Cat Harness Training Q&A: Your Questions Answered
So, you want to harness train your cat?
Well, you’re not alone! Welcome to the first in a series of blog posts where I do my best to help you on your harness training journey.
Harness training your cat can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you’re living in a world that is primarily geared toward walking a dog.
BUT…cats can be trained too!
I’m going to share some of the lessons we’ve learnt along the way. Hopefully our experience can help you on your own harness training journey regardless of whether your goal is to simply help your cat adjust to the feel of a harness to explore the garden or you have bigger goals of adventuring with your cat a little further afield.
I started harness training Harvey at eight weeks old, but I’ve also worked with a number of cats over the age of two — so trust me, it can be done at different life stages. However, the temperament of your cat will greatly affect your experience.
Without further ado, here are some of the most common questions I’ve received (from you all!) and my answers.
Can you start training later on (like 18 months, 2 years, or older)?
Yes! While starting young often makes it easier, cats of all ages can learn to wear a harness if their temperament allows for it. With older cats, it may take a little more patience and slower introductions, but it’s absolutely possible. I can’t emphasize the importance of FIRST assessing your cat’s temperament before undertaking harness training. Much of your journey will depend on whether your cat is suited to it.
Do I have to start harness training when they’re a kitten?
Nope. Kittens tend to adapt faster, but older cats can learn too. Your cat’s temperament and personality plays a more important role than their age. The key elements are patience, consistency and using positive reinforcement (treats, play, praise).
How did you begin training Harvey to go outside?
This question will be addressed at length in a separate blog, however, here are a few points.
1. Let them wear the harness indoors first, for short sessions.
2. Pair the harness with treats or play so they associate it with good things.
3. Once they’re comfortable, attach the leash indoors.
4. Move to a safe outdoor space — start small, like a patio or backyard. They may prefer to be held initially.
How long did it take before he stopped “the flop” (laying down when the harness goes on)?
It depends on the cat. For Harvey, it took about a week of short, positive sessions before he stopped flopping. The trick is to keep sessions short, give rewards, and let them move at their own pace. One of my other cats took over a month before this stopped.
Which harness is least likely to let my cat escape?
In short, there are no right answers to this. The most common styles are H-style, Y-Style, Vest and Step In. We tested every style and our preferences changed with age and experience. Always double-check the fit — if they can back out easily, it’s too loose. Our favourite harness to date is the Houdini Harness from Outdoor Bengal. When properly fitted we have found this to be the most suited to our needs. My best advice is to do your research and test out more than one style of harness.
I can’t get my cat to walk — she just drags herself or only sniffs/explores. What should I do?
That’s completely normal! Many cats don’t “walk” like dogs. Instead, they like to explore at their own pace and often in their own direction. Encourage movement with toys, treats, or gentle leash guidance, but never drag them. Let them control the pace.
Does harness training make them want to dart out the door?
Not usually. Most cats see harness time as a special activity, not a free pass to run outside. You can reinforce this by only bringing out the harness right before outings, so they learn it’s part of a routine.
How did you get your cat used to the harness before going outside?
Lots of patience and positive reinforcement indoors. I’d put the harness on for a few minutes during playtime, then take it off. Over time, they get comfortable and don’t even notice it.
My cats wear a harness but don’t want to walk on a leash. Any tips?
Think of it as “adventure time,” not a walk. Try exploring quiet areas with smells and sights they like. Some cats prefer sniffing around instead of walking in a straight line. Use high-value treats to encourage steps forward, but respect their pace.
What would you suggest for a 6-year-old cat?
Firstly, evaluate your cat’s temperament and personality. This greatly affects the outcome when it comes to harness training, especially with an older cat. Take a more gentle and slower approach. Keep sessions short, and use plenty of rewards. A small, lightweight harness often feels less intimidating, too. Progress may be slower than with kittens, but many older cats learn to enjoy it.
I highly recommend using a cat backpack. If you know us, you'll know we LOVE out backpack from Travel Cat as a safe place for them to go when they show you they’ve had enough exploring/walking. I recommend taking the same approach as you would harness training, get them comfortable with the carrier inside the house. Simply leaving it in an area they frequent, perhaps with a few treats inside, allows them to explore and become acclimated on their own terms.
With time, patience, and a gentle approach, harness training can open up a whole new world of adventure and enrichment for your cat. Whether they enjoy a leisurely stroll in the garden or prefer the view from the safety of a cat backpack, the key is to follow their lead and celebrate every small step forward. After all, outdoor time isn’t about distance covered—it’s about creating safe, happy experiences that strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend.
Love and Toe Beans,
Kayleigh