How to Carefully Choose a Cat Harness for Your Pet

Posted by Carina Michael on March 4th, 2023

It is no secret that cats have started to take over the world, with their wit and mischievous personalities, being real competition to dogs. And why would they not be? They are little lions that live in your home rent-free, loving you when they feel like it and having random zoomies at 3 in the morning. And you cannot be mad at them.

This is why, as a pet owner, you must look into everything that will keep your cat happy and active. Cats are not like dogs; they get bored quickly and can gain weight faster than a dog if they are not entertained.

Therefore, training your pet to use a cat harness will also help strengthen the bond between you and benefit your little friend. And if you want to travel with your cat, a pet carrier will be handy. It is a fact that cats are great travel companions but sometimes can get a little dizzy and agitated from the ride, and therefore this is why you will need a carrier. This article is for you if you need advice on choosing the best harness for your cat.

When and Where You Should Use a Cat Harness

If you know your cats, you will understand that letting them outside is dangerous, especially if most of their life is spent indoors. Many cars can put them in danger. So, it is no longer a secret that walking your furry friend in a cat harness is the new trend. Many people have been doing this recently because they can entertain their pets while relaxing outside. Cat walking can be challenging at first, so you may use, in the beginning, a pet carrier to accommodate your cat in the new environment. But when is it indicated to use a harness?

1.     Car Travelling

When traveling with your feline companion, you may use a pet carrier, which is easy, because you will know your cat will be safe for the drive. Additionally, using a harness is another option for keeping your pet secure throughout the journey. You can save your cat's life by using a cat harness and pet carrier, and this of it as a car seatbelt. Without it, you may be put in danger for the whole drive.

Harnesses are often thought to be more secure than cat carriers. Even when tethered, your safety is compromised when your cat is allowed to explore the environment without your constant supervision since you never know how they could respond in stressful situations.

2.     Natural Disasters

If the worst happens, you need to be prepared, and so does your cat, because when facing dangerous situations, you cannot leave your pets alone.

Therefore, you might be more at ease if you train your pet to wear a cat harness. A harness may prevent your fearful cat from escaping in an emergency. You should know that cats sense your emotions well and might respond to what you feel with agitation or anxiety if you are in danger.

To accommodate your cats to the harness, they need to wear it often, allowing them to settle down and feel more at ease when anything unexpected occurs. And if you feel like your cat cannot get along with the harness, use a pet carrier to make your life easier, especially in critical moments.

Remember that your pets are part of the family, so you should always take them with you and not abandon them if you need to evacuate before, during, or after a crisis.

How to Choose the Best Harness and Pet Carrier

1.     Understand Your Cat’s Needs

It may be more challenging than it sounds, but if you are willing to get to know your cats, starting with their habits, needs, likes, and dislikes, you will understand if a cat harness will make them happy. Cats are well known for showing their unique personalities, so you will see whether they will accept it. Besides internal factors, you also need to consider some external factors, such as if you will use the harness for short walks around the neighborhood or long journeys. A good harness is necessary if you go a long distance because your cat may easily get stressed. A stressed cat is not happy and will show you this.

Moreover, if your cat does not get along with the harness, switch with a pet carrier because it is easier to use and does not need training.

2.     Make Sure the Harness Fits Like a Glove

When it comes to harnesses, cats have a history of being able to escape from them. Therefore, whenever you need to buy a cat harness, make sure it fits closely around your cat's waist because the last thing you want is for your cat to escape the saddle and start to chase them around. While the harness should not be too tight because your cats still need to breathe and be comfortable, a looser fit would be worse than a too-tight one. If your cat is wearing a leash and you hear a noise or see anything that makes them feel unsafe, they may slip out of the harness and continue their adventure.

You can buy a pet carrier if you want to be extra safe while walking with your cat. Many options, from the bag ones to the backpack ones, will make your cat feel less anxious and stressed when it is outside. All you need is good research and time to test all the options available on the market. While you may not hit the jackpot on the first try, you need to understand that cats, even though they cannot communicate with you, are capable of emotions and need to be treated as part of your family.

Are Harnesses Safe?

Nothing in life is entirely sure and safe because wherever you go, something may happen. But this cannot stop you from living your life to its fullest. And the same goes for your cat. If you use the harness with a dependable cat leash, the risks of something happening to your cat drop considerably. If you train your pet and maintain control of the leash, the collar will prevent the cat from getting into trouble.

When flying, walking, or driving with your cat, harnesses, and carriers are the best to keep your cat close to you.