Cats may not be known for walking on a leash like dogs, but harness training your feline friend could be easier than you imagine, and the benefits extend far beyond convenience for pet owners. Not all cat harnesses are created equal, and some will work wonders for one cat, while others will not work at all for another. Depending on your cat’s size, shape, and personal comfort, there’s often a perfect choice. You’ll likely have to try a few before finding the perfect one for you. Before you begin investing in trial-and-error purchases, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Best Cat Harness Choice As Per Cat’s Personality Type
Like people, cats have different personalities, and their personalities have different impacts on their behaviour and how they react to new experiences like wearing a cat harness. Knowing your cat’s personality makes all the difference in whether or not adventures together will be enjoyable. Below are some cat personality types and how their temperament might make them respond to wearing a cat harness.
1. Shy Cats
They are more reserved, cautious, and nervous about new things. If you’re introducing a harness to a shy cat, you will need extra patience. So it’s important to take things slowly; these cats may freeze or play dead when they first get a harness on. Begin by allowing them to sniff and explore the cat harness in a safe, secure environment, then slowly increase short sessions of wearing it. These felines need comfort and security.
Best Harness Type: A vest or jacket cat harness provides a secure fit that provides a feeling of security without overwhelming shy cats. Don’t opt for bulky harnesses that might create anxiety.
2. Adventurous Cats
Adventurous cats are curious, confident, and often ready to go adventuring out the door. Quite often, cat harness training is easier for cats because they’re eager to experience the world around them. However, their bold nature also makes them prone to escape attempts, so safety has to be the top priority.
Best Harness Type: An H-harness, for example, is sturdy and escape-proof and will allow your adventurous cat to explore freely and safely.
3. Energetic Cats
Playful and high-energy, these cats love to run, jump, and climb. Although they might be easygoing, energetic cats can become frustrated if they cannot move. It’s important that their harness enables them to move freely.
Best Harness Type: H-harnesses or hybrid harnesses are lightweight and flexible and allow your very active cat to enjoy life with the freedom to move about and stay active.
4. Easygoing Cats
Relaxed, adaptable cats are typically easygoing in the first place. These cats are going to be the easiest to get used to a harness, as they are usually pretty good about change. However, it’s important to make sure that it is comfortable and easy to put on so their stress levels don’t get raised.
Best Harness Type: Does your cat show an easygoing personality? Then you should choose a vest-style harness that is not only secure but also comfortable for your cat, which is calm and peaceful.
Whether or not you should buy cat harness depends on your cat’s temperament. But if you have a shy or anxious cat, you’ll need to take a more gradual approach to training, while energetic or adventurous cats may be more inclined to the process. If you can recognise your cat’s unique personality, then you can harness and train your cat better.
Different Types of Cat Harness
Now let’s take a look at different types of cat harnesses.
1. H-Harness
This type of cat harness comes with two rings, one around the neck while the other on the ribcage, connected and forming the shape of “H.” It is lightweight, adjustable, and offers great mobility.
2. Jacket or Full-Body Harness
The full-body cat harness covers most of the part of your cat’s torso and distributes pressure more evenly. Provides excellent safety and minimises injury risks.
3. Step-In Harness
These are the variations of the jacket harness where the cat steps in the harness from the front. This type of harness can be a little tricky for the pet parent when it comes to putting it on the cat that resists handling.
4. Vest Harness
Vest harness is the combination of H-harness and jacket harness, which offers a great balance between safety and comfort. These lightweight and adjustable cat harnesses are one of the popular choices among cat parents.
5. Hybrid Harness
Hybrid harnesses are the combination of straps and mesh, which creates a design that is not only comfortable but also escape-proof. This type of cat harness is lightweight and distributes pressure evenly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cat harness you choose depends on your cat’s temperament. Secure, calming designs are best for shy cats; escape-proof options are best for adventurous cats, and lightweight harnesses for freedom of movement are best for energetic cats, who are easygoing but still need to feel comfortable. Using a harness that matches your cat’s temperament will make outdoor adventures safe and fun.