Leash Training a Cat

   One of the most enjoyable experiences we have had with our cat Sushi has been taking her for walks. Many people react with disbelief when we tell them that we take her for walks outside on a leash. People generally assume that cats are untrainable, aloof creatures that won't listen to their owners. This is simply not true. Success in training your cat to walk on a leash lies with motivation, as cats are not naturally inclined to complete tasks just to please their owners in the same way that dogs are. However, if you show your cat that there is a reward to be gained from cooperating with leash training, you will have an enthusiastic walking partner.

   Why leash train your cat? There a few reasons, mainly that when you take your cat to the vet or travel with your cat, you can often take them out of the carrier or transport them more easily and safely if they are leash trained. Another reason is that most cats spend their days indoors, and can become bored if not enough stimulation is provided. If you take your cat on a walk, it allows him to exercise his instincts in watching and chasing birds or bugs outside. It also allows them some activity which is good for their health and beneficial if your cat is overweight.

   Before you decide to leash train your cat, make sure that this is an activity that he will enjoy. In order for leash walking to be successful, your cat needs to be the kind of cat that is curious and isn't too frightened of the outside world. If you have an extremely nervous cat that is not social, it is not recommended for you to attempt leash training with him. Some fear of the outside world is expected, especially if your cat has never been outside or was a rescued cat with a history of negative experiences outdoors. Our cat Sushi was found outside and was initially fearful, but with some gentle guidance and help from her curious nature,  she decided that outside can be fun as long as she is on a leash with someone she trusts.

   The first time we introduce Sushi to a leash, we used a "Come With Me Kitty" harness and leash which can be purchased at most pet stores or even places like Target or Wal-Mart. It is a stretchy leash and harness that doesn't pull on kitty when she is walking. They come in multiple sizes, so make sure you locate the size appropriate to your cat. The day we brought it home, we put the harness on Sushi and gave her time to adjust to the feeling of it around her body. She was initially none too pleased about it, but accepted it and eventually grew to wearing it around the apartment as if there was nothing there. After this stage, you can then attach the leash and motivate your cat to walk on it by using a few treats as a lure. Get him used to the feeling of walking beside you until he is comfortable.

   Next, I recommend taking him outside, to a quiet park or place where there aren't many cars or loud noises to frighten your cat. Once again, use treats to motivate your cat to walk around and find a spot to sit where you cat can observe birds or animals so that he will begin to realize that being outside is fun. You ultimately want your cat to realize that the leash means that he will get to go outside. Once your cat realizes that outside is a fun place where he is safe on his leash, your cat will be meowing for a walk every time you pick up the leash.