Walking Your Cat Outdoors

Many people in our neighborhoods of Highland Park and Silver Lake enjoy taking their cats out for walks, and the practice has become more common in recent years.  Social media has plenty of adorable videos and photographs of people hiking with their cats at Griffith Park and other lovely outdoor locations.  But is this practice safe? And can any cat be trained to do this?

Why do people take their cats on walks?

Some cats have spent their entire lives indoors, and some pet parents like the idea of their cat being able to spend some time safely outdoors. 

Will my cat enjoy going outside?

Some cats who have always been inside become scared going outside.  Some cats were adopted later in life, and may have spent some time outside in their younger years. The best way to find out if your cat will enjoy the great outdoors is if you try taking them out with you.

How do I get my cat outside?

If you decide to take your cat out, introduce the outdoors very slowly.  Make sure your cat is secured with a cat harness that snugly fits, and a leash.  Try taking your kitty just outside your door, and only for a few minutes at a time.  If the kitty seems to be enjoying it, gradually increase the amount of time you spend.  If your cat reacts negatively, or tries to bolt back in the house, don’t force them to stay outside.  Remember that your cat may not want to do this. Do what makes your cat happiest!

Is it safe?

Keeping your cat safe outdoors is extremely important.  Coyotes roam our parks and even our neighborhoods in packs, and there are raccoons and other animals that can attack if they feel threatened.  In order to keep your cat safe, remember to always:

• Put a cat harness on your cat.  Make sure that the harness fits well and that your cat can’t slip out of it.

• Use a leash that attaches to the harness.

• Alternatively, you can put your cat in a kitty backpack that is designed for your cat to get fresh air, and so the cat can see out the back.  Make sure that your kitty doesn’t overheat if you decide to use one of these backpacks!

• Keep your cat within a couple of feet of you at all times. If you see a wild animal or something that might present a hazard, be ready to pick up your cat quickly.

Fleas!

As with dogs, cats that are outside can pick up both fleas and ticks. Before you start your kitty on any outdoor adventuring, it's best to start them on a flea treatment regimen, if they're not already on one.

Remember that taking your cat out for a walk may be something that you might enjoy more than your kitty. Introduce them to the practice slow, and keep them safe with a cat harness and leash. Stay with them at all times, and don't force your cat to do it if it's causing them stress.