We've all seen pet owners take dogs for a walk, but have you seen them take cats for a walk? Yes, it's possible! While cats tend to be really independent creatures, it's still possible to get our furry friends to go on a stroll. This is especially important if your cat needs to burn some flab. Here are some steps for getting it done:
Step 1: Buy a harness (or walking jacket) and leash.
It's important that you buy a harness rather than a collar, since your cat would be more likely to squirm its way out of a collar. The harness should fit snugly on your cat-not too tightly, and not too loosely. As an alternative to the harness, you could also choose a "walking jacket" for cats. These fit around the midsection of the body, while the leash attaches to the middle of the back. Like the harness, the walking jacket is also much more effective than the collar, in preventing your cat from escaping.
Step 2: Place the harness and leash nearby where your cat sleeps.
Let the items sit there for several days, so your cat will have some time to get accustomed to them. It will need time to get used to how they look and smell. Cats are very curious animals by nature, so it will spend some time investigating the new apparatus until it becomes familiar with them.
Step 3: Place the harness on your cat before mealtime.
This will help your cat to associate wearing the harness, with something positive. To make the experience even better, feed your cat its favorite food while it wears the harness. You could even have your cat play with its preferred toy whilst wearing the harness. This will further help it to get used to wearing it. After removing the harness, make sure to praise your cat, as a method of positive reinforcement. Continue this entire process for several days, gradually increasing how long the cat wears the harness.
Step 4: Let your cat wear the harness and leash around the house.
At first, you should let the cat walk around the house, allowing the leash to drag on the ground. Let him do this for a couple of days, until your feline gets used to walking around with the harness and leash.
After it gets used to that, hold the leash while your cat wanders around the house. Allow for some slack, so your cat stays comfortable the entire time. After it gets comfortable, you can start tugging lightly on the leash to encourage your cat to follow you.
Step 5: Start walking outdoors.
Start walking your cat in a small area, such as your front yard or back yard. After your feline gets accustomed to those areas, then you can start walking in larger area. Always avoid pressing the issue. If your cat doesn't want to go in a certain direction, then don't force it to!
While the idea of walking your cat may seem really bizarre at first, you can get it done by following these simple steps!
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