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

For instance, a cat harness is extremely useful when evacuating during a disaster, or when going to a veterinary clinic or a grooming salon.

But if not put on correctly, it can end up constricting your cat or poses a risk of them escaping. In this article, we will explain in detail the features and usage of various cat harnesses, as well as how to put them on so they don't slip off.

When are cat harnesses necessary?

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

*Internet survey targeting 1,800 cat owners (conducted in January 2020)

The most common answer was "disaster/emergency preparedness gear," revealing that more than half of owners purchase cat harnesses as disaster prevention gear.

Following "for walks," the next most common result was "for when going to the veterinary clinic or grooming salon."

Is it surprising to hear that it's "not for walks"?

Cat harnesses are helpful during disasters

With natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes occurring one after another, interest in "pet disaster preparedness" is growing.

In the event of an emergency, there are still few shelters where you can evacuate together with your cat. Since cats also need to eat, use the litter box, and exercise, you cannot keep them inside a carrier bag all the time.

In such cases, if you have a harness and leash, you can care for your cat without the anxiety of them running away. Getting your cat accustomed to eating and using the litter box while wearing a harness on a daily basis also serves as disaster preparedness.

Cat harnesses are also convenient when visiting the vet

There are times when you must take your cat out, such as for veterinary visits or grooming. Even if you have securely placed your cat in a carrier bag, there is always the possibility of an accident where the cat might bolt out at a sudden moment.

When you feel uneasy with just a carrier bag, having a harness and leash on as a precaution provides peace of mind.

Types of cat harnesses

Cat harnesses are roughly divided into two types: "string/strap type" and "vest type."

The advantage of a harness over a collar is that it puts less strain on the neck and respiratory system, and it is harder for cats with small heads to slip out of them. A "harness" is recommended for preventing a cat's escape.

Easy-to-use string type cat harness

The "string type" consists of straps, so the area that touches the body is small, which is an advantage for ease of movement. Because they are compact, they are also convenient to carry around.

However, because the straps can feel like they are digging into the body, some cats may dislike them. Some types have complicated fastening methods, making them difficult for both cats and owners who are new to cat harnesses.

The vest type securely holds the cat

The "vest type" cat harness has less of a feeling of constriction compared to the string type, and its greatest advantage is that it can securely hold the cat's body.

On the other hand, because it has a larger surface area touching the body than the string type, a downside is that it may take some time for the cat to get used to it.

However, considering the reduced burden on the cat and the difficulty of slipping out, I would recommend the vest type cat harness.

How to put on a cat harness correctly

If the harness doesn't have a complex design, putting it on is not that difficult. You just need to have the cat step through it and fasten the Velcro or buckles.

However, if not put on correctly, your cat might slip right out of it. Since there is a risk of them escaping in an instant, make sure to learn the proper way to put it on.

There are two keys to preventing them from slipping out: measure your cat's size to use a harness that is a perfect fit, and fasten it leaving enough room for about one or two human fingers. Try practicing the correct method without forcing it.

◆ How to put on a string type harness

String type cat harnesses mainly come in H-style and figure-eight style. The H-style has a mechanism that double-locks the neck and torso, while the figure-eight style locks around the torso. Be careful not to confuse the front and back.

• Loosen the adjusters.
• Undo the buckles.
• Pass the front loop over the neck and fasten the buckle (the figure-eight style secures around the torso).
• Pass the rear loop around the base of the front legs and fasten the buckle.
• Adjust the size for a snug fit (about one or two human fingers' worth of space).
• Attach the leash to the ring.

◆ How to put on a vest type harness

The vest type harness has a simple mechanism, and making small adjustments to the size is easy. Putting it on is also a breeze.

• Have the cat put their front legs through the harness.
• Fasten the buckles or Velcro on the back.
• Adjust the size for a snug fit (about one or two human fingers' worth of space).
• Attach the leash to the ring.

Summary

An increasing number of cat owners are purchasing harnesses not for walks, but as a precaution against escape during disasters or outings to the veterinary clinic, etc.

I personally recommend the "vest type" harness. Since cats can sometimes wiggle out of harnesses as if they were liquid, the vest type, which provides a more secure hold, is safer. It also causes less rubbing against the skin and fur, so it should be less of a burden for the cat as well.

It might take a little time for them to get used to it, but please try using it on a daily basis.

If possible, I would like for them to get used to it to the point where they can eat and use the litter box while wearing it. If you can achieve that, your cat should be able to spend time without stress even if you have to live in an evacuation center during a disaster.

Please practice the proper way to put on a cat harness and enjoy life with your cat.

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