Does that harness slip off? The advantages of a "vest-type" harness for preventing cat escapes and how to measure for the perfect fit.

If you live with a cat, you might think, "I want to prepare a harness in case of a disaster," or "I want to use it for vet visits or when traveling."

However, many cat owners become anxious when they hear stories like, "My cat slipped out of the harness and escaped." If you choose the wrong harness or adjust the size incorrectly, cats can surprisingly easily slip out of their harnesses...

Therefore, this time, to prevent your cat from escaping, we will explain in detail "how to choose a escape-proof harness" and "how to measure the correct size."

Why do cats slip out of harnesses?

The biggest reason cats slip out of harnesses is their unique body flexibility.

Cats have a very flexible skeleton, and their shoulder blades are structured to conform to their bodies. Also, since their collarbones are not connected to their shoulder bones, they can freely change their shoulder width.

As the saying "cats are liquid" goes, they can pass through anywhere as long as their head fits.

So, if a panicked cat "backs up," a poorly fitting harness will easily slip right off!

For an escape-proof harness, a "vest-type" is recommended!

Cat harnesses are broadly divided into two types: "strap type (H-shaped/figure-8 shaped)" and "vest type." From the perspective of preventing escapes, a snug-fitting "vest type" is recommended!

1. Harder to slip out because it supports with a wide surface area.

Strap-type harnesses have less contact area, which makes it easy for gaps to form when your cat wriggles.

Vest-type harnesses, on the other hand, wrap around your cat's body like clothing, providing a wide "surface" of contact. This design makes it difficult for them to slip out, even if they back up.

2. Less burden on the body

With a strap-type harness, there's a risk of it digging into your cat's skin if they move suddenly.

A vest-type harness distributes the impact, so it doesn't constrict the neck or abdomen. This makes it a great option as it puts less strain on small cats.

3. Easy to put on and take off

When putting on a harness, fastening multiple buckles can be a hassle. Many vest-type harnesses simply fasten with Velcro on the back, minimizing the stress of putting them on and taking them off.

Don't fail! How to measure and choose the right size cat harness

Even the best harness is useless if it doesn't fit properly.

Don't just pick a size based on a vague feeling! Make sure to measure your cat's nude size and buy a harness that fits.

Nude size refers to the body measurements taken snugly, without any slack. Try to measure when your cat is calm.

① Measure with a tape measure or string

Measure your cat's nude size with a tape measure. If you don't have a tape measure, or if your cat becomes agitated, you can use a non-stretch string as a substitute and then measure the length of the string with a ruler.

② Always measure while "standing"

For the nude size, measure three areas: the base of the neck, around the chest, and around the abdomen.

You cannot get an accurate nude size if your cat is lying down or sitting. Distract your cat with treats and measure them while they are standing on all four paws.

③ The size "just behind the front legs" is crucial

For the girth, measure just behind the base of the front legs, not the thickest part (around the ribs). This is a crucial point that determines the fit of the harness. Measure several times to avoid errors.

④ Be careful with long-haired cats

Measure without pulling the tape measure too tight or too loose, just gently pressing down the fur.

For long-haired cats, the volume of fur can lead to loose measurements, so the trick is to part the fur and measure close to the skin.

⑤ A snug fit + one finger's width of allowance is a perfect fit

When choosing a harness size, the key is to ensure the chest circumference measurement is correct. Choose a size that allows for one finger's width of space (an extra 1-2 cm) from the nude size.

Check here for more details!
Cat harness size chart and how to measure

Poponeko's "cat-friendly vest-type harness," designed for comfort

When searching for a vest-type harness, you might encounter concerns such as "the fabric seems stiff," "the design isn't great," or "size adjustment seems difficult."

That's why Poponeko has created a "cat-friendly vest-type harness" that thoroughly pursues cat comfort and safety!

1. Double block for thorough protection!

The fastening on the back features a double-lock system with strong "hook-and-loop fasteners (Velcro)" and "buckles." This design ensures that even if the hook-and-loop fastener comes undone, the harness won't completely slip off. We've minimized the risk of escape to the extreme.

2. "Wrapping" design based on feline engineering

Through extensive research into feline anatomy, we've achieved an ultra- ثلاثي الأبعاد structure that conforms to a cat's body shape. This makes it difficult for the cat to slip out even if it backs up, and it doesn't constrict.

3. Skin-friendly Japanese fabric

For your cat's delicate skin, the lining is made of soft organic cotton. The outer fabric is a thin yet moderately firm cotton polydanbury fabric. Of course, it's made in Japan, so you can rest assured.

4. Fine-tuning of size is possible

The wide hook-and-loop fastener allows for fine adjustments to fit your cat's body shape. It feels like a custom-made fit.

Summary

Poponeko harnesses are designed with your cat's safety and your peace of mind as our top priorities. They are also recommended for cats new to harnesses.

If you're interested, please check out our lineup.

Poponeko's "Cat Harnesses and Leashes"