Folded Ear Cat

    Some may originally have the habit of going outdoors, or the owner later developed this habit for them. However, letting roam freely in the city has many safety risks. Therefore, you can consider taking your cat for a walk outside accompanied by the owner, also known as "walking the cat."

　　[Training Tips]

　　Cats have very strong instantaneous burst power—they can jump and dash. In residential areas, cars come and go frequently, so you must be able to control your cat when walking it to prevent it from running around. Otherwise, it will be hard for the owner to catch it, and traffic accidents may happen. To prevent the cat from getting lost during walks, the cat should wear a harness. Since there are no specialized cat leashes sold domestically, cat owners can choose the smallest size harness (as shown). This type of harness goes over the cat’s two front legs rather than directly around the neck, which is more comfortable and safer for cats. When putting the harness on your cat, be sure to adjust the tightness properly—not too tight and not too loose—otherwise, the cat can wiggle out of the harness.

　　Cats initially are not used to being restrained and may lie on the ground or try to escape when the harness is put on. So do not rush to "put on the harness." Instead, the owner should drag the harness around inside while attracting the cat’s attention and making it chase the harness. Once the cat gradually gets familiar with it, separate the harness and leash, and just put the harness on (definitely indoors, not outside) to let the cat get used to the feeling of wearing the harness first.

　　Slowly, if the cat no longer resists the harness, the owner can try attaching the leash to the harness and let the cat walk around inside the room, teaching it to slowly get used to the restraint. The first time taking the cat outside, choose a safe place like downstairs or around the house, and do not go too far. Let the cat get used to the surrounding sounds and scenery, and be sure to carefully observe the cat’s reactions.

　　If the cat is very fearful, it is recommended to give up the idea of walking it outside and not force it. Excessive forcing will only make the cat scared and possibly cause it to accidentally hurt the owner in panic. It might also negatively impact the cat’s personality, which is not what either the owner or the cat wants. How your cat behaves depends on its personality, so before using a leash for walking, understand your cat and let it start walking on its own, instead of dragging it.

　　Frequently taking cats outdoors for walks is very beneficial for the physical and mental health. The most important thing about walking a cat outside is not the owner’s happiness, but the cat’s happiness. It is best to start training cats to go out for walks from when they are kittens. First, train the cat to wear a collar and leash, letting it wander around just outside its own home, then gradually lead it further so it can adapt to the walk step by step. Once the cat is accustomed, it can be taken for walks on the street or in the park. If the cat refuses, do not force it—try again several times.