Most people will think that this idea is insane but it’s actually very [...]]]> It is easy to keep your pet dogs healthy because you can take them out for a walk. Walking is their form of exercise. But what about cats? Is it possible to teach a cat to walk on a leash?

Most people will think that this idea is insane but it’s actually very doable. All you need is patience that can rival that of a saint. Why? Because training your cat to walk on a harness and leash takes a lot of time. You will have to slowly build your pet’s trust before you can actually take him to the park for leisurely strolls. It is impossible to just fashion him with the harness and leash and expect him to be agreeable with the whole thing.

When starting this training, you will notice that your cat will not like the idea of wearing, much less being pulled, with a harness. So the first thing that you need to do is to make him accustomed to wearing the harness. You can do this by letting him wear it for a while. Give him a few days of just being in the harness.  It’s important that you don’t pull him until he’s comfortable just wearing the apparatus.

Next, attach the leash to the harness but let him drag it around. It is not yet time for you to hold the harness and guide him. Again, let him get used to the idea of wearing the harness with the leash. This will take a few more days. When this no longer bother him, try holding the leash. Walk around the room with your cat but do not pull or control the leash. You should not restrain him. After several more days on this step, try guiding your pet by pulling the leash gently. If he resists, stop. Give him time to follow your lead. In time, your cat will no longer object to walking on a harness and a leash.

It is a great feeling to be able to walk with your cat but the training is hard work. Whenever your pet acts in a way that is favorable to the training, do not forget to give him treats and lots of praises. A training session full of love will make everything easier.