Best Dog Harnesses for Your Next Walk
-
Kitty Holster Cat Harness -
Joy Katz Walking Jackets Cat Harness -
MetPet's Cushioned Cat Harness -
Come With Me Cat Harness -
Comfort Soft Adjustable Cat Harness -
Buyer's Guide
Some neighborhoods aren’t safe enough to allow your cat to roam freely, yet the idea of locking them inside all day and night can feel equally unloving. Many cats have too much energy and natural curiosity to enjoy an indoor only lifestyle. However, it is possible you can help them feel content about their time stuck peering at the great outdoors from behind a window by taking them for walks periodically on a harness. A suggestion like this might have seemed outlandish a few years ago, but thanks to Jackson Galaxy, host of the Animal Planet's My Cat From Hell, the practice is becoming much more common. There are many online sources to learn how to train your cat - most notably, Jackson Galaxy's or the ASPCA website - but before you can begin you will need a good harness. Look for one that has a leash attachment near the center of your feline’s back (not around their neck), is easy to adjust to a snug fit, and is made of soft yet sturdy material that won’t irritate the skin or fur. The best harnesses in 2022 meet all three style requirements in addition to being easy to wash, made locally, and affordably priced.
Here are the best cat harnesses of 2022
Kitty Holster Cat Harness - Best Cat Harness Overall
The Kitty Holster Cat Harness is an award winning walking vest. It has received mentions from CBS Sunday Morning, the Animal Planet's My Cat From Hell, the New York Times, and was named 2011 Cat Harness of the Year by Catnip Magazine. The breathable cotton keeps your cat from getting too warm despite the fuller coverage and the wide velcro closures are sturdy, yet soft enough not to irritate the feline's skin like some buckles and clasps can do. It is completely washable and made in the U.S.A. It is priced in alignment with the highest quality harnesses but, when you consider its durability and ease of cleaning, you may feel it is more affordable than less expensive models which may need to be replaced more often. Although the price does not include a leash, it does include a booklet on how to train your cat to walk on one. It is available in four sizes and ten different colors and patterns. The Kitty Holster Cat Harness is the best due to its uniquely comfortable design which is consistently reported to be well received by felines.
Joy Katz Walking Jackets Cat Harness - Runner Up
Joy Katz Walking Jackets are handmade in the USA and specially designed for feline comfort. They have three layers of fabric, wide heavy duty velcro closures, and are double stitched to increase the strength and durability of the jacket. Two metal d-rings are situated at the center of your feline’s back in the ideal leash attachment position. They offer seventeen different printed fabric choices and seven sizes so you can be sure the jacket fits your cat’s size and style. The Joy Katz Walking Jacket is moderate to high priced, depending on what size you need, but durable and stylish enough to be well worth the cost.
MetPet's Cushioned Cat Harness - Honorable Mention
The Cushion Sided Waking Jacket from MetPet was designed to keep feisty felines securely and comfortably fastened to a leash while out on a walk. It is made of a structured fabric which is covered by softer nylon layers on both sides. Firm nylon straps encircle your cat’s torso in multiple loops to hold the harness firmly in place. The d-ring where you attach the leash sits on the side of the cat’s neck, which is less than ideal, but may be appropriate for training a feisty feline not to pull. The Cushion Sided Walking Jacket from MetPet is moderately priced and available in two sizes and five colors.
Come With Me Cat Harness - Consider
The Come With Me Kitty Harness is a traditional style harness which is available in three sizes, one of which should fit snugly on your feline. The nylon is soft enough for most cats and shouldn't take much longer to adjust to than a traditional cat collar. The metal rings and plastic clasps are extremely sturdy and help ensure your cat can't wiggle out of the harness if fitted correctly. The leash attachment is at the back to keep pressure off the more sensitive throat area. The Come With Me Kitty Harness is affordably priced and includes a special bungee leash which stretches an extra two feet for those times your cat wants to dart forward faster than you do.
Comfort Soft Adjustable Cat Harness - Best Cat Harness
The Comfort Soft Adjustable Cat Harness is a unique design that's halfway between a walking vest and traditional strapped harness. Around the neck and along the chest sit wide strips of mesh that are extremely breathable and soft enough for all but the most sensitive skin. A more traditional nylon strap hooks the neck loop to the chest piece and allows size adjustments to ensure snug fit. A single metal ring sits slightly high on the back for ideal leash connection, but low enough that it shouldn't be uncomfortable unless your feline is constantly pulling forward. The Comfort Soft Adjustable Cat Harness is moderately priced, available in two sizes and four colors, and suitable for pairing with any standard leash.
Buyer's Guide
Buying Guide For Finding The Best Cat Harnesses In 2021
Your fur babies need the safety of an escape-proof cat harness. However, as much as you want to invest in one, finding the best cat harness leash is a tricky business. Moreso, if your pet hasn’t been acquainted with cat harnesses & leashes yet. Let’s get down to business, and we’ll help you pick out the best cat grooming harness along with tips and tricks to train your kitty.
