How to choose and properly fit a cat harness that your cat can't escape from [To prevent your cat from escaping with a harness]

Cats do not go for walks like dogs do.

However, for cat owners, **"cat harnesses"** are becoming a must-have item.

For example, a cat harness can be very useful when evacuating during a disaster, or when going to the vet or groomer.

However, if it's not put on correctly, there's a risk of it tightening around your cat or them escaping. This article will explain in detail the features and uses of various cat harnesses, and how to put them on so they won't come off.

When is a cat harness needed?

The demand for cat harnesses is increasing, but what are they being used for? We asked 1,800 cat owners about their "purpose for purchasing a cat harness."

*Internet survey of 1800 cat owners (conducted in January 2020)

The most common answer was **"disaster preparedness kit for emergencies,"** indicating that more than half of owners purchase cat harnesses as a disaster preparedness item.

Following "for walks," the next most common response was **"for going to the vet or grooming salon."**

Perhaps it's a bit surprising that it's **"not for walks"**?

Cat harnesses are useful during disasters

With successive natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, interest in **"pet disaster preparedness"** is growing.

In the event of an emergency, there are still few evacuation shelters where you can **evacuate with your cat**. Cats need to eat, use the litter box, and exercise, so they can't stay in a carrier bag all the time.

In such situations, if you have a harness and leash, you can care for your cat without worrying about them escaping. Getting your cat used to eating and using the litter box while wearing a harness as part of their daily routine also contributes to disaster preparedness.

Cat harnesses are also convenient for vet visits

There are times when you need to take your cat out, such as to the vet or for grooming. Even if your cat is securely in their carrier bag, there's always a risk of them suddenly jumping out.

If you're worried about just using a carrier bag, having a harness and leash as a precaution can provide peace of mind.

Types of Cat Harnesses

Cat harnesses are broadly divided into two types: **"strap type"** and **"vest type."**

Harnesses are less stressful on the neck and respiratory system than collars, and they are less likely to come off even for cats with small heads. For preventing cat escapes, a **"harness"** is recommended.

Easy-to-use strap type cat harnesses

The "strap type" harness has straps that make up the harness, so the benefit is that it touches less of the body and is **easy to move in**. It's also compact and convenient to carry.

However, the straps can dig into the body, which some cats may dislike. Some types have complex ways of putting them on, making them difficult for cats and owners who are new to cat harnesses.

Vest-type harnesses securely hold cats

The biggest advantage of a "vest-type" cat harness is that it's less constricting than a strap-type cat harness and **securely holds the cat's body**.

On the other hand, because the vest-type cat harness covers more of the body than the strap-type, it may take longer for the cat to get used to it...

However, considering the **reduced burden on the cat and its escape-proof nature**, I recommend the vest-type cat harness.

How to properly put on a cat harness

If the harness doesn't have a complex mechanism, putting it on isn't that difficult. Simply thread the front paws through and fasten the Velcro or buckle.

However, if it's not put on correctly, the cat's body can easily slip out. There's a risk of them escaping in an instant, so let's learn how to put it on properly.

There are two **tricks to prevent it from coming off**: measure your cat's size and use a harness that fits perfectly, and leave enough room for one or two human fingers. Practice putting it on correctly without forcing it.

◆ How to put on a strap harness

Strap-type cat harnesses are mainly available in **H-shaped** and **figure-8 shaped** designs. The H-shaped type has a double-lock mechanism for the neck and body, while the figure-8 type locks around the body. Be careful not to confuse the front and back.

• Loosen the adjusters.
• Unfasten the buckles.
• Put the front loop around the neck and fasten the buckle (for figure-8 type, fasten around the body).
• Put the back loop through the base of the front legs and fasten the buckle.
• Adjust the size for a snug fit (allowing for one to two human fingers).
• Attach the leash to the ring.

◆ How to put on a vest harness

Vest harnesses have a simple mechanism and are easy to fine-tune the size. They are also easy to put on.

• Thread the front paws through the harness.
• Fasten the buckle or Velcro on the back.
• Adjust the size for a snug fit (allowing for one to two human fingers).
• Attach the leash to the ring.

Summary

More and more cat owners are purchasing cat harnesses not so much for walks, but as a **safety measure against escape** during **disasters** or **outings** to places like the vet.

I recommend the **"vest type"** harness. Cats can slip out of harnesses like liquid, so a vest type with a more secure hold is safer. It also causes less friction on the skin and fur, which should be less stressful for cats.

It may take some time for them to get used to it, but please try to use it regularly.

Ideally, I'd like them to get used to eating and using the litter box while wearing the harness. That way, even if they have to live in an evacuation shelter during a disaster, they can spend their time without stress.

Practice putting on the cat harness so it won't come off, and enjoy life with your cat.

Author Profile