Does Your Cat Need A Collar And Leash?

A leash can help you keep control of your cat when you don’t
want her to stray too far away, but still get some exercise.

Even if you never plan to take your cat for regular walks like
you would a dog, you still need to insure that your cat can
tolerate the collar and leash. You will need to take her to the
vet and getting her used to it now can help considerably. There
are specific collars, harnesses and leashes designed for the cat
that you can use.

Cat Leashes

Leashes are designed in several ways from a standard form to a
retractable one. No matter which you choose, make sure that it
is lightweight enough to allow the cat the ability to move under
its weight. Retractable will allow the cat to explore their
surroundings in a park or other traffic safe areas. You’ll want
to keep the cats close when walking to and from their homes.

Getting used to the leash takes training. Cats don’t do well
with negative correction so by tugging on the leash you will not
get them to stay at your side. Instead of negative feedback,
cats do better with praise and positive reinforcement. Ignore
her when she does something wrong. You can teach the cat to
tolerate the leash but more than likely she will not be
consistently healing or obeying commands.

Collars

Cat collars are not commonly made for leashes. Because the cat’s
head is shaped so, it can easily slide any collar off. Collars
are used for other reasons such as accessories. For example, a
jeweled collar offers a cute look for the cat. Others use cat
collars to hold identification tags in case the animal gets
lost. Also, you can use the collar to warn birds that he’s in
the area and approaching by using bells or a low tech alarm
system.

The Harness

The harness is another option that the owner has. These stay on
your cat securely so that the cat leash can be used. A simple
nylon harness for your cat is a good choice or you can go with
the deluxe models that look like padded vests. The only thing
that is important is that they are completely adjustable.

If possible start training the cat when she is a kitten of eight
to ten weeks old. Put the harness on her and allow her to walk
around in it unrestrained. Then, add the leash a few times
later. Don’t apply any pressure to the leash though. Once she’s
used to the leash, you can pick it up and teach her that you can
be on the other end of it. Use a little pressure on the leash
and call your cat to you. When she does what you want him to,
praise her and reward him. Eventually, she’ll be okay with it.

The leash allows you to take your cat outside for a walk to just
to explore the yard. You don’t have to worry, then, that she’ll
escape or get into trouble.