How to put a leash on a cat?

What is the difference between a harness and a collar?

A cat, unlike a dog, has very weak neck muscles, so the collar can greatly harm the health of the animal. In the harness, the leash is attached between the shoulder blades. In this case, if you pull the cat, the load will not be on the neck, but on the chest.

Types of harnesses and instructions for them

There are four types of harnesses, and each of them is put on a pet in a different way:

1. “Eight” – these are two rings of fabric, connected at the top and having a jumper on the chest. To put the “eight” on the cat, you need to stick the pet’s head into the smaller of the rings, while the carabiner for the leash should be on the back, and the jumper should be on the chest. Then you need to put the front paws of the cat into the second ring in turn so that the jumper is on the chest between them. The second ring must be tightened so that the cat cannot get out of it during the walk. Finally, do not forget to fasten the leash to the harness with a carabiner on the back.

2. “H-shaped” type of harness also consists of two rings connected by a jumper, but, unlike the previous type, these rings do not touch. In order to put on the “H-shaped” harness, you need to pass the pet’s head through the first ring, then fasten the second behind the cat’s front paws. A leash must be attached to the carabiner on the back.

3. “V” harness it is made in such a way that the intricacies of its straps form a Latin letter V on the cat’s chest. Then you need to put the pet’s front paws in these “rings” (the jumper should be between them), lift the harness by the side straps and fasten them on the cat’s back. The last step is to fasten the leash to the fasteners on the back.

4. Harness-overalls resembles a vest and is suitable for the most delicate pets who are uncomfortable with straps. Also, this type of harness is the easiest to put on, and the cat will not be able to get out of it on its own. However, in such overalls, she may be uncomfortable in the heat. To put on a harness-vest, you need to attach its wide part to the back of the pet and fasten the edges on the chest in front of the paws and behind them. Don’t forget the leash!

How to choose a harness?

It is better to give preference to a harness made of nylon fabric. It is durable and soft, does not rub, and can be washed. In a cotton harness, it is important that the straps are 1-1,5 cm wide, otherwise it may simply not withstand the load. Leather harnesses are too bulky for a cat and rub very often.

The harness should fit the cat in size and fit snugly to her body. You can check the correct size by sticking your finger between the cat’s body and the harness. It shouldn’t wobble or get stuck.

How to train a cat to wear a harness?

A cat is a freedom-loving animal, so you need to gradually accustom it to a harness that restricts movement. First, let the cat get to know the new thing, smell it. After a couple of days, when the cat gets used to the harness, gently and slowly put it on your pet. It is better if this process is accompanied by a treat or subsequent feeding. So the cat will have pleasant associations with the new accessory. When the harness is on, try to play with your pet and distract him from the strange sensations.

When should you start training your cat to wear a harness?

You can start teaching your pet to a harness from the age of three months, since kittens adapt much better to everything new. However, starting to walk the baby should not be earlier than reaching 5 months. Do not forget that the pet must be vaccinated and treated for fleas and ticks for walking outdoors.

You should not take your pet outdoors if:

• he is in old age and not accustomed to the street;

• he has recently had surgery or illness;

• the cat is in heat or she is expecting offspring.

In these cases, walking can lead to severe stress, which will negatively affect the health of the animal.

August 15 2017

Updated: December 21, 2017