A cat leash may seem contradictory to the behavior of a cat, and, in a way, it is. Most cats won’t come when called and, if they do go outside, they go on their own and can easily find their way home when they are ready. But if you have a cat that does not go outside very often, and you want to keep a close eye on him while he is outside, you may want to consider a cat collar and leash. Cat leashes can help an owner keep their cat close by while still allowing him to explore the great outdoors.
Cat and dog leashes serve the same purpose: preventing your pet from running away while outside. Of course, cats on leashes are a lot rarer sight than dogs on leashes, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be done. Having your cat on a leash will require a lot of patience from both you and your cat. Cat leash training is a slow process because cats are not natural followers. And, of course, that is the function of both dog and cat leashes.
So you are probably asking, how do I begin leash training my cat? The best way to leash train cats is to start at home. Since many cats are afraid of people and noises, it is important that they know what the leash is and what they are supposed to do before they go outside. Once you have the cat leash collar harness or jacket on your cat, let him walk around with it on to get used to the feeling. He may slink close to the floor at first – this is because he may not like the feeling of having something on his back. Be sure that the harness is not too tight around his body, and then let him walk around on the leash. Try to lead him around your home. Never pull him around if he should happen to lie down.
Some cat breeders and cat showers will have purebred cats on leashes. You will often see a Persian on a cat leash. A Persian cat wearing a leash in a cat show can look very elegant and stylish. But remember that he has been raised and trained to walk, sit, and lay down in his leash and harness. Getting your cat to this point may take a considerable amount of time, especially if you don’t start training until adulthood.