Types of Cat Harnesses
We know that as soon as you start scrolling through Amazon and other online resources, the overload of information will leave you scratching your head. That’s why you should narrow down your research to the kind of cat harness that would be perfect for your cat. So, here’s a broad rundown of the type of cat harness available out there.
The Strappy Solution: H-Harness
The first type of cat harness is called H-Harness. It is a sleek and stylish solution to keep your furry companion from slipping away and injuring itself. This harness provides the least amount of coverage, and you can wrap it around the neck and belly in an H-shaped style. This collar-like solution is the best option if your pet does not adjust to more covered options. While H-harness isn’t too secure, it is a great starter to train your felines.
The Secure Solution: Vest Harnesses
This harness type looks like a vest, which gives extra coverage and security to your pet. All you have to do is slide over the vest harness around the cat’s body and secure it on the back. This harness does not tug and pull through the cat’s neck uncomfortably with lesser pinching points. This harness type acts as a ‘purrfect’ accessory to adorn your cat. However, if you have an older feline, the bulky fabric will affect their mobility. The proper pressure distribution of vest harnesses actively reduces the risk of losing your cat to an injury.
The Full Coverage Solution: Jacket Harness
The best cat harness and leash that provides maximum coverage to your pet’s body is a jacket harness. The velcro closure is convenient. Plus, they can not easily wiggle out of it. However, the harsh noises of loosening and fastening velcro may cause discomfort to your purring friend. That is something you should account for when choosing the 'purrfect' cat harness for your pet.
Other than the three major harness types mentioned above there are hybrid harnesses available as well. It includes figure eight and a step-in harness for your cats. The step-in harness is lightweight and does not go over the cat’s head, saving you the hassle.
How To Decide The Right Type of Cat Harness
Now that you know about all the types of cat harnesses, here are a few pointers that will help you pick out the perfect tether to secure your kitty.
Consider Your Cat’s Size
Your pet’s size and build is an essential factor to consider. When you have a bigger cat, consider getting a harness made with lightweight material, or you can even opt for a dog harness. Whereas small cats can fit snugly in a vest or jacket harness.
Consider The Harness Usage
The best cat harnesses are not designed as a multipurpose, one-size-fits-all tool. If you take your cat for outdoor activities involving water make sure that the harness material dries swiftly. Whereas cat grooming harnesses with mesh material are good if your pet likes to play around in the sand or the park.
Consider The Weather
In colder seasons a tightly snug vest or jacket harness will keep your feline companion warm and comfortable. And in hotter weather, you should opt for strappy harnesses with breathable material to avoid any discomfort.
Consider Your Cat’s Physical Attributes & Underlying Conditions
If your pet has long fur, you must look for harnesses that do not cause them discomfort. Furry pets often have to go through the ordeal of tangled hairs in vest and jacket harnesses or velcro closures. The cat’s comfort should be your utmost priority.
If your cat has any underlying issues, that should also factor in finding the best cat harness. For instance, an asthmatic cat should have a harness that would pinch or clasp around its neck. Additionally, do not put your pet through the misery of bulky harnesses if they suffer from arthritis issues. Opt for lightweight, ergonomic designs.
Desirable Attributes Of The Best Cat Grooming Harnesses
Let’s narrow down the features that will help you get the most out of your cat harness and will keep your pet comfortable.
Breathable Material
Hunt for a feline harness that has lightweight and breathable material. A high-quality, soft nylon or mesh fabric will prevent your cat from getting irritated. Plus, the material should be wash-friendly and easy to clean.
Durability & Longevity
Your fur-baby deserves the best. When you look for a cat harness, ensure that the finishing is top-notch, from double-stitched material to rust-free stainless steel rings. It should be an investment that would last through a couple of years.
Flexibility
Flexibility is an important attribute in a harness. You want a cat harness and leash that is adjustable to help you loosen and tighten the grip as desired.
How Train Your Cat For The Harness
Taking your cat out for a walk with a harness isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Initially, your fur pet will resist the feel of the harness, and it will require some training.
- Introduce the harness to your cat by placing it around them. Allow your pet to touch and sniff the harness for a week.
- Before you take your harnessed fur-baby outdoors, let them have a trial at home. Roaming around the home with a harness will give the pet some time to adjust to the fit.
- Next, put a leash on the cat but do not yank it on. Just gentle tugs will do.
Once your pet is comfortable with the idea of a harness, you can have all the fun outdoor activities and walks that you want. But remember to take it slow.
FAQ
Q: How to measure your cat for the harness?
A: Measure the neck circumference and chest area, i.e., right behind the front legs, to properly fit the harness. Once you have measured your cat, match the numbers with a sizing guide to find the perfect harness fit.
Q: Why should I get a cat harness for my pet?
A: Cats are easy to slip away from your grip, and you do not want that to happen. Putting a cat harness will help you to keep your cat in control and avoid any injuries.
Q: Why is my pet falling over with a cat harness?
A: The cats take their sweet time getting used to the harness. Therefore, the strange feel of a harness kicks in the kitten’s survival instinct. If you do not create a positive association for your cat with the harness, freezing and falling over can occur more frequently. So, make sure that you gradually get your cat comfortable with the idea of harness and leash training.
