Wildcats are wild because they can survive in the great outdoors and forest. They survive by searching for preys and enjoy other benefits of nature. Your cat though destined for the indoor life can also go outdoors as well. However, you need the best cat harness to let your feline enjoy long walks, play outdoors, go to the park and enjoy other fun activities for cats. Also visiting the vet or groomer does not have to be torture anymore. You can simply use a harness to get your kitty to his not so favorite place.
We have gathered all you need to know about cat harnesses. Here is a buying guide that will help inform your choices and your final decision, If you read further, you will see the review of our best ten cat harnesses for this season. We hope you find one that will interest you and your cat.
Buyer’s Guide
In this guide, we evaluated the reasons you will need a cat harness, the types of cat harnesses available on the market and the factors that must be considered before buying one. We also highlighted the important things to note when ths cat harness has been purchased.
Why you need a cat harness
Cats by instinct will gravitate towards the outdoor. You can never find a healthy cat who is fine just by napping, eating and watching Netflix. Those cats which may be content with the boring indoors are those who are sick or elderly. By nature, a cat wants to catch a mouse, chase a bird or climb the fence and see the great beyond. There is a saying that states curiosity kills the cat. However, we can protect our cat by using the right cat accessory. We don’t want our felines killed that is why we must get the perfect no-escape harness to ensure their safety while they seek to satisfy their curiosity outside.
Also, a cat harness gives you a form of control when you take your cat outdoors. Imagine having your cat transported in your arms, he can get spooked and take flight. Furthermore, your cat won’t have as much exercise or freedom to explore if he is been carried by hands or cat carrier.
Other forms of control like a collar or lead are not appropriate for a cat. This is because unlike a dog, a cat has a delicate, throat area. Any pressure can lead to strangulation or fatal injury on your cat. Also, a harness has pressure distributed all over a cat’s body covering the shoulders, back and chest area of the cat. While a lead or collar has pressure on one specific area which is the neck region.
Types of cat harnesses
A cat harness is called various names like cat holster, cat vest, cat jacket or no-escape vest. There are various types of cat harnessed. They differ in terms of design, style and how it is worn. You can get cat harnesses in three main categories based on style:
H-type cat harness
The harness has straps that are formed to the H shape. Here the harness straps go in front of your cat front legs and behind as well up to his back where it is fitted and closed with a buckle, velcro or clip. Most H-shaped harnesses are adjustable so that the straps can fit snugly around your cat’s body.
Step-in type cat harness
Like the name implies, the harness is worn by your cat stepping into it. It is worn over the chest and back area. Your cat first steps through the cuts in the harness with his front legs and paws. It is considered less secure because cats can easily escape this type of cat harness. Also, outing on can become difficult particularly if you have to wear it over your cat’s head.
Vest type cat harness
The vest harness is considered the most secure type of harness. It can be bulky because the construction allows for padding. Also, vests type harness can be made from different materials other than mesh. Some are made from suede, cotton, polyester or other forms of synthetic fabric. Sometimes because of the weight the vest it increases the chance of your cat escaping.
Figure 8 type cat harness
This harness is made from a continuous length of webbing in the form of figure 8. It works by squeezing your cat anytime it lunges forward or when the leash is pulled. The tightening and squeezing of the harness are slight and not too tight. Cats may find this harness uncomfortable but it is ideal for a low-risk environment. However, this type of harness is lightweight and easy to wear.
It is important to know that cats react differently to the various type of harnesses. An extrovert cat may not mind having the feel of a vest on his body, while a skirmish or nervous cat may be bothered by it. So what is good for the gander (one cat) may not be good for the geese (another cat).
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Cat Harness
Apart from the type of harnesses to consider, you should also factor in some vital information before deciding on the harness your cat will wear. Below are some of those things to take note of.
Comfort
This is a key factor. No matter how fine the harness is and if it does not feel comfortable on your cat, It is very likely that your cat won’t wear it. A pinch, squeeze or jab from pulling can get your cat irritated and anxious. It is recommended you get harnesses that are lined with nylon webbing or made of cotton material. Also, take note of heavy harnesses which can decrease comfortability for your cat.
Fabric
Some fabric does better in a particular climate. The most common fabric used for cat harnesses are mesh, nylon, polyester, cotton, suede and other synthetic fabrics. If you live in a colder climate, fabrics that are warmer may become an added benefit, while that same fabric in a warmer climate can create a great discomfort for your cat.
