Can You Take Cat For A Walk? Pet Experts Explain

Should you take your cat on walks?

Walking your cat on a leash may seem bizarre, but it’s becoming increasingly popular among cat owners. The idea of strolling down the sidewalk with a feline friend at your side captures the imagination.

But is walking a cat something that’s actually feasible? Or just a social media fantasy? We talked to pet experts to get the real scoop on leash walking cats.

Why Would You Walk a Cat?

Cats have a reputation as lazy homebodies who sleep all day. So why go through the trouble of leash training and walking them? There are some excellent reasons:

Exercise. Indoor cats especially tend to be less active, and obesity is a major problem. Going for regular walks is great exercise that keeps your cat fit.

Enrichment. Walks provide mental stimulation, sights, sounds, and smells that indoor cats miss out on. This enrichment keeps cats happy and prevents boredom-related behavior issues like inappropriate elimination, aggression, over-grooming, etc.

Bonding. Walks allow for quality one-on-one time to strengthen the bond between you and your cat. The training involved in leash walking also builds trust.

Safety. Walking a cat on a leash keeps them safe compared to letting them roam outdoors freely. It allows exploring while preventing dangers like cars, predators, contagious diseases, poisons, and fights with other cats.

Is It Possible to Walk a Cat?

Cats can absolutely be trained to walk on a leash and harness—with proper technique and patience. However, the experts note leash walking is not for every cat. Success depends on your individual cat’s personality and temperament.

Kittens may take to it more easily, but adult cats can learn too. How well your cat is socialized also plays a role. If they’re used to new experiences and people, they may better adapt to the harness and leash. Catality traits like boldness versus timidness are factors too.

LeeAnna Buis of Feline Behavior Solutions explains:

“Cats aren’t bred to walk on a leash like dogs. They retain more natural instincts that can make leash walking challenging. But with time, training, and precautions, you can make walks enjoyable for you and your cat.”

So walking a cat leashed is possible, under the right circumstances. Let’s look at tips for making it work.

Step 1: Proper Equipment

First, you need the right walking gear specially designed for cats. That means a harness and leash made for felines—not just a smaller dog version.

Harness. Avoid collars, which can injure your cat if they make a quick escape. A vest- or strap-style harness designed for cats is safer. Make sure it fits well so your cat can’t wiggle out.

Leash. A 4-6 foot leash is best, advises pet expert Pam Johnson-Bennett. That keeps your cat close while still giving some freedom. Avoid retractable leashes, which can scare your cat when pulled taut.

ID. Microchip your cat and attach ID tags to their collar in case they escape the harness. This will help ensure their safe return.

Step 2: Taking It Slow with Training

Don’t expect to just slap on a leash and go for a walk. Taking it slow and following some training basics is key, our experts emphasize. Here are important steps:

Let your cat check out the gear. First, simply leave the harness in your cat’s space to inspect and get used to. Offer treats/praise for any interest they show in it.

Get your cat comfortable wearing the harness. Next, work on having your cat wear the harness for short sessions, rewarding with treats. Gradually increase the duration over multiple days or weeks.

Take it inside. Before going outside, practice leash walking inside the house or apartment starting in one room, keeping sessions brief and positive. Slowly expand to other rooms.

Head out. Only after mastering indoor leash walking is it time to take training outside, starting in your own yard first. Keep a carrier on hand in case you need to quickly put your cat away.

Be patient and willing to slow down or take a break if your cat seems scared or unsure. Forcing them to walk or picking them up against their will is counterproductive.

Step 3: Stay Vigilant on Walks

Once your cat is comfortable leash walking outside, there are still safety precautions to take:

• Keep them away from potential escape routes like trees, holes in fences, etc. Practice coming when called.

• Avoid areas with loose dogs, traffic, loud noises, or other stimuli that may startle them.

• Be prepared to promptly steer them away or pick them up if they encounter anything worrisome. Again, have a carrier on hand.

• Keep initial walks shorter in duration and close to home. Don’t expect them to walk long distances like a dog. Let them set the pace.

• Use tasty treats and verbal praise to keep them engaged with you, not distracted by surroundings.

Stay alert to your cat’s body language. Signs of fear, anxiety, or agitation mean it’s time to call it a day and try again later. Don’t force it.

Alternatives to Walking Your Cat

What if your cat never takes to leash walking? Our experts say there are other excellent ways to provide exercise, mental stimulation, and safe outdoor access:

• Build an enclosed catio - Lets them enjoy fresh air while staying secure.

• Use a pet stroller - Allows exploring while inside their carrier.

• Harness/leash on your balcony/patio - More limited outdoor time but still enriching.

• Open windows - Great for indoor cats to experience smells and sounds.

• Puzzle toys and playtime - Provides physical and mental exercise.

• Cat TV - Place bird videos or feeders outside windows.

• Cat grass/catnip - Provides sensory stimulation indoors.

So leash walking opens up exciting possibilities. But if it’s not for your feline, alternatives can also enrich their life. Focus on what works best for the unique needs of your cat.

Final Tips for Making Walks Enjoyable

If you and your cat do take to leash walking, implement these tips from the experts for making the experience as smooth, safe, and fun as possible:

• Choose quiet, controlled areas like your yard to start. Gradually work up to busier areas once your cat is comfortable.

• Bring treats, toys, a mat, and water to make walks more engaging and comfortable.

• Pick times when fewer dogs/people are around, like early morning. Avoid school/work commute times.

• Head out after your cat has had playtime or a meal so they’re more relaxed.

• Let your cat set the pace and determine how far, if at all, they want to walk. Don’t force it.

• Use a secure, well-fitting harness and strong leash designed for cats. Check for signs of chafing.

• Keep walks shorter in duration, especially at first. Cats tire more quickly than dogs.

• Stay alert to your surroundings and watch your cat’s body language for signs of fear or anxiety.

• Make sure your cat is microchipped and wearing ID tags, just in case.

Conclusion

With knowledge and preparation, you can make leash walking an enriching activity. But ultimately, you have to experiment to see if hitting the sidewalk suits your feline’s personality.

Patience and letting your cat take the lead is key. Not all cats will take to walking on a leash. And that’s perfectly fine! But with an open mind, you just might be surprised at how much your cat enjoys their new adventures.