National Walking Month: Tips for Walking your Cat!

May is National Walking Month, and did you know it’s not just dogs who like going for walkies? Taking your cat for a safe, supervised outdoor adventure can provide them with mental stimulation, exercise, and enrichment – as long as it’s done properly.

At Applaws, we’re all about keeping cats happy, healthy, and safe. If you’re considering lead training your cat, here’s everything you need to know about taking your cat for a walk!

Can you really walk a cat?

Yes! While not all cats enjoy walking on a leash, some confident and curious felines thrive on outdoor adventures. Breeds like Bengals, Maine Coons, and Siamese cats are often more open to lead training, but any cat can learn, if they’re comfortable.

Signs your cat might enjoy walks:

• Curious about the outdoors
• Enjoys looking out the window or sitting near open doors
• Shows confidence in new environments
• Has a playful and adventurous personality

Tip: If your cat is nervous, don’t force them! Some cats prefer exploring from a secure outdoor enclosure or a catio instead.

Choosing the right harness & lead for your cat

Unlike dogs, you should never attach a lead to a cat’s collar for walking – they can easily slip out of them! Instead, invest in a secure, comfortable harness that keeps them safe.

What to look for in a cat harness:

• Escape-proof design – adjustable straps for a snug fit.
• Lightweight & breathable material – comfortable for your cat to wear.
• Secure lead attachment – look for a sturdy D-ring on the back.

Tip: Avoid retractable leads. Use a lightweight, non-stretch lead around 4-6 feet long for better control.

Get your cat used to the harness indoors first

Before heading outside, let your cat adjust to wearing their harness inside the house.

How do you put a harness on a cat?

• Let them sniff and inspect the harness before putting it on.
• Start with short wear times indoors, rewarding them with treats.
• Once they’re comfortable, attach the lead and let them walk around the house under supervision to avoid it getting caught on anything.
• Gradually increase time wearing the harness until they seem relaxed.

Tip: Patience is key! Some cats take days or weeks to adjust, so let them move at their own pace. Many cats aren’t a fan of being restrained and that’s fine. Don’t push them out of their comfort zone – their choice and happiness matter most.

Start slow: first outdoor walks

Once your cat is comfortable in their harness, only then is it time for their first outdoor adventure.

How to safely introduce outdoor walks:

• Start in a quiet, enclosed space like a garden or patio.
• Let your cat venture out of the open door and explore at their own pace, don’t pull the lead!
• Keep walks short at first, just 5-10 minutes.
• Watch for signs of stress (flattened ears, crouching, or trying to run back inside).

Choose the right walking environment for your cat

Not all outdoor spaces are cat-friendly! Choose quiet areas where your cat won’t be overwhelmed by dogs, traffic, or loud noises.

Best places to walk your cat:

• Your garden or backyard (secure and familiar) – this is by far the best place to start.
• A quiet park (on a lead, avoiding busy areas) – once they’ve mastered the familiar outdoors.
• Nature trails or enclosed green spaces (low foot traffic).

Places to avoid:

• Areas with loose dogs or heavy traffic.
• Crowded or noisy places that may overwhelm your cat.
• Unknown areas where your cat could get startled.

Tip: Always check for potential dangers like toxic plants, sharp objects, or other animals before heading out.

Safety tips for walking your cat

Taking your cat outside comes with some risks, so keep safety your top priority.

• Always supervise your cat – never let them roam freely outside.
• Microchip your cat, in case they escape – this is now mandatory in England!
• Bring treats & water – keep your cat hydrated and happy.
• Avoid extreme weather – too hot or too cold can be dangerous.
• Be patient! – some cats prefer exploring rather than ‘walking’ like a dog.