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Should a cat have a leash and harness?
04.07.2024 06:10
The issue of walking cats on a leash is a controversial one.
Some opponents of this idea believe that walking in a harness is harmful to cats and contrary to their nature.
However, other people argue that cats can be as good companions as dogs during walks in the park and even during long trips.
But is it really worth giving cats a leash and harness? We'll see what the cats themselves have to say.
Taking your cat for a walk is a good idea.
For some people, walking a cat on a leash may seem funny and unnatural. But there are those who are happy to take their pets for walks in the park, to the country or out of town.
People walking cats are no longer as surprising as they used to be. Walking a cat on a leash allows you to spend time with your beloved pet in the fresh air, which many cat lovers envy.
In addition, walks can provide your pet with new stimuli and experiences that are lacking in the home environment.
Most cats love to explore new surroundings, so your pet may enjoy going for a walk.
Walks and trips are also beneficial to your cat's physical health, especially for those prone to obesity.
In addition, when walking a cat on a leash, we can always control its actions.
Leaving cats unattended can end in tragedy, and using the right cat walking accessories ensures safety and reduces your cat's curiosity.
Can a cat walk on a leash
There really is no reason not to walk your cat on a leash or harness, as long as the accessories you choose are safe for your pet.
However, before you go for a walk, you need to think about whether the cat wants to leave its territory.
Cats are very territorial and can be very attached to their home. If your cat is reserved and doesn't like new adventures, you shouldn't stress him out. But if your pet likes to explore the surrounding area, he'll enjoy a walk on a leash.
How to choose a leash and harness for a cat
It is important to choose the right size harness for your cat so that it is snug enough to keep it from falling out, but not too tight to allow free movement.
Each harness should be individually selected for a specific animal, and it is better to choose models with adjustable straps to fit the size of your pet. Fasteners and buckles should be strong enough not to break during a walk.
As for the leash for cats, this is a completely individual matter. But for starters, it is better not to buy automatic leashes and choose a regular, approximately 3-meter leash to have more control over the pet, especially during the first trips, when the cat is just getting used to the new environment and surroundings.
Once your pet feels more confident, you can give him a little more freedom and choose an automatic leash or a long walking line.
When choosing a leash, you need to pay attention to the quality of the product and its reliability, and you can choose leashes up to 10 m long that your pet will like.
How to Prepare for a Walk with a Cat
Before you take your cat on its first walk, it will need to get used to wearing a harness and do some training at home.
First, you can introduce your pet to the smell of new walking equipment by leaving the leash and harness on the floor for him to sniff.
You can then try putting the harness on, doing it while feeding or playing to create a positive association. You should not force the cat to wear the harness for too long, a few minutes at first is enough, gradually increasing the time each day.
If the cat resists and tries to free itself, do not force it, it is better to try again the next day. For the first walk, it is better to choose a quiet and secluded place to avoid noise and screams that can frighten the animal.
Avoid choosing places where there are trees and bushes that the leash can get caught on. It is best to choose a fenced garden, plot or other secluded and safe place.
Previously we talked about how to properly clean a cat's ears .
