How To Walk Your Cat

Cats all have their own unique purrsonalities. Although many felines enjoy lounging around all day, soaking up the sun and chasing catnip mice, some are far more adventurous. As you may have observed, we strongly recommend Fluffy be kept indoors, for her own safety. Being inside protects her from potential hazards such as automobiles, inclement weather, wild animals, and interactions with stray or violent pets and people. However, there is a happy medium. Walking your pet is an excellent method to give her the best of both worlds. This article offers tips from a local Peterborough, ON veterinarian on walking Fluffy.

What Are the Advantages of Walking My Cat?

Fluffy benefits from taking walks in many of the same ways that people do. She will get some exercise, which will be good for her general health. Our feline friends are full of energy while they are kittens, but as they get older, they become less active. (Eventually, Fluffy will be able to sleep 20 hours every day, but that’s a different story.)

Going for a walk may also give your cute pet some much-needed stimulation. Pets’ mental and emotional wellness are both critical to their general well-being. Cats, like people, require enrichment in order to thrive. Exploring new things may be an exciting and fun experience for your inquisitive little furball.

Of course, this will be good for you, too. You’ll also get some fresh air and activity. Plus, you get to spend some quality time with your feline pal.

Is Walking Your Cat a Good Idea?

Although there are benefits to taking Fluffy for a stroll, it’s important to note that not all cats will love it. Going for a stroll might be a stressful experience for a fearful furball.

Or, things could go the other way. Fluffy may become extremely eager about going for walks and make an effort to run anytime someone opens the door.

How Can I Teach My Cat to Walk on a Leash?

Simply attaching a leash to your feline companion and expecting her to stroll gently behind you is not the greatest strategy. Your furry friend should already be accustomed to wearing a harness before venturing outside. When selecting a harness, avoid those that attach the leash onto the neck. Something with a back clip is best.

At the start, only allow Fluffy to wear the harness within the house. You want her to develop a pleasant association with the harness. Help her along by offering something that she likes, such as biscuits or catnip, while she wears it. Your kitty may initially lie down and refuse to move. That stubborn ‘cat flop’ mode won’t last forever! Allow your furry little diva some time to adjust.

Watch your kitty carefully while she’s wearing the harness. Although she may appear uneasy at first, she should soon settle. After that, you can begin putting the leash on. Let her pull it behind her. She may initially attack it or try to run from it. That’s just purr for the course!

Just keep an eye on her to ensure she doesn’t become entangled. Never leave her unattended in her harness. Once your cat is familiar with the leash, you can begin taking her outside.

Fluffy’s First Walk

Safety first! Before you go out with Fluffy, make sure she has had all the necessary vaccines and is parasite-free. Fluffy should be microchipped and wearing current ID tags. Just to be cautious, consider obtaining a GPS or air tag for her harness as well.

Fluffy’s First Walk

It’s better to start with a short, leisurely walk. Simply step outside into the yard or sidewalk and let your cat explore her surroundings. She may feel anxious at first, but she will most likely become curious. Don’t force her to stay outside if she starts crying or tries to flee indoors.

What Age Is Good To Begin Walking Your Cat?

While this isn’t a must, this is best done around the end of little Fluffy’s socialization window, which lasts between the ages of three weeks and three months. At this adorable stage, she is shaping her worldview. Introducing her to a range of people and circumstances during this time can help her mature into a friendly and open-minded adult kitty. However, your cat will need to complete the initial series of immunizations and parasite control first. You will have to wait for your Peterborough, ON veterinarian’s endorsement. Don’t go anywhere with Fluffy unless you’ve received approval.

Is It Safe For Cats To Go On Walks?

Most cats should be fine going for walks with their owners. However, there are a few exceptions. If Fluffy is a senior and hasn’t grown acclimated to walks yet, it’s probably best to leave her alone. Not every feline is built for strenuous physical activity. Persians and other brachycephalic pets can rapidly lose their breath, especially in warmer weather. Cats with medical concerns may struggle, and bald kitties will not be comfortable in harsh temperature conditions, whether hot or cold. Walking is also not appropriate for very young kittens. Ask your Peterborough, ON veterinarian for advice.

Are There Any Drawbacks To Walking A Cat?

It’s also necessary to evaluate the downsides. Once you’ve taught Fluffy to wear a harness and enjoy walks, it will become a permanent part of her regular kitty routine. If your cat enjoys going for walks, she may insist on going every day. If she doesn’t get to go out, she may become agitated and possibly try to escape.

While there are certain safety risks, simple steps can significantly reduce them. Watch for cars, stray pets, and potential hazards on the sidewalk, such as broken glass, antifreeze pools, or chemical spills. You’ll need to use a short leash rather than a retractable one to keep your kitty near you so she doesn’t roam too far.

Another thing to remember? Walking cats is very different from walking dogs. Allow your pet to explore as long as she stays inside safe boundaries.

Last but not least, be cautious when approaching trees. If Fluffy feels scared, she may instinctively try to climb one, risking getting stuck or entangled. That is not a situation you want to find yourself in! Always use a leash and harness when taking your cat outside!

Can I Walk My Kitty In A Stroller?

Getting Fluffy a little stroller is an option worth considering. Your pet will be more controlled and protected from potential hazards.

What Else Can I Do To Make My Cat Content?

Fluffy should have other options for enjoyment than just walks. Your kitty companion values both toys and playtime. Your feline friend will also like having plenty of room to roam and climb throughout the house. While cat trees are a popular choice, there are other ways to keep your cute pet entertained, such as using empty boxes and newspaper tunnels. Window seats are popular among feline companions. Ask your vet for more information on getting that little motor going!

Schedule An Appointment At Our Peterborough, ON Pet Clinic

Do you have questions about walking your cat? Feel free to contact us, your local Peterborough, ON pet hospital, at any time. We are pleased to help you!