{"id":160391,"date":"2025-08-04T02:38:51","date_gmt":"2025-08-04T02:38:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/walking-cats-on-a-leash-is-trending-we-consulted-a-feline-behavior-expert-and-he-has-strong-opinions-on-the-subject\/"},"modified":"2025-08-04T02:38:53","modified_gmt":"2025-08-04T02:38:53","slug":"walking-cats-on-a-leash-is-trending-we-consulted-a-feline-behavior-expert-and-he-has-strong-opinions-on-the-subject","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/walking-cats-on-a-leash-is-trending-we-consulted-a-feline-behavior-expert-and-he-has-strong-opinions-on-the-subject\/","title":{"rendered":"Walking cats on a leash is trending. We consulted a feline behavior expert, and he has strong opinions on the subject."},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you have Instagram or TikTok and you adore cats, you\u2019ve likely seen videos of cats going for walks outside on leashes with harnesses<\/u><\/a>. Some of these adventurous felines even embark on trips around the world, exploring forests, jumping, and yes, swimming as if they were dogs<\/u><\/a>. But how is this possible? Is it advisable to walk a cat?<\/strong> We spoke with Paula Vanasco<\/u><\/a>, a feline therapist and president of the association Rescues Borges Blanques<\/u><\/a>, to find answers to this intriguing question.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The Phenomenon of Adventurous Cats<\/h2>\n

The trend of taking cats outdoors<\/strong> gained momentum around 2010 on Instagram. One of the pioneering furry explorers was Vladimir<\/u><\/a>, who traveled across the United States with his owners in a motorhome. Another famous feline is Skatty<\/u><\/a>, a Maine Coon that sailed the seas with its deaf owner, acting as a crucial alert system when approaching other boats.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n

