Training a cat to walk on a leash can make it easier for a domestic cat to safely access the great outdoors. Practice using a leash can also be a good stepping stone if you immediately want to help your cat go outside unsupervised. When training a cat to go outside on a leash, you should keep in mind that the outside world will initially seem overwhelming to a cat who is used to being indoors. Be sympathetic and patient if your cat seems worried or panicked at first. It will take some time for your cat to get comfortable using the leash and go outside, so take it easy and reward your cat with lots of praise and good treatment. The following article will help you learn how to get your cat to safely walk and explore the outside world.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Choosing a Binder
Step 1. Measure your cat first
In order to be able to walk outside with you, your cat will need a harness that is the right size--never use a leash together with a collar. If you walk your cat using a cat neckband and bolt-which cats are very likely to do-the neckband can damage your cat's throat, voice box, and ability to swallow. The cat harness will distribute the holding force between the cat's shoulders, chest, and stomach, making it less likely that your cat will be injured.
To get the size of your cat's harness, measure the thickness around your cat's chest, which is just behind your cat's front paws and record it. Bring the measuring device with you when you buy the strap
Step 2. Select the binder
Most cat ties are made with straps that are designed to be adjustable to fit both kittens and adult cats and are made of nylon or neoprene. Some straps are adjustable in size, depending on your cat's particular size.
- The strap should fit snugly against your cat's body and should not be too tight to squeeze the cat or too loose from the cat's body. The snug fit is one when you can fit two fingers under the strap when it is attached to your cat.
- Never use a cat harness as safety when riding in a car-cat harnesses are not designed to protect cats in a car accident.
Step 3. Select the straps
Cats have different leash requirements than dogs, so choose the right leash carefully.
- Some leash manufacturers make leash that is designed to be lighter especially for cats, considering that cats are generally lighter and less strong than dogs.
- A bungee leash is an ideal leash for cats because it can be stretched long enough to keep your cat safe while out for walks.
- Avoid using retractable leash (usually sold for dogs) for your cat. The leash is not suitable for cats and may injure your cat.
Part 2 of 3: Let Your Cat Adapt to the Leash
Step 1. Put the leash on your cat for a short time
Before you can take your cat out for a walk, you'll first need to get your cat used to the harness.
- Start by putting your cat on a leash for a short time each day for a few days. Apply the binder for a few minutes first, then each day increase the length of time and do it in a few days.
- Give your cat good treatment and lots of praise when putting on the leash and when your cat walks around with the leash.
- Make sure your cat will feel comfortable walking around the house with the leash, ideally until your cat doesn't feel like using the leash.
Step 2. Attach the straps
Once your cat is comfortable with the leash, start attaching the leash to the leash.
First, let the leash trail behind your cat. Encourage your cat to walk around on a leash by offering gifts and lots of compliments
Step 3. Do the walking exercise with the strap and leash
When your cat is comfortable with the leash behind it, grab the leash and take your cat for a walk around-this time you're holding the leash.
Offer your cat something he likes and give him lots of compliments when your cat starts to walk around. Try not to jerk or drag your cat when you walk with him-let your cat move at her own pace
Part 3 of 3: Helping Your Cat Go Outside
Step 1. Start slowly
Don't force your cat to go outside. The expectation of going outside can be intimidating for some cats, so if your cat doesn't want to follow you outside, don't force her.
If your cat is unsure about going outside, simply leave the door open so your cat can slowly recognize the direction. If your cat doesn't want to explore, try again another day and be patient-this may take some time
Step 2. Help your cat explore outside
When your cat is ready to start walking out, follow behind and encourage her with rewards and praise.
- Keep the journey short-about five minutes. If it's longer than that your cat may feel overwhelmed and won't want to go outside again in the future.
- Wait for it to be sunny enough to go outside. If it's done in the rain or after it rains, some of the scents your cat usually uses to direct the path will be washed away by the rain and your cat may have a hard time figuring out where it's going.
Step 3. Take your cat outside regularly
Gradually add periods of time for your cat to be outside and make outdoor trips a part of your cat's routine.
As your cat feels more comfortable outside, allow your cat to wander further away from you if your cat wishes. Follow from a distance that is still possible with a rope
Warning
- By nature, cats are cautious animals and may run away when faced with unfamiliar stimuli. When you take your cat outside, be prepared if your cat tries to run and hide. Hold on tight to the leash and keep it close to your cat, giving gifts and lots of praise as encouragement.
- Remember that cats behave differently than dogs. Don't expect your cat to happily jog beside you on a walk because that's impossible. Leash training is essentially about letting your cat go outside in a safe and controlled manner, not training your cat to be a dog substitute.
- Vaccination is a must before taking your cat outside (and highly recommended even if your cat is always indoors). Diseases like distemper in cats are spread by viruses that can lie dormant in the environment for several weeks, so cats don't need direct contact with an infected cat for the disease to spread. Consult with your veterinarian about which vaccines are recommended in your area of residence.
