Taking a cat for a walk may seem strange to some folks, but there are many pet parents that enjoy this activity…and so do their cats.
But before you embark on this new adventure, you will need to find the best cat harness for your feline friend.
Read on to discover everything you will need to know about cat harnesses. And some of the best cat harnesses on the market today.
The Best Cat Harness? Why Do I Even Need One?
There comes a time in every cat’s life – even if he is an indoor pet – when he may need to go beyond the four walls of your home.
Having the best cat harness for him will keep your feline safe and sound when these circumstances arise. Such as;
- Going to the veterinarian’s – Cats can become extremely agitated when at the vet’s office. Having a harness on your cat will make it easier to hold onto him and easier to catch if he tries to make a run for it.
- Long car trips – Moving to a different home long distance and vacations can all make it necessary to let your cat out to relieve herself on route. Having a cat harness on her (along with a leash) will make traveling much easier (and cleaner).
- Cats that detest carriers – It’s almost impossible to put a cat into a carrier that doesn’t want to go. And even if you do manage to wrangle her into one, it can produce a lot of anxiety and fear. Using a cat harness will give Kitty more freedom in the vehicle; just be sure not to open any doors or windows before she’s secured.
- Outdoor fun with control – Not everyone wants their cat roaming free outdoors. For this reason, using a harness and leash can provide your cat the ability to enjoy the outdoors, while still safely by your side.
The Best Cat Harness? Choose From 3 Styles
There are three main styles of this product, so you will have options when choosing the best cat harness for your feline.
- The figure eight (or “H”) harness is comprised of two adjustable loops (figure eight-style). One loop slips over the head and fastens around your cat’s neck. The other loop fastens behind your cat’s front legs. The two loops are secured by a straight piece of material that runs along your cat’s upper body. There are many styles of this cat harness, but they usually all feature a place to fasten a leash and are adjustable to accommodate all shapes and sizes of cats.
- The vest-style is similar to figure eight, but instead of joining the neck and back-piece along the back, it offers wider material around the chest area. The adjustable connection is on top of your cat’s upper back, along with the leash-attachment.
- The third type may be the best cat harness for your furry pal; the coat-style. This design is worn more like clothing and covers most of your cat’s body to its mid-section. It fits snuggly so there’s little chance of escape, yet it’s still comfy for your feline.
What Is the Best Cat Harness For Your Feline?
Depending on your individual cat, you may need to try a few styles to find the one that best suits Kitty’s needs and your requirements.
If your cat goes outside on a long lead, you will most likely want the coat-style, since there’s very little chance of your cat escaping from this harness.
However, not all cats will want to feel confined so you may want to opt out for the figure eight or vest models.
How Do I Help My Pet Using the Best Cat Harness For Him?
Unlike our canine companions, cats won’t necessarily take to a harness and lead right away.
It will greatly depend on his age and personality.
But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible, it just takes a little patience, persistence, and practice.
Here are some helpful tips to help you and your cat with harness and leash training.
Tip # 1 – Start Indoors
Before you ever embark on an adventure into the great outdoors with your cat, you will want to start indoors.
Let your cat become accustomed to wearing, first the harness, then the leash.
Make this a positive experience by rewarding with treats or right before a meal.
Tip # 2 – Be Patient and Practice
Your cat may freeze up, walk strangely, fall over or refuse to walk when he first has the harness and lead on.
This is normal, as he’s not used to having something around his back and neck.
This step may take several days or even weeks before your feline becomes comfortable wearing the harness.
Be patient and practice the training in short sessions.
You want this to be a pleasant experience for your cat, so taking “kitten” steps, in the beginning, will be the most productive.
Tip # 3 – Going Outside
Once your cat is comfortable wearing the harness and leash around the house, it’s time to go outside.
Take this step slowly as well, even if it takes a few days for you and your cat to get off the steps.
In addition, to help make this a positive experience, be sure to keep Kitty safely in the backyard away from heavy traffic, barking dogs or other loud distractions.
As your cat becomes more comfortable with being outside, he will begin to relax and enjoy the adventure.
The Best Cat Harness? These Made Our List
Now that we’ve given you some reasons, types, and tips to having a harness for your cat, we’ve narrowed down the options to help you choose the best cat harness for your pet.
FunPet Soft Mesh Pet Harness
Made from 100% polyester covered in breathable mesh, this vest-style pet harness isn’t made just for dogs, cats like it, too.
Its padding allows for comfy wear and the durable snaps ensures your cat will stay safely in the harness.
It’s available in 3 sizes (XS, S, M) and comes in 6 different solid colors.
