Due to the impact of Instagram and TikTok videos and posts, the trend of walking cats on harnesses and leashes has gained popularity. Unlike dogs, cats behave differently when taken for a walk, making them more challenging to control and prone to quickly slipping out of the harness, potentially putting themselves in harm's way.
Some dangers that may occur
Stress and Anxiety
Cats are territorial creatures, and straying from their known environment can induce considerable stress and anxiety. Restraining them with a harness and leash can worsen these emotions, resulting in behavioral issues. Once your cat loses control, it becomes challenging to restore calm. Simply taking your cat for a walk in the garden could lead to unforeseen accidents, as sudden noises might startle your cat and trigger a fight-or-flight response.
Escape Risk
Even the most secure-seeming harness can be breached by a determined cat. A sudden fright or a strong pull can cause the harness to come undone, leaving your feline friend free to run off. Cats can dislocate their shoulders to escape from a harness and lead.
Cats can bolt at any time, causing you to lose control of the lead. The lead can be pulled out of your hands as the cats reacts quickly to sudden events, such as noises, wind and can become spooked easily . Many cats have gone missing from the garden after being scared, jumped over the fence never to be seen again with harness and lead still attached. This can be extremely dangerous as they could get trapped or hooked onto something, eg tree or bush and become totally trapped with no way to escape. Also escape risk of also being able to slide out of the harness if not fitted correctly and run away.
Increased Risk of Injury
Leashed cats are more likely to be involved in accidents, such as being hit by a car or getting caught in fences. Their natural agility and ability to quickly react to danger are hindered when they are restricted by a harness and lead. There is a chance they could hang themselves if they get caught on a fence.
Conflict with Other Animals
Cats are predators by nature, and encountering other animals, such as dogs or wildlife, can lead to confrontations. Leashing a cat can make it difficult for them to defend themselves or escape a threatening situation.
Some individuals have considered the idea of taking their cats for a walk in the park, only to encounter a dog. The cat typically runs away in fright, sometimes disappearing with the harness and leash still attached.
Harnesses and leads are not an option to keep your cat safe. If you decide to walk your cat on a harness, make sure it is in a quiet place with no dog walking and make sure your harness fits your cat correctly .
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