When making pet care decisions for your cat, exercise and enrichment should be high on your list of priorities. One option is to take your cat on walks each day. Walking outdoors isn't just for dogs—but the experience is different with cats. Below is some helpful pet care information about what you should know before taking your cat outside for the first time. 

Should My Cat Go Outdoors?

Many homeowners let their cats outdoors without a leash to allow them to play and explore. While the cat may enjoy this time, it does come with some risks. Not only are outdoor cats frequently injured, leading to a shortened life expectancy compared to indoor cats, but they can also have a surprisingly large impact on local populations of birds and small animals. Also, if your cat has been raised indoors, you shouldn’t suddenly let them outside without supervision since they have no experience with outdoor hazards like cars or other animals.

Will My Cat Like Walks?

To give your cat the pet care benefits of outdoor enrichment while protecting both them and the environment, try taking them outdoors with supervision. Many cats can be trained to walk on a leash or harness. In this case, taking your cat outside gives them an opportunity to explore without the risk of being hurt or lost. If your cat doesn't enjoy their harness or won't cooperate when you try to walk them, that's all right; they'll do well with indoor enrichment options like toys, cat furniture, and playtime with you instead.

How Can I Get My Cat Ready for Walks on a Leash?

Like with any new object, you should introduce the cat to their harness slowly. Bring it into the house and let them sniff and investigate it until they lose interest before you try putting it on them. When you do put it on, give them lots of treats and affection to make wearing it a positive experience. Wait until they’re comfortable with the harness itself before trying to take them outside on a leash. If they resist, don't force the issue; it will only create a negative experience for you and the cat. Finally, before you take the cat exploring outside, check in with your vet to make sure they’re up to date on the vaccinations they need to be an outdoor cat.

For advice on how to introduce your cat to his harness and help them enjoy walks, talk to a veterinarian at All Feline Hospital in Lincoln, NE. This full-service feline vet provides Lancaster County with quality pet care for both cats and ferrets, from wellness visits to emergency services. They also offer cat boarding. To schedule a visit, call (402) 467-2711 or reach out online.