Benefits of Walking Cats
Taking cats for walks can provide many benefits for their health and happiness. According to https://www.foundanimals.org/can-you-walk-a-cat/, walking gives cats excellent exercise that works their bones, muscles, and minds. Indoor cats especially may get a better workout on a walk than they would just playing inside. The sights, sounds, and smells also provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom.
Walks allow cats to safely explore new environments, fulfilling their natural curiosity. According to https://www.petsmont.com/blogs/pets/5-reasons-why-you-should-be-walking-your-cat, this helps boost their confidence as they learn more about the world outside. It also allows bonding time for cats and their owners to spend positive time together.
Potential Dangers of Walking Cats
While walking a cat can provide enrichment, there are some risks involved that cat owners should consider before venturing outdoors.
One of the biggest concerns is the risk of escape. Cats are naturally curious and like to explore. If a cat sees something interesting, they may try to take off after it and get loose from their harness or leash. It’s important to use an escape-proof harness and keep a close eye on your cat at all times (Source).
Cats can also become frightened by loud noises like traffic, sirens, or barking dogs. A spooked cat may panic and try to run away or even lash out. It’s best to walk cats in quiet areas away from busy roads and other pets at first (Source).
Taking an indoor cat outside can also lead to overstimulation. With so many sights, sounds, and smells, some cats may get extremely stressed. Watch for signs your cat is anxious or overwhelmed and be ready to promptly head back indoors.
Choosing the Right Stroller
When selecting a stroller for your cat, it’s important to consider the proper size, ventilation, harness system, and ease of cleaning.
Look for a stroller that is an appropriate size for your cat. Measure your cat when lying down to determine the interior dimensions needed. There should be extra room for your cat to move around and lay down comfortably. Strollers built for small dogs often work for average-sized cats.
Proper ventilation is crucial, especially on warm days. Mesh screens on all sides allow for good airflow. Some strollers also have rain covers that can be unzipped partially to provide ventilation on rainy days.
A harness system keeps your cat safely enclosed. Look for adjustable harnesses that attach to internal leashes so your cat doesn’t slip out. Padded harnesses add comfort.
For easy cleaning, choose a stroller with a removable, machine washable liner. Sturdy, waterproof fabric on the exterior makes wipe downs simple.
The Pet Gear Happy Trails Lite No-Zip Pet Stroller checks all these boxes with proper ventilation, a secure 5-point harness, and a water-resistant liner.
Training Your Cat
Getting your cat comfortable with riding in a stroller will take some time and patience. It’s important not to rush the process. Cats feel more secure when they can adjust at their own pace.
Start by placing the stroller in your home and letting your cat explore it. Leave the door open so they can go in and out freely. Place treats and toys inside to encourage them to enter. Praise and reward them anytime they show interest.
Once your cat seems comfortable going into the stroller, lift them inside, but don’t zip up the cover. Let them sit inside while you gently rock or push the stroller a few feet. Reward calm behavior with treats. Slowly increase the distance and zip up the cover for short periods.
According to wagwalking.com, the key is taking it slowly and not forcing your cat. Stay at their pace. If they seem anxious, go back a step. With consistent, positive training, most cats will eventually feel at ease in a stroller.
Where to Walk Your Cat
When taking your cat for a walk, it’s best to choose quiet, calm outdoor spaces to help keep your cat relaxed. Parks and hiking trails that aren’t too crowded are ideal. Look for trails and parks that have plenty of trees, bushes, and grass for your cat to explore safely.
Avoid areas near busy roads, as the sounds of traffic can be frightening for cats. Trails or parks located in quiet neighborhoods or nature reserves are better suited for walking a cat.
Bring supplies like treats, a collapsible water bowl, and poop bags so you’re prepared during the walk. Having toys like a feather wand can also encourage your cat to get some exercise.
While walking your cat, be alert to their body language. Ears back, twitching tail, and crouching down can all be signs your cat is getting anxious or overstimulated. If your cat seems stressed, gently guide them home.
With the right location, supplies, and attentiveness, walking your cat can be an enriching experience for both of you. Quiet outdoor spaces allow your cat to explore while avoiding too much stress and overstimulation.
Signs Your Cat Enjoys Walks
There are some telltale signs that indicate your cat is happy to go for strolls in their cat stroller. According to Reddit users, one key sign is if your cat is purring while in their stroller. As purring is associated with contentment in cats, this shows they are relaxed and enjoying the experience.