Mesh fabric is breathable and also lightweight. While padded fabrics or suede are heavier and non-porous. Cotton fabrics will do well in both climates. Fabric can also be a function of durability.
Purpose
You may also put into consideration the purpose of the harness. Where would you take your cat to and where are you likely to visit often wearing the harness. This can help you decide if you need a harness that will be more secure. For example, if you are going to the airport where there are a lot of people, you should get a no-escape harness vest. If it is to the vet or groomer, a low-risk harness like the figure 8 type may be ok.
Fit
Fitting is critical to the effectiveness of a harness. The fitting includes sizing, cut and style of the harness An ill-fitting harness is a disaster waiting to happen. So ensure you measure your cat’s chest and neck girth before purchasing a harness. Only a finger or two should be able to fit in between the harness and your cat’s body. Watch the way your cat's walk while in the harness. If he is limping or walking funny, check the fit of the harness again.
Extra features
After you have considered the above factors, you can now look for extra features in style and design as an added bonus. For example, a cat harness that has a pocket can serve as a storage for treats and toys while you are on a walk with your cat. A bow tie in a harness will look great on any cat. Also, you can get some cat harnesses with leashes or lead which comes as a complete combination.
Things to Note When Using a Cat Harness
These are points to note when you have purchased the harness. This covers maintenance of the cat harness, instructions on fitting and training your cat on walking with a harness
First of all, read the instruction manual carefully on how to put the harness on. In some cases, diagrams are used for illustration. Follow each step as shown, this is vital so as not to spook your cat from wanting to wear the harness.
Secondly, let her wear the harness alone for some days indoors. Do not attempt to pull with a leash. This is to make your cat comfortable in the harness. This also allows you to observe how she fares.
Next, you can attach the lead and practice using it with your cat. You can use treats to help he follow your lead. Reward her when she is obedient to your control. Take it outside and enjoy walking together. However, start with a low-risk environment before taking her to a more vibrant environment.
Please note that your cat may not take to the harness immediately. Be patient with your baby and give her all the time she needs. After all, it is for your cat’s safety and convenience. We recommend that you start training your cat early on to use a harness as a kitten.
Follow the instructions highlighted on washing and keeping the cat harness clean. This will ensure a longer lifespan for your cat harness.
Checklist for Choosing the Best Cat Harness
A lot of information has been given in this article. We don’t want it to overwhelm you, therefore we have a list that you can give a quick rundown below.
- Measure your cat’s chest and neck girth. Then compare with the brand that interest you to determine the size you will buy
- Choose the cat harness type that best fit your cat’s personality, needs, and purpose.
- Consider the style, color, and design of the harness.
- Check your climate to determine the fabric choice of your cat harness
- Look out for useful extra features on the kitty jacket that will provide additional benefits to you and your cat.
- Teach your cat how to wear the harness with love and patience.
- Follow strictly the instruction on washing and cleaning the harness.
We have selected ten great cat harnesses that have a bit of all that we have discussed above and more. We hope you and your cat go for safe, long trips outside your home in any of these harnesses.
FAQ
How do I know my cat’s harness size?
This is the most important question regarding cat harnesses. You cannot rely on the weight of your cat to determine the size of the harness to pick for your feline. Even if the harness is designed for cats within a certain weight range. You cannot also rely on the brand name, particularly if you have used a previous harness from the same brand. You can’t use the cat picture on the advertisement to gauge what size of no-escape harness your cat needs. The best way to get your cat’s sizing correctly is to measure your cat every time you are purchasing a new harness.
How do I measure my cat correctly when purchasing a harness?
The necessary parts that you must measure when picking a harness for your kitty are the chest and the neck area. The chest measurement is called the chest girth and the neck measurement is called the neck girth. Some harnesses require you knowing only the chest girth as a result of the design. It is best to measure both.
Chest girth: To measure the chest size, you should measure around the widest part of your pet's chest
Neck girth: Also, to measure the neck or collar size, you should measure around your cat's neck.
After measuring, you should add 1 to 2 inches. You can determine the harness size based on the final measurements. Most brands have reference chart sizing included in their package or on their websites. All you need is to compare your cat's measurement to the chart to determine the best size.
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