cat to explore the outdoors, but ensure your cat is wearing identification and is microchipped prior to heading out. Being outside can increase your cat’s chances of picking up fleas, ticks or internal parasites. Before starting your cat’s new exercise and exploration program, be sure to update their vaccinations and protect them with parasite prevention. You can easily check your cat’s vaccine status and refill their parasite prevention on the myVCA app.

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