Additionally, cats who get eager when they see you getting the stroller out are likely looking forward to their walk. They may meow, purr loudly or head straight for the stroller in anticipation. This eagerness suggests the stroll is a positive experience for them.
Cats who sit with a relaxed posture during stroller walks are also having a good time. An anxious or unhappy cat may cower in the stroller or try to escape. But a relaxed posture, such as sitting up looking around or laying down comfortably, indicates the cat is at ease.
So in summary, purring, eagerness to go out, and relaxed body language are signs to look out for to know your cat enjoys their stroller walks.
Signs Your Cat Dislikes Walks
Some cats may show signs of distress when taken for walks in a stroller. According to a Reddit discussion on r/CatAdvice (Is walking cat in stroller as stimulating as walking with harness?), hiding, acting agitated, and trying to escape are potential indications your cat is not enjoying stroller walks.
Cats that dislike stroller walks may try to hide under blankets or in corners of the stroller to get away from the overstimulation of the outdoors. They may meow, pace, or scratch in an attempt to be let out of the stroller.
Some cats never get accustomed to stroller rides no matter how gradually they are introduced. Forcing a cat that shows consistent signs of distress on walks can worsen anxiety and damage the human-feline bond. If your cat repeatedly demonstrates an aversion to stroller walks, it may be kindest to cease this activity.
Safety Tips
When taking your cat out for a stroll, it’s important to keep safety top of mind. Here are some tips for keeping your feline safe and secure:
Use a harness and leash – Cats should always be on a leash and harness when outside of the home, even when in a stroller. Harnesses distribute pressure more safely across the body and make it harder for cats to slip away. Ensure the harness fits snugly but allows your cat to move comfortably. Keep the leash attached to the harness and stroller at all times.
Bring water – Bring a bowl and fresh water to keep your cat hydrated, especially on hot days. Dehydration is a serious risk for cats outdoors.
Watch the temperature – Avoid very cold or hot days, as temperature extremes can be dangerous for cats. Ideal outdoor temperatures for cats range from 60-75°F. If it’s too hot or cold out, opt for indoor playtime instead.
Go at your cat’s pace – Pay attention to your cat’s body language. If they seem stressed or overstimulated, end the walk and head home. Forcing an uncomfortable cat to continue walking may cause lasting anxiety about the stroller.
Check the stroller – Inspect the stroller for damage before each use. Look for loose or broken parts that could allow your cat to escape.
Alternative Options
If your cat doesn’t enjoy going for walks in a stroller, there are some alternative options to help provide your cat with enrichment and exercise:
An enclosed patio or catio allows your cat to safely spend time outdoors. Build or buy an enclosed outdoor cat patio or cat enclosure and furnish it with cat toys and climbing structures. Supervise your cat while they enjoy being outside. A catio allows your cat to get fresh air and mental stimulation without the risk of escape or injury.
Take your cat for walks on a leash and harness specifically designed for cats. Let your cat get used to wearing the harness indoors first. Then start taking your cat on short 5-10 minute leash walks close to home, rewarding and praising them during the walk. Slowly work up to longer walks as your cat gains confidence and enjoys the walks. Always supervise cats on leash walks for safety.
Cat exercise wheels and other toys can provide an alternative way for your cat to get exercise indoors if they don’t enjoy walks. Interactive feeding puzzles also provide mental stimulation. Ensure your cat has adequate playtime with wand toys or laser pointers as well.
The Bottom Line
Taking your cat for walks in a stroller has many potential benefits, but there are also some risks to consider. The main benefits include additional exercise, mental stimulation, and exposure to new sights and smells for your cat. However, not all cats will enjoy or tolerate going for walks. It’s important to watch for signs that your cat is stressed, anxious, or unhappy during outings and be prepared to cut the walk short or stop walking your cat altogether if needed.
To maximize the chances of success, invest in a well-designed cat stroller that keeps your cat safe and comfortable on walks. Take the time to gradually train and condition your cat to the stroller. Go at your cat’s pace and keep walks short at first, working up to longer distances as your cat acclimates. Bring treats and toys to make it a positive experience. Ensure proper harness fit and keep a close eye on your cat at all times. Avoid busy areas that might stress your cat. With patience and the right precautions, stroller walks can become an enriching part of your cat’s routine, but they are not right for every cat. Pay attention to your individual pet’s personality and cues to decide what is best for their wellbeing.