How to harness train your cat
A step-by-step guide so you can take your cat for walks!
A step-by-step guide so you can take your cat for walks!
November 28, 2024
Ever thought about taking your cat for a walk?
Walking your cat on a harness provides great physical and mental stimulation while keeping them safe from potential dangers. It’s a great option for indoor cats to see and explore the world safely, and many cats (and cat owners!) grow to really enjoy the experience.
Across decades of working with cats, I’ve also found that cats who are harness trained and taken out and about from a young age tend to be more confident, happy and well-adjusted in general life. It also means they are better placed to join you for adventures like family holidays or hikes!
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you train your cat to walk on a harness:
This type of training is MUCH easier if you start from kitten-hood. Older cats can sometimes be successfully harness trained, but it is more difficult and in some cases and sometimes not worth the stress it will give your cat. So consider your cat’s temperament to decide if it’s worth it.
Before you start, find a harness that is comfortable and secure. Opt for an adjustable harness that fits snugly but isn’t too tight. A lightweight leash is best to avoid overwhelming your cat.
Begin by placing the harness near your cat’s bed or feeding area. Let your cat sniff and investigate it on their own terms. This helps them get used to its presence without feeling pressured.
Use the harness to touch and brush over your cat’s fur, as you feed them high value treats (such as butter smeared on your finger, a plate of their favourite wet food, or small pieces of cooked chicken). When your cat is comfortable, try popping it on as you continue to reward your cat with treats and pats. Clicker or “yes” marker training enhances the use of food and speeds up training.
Start with just a few minutes at a time wearing the harness and while it’s on, reward your cat with treats and try to distract them with an exciting game. You want them to forget it’s on and become comfortable with moving around in it. They will lie down flat and freeze initially and sometimes get little unsure, keep their mind off it and smooch them and click and reward as they relax.
Once your cat is at ease with the harness, attach a very light leash or piece of light nylon rope and let them drag it around indoors for periods of time. This allows them to adjust to the feeling of being tethered without restricting their movement.
Hold the leash and encourage your cat to walk with you indoors. Use gentle guidance, treats, and praise to reinforce walking in the direction you want. Patience is key here; let your cat take the lead and follow their pace. The first time you put resistance on the lead they will go flat on the ground, so just take your time and let them habituate to it. Lots of repetition.
When your cat is comfortable walking on the leash indoors, it’s time to try the outdoors. Start with a quiet, enclosed space like a backyard or patio. Keep initial outdoor sessions short and allow your cat to explore at their own speed. Always supervise them closely. I like to use a very lightweight retractable lead as it allows you to let them move in and out with little resistance.
Not all cats will take to harness walking right away, and some may never fully enjoy it. However, with patience, gentle encouragement, and lots of positive reinforcement, many cats can learn to appreciate outdoor walks.
If they seem anxious, it’s best to end the session and try again another time.
Training a cat to walk on a harness takes time and patience, but it can be a fun and enriching experience for both of you. Remember if you are out with your cat, you need to be aware of threats and risks to the cat such as dogs and traffic. Kittens will adapt much quicker and be more relaxed. Older cats if they’ve not left home will need to be worked very slowly away from home and you need to take great care not to let them escape. Take a crate in the car if you are going out and keep them in a crate when not on the harness.
Have fun teaching this new skill!
Sign up to our newsletter for free tips and dog training advice that will transform your relationship with your dog.
