by Elizabeth Ely

Created on: April 25, 2010

Some cats enjoy getting out and going for walks just as much as dogs. They just need to be given the chance to get used to the leash on their own terms. Nothing puts an end to a suggestion for a cat like rushing them and trying to force your will onto them. Go at their pace and take your cues from them. That said, if you are going to broach the subject of a leash for a cat, there are some basic steps to make the process easier and more likely to succeed.

Usually most cats are somewhat used to wearing a collar, at least part of the time. But this is not advisable for leash use. They can easily pull their neck or wriggle out of it. A harness that fits around the neck, and also around the belly behind the front legs is ideal. It's more comfortable for the cat, and is much more secure if it fits snugly but not tightly.

However, most cats are not likely to think too kindly of this new arrangement. The restrictive feel can be scary, and it helps if whenever you're doing anything unfamiliar to a cat, to first explain what's going to happen. Let them have a look, and a sniff at what you've got in your hands. I do this when I'm cutting their toenails as well. After they check out the clippers and hear me talk about what I'm doing, they are much more at ease. The process goes smoothly, and of course they get to hear what a good boy or girl they are.

Once you have fastened the harness around your cat for the first time, most likely he or she will slink along the ground, or possibly even freeze on the spot in that slinking pose, almost flat to the ground. This is perhaps the toughest part about leash training. The best way to acclimate your cat to the harness is to just put it on when everyone is calm. Only have them wear it around the home for short periods of time. Gradually increase the frequency and amount of time, and the harness is likely to soon be forgotten.

Once you're at this stage, the leash can finally be attached. Retractable leashes are best. They can be really short when it's all new for both of you and you need them right next to you, or later on when near traffic. But they also allow greater freedom once you're both leash pros, and want that longer length. A long lead is something you will really appreciate when your cat decides to sprint to a tree in a park, and there's this lumbering human at the other end trying to catch up.

Depending on how easily the harness is accepted, you may be able to go right to little walks outdoors. You may find however that

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