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Cat
Collars
While almost everyone walks their dog, few
people walk their cats. However, cats can learn to walk on a
leash. In fact, there are collars, harnesses, and leashes designed just
for cats.
Unlike dog collars, cat collars are not created so that they can
be used with a cat leash. The shape of a cat's head makes it too
easy for a collar attached to a leash to pop right off. Instead,
collars are used for other reasons. Many people use collars
as accessories. They place jeweled collars on their cats simply because
they like the way these collars look. Other people use cat
collars to hold id tags, so that they can more easily find their
cats if they escape. Of course, the most common reason for putting a
collar on a cat is to warn birds of his approach. Collars with bells on
them may be a low tech alarm system, but they work.
Cat harnesses are designed to stay securely on a cat, even when the cat
is on a leash. You can buy a simple nylon harness for your cat or
you can find more deluxe models that look more like padded vests. As
long as the harness is completely adjustable, it should work well.
Cat leashes can be standard leashes or retractable models.
Whichever type of leash you choose, be sure that it is lightweight
enough to allow your cat to move easily under its weight. Retractable
leashes are ideal for people who want to allow their cats to explore
their surroundings in a park or other traffic safe area, but want to
keep the cats close by when they are walking to and from their homes.
To accustom your cat to walking on a leash, you should not
use the same techniques you use to train your dog. Cats do not do well
with negative correction, so giving a quick tug on the leash when they
do not stay at your side will not teach them to heel. Instead, praise
your cat when he does what you want and ignore him when he does the
wrong thing. Although you can teach your cat to tolerate a leash, don't
expect him to consistently heel on command.
The easiest way to teach your cat is to use a leash is to
start when he is a young kitten of eight to ten weeks old. Place his
harness on him and allow him to walk about completely unrestrained.
After a few days, add the leash. Be sure that you do not apply any
pressure. Once your cat is used to the leash, you can pick it up and
teach him that it is ok for you to be on the other end of the leash.
Gently apply pressure to the leash and call your cat to you. Praise him
when he responds. Eventually, he will become used to following you when
he is on his leash.
Once your cat is on a leash, you can finally take him outside without
worrying that he will use your neighbor's vegetable garden as a big
litter box.
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