While most cat owners will consider leash training their cat a ludicrous notion, it can be done and may actually come in handy for a trip to the vet or other travel. The most important aspect of leash training your cat will be patience. It truly is a virtue because kitty won’t take to this idea overnight.

You’ll need a comfortable harness and a light leash that can clip securely to the harness. Don’t use a collar which can cause choking. The harness will be safer and more comfortable for your cat.

Start by introducing the harness and leash to your cat. Place them next to your cat’s favorite bed or napping spot so kitty can get used to them. Cats are both curious and suspicious of new things, so don’t be surprised if your cat tends to steer clear of the items at first. Don’t worry though, eventually kitty’s curious nature will win out and your cat will check out the new gear.

Give it a few days to simmer then go to the next step of putting the harness on the cat. Do this step just before feeding kitty. Then use feeding and a couple of treats as a reward after you’ve accomplished the task of getting the harness in place.

Give your cat some time to get used to having the harness on, then remove it. Make sure the harness isn’t too tight – you should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your cat’s body. Repeat this step regularly over the next few days to get your cat used to the feel of the harness.

The next step in this process is to introduce the leash. After your cat has gotten used to wearing the harness, instead of removing it, clip the leash to the harness. Don’t try to hold onto the leash, instead allow it to trail behind kitty so they can get used to it. Leave the leash attached to the harness while it’s not on the cat and leave the harness and leash near the cat’s bed.

Once kitty seems to have acclimated to having the leash on the harness, try picking up the end of the leash. Hold the leash loosely as you walk behind the cat while he or she roams around your house. Don’t pull the leash tight.

When you feel the cat has gotten used to you following behind and holding the leash, try tugging on it and watching the cat’s reaction. If the cat seems to accept it, then you’re good to go for the next step of taking kitty outside.

A cat who has been an indoors most or all of the time may have varied reactions to going outside. Be prepared for anything. While one cat may just roll with the new situation, another cat might freak out and become a swirling ball of furry fury. Be ready for whatever happens. If kitty has a meltdown the first time you try to get them to go outdoors, back off and give it some more time.

Eventually the planets will align and your cat will be willing to cooperate. He might even like going outside on the leash. Remember, cats generally need time to get used to new ideas, so be sure to allow plenty of time for this one.