Should You Take Your Cat on Walks?

Seen your cat staring wistfully out the window and wondering whether you could let them explore the great outdoors? We explain the dos and don'ts of leash walking to help you determine if your cat is suited for it.

Key Takeaways

Some cats like to be taken on walks.
Walks can provide cats with mental and physical enrichment.
Unlike dogs, cats generally prefer shorter walks, and often like to lead at their own pace.
Use a good harness and leash at all times, and train your cat thoroughly before attempting a walk.

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The Dos and Don'ts of Walking a Cat

Sean Zyer, founder of Earth Buddy, says:

"Leash walking can be a great source of enrichment for your cat, especially if they're kept indoors. But it's important to approach cat walking the right way, to help maximize your chance of success."

It's common knowledge that dogs should be taken on walks. But what about cats?

In recent years, it's become more popular to take cats on leash walks.¹ These adventure cats seem happy to explore all kinds of environments, all while on a leash and in a harness.

Helping your cat explore the outside world can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. It can provide your kitty with mental and physical stimulation that they might not otherwise experience, especially if they're an indoor cat.

However, the training required to safely walk a cat can be extensive. There are several important things you need to consider, both before and during a cat walk. And, just like us humans, some cats might just not like walking.

If you're considering taking your cat for a walk, it's important to know exactly what you're signing up for, and what you should do to make the experience a positive one.

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Two Kinds of Cats

The first thing to consider is your cat's experience.

Outdoor Cat

Some owners let their cats go outside, with varying degrees of restriction. These cats might treat the outside as an extension of their territory.

On the one hand, outdoor cats may be able to adapt to leash walking more easily. The outdoors might not be quite as strange and stressful to them as to a cat that has never left the indoors.

On the other hand, outdoor cats used to freedom might not appreciate being strapped into a harness and leash. They may get enough stimulation from their own outdoor adventures, and might therefore not be as excited about leash walking.

Indoor Cat

These days, most domestic cats are kept indoors, at least in the U.S. In the 1990s, only 35% of domestic cats were kept inside, but now almost two-thirds of them are.²

There are plenty of good reasons for keeping cats inside. For one thing, it protects the wildlife in your local area. It also protects your cat, who might be exposed to dangers while roaming the great outdoors.

However, it can also make it a little trickier to get your cat to want to go outside. After all, they're used to the inside. It's their entire world, one they have become intimately familiar with.

To many cats kept indoors, the outdoors can be a stressful, scary place. The rush of unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds can be overwhelming.

Still, with the right training, it's possible to walk an indoor cat. Plenty of people do it. And it can provide many potential benefits.

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The Potential Benefits of Taking Your Cat for a Walk

The main benefit of walking a cat is stimulation.

The outside world is an interesting place. There are all kinds of things to see and smells to sniff. You really can't recreate this kind of enrichment inside.

Walking can be a great way to help cats burn through excess energy. It can be a good source of exercise, which is important for weight management. Research suggests that 61% of cats in the U.S. are overweight or obese, which can lead to all kinds of problems.³

If you've ever seen your indoor cat staring out of the window, you know that cats can be intensely curious about the world around them. Leash walking allows your cat to experience that world in a controlled manner.

tuxedo cat on leash near snow stay indoors favorite treat fit snugly pet escape

Things to Consider Before You Walk Your Cat

That doesn't mean you should grab a leash and head right outside. There are important things to consider.

Unfortunately, the outside world, while magnificent, contains potential threats to your cat. Those include animals, especially other cats and dogs. Depending on where you live, it might include predators, too.

Cats are easily startled. Something as simple as a loud noise could make them panic and run away. They might run into traffic or into the path of an off-leash dog.

Think hard about whether your cat will actually enjoy walking on a leash. Some might prefer more indoor enrichment, like more toys and playtime. Others, especially those used to outdoor freedom, simply won't accept being put in a harness.

Also consider whether you really want to walk your cat. After all, if your cat becomes used to regular outdoor walks, they might start persistently demanding to go outside.

Secrets for a Successful Cat Walk

If you're sure that both you and your cat want to make walks happen, it's crucial you go about things in a careful manner. Dragging your cat outside without any preparation can be a recipe for disaster.

First, make sure your cat is up-to-date on all of their vaccinations before going outside. If you're unsure, check with your vet. They'll be able to help you figure out if your kitty is ready to take on the outside world.

Get a Cat Harness

Next, it's time for equipment. Make sure to get your cat a harness. Don't attach a leash right to their collar, because they might hurt themselves by pulling, especially if they get spooked. Many experts recommend breakaway collars for cats going outside, as it can prevent them from getting tangled in something.⁴

Try to ensure that the harness is snug. If your harness is loose, your cat might wriggle out of it in the middle of a walk. Experts often recommend cat vests secured with sturdy Velcro, though clips are another great option.⁵

Snug doesn't mean constrictive, though. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to slide your finger underneath your cat's harness comfortably.

Take Time to Train

Once you've acquired the gear, it's time to train.

The first step is harness training. You need to get your cat used to wearing their harness. After that, it's time for leash training.

Use plenty of positive reinforcement during this process. That means rewarding desired behavior, such as accepting the harness without fuss, with praise and Treats. The idea is to create a positive association with the harness and leash.

You don’t necessarily have to teach your cat tricks. But they should be comfortable and relaxed while in their harness and on the leash.

This process can take time. Allow at least 13 days for training, and be ready to go longer.

Keep a close eye on your cat for any signs of stress, like flattened ears. If they seem stressed by something, end the training session on a positive note and try again later.

A calming supplement, like Hemp Extract or a CBD-based Quick Calm spray, can also help cats cope with external stresses and maintain a normal disposition.

Once your cat is ready to go outside, start with a low-stress environment. A quiet backyard is a good example.

cat on leash outside sit door house life stay safe play yard veterinarian fun

Walk on a Leash

Eventually, assuming all that goes well, your cat may be ready to go on a proper walk. Always keep them on their leash. That's key.

It's often a good idea to let your cat set the pace during walks. That can make them more comfortable, and it could also enhance the experience for them.

Cats often prefer shorter outings. 5-20 minutes may well be enough for your kitty.⁶

If your cat seems unhappy, don't force things. Take them home. Or maybe they need a Joint Supplement.

And if they seem overjoyed... Be prepared for leash walking to become part of your routine.

Conclusion

Leash walking can provide cats with valuable mental and physical enrichment. It requires careful training and the right equipment to do so safely and successfully. Even with the right approach, not all cats will want to walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should You Walk a Cat For?

Cats generally don't need long walks, as many dogs do. They explore by watching and sniffing rather than running around. 5-20 minutes is often great.

Do Cats Like to Be Walked?

That depends on the cat. Some cats do, while others don't.

Is It Cruel to Not Let a Cat Go Outside?

No, it's not cruel to keep a cat indoors. At least, provided you give them sufficient mental and physical enrichment. Keeping cats indoors protects both them and the wildlife in your local area.

Keep Reading: Can Hemp Oil Help Calm My Cat?

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Earth Buddy is an environmentally conscious and family-owned company dedicated to providing natural solutions for pets. From our CBD oils to our Colostrum Supplements, our products are designed to promote calmness and encourage relaxation for our furry friends. To learn more and stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Pinterest.

Should You Take Your Cat on Walks?

Key Takeaways

The Dos and Don'ts of Walking a Cat