I’ve talked a lot about outdoor cat enclosures, since it was my main focus when I started writing. I was looking for a safe way to allow my pet to experience the outside and that seemed like the safest and most logical way. It isn’t, however, the only way. May pet owners swear by cat harnesses and cat leashes. Depending on your pet, they may be the best option for you. But they aren’t for everyone, so I thought I would write about the pros and cons of kitty leashes.

Pros

You Spend Time with Your Cat Outdoors

Cats are stereotyped as aloof and independent, but they still need to have quality one-on-one time with their humans! Most cats crave just as much interaction as dogs do (my cats are more clingy than any dog I’ve ever known). When you get home from work, your feline friend is ready to spend time with you, especially if they’ve been alone all day. Putting on their harness and leash and exploring outside with them will help you strengthen the bond that you have with your pet.

Ensures Your Cat Gets Plenty of Exercise and Playtime

Obesity, and the diseases that can be caused by it, is a major problem for many pets. Feeding healthy foods can help, but exercise is also a must. Cats exercise during playtime. You can get your cat to exercise more by playing with toys such as cat dancers, balls, and feathers on sticks. But for some cats it is still not enough. Romping through the yard is fun exercise for the body and it also stimulates the mind. Exercising your cat and giving something new to see and interact with is the key to having a happy and healthy cat.

Affordable

Outdoor cat enclosures can cost a decent amount of money, especially if you are buying a larger one or buying multiple pieces to fit together into one large playpen. So if you aren’t sure if your feline friend will enjoy the great outdoors, you might be hesitant to spend the money to test it. With harnesses and leashes, you can take your cat outside for less than $15. If your cat hates it you aren’t out much money at all and you may be able to give the product to a friend who has been interested in taking their cat for a walk.

Cons

Not 100% Escape Proof

This is the big one and the reason that many pet owners decide against using a cat harness. While there are some things you can do to make them safer, a big enough scare will have your cat turning into a Houdini. To minimize the risk, get them accustomed to the harness and the leash indoors. Be sure that you find one that fits properly. Take them out during a quiet time of the day when they will feel safer. The late evening is a good choice. If you do these things, your cat will probably be fine. But that can’t be guaranteed so only buy a harness if you are comfortable with the risk.

Cats Will Beg for Walk Time

My sister got a leash for her cat, and never had a moment of peace again. Some cats will love going for walks and playing in the yard. And since they view you as a loyal and lovable servant, they will expect you to take them out frequently. They may demand it with large meows. So be prepared for this.

Not Good for Skittish Cats

You know your cat’s personality. My calico is sweet and dumb, and I would not trust her on a leash. She is terrified of car sounds, even when she is safe and sound in our second story apartment. So I know that a kitty harness would be a terrible idea for her. I’ve known smarter cats who were more independent. It wasn’t safe for them to go outside unsupervised, but they could comfortably walk around the neighborhood with a leash.

Overview

So, is buying a cat leash a good idea? It depends on your cat’s personality and your location. If you have a quiet backyard or neighborhood, it can be a good choice for even a more shy feline. Pets who are used to the outdoors will adjust more quickly than those who have spent their entire lives indoors. Be sure to get your cat used to the harness indoors before venturing outside.