How to train your cat to go outside on a leash safely for enrichment

First, please know that there is no escape-proof harness! But you can train your cat to go outside on a leash safely with training and lots of yummy treats.

Taking your cat outside on safe walks comes down to proper training inside first. Help your cat get used to walking with a harness and leash, loud noises, and going outside gradually.

You can also take your cat outside in a stroller, build a catio, or just open the windows to give your cat a taste of the outdoors.

Any taste of the outdoors is wonderful enrichment for your cat.

I took Jericho outside a few times years ago. But it’s been so long so I need a refresher on how to take him outside again. So I’m talking to certified cat trainer Emily from Kitty Cat Go. Emily helps cat parents just like us take their cats outside on a harness and leash safely.

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I highly recommend watching the full video to get all of the tips and tricks. But I will paraphrase Emily’s recommendations and experience below for a shorter version.

What is harness and leash training? What are the benefits?

The safest way to bring our cats outside is on a harness and leash. Taking your cat outside on a leash provides lots of enrichment. Letting your cat sniff around, get fresh air, and feel the sun all provide enrichment.

kylo nimbus emily kitty cat go cats outside on leashes caticles.com
Kylo and Nimbus enjoying the outdoors

What was your experience like when you first started bringing your cats outside, and what’s that routine like now?

Every cat is different. Two of my cats are hiking cats. One of my cats didn’t go out on a harness and leash until he was 10. And my other cats are fine with hanging out in the backyard or in the catio.

Is my cat too old to learn how to go outside on a harness and leash?

No! We had my cat Sampson since he was a kitten, and he was a very skittish cat when he was younger. He didn’t go out on a harness and leash until he was 10. And he ended up being a hiking cat.

How much time do I need to set aside for harness and leash training each day?

You only need about five minutes a day for training. It’s more about consistent training than it is about the length of the training session. It’s better to train for five minutes every day rather than for 20 minutes one day and then go weeks without training.

jericho walking outside on harness and leash caticles.com

What is the best harness and leash for my cat?

First, please know there is no escape-proof harness. Don’t fall for the marketing! It’s more about the training and the comfort level you and your cat have in your relationship.

Every cat is different, and some may like certain harnesses more than others. The point is to train our cats properly so that they don’t want to escape the harness.

Cat harnesses I use and recommend:

For leashes, get one with a lightweight buckle made for cats. It’s better to have a 6-foot leash so your cat stays in your immediate area during walks. However, you can use a longer leash if you’re just hanging out in your backyard.

kylo emily kitty cat go in backpack on walk caticles.com

What other gear should we bring on walks with our cat?

You can bring other gear with you to prepare for safe and fun walks.

  • Backpack carrier just in case your cat decides he doesn’t want to walk anymore
  • Breakaway collar so you can put ID tags and trackers on your cat
  • ID tags with your phone number and address
  • Airtag or GPS tracker – Tractive and Tabcat are two tracker options
  • Lots of healthy treats – lickable treats are great to have in warmer weather since they are high in moisture

How do we get our cats used to the harness and leash? And how do I get my cat actually to walk around on a leash?

Start harness and leash training inside. First, put the harness on the floor so your cat can approach the harness on his terms. Reward your cat with yummy treats when your cat shows interest in the harness. This will help your cat associate the harness with a positive experience.

You’ll also have to train your cat to accept handling. Then you gradually introduce the harness on your cat, clasping it, removing it, etc. Offer rewards with each interaction so your cat has a positive experience. Then you can use your cat’s harness during play sessions or clicker training sessions so your cat gets used to walking around indoors first. Gradually introduce the leash in the same way.

How do I help my cat get over the fear of noises and distractions outside?

First, put the harness and leash on your cat. Start by opening the door and just sit in the doorway to get used to the sounds. Give your cat treats and encouragement with petting. It’s also important to give them the choice to go back inside since the door is open. Then progress to a couple of feet outside. And work your way outside gradually.

Select locations very carefully based on your cat’s personality. Avoid busy areas if your cat gets scared of strangers walking by.

Use YouTube videos of outside sounds to desensitize your cat to noises. Search for emergency vehicles, lawnmowers, dogs barking, etc.

Always go at your cat’s pace. Use lots of treats and always encourage your cat so it’s a positive experience.

sampson emily kitty cat go cat in stroller and harness and leash walking outside caticles.com

What are the signs to look out for if our cats are stressed or freaked out?

Freak out signs: trembling, hiding and trying to retreat (digging into the corner), ears back, growling and hissing. Time to take your cat back inside.

Cautious but curious signs: crouched down but alert and looking around, seeming curious and checking things out. Not trying to remove themselves. Your cat is enjoying his time outside.

What type of preventatives should we have for our cats before going outside? What about natural flea and tick products?

The standard vaccines are fine. Use heartworm prevention if you live where mosquitoes are. Wonderside makes a natural flea and tick collar. You can use food-grade diatomaceous earth to kill bugs if you end up having a flea or tick problem.

What do we do if our cat escapes the harness?

Try to stay calm. Easier said than done, but definitely important. Pick up your cat and put the harness back on or put them in the backpack if they haven’t run away.

If your cat does run away, they will probably find somewhere to hide or find cover. Don’t chase your cat. Let them retreat and then slowly approach them with treats.

cat outside on harness and leash

Do you wipe your cats off after walking them?

It depends on where you go and what the environment is. If you don’t know what they’ve been walking on, you can use paper towels and water to clean off their paws.

What type of stroller is best for cats?

Make sure the stroller has mesh around it for air flow, and so your cat can see outside. Try to get one with clip clasps because this is easier to close and harder for your cat to open (vs. ones with zippers). Travel Cat has one on Chewy.

Extra storage for your water bottle, treats, blankets, extra gear, etc. is great as well.

What about building a catio for our cats?

Catios are excellent for cats. It doesn’t have to be big as long as it’s secure. Use a pet-safe screen if you want to block bugs and other things from getting in and prevent your cat from getting out. Add ferns or other cat-safe plants, beds, and anything else to make it cozy.

What if we can’t take our cats outside or build a catio?

Crack a window, as long as you have a screen. The fresh air and different things to look at out the window still provide enrichment.

How can someone work with you if they need more help?

I have a self-paced harness and leash training course. Or 1:1 services if you get stuck and want more individualized help.

Anything else that you’d like to mention before we go?

Don’t underestimate your cats. Lots of people say, “My cat would never do that” but it’s never too late, and it’s worth a try. It’s an amazing bonding experience that’s really fun for both of you! Might as well try. Your cat might surprise you!