A harness for a cat how to put on

The range of pet products is represented by two models of collars, which differ in appearance, functionality, let's consider each of them in more detail:

How to put a harness on a cat?

It is still commonly believed that a cat, unlike a dog, forms an attachment not to the owner, but to his home. The life of cats and cats that are not on free range, usually takes place within four walls. But sometimes there is a need to take the pet outside the house. You may need a harness and a leash if you want to take your cat to the vet, drive it somewhere, introduce it to the cottage or just take it for a walk.

Almost any puppy's dowry includes a leash that comes with a collar or harness that is less traumatic to the pet's neck. This accessory, which allows you to fix the leash more securely on the pet, is suitable for walking a variety of pets, including those in the feline family. Pet stores carry harnesses designed according to the characteristics of each species. They are more complex than collars, so they are more difficult to put on. In this article we will tell you about the different types of harnesses and explain step by step how to put them on correctly, so that it does not become a source of stress for the cat and do not spoil the mood of you.

Any harness is designed for reliable fixation of a leash on an animal. This determines its structure. Almost every harness includes at least one length-adjustable strap with a buckle that resembles a regular collar, but is usually longer. It may be fully or partially looped and stitched. The ends of one strap or different straps are connected by jumpers (short straps stitched at both ends). The flexibility of these jumpers allows us to adjust the width of the loops that make up the harness. Each harness has a ring for attaching a leash (the same as on a regular collar), usually in the shoulder blade area of the animal. However, although almost all models consist of the same elements, they vary greatly in construction. Table 1 describes how to put on the different types of harnesses. The general principle: find the ring to attach the leash and position the elements of the accessory so that the ring is in the area of the animal's back. The simpler the arrangement of the accessory, the easier it is to put on.

H-Strap

Consists of a long strap interlocked in an oval and divided into two loops by a movable crosspiece. Elements of the split clasp are at the ends of short straps, secured perpendicular to the crosspiece. When clasped, it resembles the letter H, with the crossbar formed by joining the straps and perpendicular to the cat's spine.

1. The jumper slides upward to widen the bottom loop.
2. The cat's hind legs are inserted into the bottom loop.
3. The upper loop is put on the animal's neck over the head.
4. The harness fastens and adjusts to the tightness of the girth with special runners.

General rules

Put the harness on the cat for the first time should be put on gradually, with preparation. If you initially scare or hurt the animal, then further communication with the ammunition will be very difficult. Proceed as follows.

1. Familiarize your furry friend with the new thing. Let him sniff, look around and study. Start putting it on only after the cat has accepted the item and made sure it is safe.
2. Put on the harness according to the instructions, depending on the type of harness. Adjust the size of the straps. Two of your fingers should fit between the construction and your pet's body. This is a margin of space for normal breathing. If the cat resists, postpone the procedure for a while. Otherwise, the animal will think that the harness is related to discomfort.
3. If you manage to put the harness on the cat, praise him, give him some treats. Reinforce the positive experience in every way possible. Allow the animal to walk around the house in the new harness for a while.
4. For the first walk in the harness choose a quiet and peaceful place. The cat should be interested in exploring the world, not frightened by shouting children or dogs running by.
5. If everything is done correctly and calmly, it will be easy to put the cat together for a walk next time.

Scheme of putting on the different types

The simplest are considered to be octogenarian harnesses, which consist of two loops. When putting them on, they are fixed on the neck and torso, under the front paws of the cat. There are varieties without a collar, they are more comfortable for animals.

However, the owners of the latter variant are not very happy with, it is more difficult to control the animal. H type harnesses are similar to the previous ones, but there is a bar between the loops. Harness vests are more expensive, but they have more functionality. The ammunition is similar to clothes and has comfortable clasps. This is a great option for the off-season. Such a harness will protect the cat from dirt and cold.

Octopus harness .

The design resembles intertwined straps that fasten on the body. The step-by-step instructions for putting on a collar harness are as follows.

1. Place the first loop around the cat's neck. Make sure the leash ring is on top, on the withers. If everything is correct, the clasps end up at the bottom.
2. Widen the large loop so that the paws can pass through there. The jumpers should be placed on the chest, clearly in the middle.
3. Cat paws one by one inserted into the resulting loop.
4. Fasten the strap under the paws or on the back.
5. Fasten the leash to the ring on top.

A more comfortable design for the cat does not have a collar. This version is presented as 2 paw loops. Put it on like this.

Harness vest

The models differ, the one-piece can be located both on the belly and on the back. The first ones are especially relevant to put on a kitten. Since such ammunition resembles clothes, the wearing scheme is similar. Usually there are no straps, and Velcro and ties are used as fasteners. Put on the harness with the fabric on the back as follows.

