Your Cat on A Leash? You May be Surprised... | Cats

By VirginiaSutherland
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Many folks who have been owned by cat would chuckle uncontrollably at the thought of putting a leash on it, just like a dog, and taking it for a walk around the neighborhood. Cats have their own opinion about things, and the idea of tying your cat to a piece of string and making her follow you may be one that is hard to believe.

Even considering the nature of the cat, many cat owners are happily walking their very happy cats on a harness, walking jacket or leash. It may sound impossible, but it can be done with some patience, (OK, maybe a LOT of patience) and your cat can get a whole new life, safely enjoying the outdoors and getting much needed exercise at the same time.

Teaching a cat to wear a leash is not an easy task. Your cat has to have the right personality for something like this, and as an owner you need to have an immense amount of patience.

The first few times you take your cat outside on a leash will probably result in a freaked out cat, especially if your cat has always been an indoor cat and has never really ventured outside.

For an inside cat the outside world will seem frightening at first, so be patient and gentle. Before long your cat will learn to love the excitement of going outside.

When looking to buy a leash, the best options for a cat is a harness, or even better, more safe, and much more acceptable by cats, is a walking jacket. The harness or walking jacket will give kitty more comfort, and you more control.

Before venturing outside you may want to practice with the lead at home first. Don't be overly concerned with your cat's reaction at this. Once outside they do tend to get a selective focus, tending to forget all about their leash as they sniff and explore a myriad of fascinating items.

While persistence and patience pays off in making your cat get used to not only a leash and harness, but also going outside, if it is obvious that your cat is not getting less stressed and is indeed suffering, then maybe you are better off finding some other way for your cat to enjoy the outdoors.

If you have been patiently trying, taking small steps, taking your cat to a quiet place with interesting things to sniff and she you see no improvement in her comfort level, then, maybe walking on a leash is not for your cat.

You may be surprised that before long your cat will absolutely adore her outside adventures ans will get all excited any time you go anywhere near her leash... just like a ,,, er,,,dog :)

About the Author

Virginia Sutherland writes extensively about cats and cat health. She has particular interest in Alternative Medicine For Cats and proven Herbal Treatment For Cat.

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