Cat Harness

Step 1: Get a harness

Purchase a harness that fits your cat properly and a leash. It is not advisable to take your cat outside on a collar, as it could choke them or make them very uncomfortable. A harness distributes the weight on his shoulders and body, not his neck.

Measure my Cat for a Harness

Cat Smelling his Harness

Step 2: The introduction

Your cat loves to get acquainted with anything new by giving it a good sniff, so let them sniff away at the leash and harness.

When he is done taking in all this new information, reward them. Leave the harness near them so they can get used to it. Also, clip and unclip the harness near him so he gets accustomed to the sound.

Note: One encounter may be enough, and your cat might be fine with the harness but if he does feel stressed, do this a few times until he is comfortable with it. When he’s ready, move on to the next phase.

Cat Wearing a Harness

Step 3 : The fitting

Putting the harness on:
For this phase, leave the leash out of it. Just concentrate on the harness. Now clip the harness on your cat. And reward them well. Do this a few times before you let them walk in it, depending on how comfortable they seem.

Note : Pick your time well. Every cat is different but be sure to pick a time when your cat is relaxed.

Cat Wearing a Leash and Harness

Step 4: The indoor walk

It’s time to let your cat walk in the harness. As they get comfortable, let them go around their daily business with the harness. Keep these sessions short and as he gets comfortable with walking, lengthen them. Over time, leave the harness on longer and longer, and don’t forget to reward them! Have patience and next thing you know he’ll be walking quite normally in them.

Note: Your cat may be very uncomfortable walking around in the harness the first time, they might wiggle and even just lay down. Just give them time to adapt.

Cat Walking in his Harness

Step 5: First outside visit

The first time you take your cat outside, follow them and watch where they go. It's important not to try training a furry friend right away; instead let him explore his surroundings without any prompts from humans before we get started! Repeat for as long as it takes for them to get comfortable.

Note : Start with short visits outside and let them tell you when they're ready for more

Cat walking in his Harness

Step 6: Outdoor training

Once your cat is comfortable with the outside, start training them to walk beside you. Always bring a bag of treats for their outdoor visit.

If your cat knows their name, this step will be much easier. Take a few steps in a direction while applying gentle pressure on their leash.

Your cat might be spooked by the sound of your feet, but once the sound becomes more familiar it will no longer be intimidating.

Repeat this exercise often and call out their name when they won’t move. When you call out their name and they head in the same direction as you, give them a reward.

This is a behavioural training exercise that requires patience, but cats do respond well to training. Just remember to be patient because this process can take a while.

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