1. Place the one-piece against the back. The attachment for the leash carabiner should be placed clearly on the animal's withers.
2. Slip the paws through the different holes.
3. Gently clasp or tie, depending on the type of attachment, the harness around the neck and belly.
4. Make sure to fasten the harness not too tight. To do this, insert 2 fingers between the construction and the cat's body, they should fit loosely.
5. Attach the carabiner of the leash or roulette to the loop on the back.

Types

Harnesses are usually sold complete with a leash. They consist of two collars, one of which is secured to the cat's neck and the other to the belly. Therefore, it is very important when choosing a model to pay attention to the parameters of the animal and buy a harness that would not be too small or large. The leash is attached to the harness using a special ring. Its maximum length can be up to 2.5 meters, there are also models of length of 4 meters.

Nowadays, a huge range of cat harnesses, made of different materials, is on sale. Most often this accessory is made of thick fabric and canvas, but the best harness is made of leather. In addition, products may differ in color and variants of decor, the models decorated with patches and rhinestones are very popular. To participate in exhibitions, the owners of the pets, as a rule, buy the original harness. For regular walks, you can give preference to cheaper options.

The most common types of harnesses include the following.

• Pet harnesses .. They are considered versatile because they allow additional protection for the cat from the cold and dirt. There is a ring on the back of the accessory, with which you can attach a leash. Thanks to the chic choice of colors and design, harnesses are easy to choose for any taste.

• Harnesses in the form of a vest. Such models are equipped with fasteners, to which you can quickly attach a leash. They are reliable in operation, but not suitable for the summer, as the pet in them will be hot. In addition, many experts believe that these vests limit the freedom of movement of the cat.

• Leash-collar. It is ideal for compliant and calm cats. In order for the pet to feel comfortable in it, you need to choose the right size. The harness should not dangle freely on the neck or squeeze it. Eight-shaped accessories of this type are very popular. The products consist of two loops fastened together, one of which is put around the pet's neck and the other on the front paws on the body.

How to choose?

Choose a walking harness for a cat should be guided not only by personal preferences, but also take into account the fact that the accessory was comfortable and safe for the pet. If you choose a low-quality or not corresponding to the size of the pet, the product can quickly tear. Therefore, when choosing a vest or harness, you should pay attention to the following indicators.

• Material. Harnesses should be made of dense, but not coarse material. In addition, the accessory should be easy to wash. Products made of nylon are considered a good choice, they do not rub on the cat's body and fit snugly. Nylon harnesses allow you to securely fix the pet and are suitable for both too active and young pets. For older cats, you can buy accessories made of cotton, because they are not very active during walks. For "fluffy" cats with delicate skin, fleece-lined or felt-lined harnesses are suitable.

As for the beautiful leather straps, they are expensive and of little use for pets, as they can chafe the neck and are too cumbersome.

In case the time of purchase falls in the spring or summer, it is best to give preference to strappy halters. Models in the form of vests made of transparent mesh fabric will also work well. Cats will be comfortable and not hot in them. For winter, you should buy models of overalls, which will not only secure the walk, but will also protect the pet from the cold.

What is a harness and why does a cat need one?

The harness is a handy device designed to hold the cat during a walk. It consists of two rings: one is fixed on the animal's neck, the second is by the body under the front paws. The rings are made of elastic material and are connected to each other by a fabric bar to which the leash is attached. As a rule, it comes with the harness.

Harnesses for domestic cats come in different kinds. They differ in shape, design and color.

1. Model in the form of a figure eight of two loops, fastened at one point. Adjustable with snap fasteners. Can be adjusted to specific cat sizes.

2: H-shaped harness. Connecting bar is on the back.

3. V-shaped harness – when fixed, a V-shaped loop is formed in the pet's chest area.

4. doggie harness – a full-featured cloth with a leash securing elements, which holds the pet well and protects it from cold winds and draughts. You can choose to wear at different times of the year. The range includes summer and winter models made of different fabrics, in different styles and colors.

How to choose a harness for a cat

When choosing a harness for a cat, you should pay attention to the quality of the product, the material and its size. It should be comfortable and safe for the cat, appropriate to its size.

Nylon harnesses provide a secure fit, do not chafe, and are practical to use;

Cotton models – recommended for older, not very active pets;

Products with fleece or felt linings – optimal for cats with sensitive, delicate skin.

It is not recommended to buy a harness made of leather for a cat. These products are very heavy, uncomfortable, and may chafe the pet's skin.

Sizes of harnesses

Harnesses come in different sizes. To make the right choice, you need to take measurements from the cat by measuring the chest circumference behind the front paws.

Choosing a harness

Choose a harness made of thick material that is breathable and easy to clean. Leather is best. I don't recommend choosing thin nylon because it's easy to chew, or velvet and suede – they're more suitable for shows.

