Do you love taking your furry friend for a walk but don’t think you can because you have a cat? Think again! Many breeds of cats are perfect for walks on a leash. This blog post will discuss 13 of the best cat breeds for leashed walks. So, whether you’re looking for a lazy kitty who just wants to relax by your side or an active cat who loves to explore, there is sure to be a breed that’s perfect for you!
Leashes aren’t just for dogs – plenty of feline companions will happily take a walk with you, though just like their canine counterparts, they’ll need a bit of training, and some breeds adapt to leash training better than others.
Continue reading to explore the best cat breeds to train on a leash, the benefits of this exercise, and some tips on getting started. Remember, your cat’s willingness to take a walk with you depends on its personality and breed, and it’s essential to make sure that your cat is happy.
Cat Breeds You Can Walk On A Leash
Below is a list of the cat breeds that are easy to train and the most well adapted for going on outside walks with you. The breeds are listed in no particular order, and all are trainable to walk on a leash.
#1 Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is an energetic and athletic cat who depends on attention and social interaction for its well-being. They will love getting outdoors and meeting new people, making them easier to train than other breeds.
In addition, the Abyssinian loves you to reward them for good behavior, so regular treats should comprise an integral part of their training.
#2 Bengal
The Bengal cat is a cross between a domestic cat and a wild Asian Leopard cat; these “wild” traits give the breed a passionate love of the outdoors. In addition, they have a curious nature and high intelligence, making them one of the most trainable breeds.
But the Bengal is a strong and determined cat, so you may find that it’s them taking you for a walk and not the other way around.
#3 Bombay
The Bombay cat is a black American Shorthair and Burmese cross who gets along well with new people and enjoys spending time in your company. However, Bombay cats aren’t famed for their energy and may need a bit of motivation to get them up and going.
#4 British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are friendly and easygoing cats, making them easy to train. You will likely get them to adapt to a leash quite quickly; the trickier part will be getting them to walk – this breed is notorious for its chilled-out nature and low energy/laziness.
#5 Burmese
This breed is a curious and energetic cat that loves to spend time with you and play. If leash training allows them to connect with you and do something fun, they’ll be open to learning this skill.
#6 Korat
The Korat originates from Thailand, where it is a symbol of prosperity and luck. Their relations include the Siamese cat, though the Korat is much quieter than this cousin. The main reason Korats are easy to train is their desire for love and attention from their owners.
The only issue you could face is that Korats may be intimidated by strangers, causing them to become fearful or anxious about outdoor walks.
#7 Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is one of the largest cat breeds in the world, known for being a “gentle giant” and “dog-like” in nature. This breed loves attention and is incredibly easygoing, making them the perfect candidate for leash training.
In addition, the Maine Coon possesses a keen curiosity, making it eager to explore the outdoors with you.
#8 Pixiebob
Essentially a large house cat, the Pixiebob is affectionate, adaptable, and intelligent, making it the perfect candidate for leash training. They are highly energetic but can sometimes become a little hyperactive, so it’s essential to ensure that you can maintain control of them when you’re out walking.
#9 Ragdoll
Thanks to its loving and loyal nature, people often compare the ragdoll to a dog. Like the canine counterparts, this cat breed will love following humans around. Combined with its soft, easy going nature, these traits make the ragdoll the perfect cat breed to train on a leash.
However, because ragdolls are so soft and easy going, they can be an easy target. For this reason, many owners opt to keep their walks confined to gardens or parks.
#10 Savannah
With wildcat ancestors, this Serval crossbreed longs to explore the great outdoors and will thrive with plenty of time in nature. They are one of the most energetic breeds on this list, so outdoor walks are the perfect exercise to maintain their fitness and release some steam.
Despite their wild ancestry, this breed is loyal and loving, with many happy to accompany you for a walk on a leash.
#11 Siamese
The Siamese cat is another breed that people describe as possessing “dog-like” qualities, and many will happily take to walking on a leash. Siamese cats are highly intelligent and curious, so they’ll enjoy taking a trip outdoors with you.
#12 Somali
Somali cats are the longhaired variety of their cousin, the Abyssinian. Somalis are lithe and wild-looking cats with a muscular build that makes them perfect for outdoor pursuits. It has a boisterous personality but will happily walk on a leash.
#13 Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is one of the more independent cat breeds on this list, though it will give you plenty of love and affection on its own terms. The Van is an excellent hunter and will love using its skills in the great outdoors.
They are an energetic and friendly breed that can quickly train and learn multiple tricks and skills.
What Do I Need To Do Before I Can Walk My Cat On A Leash?
Before you embark on an outdoor adventure with your feline, there are a few essential things that you will need to consider.
- Make sure you have the right leash and harness. A leash alone is not enough because a cat’s neck muscles aren’t as strong as a dog’s. Instead, they need a full harness that wraps around their body for additional support.
- Allow your cat to familiarize itself with its surroundings. Before taking your cat outside, give it time to get used to the harness’s look, feel, and scent. When it’s ready, let it wear the harness for small amounts of time until it feels confident and comfortable.
- Plan your route. The ideal walk will take place in a quiet area with no dogs or cars. Some cats are more fearful of the outside world than others, so choosing a short, easy walk for your cat’s first walk outside is good.
What Are The Benefits Of Walking My Cat On A Leash?
Like humans, cats need regular exercise and stimulation – walking outside is the perfect way to achieve this. If you confine your cat at home for too long, it may become bored or frustrated and begin to engage in destructive behavior.
Walking outdoors provides an excellent foundation for your cat’s positive mental and physical health. Not only will they bond with you in a new environment, but they’ll get a good dose of exercise, which will help them maintain a healthy weight.
When you walk your cat on a leash, you allow it to soak up all of these benefits without the risks they face when they go outside alone. For example, if your cat roams the streets by itself, it is vulnerable to larger predators, diseases, cars, or thieves. Walking on a leash removes these drawbacks while allowing your cat some fresh air and exercise.
In addition, it gives them the chance to meet other people and pets and build on their social skills.
Final Word
The list above covers some of the most easily trainable cat breeds that are likely to adapt well to leash training, but every cat is unique, and there are no guarantees.
The most important thing is to take the process slowly and ensure that you and your fur baby enjoy what you’re doing.
Related Articles