Rec and Sports

Talking Your Cats For Walks On A Leash

Many folks who have been owned by cat would chuckle uncontrollably at the thought of putting a leash on it, just like a dog, and taking it for a walk around the neighborhood. Cats have their own opinion about things, and the idea of tying your cat to a piece of string and making her follow you may be one that is hard to believe.

Despite all this, there are cat owners who have successfully trained their cats to walk outdoors while wearing a lead or a leash, much like dogs who wear a leash to go out for a daily walk with their owners. It may sound absurd, but in some cats it can be done.

Teaching a cat to wear a leash is not an easy task. Your cat has to have the right personality for something like this, and as an owner you need to have an immense amount of patience.

When you first take your cat out she may get scared. Especially if your cat has never been outside before. Start with some quiet places where there are interesting things to sniff. Make the first few times short, quiet and bring lots of treats.

Remember, this is all new to your cat and can be quite frightening. Taking it slow will pay off.

Don’t buy a leash that is designed for a small dog, but instead look into purchasing a leash or lead that is specifically designed with a cat in mind. These leads wrap around your cat, giving you control of the cat and keeping the cat from choking itself in a frantic attempt to get away.

Before venturing outside you may want to practice with the lead at home first. Don’t be overly concerned with your cat’s reaction at this. Once outside they do tend to get a selective focus, tending to forget all about their leash as they sniff and explore a myriad of fascinating items.

You need to be persistent when trying to get your cat to accept the leash or lead. It should become obvious to you after a few tries whether your cat is going to ever develop an acceptance of the lead. If your cat is just as agitated and upset about the fourth or fifth venture outdoors with the lead as it was the first try, then it may just not be in the cards for your cat to ever accept this situation.

Trying for some time in baby steps is the way to be successful, but there are cats who just won’t have any part of this. Be observant. If your cat gets a little more comfortable each and every time, then continue taking her out. Short trips with lots of praise and treats.

However, before long you may be surprised at your cat. She may begin to see her safe outside excursions as a highlight of her day. Something fun, interesting and stimulating to break up the monotony of being inside.

Virginia Sutherland is a longtime cat enthusiast. She writes about all things that can benefit the health and wellbeing of cats. Check her resource for a Cat Food Coupon, and Free Printable Cat Food Coupon.