Before putting on the accessory, make sure it fits the pet's size. Manufacturers indicate on products for whom they are made: for kittens, cats of different sizes or for dogs.

If there is no opportunity to choose the thing with the pet, be guided by the size chart.

Chest volume is measured in standing position by the widest part of the pet's sternum. Back length is measured from the neck to the base of the tail along the spine.

Ground rules

For convenience, I made a list of universal tips that will help you painlessly accustom your pet to an unusual accessory.

• Give the cat a chance to get used to the new thing. I left the strap in sight and allowed time for sniffing.
• Always use the instructions.
• If the cat resists – don't try to force it or yell at it. Let it go, calm it down and try again after a while.
• Getting used to the strap is stressful for the animal, so go outside only after making sure the cat is calm and ready to walk.
• Spend the first 2-3 outings in a quiet and safe place where there are no loud noises or dogs.
• Give the cat a treat when you get him dressed so that the process is associated with pleasant moments.
• Two fingers should pass freely between the harness and the cat's torso. Use this method to see if you have tightened the harness too tight.

Which is better for the cat, the harness or the collar

A harness is a reliable and safe harness for domestic cats, intended for walking the cat outside under the vigilant control of the owner. It is a set of straps with an extended leash. The straps are fixed in the area of the cat's chest and neck, covering the upper part of the body.

The collar is a decorative accessory in the form of a ring of leather, fabric or other materials. It is worn around the neck of the animal. Before the walk, a leash is attached to the collar, which allows you to control and limit the movement of the cat.

Both accessories are successfully used for cats who are not allowed to walk unattended by the owner.

Pros and cons of the collar

There are different types of collars. They are chosen depending on their purpose. If it is needed to walk the pet under control, a sturdy walking model equipped with an extended leash will be required.

For cats walking without the owner's supervision, many choose name or address products. In case the cat gets lost, it can be returned to the specified address. More advanced models have a GPS function. The owner will be able to track the cat's movements on a navigator and always find it if it doesn't return home.

There are also soothing collars treated with special components with a sedative effect. And to protect your pet from fleas and ticks, you can buy an antiparasitic collar.

• are practical and durable;
• easy to put on;
• comfortable to wear without creating discomfort for the pet;
• increase the safety of the pet walking without an owner (the presence of a collar indicates that the cat is not homeless);
• affordable cost.

• walking collar is not suitable for too active and energetic cats, because the sharp jerks of the animal can traumatize the neck;
• products with soothing or antiparasitic impregnation may cause allergic reactions in cats with individual intolerance to the active components;
• uncomfortable to wear if the owner has chosen the wrong size;
• A collar worn incorrectly is dangerous for the cat.

How to choose the right harness for a cat

So, if the owner has chosen to buy a harness for walking a domestic cat, it is necessary to decide on the optimal type of ammunition, so that it fits the animal perfectly.

Types

There are several types of harnesses according to their design features and method of attachment. This is the first important parameter of choice.

• The octagonal harness consists of two hinge straps, which are attached in the area of the front legs and neck.
• H-shaped – this harness is similar to the previous model, but unlike the figure-eight, where the loops on the back cross each other, are attached by a transverse stripe, which visually resembles the letter "H". This modification is ideal for quiet and small cats.
• V-shaped harness is attached to the back with straps, like an octagonal or H-shaped harness, and folds into a "V" shape at the pet's neck. Ideal for large and restless cats.
• The vest harness is a one-piece ammunition, which is a hybrid of clothing complemented by a leash. These models are optimal for walking your pet in cool weather. It protects from dirt and rain, and warms cat's body.

Sizes

The second important criterion for choosing a harness is size. It should fit the size of the animal's body.

It is desirable to buy the harness with the cat to try it on at once. If there is no such a possibility or the product is ordered online, you can measure it yourself and determine the right size.

Also, experts recommend taking into account the following parameters when choosing a harness:

• high-quality and durable material – nylon or cotton;
• the width of straps, the ideal width is 1.5 cm, such harnesses do not restrict the movement of the pet, do not chafe the skin and do not pull it;
• fittings should be practical and fastenings should be easy to fix and be reliable at the same time;
• a mechanism for securing the leash.

What a leash for a cat is for

The leash is conveniently used for walks on the street, during long journeys, for visits to exhibitions, veterinary clinics and other outings with a domestic cat.

Pros and cons

Walking cats on a leash has its pros and cons. Let's take a closer look.

• complete safety for the cat, allows you to control the movement of the pet and exclude any dangerous situations when meeting with stray cats and dogs in the yard;
• no risk of losing the cat while walking;
• peace of mind for the owner;
• provides the joy of outdoor walks for indoor cats with limited outdoor exposure.