There’s a tough metal ring on the back of the harness for attaching your own leash.
Convenience: 78% Durability: 76% Price: 81% Overall: 78%
Check it out on Amazon
Come With Me Kitty
This figure-eight design cat harness has patented shoulder straps that gently tighten to provide more safety, security, and comfort for your cat.
The unique sternum slide will easily adjust to fit any size cat, without being too tight or causing choking.
It’s made from 3/8 inch durable nylon, which is available in 3 sizes and 7 colors.
The PetSafe model also includes a bungee-style leash that applies a little give before it comes to a full-on stop.
Convenience: 80% Durability: 79% Price: 83% Overall: 80%
Check it out on Amazon
Pearl Angel Wing Cat Harness
We couldn’t make a list of the best cat harnesses and not include one that’s as sweet as it is functional.
The Pearl Angel Wing cat harness will have your fur baby girl sporting a pink vest-style harness made from soft, breathable and lightweight material.
The adorable angel wings are on the back of the harness with the sturdy dual metal rings to safely secure your leash onto.
Plus, it’s also available in 4 sizes to fit even those more “sturdy” girls.
Convenience: 81% Durability: 80% Price: 85% Overall: 82%
Check it out on Amazon
Nylon Cat Vest Harness in Polka Dot
Another fashionable, yet comfy, vest harness is the Smalllee Lucky with polka dots.
Don’t let the ad fool you, as it is also suitable for most any body-typed feline.
It comes in 3 sizes (S, M, L) and two colors (black with white polka dots or red with white polka dots).
It’s made from a breathable mesh fabric with a comfortable, padded neck opening.
The paw print patches are adorable, and it even comes with its own matching leash.
Convenience: 84% Durability: 83% Price: 88% Overall: 85%
Check it out on Amazon
Oxgord Cat Harness
The design of this vest-style harness reduces the tugging and pulling around your cat’s (or dog’s) neck.
The durable, lightweight material provides your pet with breathable comfort and the adjustable straps make getting that perfect fit a snap.
It comes in 4 sizes and 7 colors and is even airline approved.
Convenience: 86% Durability: 87% Price: 88% Overall: 87%
Check it out on Amazon
Kitty Holster Cat Harness
This award-winning cat harness is pleasing pet parents everywhere.
Available in all sizes, this soft and non-abrasive coat-style harness has secure hook and loop closures, with a solid “D” ring for hooking your leash onto.
The heavy-duty nylon that runs along the back of the coat gives this product extra durability, without being uncomfortable.
Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and patterns to choose from.
Convenience: 88% Durability: 90% Price: 91% Overall: 90%
Check it out on Amazon
Best Pet All-Season Cat Harness
Great for all seasons, this cat vest harness is made with rugged, yet breathable mesh material.
The easy step-into style makes putting it on your cat a cinch.
It also has both an adjustable buckle and an adjustable Velcro strap fastener for a secure fit.
It comes in 5 sizes and is available in 10 different colors.
Convenience: 90% Durability: 91% Price: 93% Overall: 91%
Check it out on Amazon
Adjustable Figure “H” Cat Harness
Simple doesn’t always have to mean poor quality. In fact, this adjustable figure “H” cat harness is one of the best on the market today.
It’s made from durable nylon and features both easy to adjust neck and girth for that perfect fit every time.
Great even if your cat is still growing.
The durable snap-lock buckles will keep Kitty safe and secure, while the 3 basic colors will be suitable for both male and female felines.
Convenience: 94% Durability: 98% Price: 96% Overall: 96%
Check it out on Amazon
Cat Jacket/Harness – The Best Cat Harness
The Mynwood jacket harness has topped our list for the best cat harness.
This product is triple sewn for strength and is machine washable.
It’s designed to get Kitty in and out of it with ease, as well as being super comfortable.
All jackets are reversible to black cotton.
They also have a secure welded steel D-ring with extra reinforced stitching to attach your pet’s lead to.
This product is being touted as escape-proof, durable and flexible for added comfort.
Convenience: 98% Durability: 99% Price: 97% Overall: 98%
Check it out on Amazon
The Best Cat Harness is What Works For You and Your Cat
Even though we’ve comprised a list of the best cat harnesses on the market, the one that works the best for you and your feline friend may take some trial and error.
Before you purchase any cat harness, be sure to measure around your cat’s neck and girth to ensure a proper fit.
If you need more sizing help, look to the individual product for further specific fitting details.
Once you have your cat trained for the harness and leash, you can embark on many outdoor adventures together.