#MIDDLEBURY
By Sam Mazzotta
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I was at the park across the street the other day and saw my neighbor there. Get this: She was walking her cat. With a collar and leash. I didn’t know that was even possible, but the cat looked pretty content. How did my neighbor do that? – Gerry in San Diego
DEAR GERRY: It’s something you’ll probably see more of, especially in cities and anywhere that pet owners live in smaller spaces with indoor cats. Bringing one’s cat outside on a leash allows it to roam around outside, supervised, for a little while each day.
Naturally, most cats don’t take well to a leash and collar setup. A collar, when tugged on by the leash, can be really uncomfortable for cats. So cat owners should use a harness instead, which is more comfortable and stays secure when properly put on. Getting the cat into the harness may take a little time, but with repeated sessions and lots of rewards, many cats get comfortable enough with the harness to walk around (rather than flop down and play dead until it’s removed, for example).
Walking a cat is done only to get it outside, exploring the landscape. Cats don’t typically go pee or poop on command, and rarely in strange places, so don’t expect that to happen – the litter box needs to stay in place. And you won’t see them heeling or doing tricks on command either. That’s more of a dog thing.
Of course, owners still need to brush their cat’s fur to make sure no fleas or ticks hitch a ride into the house and check their paws for cuts or burrs. That’s a small inconvenience in return for a happier cat.
Send your questions or comments to ask@pawscorner.com.
(c) 2016 King Features Synd. Inc.
