How To Harness Train A Kitten

Kittens can be bundles of energy, and walking can be one of the best ways to tire a kitten out. However, supervised and indoor kitten owners are usually reluctant to let their kittens explore outside on their own. This is where a kitten harness comes in handy.

Harness training a kitten can be a great idea for cat owners. Kittens can be more receptive to training, so starting a cat on a harness early can make them more comfortable in the harness. Harness training and walking outside can also be a great way to bond with your kitten.

This article explores harness training for kittens, how to do it best, and what to look out for to make sure your kitten is safe. 

Is it OK to Harness Train a Kitten?

Not only is harness training OK for a kitten, but it can be beneficial for their health. Harness training helps your cat feel more comfortable wearing a harness and gives you both a way to safely explore the outdoors.

Of course, harness training for a kitten is only good if done correctly. You should stop harness training if your kitten is uncomfortable, or if training is leading to bigger issues. 

If you choose to harness train your kitten, be ready to exercise plenty of patience. This will make the whole process smoother for you and your kitten.

Is a Harness Better than a Collar for a Cat?

Harnesses are generally safer for kittens than a collar. For starters, collars can restrict a kitten’s neck, especially if you forget to loosen the collar as your kitten grows. This can limit airflow and make eating and drinking water uncomfortable. 

Harnesses, on the other hand, distribute pressure more equally over a kitten’s body, limiting the stress caused on your kitten if something catches the harness and tugs. Some cats can feel more comfortable with a harness on than not, while collars can feel restricting around the neck.

For new kitten owners, harness training also provides a chance to bond with your kitten, something that a collar won’t offer. Naturally, you need to make sure you pick the right type of harness and respond to your kitten’s reactions to the harness.

Harness Training a Kitten: Step-by-Step Guide

Before you begin harness training, there are a few things you need to do.

• Find the right harness. There are plenty of harnesses available, so take some time to research options before making a purchase.
• Buy more than one harness. Your kitten will grow into a cat, and its current harness will start to become tight. Once you’ve found a winning harness, consider buying an adult sized option for your kitten to transition into as they grow.
• Exercise patience. Kittens don’t wear harnesses in the wild! A harness is a foreign concept to a kitten, so they might not respond to it immediately.
• Get the treats ready. Positive reinforcement goes a long way with kittens. Get your kitten’s favorite treat ready to reward them after a harness training session.
• Be consistent with training. The more often you harness train your kitten, the more likely the training will stick. 

Here are the steps for harness training a kitten:

Step 1: Introduce the Harness

Don’t take the harness out of its box and put it on your kitten! Let your kitten smell, explore, and even play with the harness. This can help your kitten get more comfortable with the harness’ smell and feel.

Step 2: Put the Harness on your Kitten

Once your kitten is used to seeing and smelling the harness, it’s time to put it on them. Start by putting it loosely on your kitten for a few moments, just so they can understand the sensation. Remove the harness before your kitten becomes restless, then reward your kitten. Try increasing the amount of time you leave the harness on your kitten each time you train.

Step 3: Adjust the Harness

Harnesses are adjustable, so don’t assume that the harness will arrive perfectly fit for your kitten. A harness should fit loose enough around your kitten that it has full mobility in its arms, tail, and neck. The two finger rule (making sure you can easily fit two fingers between the harness and your kitten) is key here.

As with each step, be sure to reward your kitten.

Step 4: Try Walking Around the House

When your kitten is comfortable wearing the harness, it’s time to attach a leash and try walking — but make sure to stay in your home. Keep in mind that your kitten isn’t going to lead you or follow like a dog will. Instead, let your kitten explore while you secure it with the leash.

Step 5: Go For a Walk Outside

After you’re convinced that your kitten is comfortable exploring with a harness on, you can tackle the great outdoors!

Keep in mind that not all kittens will want to wear a harness, walk, or even explore outside. Don’t push your kitten to do anything it doesn’t want to, but reward it for trying either way. 

How Do I Know if my Kitten is Comfortable in a Harness?

Unfortunately, deciphering a kitten’s response can be tricky. Outside of mowing, scratching, or general bad behavior, here are some signs to look out for to see whether your kitten is comfortable in a harness:

Body language. Kittens are naturally loose, and a calm kitten won’t be whipping its tail around. Rigid kittens with active tails are likely not comfortable in the harness.

Movement. Walking a little funny is normal for harness training, but if odd movements persist then your kitten is probably uncomfortable. Try loosening the harness to see if that helps. 

Appetite. If your kitten begins a hunger strike during harness training or while wearing the harness, then they lilkey aren’t comfortable. Your kitten’s health is more important than harness training, so let them be comfortable enough to eat and drink.

If your kitten acts significantly different with a harness on than without one, odds are that they aren’t comfortable in their harness. Signs can be different from kitten to kitten, to keep an eye on your kitten to make sure they’re comfortable.

Final Thoughts on How to Harness Train a Kitten

Harnesses are perfectly safe for kittens and can be preferred over collars. With harness training, you can get a kitten used to a cat harness while bonding with your kitten. Express patience, train consistently, and reward your kitten during harness training to make the experience positive. If your kitten is shows signs of discomfort throughout harness training, then you may want to loosen the harness, try a different harness, or abandon training altogether.

FAQS for How to Harness Train a Kitten