A detailed explanation of how to put on a cat harness and tips for choosing the right size

Hello, this is YOKO from Poponeko!

When do you think your cat needs a harness? Even if you put a harness on your cat, it's not to take them for a walk.

In fact, for cats, a harness is a very useful item for situations other than walks. This time, I'd like to introduce how to use a harness specifically designed for cats.

Poponeko harnesses are designed specifically for cats

Poponeko harnesses are designed specifically for cats.

We pride ourselves on their excellent fit, securely holding your cat's body. Furthermore, they are easy to put on but difficult to slip off. Another key point is that they are made of soft cotton, making them gentle on the skin.

With collars and leashes like those for dogs, or string-type harnesses, cats with small heads and flexible bodies can sometimes slip right out. Moreover, anything that doesn't fit properly can cause discomfort for your cat.

Considering these factors for cats, we spent a lot of time perfecting the "Cat-Friendly Vest Harness"!

When is a harness necessary?

Poponeko harnesses and leashes are not for walks. They are used to prevent escape.

For example, a harness and leash provide peace of mind in situations like these:

•  When taking them to the vet or grooming salon
•  When traveling by car or train
•  When evacuating during a disaster or emergency

During travel, there is a high risk of cats escaping due to sudden movements. To prevent such escape accidents, it is recommended to use a harness and leash in conjunction with a carrier bag.

They are also useful as disaster preparedness items.

During disasters, evacuation with pets is recommended, but not all shelters accept pets. In many cases, carrier bags and cages are placed outside or in a separate room of the shelter, and owners visit to provide food, litter, and exercise.

In such situations where escape is a concern, harnesses and leashes are helpful, and an increasing number of pet owners are purchasing them as disaster preparedness items.

Size selection is important

The most important thing when choosing a harness is "sizing".

In fact, one of the reasons cats dislike clothes and harnesses is that the size is too large or too small.

To ensure the harness fits properly, it's essential to measure your cat's nude size before purchasing.

Have your cat stand on all fours and measure three areas: the base of the neck, the girth, and the abdomen. Measure the girth around your cat's armpits, and the abdomen area about 4-5cm behind the armpits towards the tail.

Once you know the nude size, add about 1cm of allowance and choose the perfect size from the chart below.

However, many cats have a saggy primordial pouch around their belly. If you're torn between choosing based on chest girth or belly girth, choose by chest girth for a better fit!

The 5cm wide hook-and-loop fasteners allow for size adjustment, so please adjust it to the perfect fit after putting it on.

First harness: tips for putting it on?

Putting on the Poponeko harness is very easy. Just put their front paws through and fasten the hook-and-loop fasteners. However, many cats will resist and struggle when wearing a harness for the first time.

If you force it on, it can become a traumatic experience, and they might run away just at the sight of the harness...

To avoid such failures, the trick is to accustom them to the harness slowly and patiently. Please let them get used to it over about a month following these steps:

• First, just show it to them
• Try putting it on for a short time
• Give treats while they're wearing it
• Go outside while carrying them

First, just showing it is fine. Place the harness near your cat and let them sniff it.

If they seem to be getting used to its presence, pick up your cat and try putting on the harness. If they resist, take it off immediately. Gradually extend the time they wear it while having fun activities like eating treats or playing.

If they can eat and use the litter box while wearing the harness and leash, they've passed! You'll be able to go out without worry.

It's recommended to get your cat used to a harness for emergencies

Poponeko believes that cats don't need walks.

You might think, "Wouldn't it be a good change of pace to take them for a walk instead of keeping them indoors all the time?" However, there are many downsides when considering the risks of illness, injury, escape, and also the cat's feelings...

Cats are extremely sensitive to environmental changes, and going outside their territory can cause them stress. Even in a carrier bag, they might panic at a small noise and jump out.

Poponeko recommends preparing a harness as an item to prevent escape when going out, and also as a disaster preparedness item. We hope this provides some useful tips for a safe life with your cat.

Author Profile