A cat on a lead? For many, it sounds like pure horror. But deep down, you might be secretly curious, and maybe you’d quite enjoy it (as long as your cat gets used to it and you don’t mind a few curious stares). You’ve probably seen it more and more on social media: cats heading out on little adventures with their owners, wearing a harness.

But how difficult is it really to get your cat used to a leash? And who knows… you might actually end up loving your weekly cat walks.
In this blog, we’ll help you figure out whether it’s something for you and your cat. We'll explore the pros and cons ,and most importantly: how to get started.

💬 Cat on a lead: "Doesn’t that look a bit odd? Why would you do that to yourself?''

Excellent question. You’ll probably get a few stares, or even comments like “Just get a dog.” Cats aren’t supposed to walk on leads, right? But… who decided that in the first place?

Did you know that it wasn’t until the 19th century that dogs were regularly walked on leads as part of daily life?

Before that, dogs mainly worked: hunting, guarding, herding. The idea of a pet you take for a walk simply didn’t exist in the same way. Times change. We all know why dogs are used to being on a lead and cats aren’t: cats are more independent, sensitive, and less inclined to be guided. But that doesn’t mean all cats can’t learn it, they just need a different approach. Cats respond differently than dogs. Don’t expect a brisk, structured pace like with a dog. It’s not about the distance. It’s about going at your cat’s pace, with patience and calm.

Picture this:

A peaceful morning walk through the woods. Your cat sniffs a twig and tugs you
down a side path. Just you, your cat, and fresh air. Maybe people stare. Maybe
they don’t. But who cares? Your cat’s on an adventure, and so are you!

So… what if you do want to give it ago?

If you're curious to try, you don't need to worry about what others think. It’s okay to do things differently. Cats are curious, intelligent creatures, and some absolutely love experiencing outdoor scents, sights, and sounds.

''You’ll only know if it’s for you if you try it.''

—C.S. Lewis

Benefits:

  • Your cat can explore the outdoors safely, without running loose
  • Health benefits: more mental and physical stimulation for indoor cats
  • A stronger bond between you and your cat
  • And above all: you get fresh air, movement, and calm too 🤍

⚠️Heads-up: Some cats hate the harness, freeze up, or wriggle to escape. That’s not a failure, it simply means lead walking isn’t right for your cat. And that’s perfectly okay.

Avoid trauma: how to start the right way

The most common mistake? Excitedly buying a harness, squeezing your cat in, and marching outdoors. With cats, slow = success.

Step-by-step approach:

  1. Let your cat get used to the harness indoors. Lay it near their favourite sleeping spot or beside the food bowl.
  2. Put the harness on for short moments (without the lead) and reward them with treats.
  3. Gradually build up to longer, short sessions wearing the harness. Let them walk around the house with it on.
  4. Once your cat seems more relaxed, try attaching the lead to the harness.
  5. Only once they’re fully comfortable should you attempt a first outdoor step, ideally in a garden or on a balcony.

Is your cat flopping like they’re about to faint? Stop. Breathe. Try again another day. Never force it. With cats, only patience works.

What type of cat is suited to lead training?

Not every cat will enjoy it. And you shouldn’t force it. But some cats are naturally curious, energetic, and eager to explore.

More likely to succeed:

  • Confident, young cats
  • Indoor cats with lots of energy
  • Cats used to routines and human interaction

Less suited:

  • Older cats
  • Cats with bad past experiences outside
  • Cats who panic easily at loud noises or sudden movement

Product tip: Start with a comfortable Y harness (avoid H-shapes) and a lightweight, adjustable lead. Test it at home and make sure it fits properly—not too tight and not too loose.

Unsure whether your cat is ready?

That’s a great place to be. Doubt is good,it means you’re thinking about your cat’s wellbeing. Start with no expectations. No pressure, no end goal, just experiment. Maybe it’ll lead nowhere. Or maybe it’ll become a weekly routine in a few months’ time. With (lots of) patience, calm and an open mind, you’ll discover if your cat has walk potential.

And if it doesn’t work out?

For some cats, sitting on the windowsill is just as satisfying. Or on one of our walll systems ;)

Top tips at a glance:

  • Not every cat can or wants to walk on a lead
  • Always start indoors and go slow
  • Choose the right harness and never force it
  • Observe: is your cat relaxed or stressed?
  • If it works out, you’ve got a walkie buddy for life
  • And no, you don’t have to feel weird about it, walking your cat is just next-level cat love. And that’s totally valid!

would you walk outside with your cat?

Let us know in the comments!

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