For safety and comfort, you’re better opting for a full harness that fits around your cat’s body, and there are two main types available. An H-style harness (so named because the pieces of the harness form a letter “H” on a cat’s back) is often preferred by cats, since there’s less material in contact with their bodies; but these aren’t as secure as vest-style harnesses. The latter is like a fitted coat that wraps right around the cat’s body, and doesn’t create pressure points in specific areas, so won’t rub or dig into your cat’s back or belly. Regardless of which of the two styles you prefer, your choice may well depend on which style of harness your cat is prepared to tolerate!
You should also consider your cat’s personality when making your choice of cat harness. If your feline is super-confident then an H-style harness may be enough for them. But if they’re nervous or prone to wriggling then a vest-style option will prove more secure. You can also buy escape-proof harnesses – although do note that nothing can be guaranteed as be so when it comes to cats. Always test a harness indoors first, and make sure you measure your cat and follow the size guide to achieve the best fit possible.
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How do I train my cat to use a harness?
First and foremost: don’t rush things with your cat. You can repeat these steps as often as needed.
Place the harness in your bed for a couple of days to give it a familiar smell or, if you don’t fancy sleeping with it, rub a cloth round your cat’s cheeks and transfer their scent onto the harness. The key is to ensure that it doesn’t smell of packaging or a shop.
Place your cat’s favourite treats on the floor in front of your cat. While they’re eating, position the harness on their back. Do not attempt to do it up at this point; just get your cat used to having it on. If this freaks out your cat, hold the harness up so the cat can see it and feed them treats through the harness. You want them to associate it with good things.
Once your cat is relaxed with the harness on its back, try doing up the straps. Start with the neck, then add the chest. If the harness has a buckle around the neck, do this up last. Take the harness straight off if your cat shows signs of discomfort or is struggling to get out of it. You can try again on another day.
When your cat is comfortable with the harness on, let them walk around indoors with it on; here, you can also check that they can’t wriggle out of it.
Finally, when your cat is comfortable with the harness, you can attach the lead and carry them outside. The hope is that all the new sights and smells will distract them from the fact they’re wearing a harness.
Be aware that some cats may never get used to a harness. Don’t judge your cat or yourself too harshly if this is the case.
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The best cat harnesses you can buy in 2023
1. Kitty Holster Cat Harness: Best cat harness for choice of sizes available
Price: £33 | Buy now from Amazon
The Kitty Holster Cat Harness is available in a range of sizes from XS-XL, making it easy to find the right fit for your cat. This in turn also makes it a more secure harness. You get a range of fabrics in different colours and patterns to choose from, from sleek black through to a butterfly camo, so you can find the perfect match for your cat’s character.
This is a vest-style harness with no fiddly straps or clips to do up. Instead, the harness simply wraps around your cat’s body and is fastened at the chin and tummy with Velcro. Since the Velcro doesn’t offer the adjustability of straps, it’s important you follow the size guide closely to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for your cat. However, once you’ve got your cat in the harness, it’s extremely secure and very difficult for a cat to escape. Made from 100% cotton, it will be comfortable for cats to wear – although be careful that long-haired cats don’t get their fur caught in the Velcro. Note, too, that a lead isn’t included, so you’ll have to buy that separately.
Key details – Material: 100% cotton; Sizes: XS, S/M, M/L, XL; Weight: 68g
