With the rise of social media, videos showcasing cats on leashes have become increasingly popular. From exploring forests to jumping in lakes, these “adventure cats” seem to live a life of excitement. However, the question arises: Is it truly advisable to walk a cat on a leash? To shed light on this topic, we turn to Paula Vanasco, a feline therapist and president of the ResCats Borges Blanques association.
The Phenomenon of Adventurous Cats
The trend of walking cats gained traction in the 2010s, with celebs like Vladimir, famously traveling by motorhome through the U.S., leading the charge. Another example is Skatty, a Maine Coon who accompanied his deaf owner on a sailboat journey.
Searching for “cat harness” or “adventure cat” on social media yields countless results, reflecting a surge in interest. While the idea of walking cats is trendy, it isn’t straightforward. Many videos provide tutorials on how to train cats, as anyone who has tried knows that cats generally resist being restrained.
Understanding the Nature of Cats
Paula, a part of the feline therapy team, encounters cats with behavioral issues, many arising from failed leash walks. Her advice? “It’s not advisable to put a leash on a cat.” Cats are hypersensitive creatures, and wearing a harness often causes stress. Paula mentions that a typical reaction is falling to the ground when first harnessed.
Cats are territorial and feel safe only within familiar environments. “They need to explore their territory at their own pace, not be dragged by a leash,” she explains. This differs significantly from dogs, who are pack animals and feel secure within a group, making leash walking a more natural experience for them.
When cats rub against furniture, they’re marking their territory with pheromones, seeking safety and familiar scent references. “If startled, they’ll retreat and re-explore until they feel secure,” Paula notes.
Interestingly, when distracted outside their territory, cats often exhibit prey behavior. “If startled by a loud noise, they’ll instinctively want to run, but if tied, they cannot,” warns Paula.
It’s essential to acknowledge that while some cats enjoy outdoor adventures, they are exceptions. Proper exposure during the early weeks of life is crucial, but it doesn’t guarantee enjoyment, nor should it be forced.
When a cat feels trapped on a leash, the instinct is to run or lash out. In particular, this can lead to redirected aggression, where the cat might bite its owner in the process of trying to escape.
Should a cat succeed in slipping away from a harness, it may wander into unfamiliar territory, increasing the risk of accidents or becoming lost, especially in urban environments.
Access to the Outside: A Controlled Approach
It’s a misconception that cats don’t benefit from outdoor experiences. According to Paula, “Going outside is advantageous for cats.” They thrive from increased stimulation, enhance natural behaviors such as hunting and exploring, and can mitigate obesity issues.
A ‘catio’ attached to a window of the house (Image: Amparo Babiloni, Xataka).
However, outdoor excursions carry inherent risks. Implementing safety precautions, such as nets on window openings or designing a ‘catio’ (a cat-friendly enclosed area), allows cats to enjoy outdoor stimuli while remaining securely within safe parameters.
Indoor Cats: Happiness is About Engagement
Many assume that keeping a cat exclusively indoors results in unhappiness. Paula reassures us, “Cats can thrive in an apartment, but it requires effort.” Their well-being hinges on various factors, including companionship and environmental enrichment.
Providing an engaging environment is critical. This includes vertical spaces for climbing and interactive toys that stimulate hunting instincts. “Olfactory games are also pivotal,” Paula emphasizes, recommending hiding treats and encouraging cats to search.
Enhancing your indoor environment is crucial for a cat’s emotional health (Image: Amparo Babiloni, Xataka).
In conclusion, while outdoor experiences can enhance a cat’s life, it should never come at the cost of their comfort and well-being. Understanding their natural instincts and needs is essential for fostering a happy and healthy feline friend.