Now that we've got collars for our cats, it's time to explore some other accessories you may want to pick up for your cat. A common one people like to try is a harness and leash. Yes, it is a strange thing to try walk your cat, and we've touched upon this a little before but believe it or not, cat's are perfectly able to walk with you if you train them to.
Usually, a lead is used to keep your cat under control when you are taking it for a walk, or if you're taking it to a strange house. It can feel restricting to the cat because in unfamiliar environments, cat's tend to cower away in the corner or hide out of sight. The lead would restrict them from doing so and give them extra stress. On the other hand, some cats actively enjoy this activity, if you're a Siamese cat owner, then you'll know what I mean. For the rest, the experience will usually be initially resistance and a hard fight against the use of the lead.
If you do decide to stick with the lead, then be weary if the cat becomes frightened and then panics. The lead could get tangled and the cat could end up getting hurt or even escape. For reference, if a lead is to be worn on a more suitable outing, then it should be no longer than 1 metre. It should also be attached to a fitted harness rather than a collar. This gives you a lot more control but more importantly, gives your cat a certain degree of comfort. As we all know, cat's are escape artists and even the most fitted harnesses can be hard to keep secure to your cat.
You'll want to gradually introduce each element of the harness and lead to your cat and do so as early as possible. First, put on the harness by itself and only leave it on for a short time each day. After you have done this for a few days, attach the lead for a short time, also for several days in a row. Do not attempt to "walk" it initially, just let the lead trail.
When your cat seems relaxed about the lead, you can then try to walk it. First indoors for brief spells, then in the garden. A short while after that, you can attempt to walk it in the street where the cat can then get used to people and traffic.
