We Have the Answer to the Question, Should You Walk Your Cat on a Leash?
Many cats have a natural desire for freedom and love to explore their surroundings. But what if outdoor access is not possible, for example in the big city or for valuable pedigree cats? Is walking a worthy alternative to outdoor access in these cases? We explain why cats on a leash are a rare sight, when a leash may make sense for the cat, and how to get the cat used to the leash.
Is walking an alternative to real outdoor access?
Especially in big cities and apartment buildings, it is often not possible to let the cat run free. Especially if dangers like busy roads lurk outside the front door, free walking is associated with high risks. Many cat owners, therefore, play with the idea of walking with the cat to offer variety to the house cat. However, walking on a leash is not really an alternative to free-range walking. Free-roaming cats explore nature, climb trees, or ambush prey - none of this is possible on a leash. In addition, cats like to go their own way, so with most cats, it is impossible to walk them like a dog. Thus, the cat on a leash cannot replace the outdoor walk.
Is it cruel to animals to walk the cat on a leash?
Cats that are used to being kept indoors from an early age are usually not helped by being walked on a leash. The cat is not used to the sounds and impressions outside the usual territory and can react fearfully or even panic. In the worst case, the cat gets so frightened while walking on the leash that it breaks away or injures itself trying to escape.
It is different with curious, self-confident cats that are open to new things. If the cat is rather unimpressed by other people or noises, it is possible to get the cat used to the leash. If the cat is accustomed to a harness and leash at an early stage and is gradually introduced to walking, it is quite possible to take the cat for a walk on a leash. However, you should closely observe the cat's behavior and discontinue the attempt if the animal does not feel comfortable during the outdoor excursions.
When is a leash for cats useful?
Leading a cat on a leash can make sense in some cases, despite the dangers. If you want to gradually get the cat used to being outside, it can help to first get it used to a harness and make the first trips outside on a leash. Even after a move, you can first get the cat used to the new environment on a leash before finally letting it run free.
It is also helpful in other situations if the cat is used to a harness and leash. In exceptional situations, for example, during transport, the cat can be additionally secured in this way so that it does not escape during transport. When bringing several cats together, the leash can serve for a safe distance from the new addition. In this way, it can be avoided that the cats approach each other, and the animals can be carefully introduced to each other.
How to find a suitable leash for the cat?
The biggest danger with the leashed cat is that the animal will hurt itself or get stuck somewhere. Therefore, in no case should a collar be used, because cats can strangle themselves with a collar. Instead, a harness should be used where the leash is attached between the cat's shoulders. The harness should be individually adjustable to fit the cat's body and provide the best possible comfort and safety. Which leash is attached to the harness depends on its purpose. When walking the cat, it is not advisable to use a leash that is too long, so that the cat does not get stuck with the leash or run too far away. If the leash is used for securing during transport, it should have a sturdy hand loop or additional fastening option, for example, on the transport box.
How to accustom the cat to the leash?
Cats have their own mind and often resist harness and leash. It works best if the cat is already accustomed to the harness as a young cat. But even older animals can be gradually and with a lot of patience introduced to wearing a harness and leash. So that the cat associates the leash positively, you give him treats regularly while you practice wearing the harness. The first thing to do is practice putting on and taking off the harness indoors. Then the cat should be walked on the leash in the apartment until it feels comfortable in the situation. Only then can you gradually lead the cat on a leash outside the apartment.
The most important thing is not to scare the cat or overwhelm it with the situation. If the velvet paw resists vehemently against harness and leash, one should consider as a cat owner well whether the leash is really necessary. In many cases, you should rather spare the cat the adventure and instead create new play and climbing opportunities in the apartment.
Thanks for reading: Should You Walk Your Cat on a Leash?, Sorry, my English is bad:)