How to Leash Train a Cat

Typically when you see someone walking down the sidewalk with their faithful furry companion next to their side, it's a dog. However every once in a while when you look to the end of the leash it's a cat instead of a dog. You may ask yourself how this is possible. Any cat owner will tell you that cats are very independent and have minds of their own; a cat does what it wants to do with little regard for your commands. However, cats can be trained to walk on a leash. You trained them to use the litter box so why not a leash?

The first step in training a cat to walk on a leash is to buy a harness and leash. Make sure you get a harness that fits snuggly but isn't so tight it's uncomfortable for your cat but you don't want to get a harness that is too loose that the cat can slip out of. It is also a good idea to make sure the harness is adjustable to fit your growing cat. You should begin leash training your cat when it is big enough to fit into a harness which means the harness is going to need to grow with the cat. Cats are very curious by nature so when you come home with your purchase you should set it out where the cat can sniff it and may even play with it a little.

The next step is to put the harness on your cat and adjust it so that it is not too tight or too loose. Of course your cat will probably not be too thrilled with you and may flop over on the floor like you just incapacitated them but really they are fine and just being dramatic like cats tend to do. Let your cat wear the harness for about an hour at a time. Once they have gotten used to the idea and start walking around you can gradually increase the time they spend wearing the harness. Each cat is different so there is no set time for how long it will take for this part of the process.

Usually within a few days of your cat adjusting to the harness you can move to the next step. Hook the leash onto the harness while the cat is wearing it and let the leash drag along behind the cat. Your cat may pay little attention to the harness or they may run around like they are being followed by a big ferocious animal that wants to eat them. Depending on your cat's reaction, you will need to adjust the time the leash is attached accordingly. When your cat seems to be comfortable with the leash take the other leash in your hand and gently guide your cat around the house. More often than not your cat will not take kindly to your guidance. Let your cat pause when it needs to and lead you in the direction it wants to go so that the cat doesn't get too stressed out.

When you have mastered the harness and leash indoors with your cat, it is time to venture outside. The first time you take your cat outside with its leash and harness, set your cat down and let it explore the immediate area. After your cat has adjusted to the idea of being outside on a leash you can begin to walk your cat around the yard. As you did indoors, let your cat pause when it needs to and let it explore a little. As your cat grows more comfortable, you can take your cat on longer walks.

Although cats are super intelligent, they typically take longer than dogs to learn to walk on a leash. In some cases no matter how patient you are, your cat may never be comfortable walking on a leash; it could be the fit of the harness, the pull of the leash or just being outside in general. Be sure to pay attention to the terrain so that your cat isn't burning their feet on overheated pavement or stepping on broken glass. Also remember that if it is a hot day, your cat may need a drink of water to stay hydrated. Good luck and keep your cat's comfort and safety your number one priority.