Let’s get the basics out of the way to start the conversation.
What is a Pet Harness?
A pet harness is an equipment with straps fastened using side-release buckles. It is usually around an animal’s torso, like a horse or dog. Hence, it is natural to wonder, “are cat harnesses are safe?” and “are cat harnesses a good idea?”.
If you are curious, you are at the right place. Let’s uncover the truth!
Typically, a harness works for several pets. Amongst these, dogs and cats are the two most popular ones. Pet owners use a harness for their assistance. For example, a dog harness is also for assisting people with disabilities. In addition, it is also for hauling people and items.
For cats, however, the reasons are entirely different. Cats are not similar to dogs in terms of nature. Therefore, there are other reasons why cats need harnesses.
There are so many questions related to harnessing that people have. We understand how these questions are typically left unanswered due to a lack of research. Hence, people adopt a negative perspective towards harnessing.
Luckily, we are here to test out all the myths for you and answer questions such as “Are cat harnesses cruel?” or “How do you put on a harness on a cat?”.
Is a Cat Harness a Good Idea?
When you take your cat out for a walk, there are multiple things you should consider. First, ensure that clean water is available to you and your furry baby. Secondly, you must ensure that you feed your cat before starting the walk or feed it right after the walk.
An additional bonus tip: Think of your cat’s safety. Now, numerous options are available for protecting your cat. But you have to choose the most suitable choice for your feline.
Collars are for dog safety. For example, pet owners tie collars around their puppies’ necks, so they do not run away and get misplaced. Unfortunately, cats have relatively smaller necks, so they cannot wear these collars. Hence, cats need an alternative.
A suitable option for cats is a harness. It is the number one option for cat safety. A proper cat harness keeps the cat secure and comfortable. Moreover, a cat cannot choke over a saddle. Additionally, the cat can’t escape a harness either (as long as the harness is appropriately fastened).
Using a harness for training or walking a kitten is a good idea. Kittens need something for their safety. Not providing them with something secure can prove dangerous.
Cats socialize differently than dogs. For example, when taken out for a walk, the cat is not likely to interact with people on the way. Therefore, the cat will keep wandering. A harness will protect the cat during that wandering session.
Should Cats Wear a Harness?
Yes, of course. Cats should wear a harness, but it entirely depends on you. Many optics are involved in this decision. For example, if the cat is playing at home, there is no need to wear a harness. The cat can have fun by itself. It would help if you made a cat wear a harness only when you take it for a walk.
One of the main reasons why your cat should wear a harness is a physical restraint. For example, you might need to physically restrain the cat from running away. In addition, there are situations where you have to stop the cat from chasing an animal. Therefore, you need to be ready for it beforehand.
Not all cats live in big mansions. If a cat lives in an apartment room, the cat probably can’t walk around in a garden daily. Hence, it is essential to take your cat out for a stroll.
Ensure you do not use a leash or a collar for your cat. It’s insensitive to cats, and they do not like it!
How do you put a harness on your cat?
Learning the right way to put a harness on your feline is necessary. Fastening it in the wrong manner could be harmful to your cat and even you. Safety is the number one priority, remember!
Firstly, measure your cat’s circumference before selecting the harness size. Do not select the size based on the age of the cat. Many different possibilities contribute to the size, apart from age. Measure the dimensions.
The harnesses come in different sizes ranging from Medium to XL.
There are two different types of Harnesses that you can put on your cat. The following are the steps instructing how to put a harness on your cat.
- Instructions for a Figure-Eight Style Harness
- Figure out the size of the harness for your cat.
- Buy a harness for your cat.
- Place a small loop over the cat’s head.
- Connect the large circle around the cat’s midsection
- Check the tightness of the harness
- Check if your cat is comfortable with the harness
- Instructions for an H-style Cat Harness
- Place the harness on your cat.
- Check the tightness of your harness.
- See how your cat adjusts to the harness.
Is the harness safe for your cat?
Generally speaking, a harness is safe for your cat. However, you should follow a few instructions to keep it secure. It all eventually comes down to how you use the harness. Harnesses are safe as long as you follow the instructions correctly. Here are some safety tips.
Ensure that you buy a future-size harness for your kitten. Otherwise, the harness will not grow along with the kitty.
Buy a cat harness only. Do not use a harness made for other animals. Other harnesses are unsuitable for cats because a cat harness is specially made to ensure cats’ safety.
Some other safety tips for harnesses are as follows:
- Avoid harnesses with velcro fasteners
- Avoid mesh harnesses
- Avoid harnesses that impact comfort
Is a cat harness cruel?
No, cat harnesses are not cruel. We do not use harnesses for scaring cats or oppressing them. Instead, we use harnesses to protect them. Hence, you should know the intent behind the use.
Additionally, when we put on the harness, we ensure that the cat is comfortable wearing the harness. We must ensure that the harness does not annoy the cat. Therefore, if our cat is uncomfortable with the harness, we should let it off instantly.
Also, if your feline resists the change, it does not mean it harms the animal. Just like other animals, cats may also have likings and dislikings. We have to understand that it is not possible for cats to love everything. Hence, there’s a probability that our cats could not like harnesses.
If we discuss health disadvantages, harnesses have almost zero harm (Given that you put it the right way). However, if you misjudge the size of the harness, it may cause complications. A small-sized harness can suffocate your kitten, leading to dire consequences.
Final verdict
We need to be cautious before making any decision for our cat. Our cat’s protection, safety, and well-being should be our top priority. For example, if the harness is not tight, it will not harm your feline. However, the harness could hurt your cat if you tie it too tightly. Hence, whenever you put on the harness, make sure it is done correctly at all times.
Bust all the myths criticizing the usage of harnesses out. Harnesses protect cats. But it is also fine if you do not want to use a harness. After all, you know what is best for your cat!