\"Walking<\/p>\n

    <span>A search on TikTok returns to hundreds of results.<\/span><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Searches like \u201ccat harness,\u201d \u201cAdventure Cat,\u201d and \u201cCat Leash Training\u201d on TikTok or Instagram yield hundreds of results. Walking cats is trendy<\/u><\/a>, but it\u2019s not straightforward. Many reels include tutorials aimed at acclimatizing cats to these outings. However, the reality is that, unlike dogs, cats\u00a0are generally not inclined to tolerate being leashed<\/a>.<\/p>\n
  <\/p>\n
Understanding the Nature of Cats<\/h2>\n
Paula is part of a team focused on feline therapy<\/u><\/a>, where she deals with cats suffering from behavioral issues<\/strong>, some of which stem from leash walks. Her stance is clear: it\u2019s ill-advised to put a harness on a cat. \u201cCats are hypersensitive<\/strong> animals. Wearing a harness is stressful for them,\u201d she explains. \u201cWhen it\u2019s first put on, many cats flop to the ground in discomfort.\u201d Moreover, for safety, the harness should be quite snug, which enhances this distress.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Understanding a cat’s nature is crucial. Unlike dogs, whose social structure promotes movement in packs, cats are territorial creatures. They feel safest within defined boundaries, whether it’s a rural environment or a small apartment. \u201cThe cat needs to explore its territory at its own pace. You cannot force it to go where you want,\u201d Paula adds. On the other hand, walking a dog feels more natural because dogs are conditioned to be social animals; they trust their ‘pack’ for security.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n                   \"Noah\"\/
\n   \"Noah\"<\/p>\n
    <span>Image: Amparo Babyloni, Xataka<\/span><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Cats often rub against objects, creating safe spaces<\/strong>. They do this by marking territories with pheromones, leaving olfactory references. \u201cThis behavior provides them with a sense of security. If startled, they retreat and return to explore bit by bit until they establish comfort in their surroundings,\u201d explains Paula.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\u201cWhen we remove a cat from its territory, it acts instinctively like prey. If there\u2019s a loud noise, it will attempt to flee, but if tied, it cannot escape.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
It\u2019s crucial to remember that even though cats are natural predators, they also face predation from larger animals. \u201cWhen we take a cat out of its safe area, we force it into a prey mindset. If a sudden noise frightens it, the instinct is to run, but the restraint inhibits this natural response,\u201d Paula warns.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Of course, not all cats in those viral Instagram videos are experiencing stress. Some truly enjoy these outings<\/strong>, but Paula emphasizes that they are exceptions\u2014typically cats accustomed from a young age to diverse environments. \u201cCats usually don\u2019t develop fears until they are around five or six months old,\u201d she cautions, adding, \u201cbut this doesn\u2019t guarantee they will enjoy such experiences.\u201d Forcing a cat into harnessed adventures is never advisable.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
 <img alt=\"Communicating with our cats has always been a complex task. A study has discovered the key: flashing\" width=\"375\" height=\"142\" src=\"https:\/\/i.blogs.es\/db7166\/photo-1488015795646-7e22a773d72a\/375_142.jpeg\"\/><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
What We Don’t See on Instagram<\/h2>\n
When outside its territory, if a cat feels threatened, its instinct is to run. But what occurs if the cat is restrained? Two possible scenarios emerge: “It might escape the harness or redirect aggression towards you.” In this video<\/u><\/a>, a cat\u2019s desperate attempts to flee lead to it biting its owner, a classic case of redirected aggression<\/u><\/a>. This primal response illustrates the stress a cat faces when feeling confined.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
\n
\n
If the cat attempts to flee while tied, it may either break free or show aggression.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Alternatively, a cat may break free from the harness when frightened, which is quite common given their fluid and agile nature. In unfamiliar environments without visual or olfactory references, many cats go missing, especially in cities where cars or aggressive dogs pose significant risks.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Some owners prefer to keep their cats secured in a backpack-style carrier for walks. While this approach might seem safer, Paula doesn’t recommend it. \u201cI had a case where a cat appeared unbothered in the backpack but later exhibited aggression at home due to frustration,\u201d she reveals.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Many individuals may also fail to grasp feline communication<\/u><\/a>. A still cat does not always equate to a calm cat. \u201cYou must pay attention to their eyes, ears, and tail,\u201d Paula encourages, noting that understanding the nuances of their communication can prevent misunderstandings and stresses.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Access to the Outside: Yes, but Controlled and Without a Leash<\/h2>\n
So, does this mean cats don\u2019t benefit from outdoor experiences? Not at all! \u201cGoing outside is essential for cats\u2014just as living in a spacious villa is preferable to a small apartment for us,\u201d Paula laughs. Outdoor exploration stimulates cats and enhances their natural instincts like hunting and exploration<\/strong>. Furthermore, it reduces obesity:\u00a0 by encouraging physical activity, outdoor access can contribute positively to its\u00a0emotional well-being<\/u><\/a>.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n                   \"Catio\"\/
\n   \"Catio\"<\/p>\n
    <span>A 'catio' attached to a window. Image: Amparo Babyloni, Xataka<\/span><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Though risks accompany outdoor excursions, they differ significantly between rural and urban settings. Experts recommend implementing protective measures, such as window and balcony screens<\/u><\/a>. For those in houses, options include anti-escape fences<\/u><\/a> or constructing a \u201ccatio\u201d (cat + patio). These ranges from simple fenced areas to elaborate enclosure parks.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Indoor Cats Can Be Happy, But It Requires Effort<\/h2>\n
Many people believe their apartment-dwelling cats are unhappy and therefore should be taken outside for walks. But, \u201ca cat can absolutely thrive in an apartment if investments are made in its environment,\u201d asserts Paula. The emotional well-being of cats is influenced by more than their outdoor exposure<\/strong>; factors include social interaction, the quality of their environment, and companionship.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
While it\u2019s true that an apartment setting isn\u2019t the natural habitat for a cat, offering enriching environments is essential. This is where environmental enrichment<\/u><\/a> plays a critical role.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n                   \"Gatification\"\/
\n   \"Gatification\"<\/p>\n
    <span>Enhancing your environment is crucial for your well-being. Image: Amparo Babyloni, Xataka<\/span><\/code><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
One of the most rewarding ways to enrich a cat’s environment is by providing surfaces to climb on, such as a high scratching post<\/u>, or arranging furniture in a way that allows vertical exploration. The trend of \u201cgatifying\u201d<\/u> one\u2019s home involves simple modifications like adding shelves, fostering agility and curiosity in cats. This also greatly expands their territory.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Moreover, engaging in play is vital, but it must be tailored to cats\u2019 preferences. Rather than simply encouraging them to run, Paula suggests olfactory games<\/strong>. These can be things like olfactory gardens<\/u><\/a> or interactive toys<\/u> that hide rewards, facilitating mental stimulation and engagement. \u201cThat\u2019s when they truly disconnect and derive joy from the interaction; they tire more effectively from these exercises than through mere physical activity alone,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
In summary, while the allure of walking a cat remains popular, understanding their complex behaviors and needs is essential. Creating enriching environments, respecting their boundaries, and exploring safe outdoor options can lead to a happier, healthier cat.<\/p>\n
Cover image | Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n

\n
General News – 2<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
If you have Instagram or TikTok and you adore cats, you\u2019ve likely seen videos of cats going for walks outside on leashes with harnesses. Some of these adventurous felines even embark on trips around the world, exploring forests, jumping, and yes, swimming as if they were dogs. But how is this possible? Is it advisable […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":160392,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[36399],"tags":[1099,4384,39988,2041,14743,13066,10265,443,817,21760,13191],"class_list":["post-160391","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-technology","tag-behavior","tag-cats","tag-consulted","tag-expert","tag-feline","tag-leash","tag-opinions","tag-strong","tag-subject","tag-trending","tag-walking"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/160391","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=160391"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/160391\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/160392"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=160391"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=160391"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/teknomers.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=160391"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}