Cat harnesses have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to keep cats safe while allowing them to enjoy the outdoors. Many cat harness brands advertise their products as “escape proof,” claiming that cats will not be able to wiggle out of the straps. This is an enticing promise for cat owners who want the security of knowing their cat will not run off while on a leash.
But how true are these “escape proof” claims when it comes to cat harnesses? Cat owners report varying levels of success when it comes to keeping their cats securely in a harness for walks. Some felines appear Houdini-like in their ability to slip out and make a break for it. Testing suggests that while well-designed harnesses can be very secure, proper fit and use is also essential. Features like adjustable straps and double escape protection can make harnesses more escape resistant. Still, motivated cats have proven adept at slipping out on occasion.
This article will take a deeper look at the escape proof claims made about cat harnesses. We’ll review what features can make a harness more secure, examine why some cats manage to escape, and provide recommendations for cat owners looking for the most escape resistant option for their feline.
Popularity of Cat Harnesses
In recent years, there has been a rising trend of cat owners using harnesses to walk or travel with their cats. According to Pet Business, “We see an increase in cats traveling and walking. It’s still a small number of owners who use a collar or harness on their cat, but that number is growing.”[1] This growth shows more cat owners are exploring harness options to provide outdoor enrichment and exercise for their cats in a safe way.
Benefits of Cat Harnesses
Cat harnesses provide many advantages for both cats and their owners, but two key benefits are increased safety and preventing escape. Harnesses allow cats to experience the outdoors without the risks associated with letting them roam freely. When on a leash and harness, cats are unable to run off or get lost, keeping them protected from dangers like traffic, aggressive dogs, and injuries from fights with other cats.
Harnesses are preferable to collars alone when walking or hiking with cats since collars can easily slip off. A properly fitted harness keeps cats secure and gives owners control. According to Cat’s Best, harnesses distribute pressure more evenly over the cat’s body compared to collars, preventing choking or injuries if cats do try to escape.
Harnesses keep indoor cats from unexpectedly running out doors or sneaking outside. They prevent even clever escape artists from slipping away and provide peace of mind for owners.
Harness Brands Claim 100% Escape Proof Security
Major pet brands boast of “escape-proof” and “100% secure” harnesses for cats. Marketers use persuasive language like “your cat can’t get out of this one!” and “the only truly secure harness for cats.” Brand names like Kitty Holster, Come With Me Kitty, and Mynwood Cat Jacket harness lean heavily on absolute guarantees that cats cannot wiggle free from their patented designs.
For example, the Rabbitgoo Cat Harness markets itself as having “NO ESCAPE” thanks to its step-in design and a structure that wraps fully around a cat’s torso. Similarly, the Voyager All Weather Harness claims to be “inescapable” due to an added velcro fastener under the neck and across the chest. Always double-check specific product details, but many brands do promise total escape prevention if fitted and used properly.
While not impossible to escape from, brands argue that properly-fitted, snug harnesses with multiple adjustment points across the neck, chest, and shoulders make it extremely unlikely a cat can back out. Some testimonials from owners share stories of their clever escape artist cats still finding ways to slip harnesses, but most agree escape-proof designs provide far more security.
Testing Cat Harness Escapes
There are many anecdotal stories online of cat owners whose cats have managed to escape from harnesses while on walks. According to one Reddit user, their girlfriend’s cat escaped her harness and backpack at the beach: “She’s very sweet and probably very scared” (source). On Quora, another cat owner asked for advice after their cat got out of her harness and ran away for over a week before returning home. They noted that “The chances are better that your CAT WILL RETURN. I have had cats go missing for a few days to a few weeks, and they have always returned.” (source). These stories demonstrate that even while wearing a harness, some clever and determined cats are able to find ways to escape.
Harness Features For Security
The design of a cat harness plays a key role in how secure it is. Important features that impact escape proofing include:
Buckles – Secure buckles like plastic quick release buckles are harder for cats to manipulate open compared to metal clasps. Plastic buckles with double straps provide extra security.
Fit – A properly fitted harness should be snug but not too tight. Straps should lay flat and connectors should be positioned properly so there are no gaps for wiggling out. Proper sizing is also key.
Materials – Thick, durable nylon webbing is recommended over materials like rope that can be chewed through. Padding can prevent chafing and escape by chewing through straps.
Designs like the rabbitgoo no pull cat harness use multiple adjustable straps and a quick release buckle to provide “escape proof” security. Proper use and good fit is still essential for any harness to prevent escapes (source).
Proper Use
Proper use of a cat harness is crucial for making sure your cat can’t escape. The most important factor is ensuring the harness fits snugly but allows for free range of motion. As this source recommends, you should be able to fit two fingers between your cat and the harness straps. The harness should be snug but not constricting.
When putting on the harness, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Many harnesses recommend doing up the neck strap first, then the chest strap. It’s also important to supervise your cat at first to ensure the harness doesn’t slip off or get caught on anything.
With the right snug fit and proper supervision when first using the harness, you can help prevent escapes and keep your cat comfortable on their adventures.
Types of Cat Harnesses
There are several popular styles of cat harnesses designed for different needs and cat sizes:
Vest Harness: These distribute weight evenly across the cat’s shoulders and chest, helping to prevent strain or chafing. They provide good security and are comfortable for the cat. According to GoPetFriendly, vest harnesses are often the most comfortable style for cats.
H-Harness: These are shaped like the letter H and have straps that go around the cat’s neck and torso. H-harnesses allow for good control but don’t distribute pressure as evenly as vests. They can be adjustable for a customized fit. As Catexplorer notes, H-harnesses are a very common style.
Jacket/Sleeve: These cover the cat’s entire torso like a jacket or sleeve. They provide warmth along with security, making them ideal for cold weather walks. According to Chumka’s Corner, jacket harnesses distribute pressure well while allowing for a snug fit.
Recommendations
When selecting a cat harness, look for adjustable straps to ensure a proper and secure fit. Make sure the harness has a double secure clip mechanism for attaching the leash, according to this source. The best cat harnesses use comfortable yet durable materials like nylon, mesh, or soft padded straps to prevent chafing, based on this list. It’s also important to gradually introduce your cat to wearing a harness indoors first before going outside. Let them get used to walking on a leash inside for short periods each day. Always supervise your cat when using a harness.
For extra security, some harnesses like the Comfort Fit Cat Harness have an extra band that goes around the cat’s torso in addition to shoulder and neck straps. Test the harness for fit by ensuring you can comfortably insert two fingers between the harness and your cat’s body. Avoid leaving a harness on for prolonged periods, as cats should only wear them during supervised outdoor walks. Check the harness frequently for any signs of chafing or irritation. Never leave your cat unattended when wearing a harness.
Conclusion
While most cat harnesses claim to be “escape proof”, the reality is that no harness can 100% prevent a determined cat from slipping out. However, responsible cat owners can take steps to significantly reduce the risk of escapes:
- Choose a properly fitted harness with a wide chest strap, secure belly strap, and reinforced stitching.
- Introduce the harness slowly with positive reinforcement.
- Double check all straps are properly adjusted each time it’s put on.
- Keep the leash attached at all times and maintain control.
- Supervise the cat closely when outdoors and redirect any escape attempts.
- Remove the harness as soon as back indoors.
While caution is required, harnesses enable cats to experience the outdoors safely when used responsibly. With training and proper precautions, cat owners can have peace of mind knowing their cats are secure.