• not all cats quickly adapt to the new device, which limits the freedom of movement, during the period of getting used to the leash may show their discontent, trying to get rid of the accessory, to break free and run away;
• A leash of the wrong type that puts a lot of pressure on the neck can cause serious harm to a cat's health;
• a low-quality leash can break suddenly during a walk, the cat may take advantage of the moment, run away and get lost.

The main disadvantages of using a leash for a cat can be eliminated by choosing the right accessory, made of quality and safe material. The owner should be careful to fasten the leash and check the degree of its pressure on the animal's neck.

Types of leashes for cats

In the range of pet products, there are special leashes for cats of different models, differing in functionality and material. We suggest you consider the most popular types.

Leash leash

Leash leash is optimal for walking small kittens and large cats. The accessory is equipped with a handle and locking latch, which allows you to fix the cable at the required length.

Leash Harness

The leash is the most comfortable device for walking cats. It consists of several elements: rings of soft fabric, connected by the plank and fixed on the cat's neck, chest and under its lower legs. A leash is attached to the harness. Such a device does not allow the cat to escape and does not put pressure on the neck.

The harness leash

The leash-belt is a standard collar accessory worn around the cat's neck. The length of the leash adjusts to the activity of the animal.

When you should refuse to walk

There are situations when it is better to refuse to stay outside with a pet, as it may threaten the safety of the purr, and definitely will not bring the expected joy:

• Lack of vital vaccinations – your oversight can lead to infection with severe infectious diseases as a result of contact with sick animals;
• Post-operative period – wait until your pet is fully recovered, stronger and able to enjoy a walk;
• The cat is in heat – at this time it is especially interesting for cats, which from afar can feel its readiness to mate, if you do not want to "fight off" the intrusive attention of the courtyard cavaliers better postpone with a walk;

Now you know exactly, Is it okay to walk a cat on a leash. Your task is to make the walks comfortable and as safe as possible, to buy quality ammunition for the cat, choose a comfortable time, do everything to make the cat enjoy the walk.

How to train a cat to the harness and leash

It is better to accustom the cat to the harness from childhood, but it is also possible in adulthood. It is good if your cat wears a collar, in which case it will accept the harness calmly:

Introduce the cat to the new object first. Sniff it, look at it, and touch it, so that the cat will know that it is safe.

Be sure to introduce the new harness to the cat and let him know that it is safe

If you do everything right and without coercion, the cat will love the walks, and they will give you both a lot of pleasant moments.

Owners' reviews

Oh, it's Friday. Well… We were looking for a harness for a long time… Then we started putting it on… It was a mess. This muzzle tore us all!!! In general, we never put it on… That was the end of the walk… Well, fuck her. She does not want to walk and do not have to!!!

gutik

https://forums.zooclub.ru/showthread.php?t=464&page=2

And we wear a leash on the street when we have so many distractions and the kitty doesn't notice the leash, he freezes, and here we are, quickly put it on and run through the bushes.

Mavra

https://forums.zooclub.ru/showthread.php?t=464&page=2

When Billy was very young and I didn't have not only a car, but a carrier. We used to take him and him to the cottage on the train, on the handlebars. And I used to put a harness on him. Once it helped a lot. A dog barked on the platform nearby, and the cat snatched me out of my arms. And while he was trying to get his harness off (which he almost succeeded, by the way), I caught him. That is, the harness will give the owner if not a complete guarantee against losing the cat, then at least a temporary head start for catching him. But we have to keep in mind that cats are Houdini. If they want to get out of the harness, they can do it. So do not relax, even if the cat walks on the harness. And how to train – I don't remember exactly. I think I packed the cat in the harness and started distracting him with games or food. And so every day, for two hours at a time. I remember that at first he lay on his side in it and refused to move around. Then he began to get used to it.

Karlushka

http://forum.mau.ru/viewtopic.php?p=4770204

I always walk my older cat on a harness. He loves it. He jumps in it at the door while I am getting dressed. He walks quietly, doesn't tear anywhere, understands when to turn around. The younger cat is more timid, I'm not sure if he likes it – I'll start when it's warmer outside. We put the harness on at home first. The cat will try to get rid of it. Here we need to play with the cat and distract his attention. And take it off. And so on several times until the cat stops paying attention to the harness (for several days). Outside. The first time most likely the cat will lie down in the grass, if he has never been outside, and will sit not far from you, staring and sniffing. And will move his belly around on the ground. After a couple of walks this goes away and the cat will start hunting, climbing trees and frolicking. This is where you should ALWAYS stop when you don't like where the cat is going. Just stand up and that's it. He'll tug and go the other way. I want him to know that if they won't let him go, he can't go. I have a dog leash, such that you press the button on the handle and adjust its length – so it's very convenient.