Walking a cat on a leash may seem unconventional to many, but it is becoming increasingly popular among cat owners who want to provide their feline friends with the mental and physical stimulation that outdoor experiences can offer. Cats are naturally curious creatures, and exploring the outdoors can be a wonderful way for them to satisfy their curiosity. However, walking a cat requires patience, training, and the right equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The first time you let your cat out
Here are some steps you can take to help make your cat’s first taste of the outside world a little less daunting.
Before you get started:
Make sure you choose a quiet day when there are no loud noises. So, avoid starting on your street’s bin collection day, for instance. You’ll want to start when it’s dry, too, so your cat gets a positive first experience.
1. Ask Yourself: Is My Cat Of The Right Age?
Both cats and kittens need to be ready before they can be taken out for their first time.
If you have an adult cat, they need at least 2 weeks to settle into a new home environment before being allowed safely outside. Whereas, kittens should be over 5 months old, fully vaccinated and spayed or neutered before being allowed outside.
Is It Good to Walk Your Cat?
Walking your cat can be beneficial if done correctly and if your cat enjoys the experience. It can improve your cat’s physical health, reduce stress, and prevent behavioral issues caused by boredom. However, it is important to monitor your cat’s behavior and reactions to ensure that the walks are positive and not causing undue stress.
Signs Your Cat Enjoys Walks
♦ 1. Curiosity: Your cat shows interest in the harness and leash and is eager to explore the outdoors.
♦ 2. Relaxed Body Language: Your cat appears relaxed and confident while walking.
♦ 3. Positive Behavior: Your cat responds positively to treats and praise during the walk.
Signs Your Cat is Stressed
♦ 1. Hiding: Your cat tries to hide or escape when the harness is introduced.
♦ 2. Aggression: Your cat exhibits aggressive behavior, such as hissing or swatting.
♦ 3. Anxiety: Your cat appears anxious, with dilated pupils, flattened ears, and a tense body.
1. Is it cruel not to let your cat outside?
There is no one right answer for this question. It all depends on where your cat is most comfortable. If you’ve adopted a cat from the streets, it’s very natural that they’d have an urge to hunt their prey themselves and be free to roam around anywhere they wish to. Sometimes, they might become irritable, develop anxiety and other behavioural issues. Hence, in this situation, it’s best to have a good “indoor-outdoor” routine for your cat.
When it comes to an indoor cat, observe how your cat behaves once they’re outside. If they feel stressed or anxious, it’s a good idea to consult a feline behaviour consultant in deciding your next step. Remember to accompany your cat the first few times they step out.
2. When can I let my kitten outside?
Kittens should be ideally over 5 months old before they’re allowed to roam around outside. Ensure that they’re fully vaccinated to avoid any diseases. It’s also a good idea to get them spayed or neutered to avoid unwanted litter.
3. What age can cats go outside?
If you’ve adopted an adult cat, they need at least 2 weeks to settle into a new home environment before being allowed safely outside. Ensure that they’re fully vaccinated to avoid any diseases. It’s also a good idea to get them spayed or neutered to avoid unwanted litter.
