How To Choose The Best Cat Leash For Your Cat – CatTime
Cats are clear about their likes and dislikes. If a cat doesn't like the feel of a harness or leash, you'll have a hard time getting him/her to cooperate. There are several different types of cat leashes available and factors such as the cat's age, size, and agility need to be taken into consideration when making your choice. When it comes to choosing the right harness and leash for your cat, safety and comfort are crucial. Here are our top five picks for the best cat leashes:
Best Choice
Durable traditional leash for dogs
Pros:
The leash is made from durable nylon material. This provides a stronger material that is sure to last longer, compared to leashes made from other materials. The leash is compatible with the majority of collar hooks that may be provided by a collar fitted on your dog. The leash is available in various color options, including black, pink, red, blue, and green. The customer can also choose between a variety of leash widths, ensuring the leash is appropriate for the specific dog breed that the customer has.
Cons:
Some people may find that the leash is relatively short, particularly when compared to some of the alternative leashes that are also available on the market. While nylon is a durable material, but there are options available with a stronger material that may last longer compared to this option.
Best Lightweight Leash
For Safe Use
Pros:
We found this cat leash to be good value. It’s made from top-quality, weather-resistant materials, which makes it a good option for cats who like to be outside regardless of weather conditions. It’s super lightweight, and at 15 feet long, it’s roomy enough to allow for roaming, but not too long so as to get tangled easily. It works well for both backyard exploring and walks.
Cons:
This cat leash is slightly less durable than we would like, and we found that it frayed quite quickly. It works well for less active, docile cats; however, we found it wasn’t sturdy enough for strong cats who tend to dart off suddenly and forcefully to chase birds, etc.
Best for Walking
Easy Control
Pros:
Whether you’re going on a stroll through the neighborhood or you need to control your cat at the vet, this leash will suit all your cat-walking needs. Its metal swivel clip rotates 360 degrees, which allows for easy movement. The leash is made from nylon material with reinforced stitching, which is strong enough to withstand some tugging. We like the length of this leash—it’s long enough to allow for some freedom, but short enough to maintain control.
Cons:
This leash is a good length, but we would have preferred if we could adjust the length according to our cat’s preferences, too. It you have very large, strong cats, this leash may not be sturdy enough.
Best for Docile Cats
Easy Retractable Leash
Pros:
This leash has an ergonomic, non-slip rubber handle that doesn’t hurt your hand and is comfortable to carry. The retractable leash has a free mode, a brake button, and a retract/extend button, all of which can all be controlled single-handedly and works with a smooth release. We like that our cats could roam freely and that you can easily lock in the length with which you’re comfortable. The leash is made from reflective materials, which is a bonus, and it’s not too bulky to carry.
Cons:
While we loved the freedom that this leash affords, it can be problematic when used at full length for certain types of cats, such as curious and adventurous cats who get into and under everything. You’ll spend a lot of time untangling your cat, which becomes frustrating.
Best Unique Design
For Style-Lovers
Pros:
We love the glamorous look of this leash, but don’t be fooled by the pretty design—it is made from stainless steel wire, so it’s as strong as it is stylish. And at four feet long, this cat leash is an adequate length to allow your cat to safely explore. We’re impressed that the artificial pearls are made from non-toxic materials that ensure that your cat’s skin is not exposed to unnecessary toxins.
Cons:
This leash is a great option for special occasions, such as a wedding, or even for light use, however, we found it isn’t durable enough for daily use. Plus, because it’s white, it’s not the most practical choice, especially if you live in areas where it’s often rainy and muddy.
What Really Matters
Safety
When it comes to making a safe choice for your pet, it’s best to use your cat leash with a vest or harness. Cats have soft throats, so it’s dangerous to attach a leash directly to their collars as they could choke if you pull too hard. Also, take your cat’s personality and activity level into consideration when deciding on the length of the leash. A very long leash coupled with a very adventurous cat is not a good idea.
Comfort
When choosing a cat leash, the most important feature is your cat’s comfort, which predominantly depends on the type of harness or collar you use it with. You can choose from a regular lead or a vest. Vests distribute the pressure of the leash more evenly and are perfect for escape artist cats who wriggle out of leads; however, some cats hate having the vests pulled over their heads.
If you’re using a vest, choose materials that are breathable and don’t overheat. The overall comfort of a harness and leash also depends on the size of your cat’s head and the shape of his/her body as some harnesses are only adjustable around the waist and not the head. A cat leash also needs to be super lightweight or else your cat will feel weighed down.
Durability
The cat leash’s material plays a big role in how much use you’ll ultimately get out of it. Leashes are usually made of nylon or rope, but you can also get leather leashes or decorative ones with pearls or diamonds. Generally, the decorative leashes have a shorter lifespan.
What’s in Right Now?
Walking cats has only recently become a popular pastime and many people still consider it unnecessary; however, cats—especially house cats—could benefit from being exposed to a more enriching environment. Taking your cats on hikes in the mountains or on weekend camping trips, known as “rewilding” is becoming the thing to do. Dogs are no longer the only pets being included in family activities. With this increase in cat-focused activities, there’s similarly been a growth in cat-specific harnesses and leashes. You can purchase harnesses designed especially for cats with new technology such as breakaway buckles.
Prices
Expensive
Above $10 for a retractable leash or a high-end leash and harness set.
Mid-Range
$8-$10 for a middling, quality cat leash.
Cheap
$5-$8 for a basic leash.
FAQs
How do I train my cat to use a cat leash?
Begin training when your cat is hungry. First, get the cat used to wearing a harness or vest. Let the cat wear it indoors over the course of a few days, and reward it with a treat after you’ve put it on. Next, introduce the leash and take the cat outdoors, but stay close to home. Slowly, introduce your cat to a new area each time until you can progress to a full outdoor walk.
What’s the ideal length for a cat leash?
The ideal cat leash length for an average sized cat is four to six feet in length.
Do cats like walking on a leash?
Animal organisations and behaviorists disagree on this issue. Some research suggests that taking walks is stressful for cats and goes against their natural instincts by removing their sense of control. Cats are also territorial creatures and may get distressed when taken into new territories. However, some animal behaviorists believe it depends on the cat’s personality and claim some cats enjoy the mental and physical stimulation.
Why Trust Us
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