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A common question that cat owners have is
whether they should ever put their cats on a leash. While leashing dogs is
perfectly normal and a common sight, leashed cats are less easy on the eyes.
This is because considering the nature of cats, many people donโt understand
why cats are put on a leash.
However, today, many cat owners have
started leashing their cats. There may be various reasons for doing so. One
could be that you want to exercise your cat and take them outdoors for a walk,
which makes leashing a great walking tool. Another reason could be that you
know your cat likes to spend time outdoors, but you are afraid that it may run
away.
On top of this, sometimes, several cats who
are prone to anxiety can feel safer and more comfortable when on a leash. When
outside, being leashed tells them their owner is right next to them, which
makes them calmer and more confident.
How does your cat feel about being
leashed?
Now that you are aware of the different
reasons why a cat may be put on a leash, it begs the question: Does your cat
like being leashed in the first place? It depends on the cat. While some cats
get used to being leashed, some cannot stand it and donโt like it one bit.
There is a high chance that your cat wonโt
like being put on a leash, especially if it is something you introduce to them
when they have already grown. Most cats like to roam free on their own will and
they enjoy being able to go anywhere they want whenever they want.
If you try putting your cat on a leash, and
they end up fighting you, clawing at you, meowing constantly or if they try to
remove the leash themselves, thatโs their way of telling you that they donโt
like it. Make sure you listen to your cat carefully. Itโs important not to
force your cat to adapt or get used to the leash if they donโt like it.
What to know about leashing your cat
If you want to try and put your cat on a
leash to see how they would react, the first things you need are a leash and a
harness. Make sure that you get a harness, not a collar. This is because if you
get something as soft as a collar, there is a high chance that your cat will
squeeze their way out of it.
The best place to
start leash training your cat is at home. In a comfortable, familiar and
confined space, you can see how your cat reacts to the leash, and even if they
donโt like it, it wonโt be much trouble to get them out of it.