Typically, we think of harnesses and leashes as being for dogs. But dogs don’t have a monopoly on walks.
It takes significantly more training, but you can take your cat walking. It’s an excellent compromise between an indoor-only cat and a cat that goes out and hunts.
To do that, you need a good harness. So we investigated several of the best cat harnesses and leashes. We assessed them for comfort, adjustability, and just how cat-proof they were.
The best cat harness and leash of these is the Rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash.
But it’s not the only excellent cat harness-leash combo out there. Here are some of the other best cat harnesses and leashes for you to choose from.
Product Details
Of all the harnesses and leashes we researched, we think Rabbitgoo is the best cat harness and leash combination available.
That’s because it is a comfortable harness made from breathable mesh. It fits snuggly and prevents any great escapes, even as it stops your cat from overheating.
It comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Even so, you must take time to measure your cat rather than guessing its size.
The only trickier thing might be getting the harness on your cat. Luckily, the easy over-the-head design simplifies the process. Four strong buckles help adjust and secure the harness once it’s in place.
The buckles help ensure the harness is escape-proof, so you won’t need to worry about any free-range felines. It comes with a long nylon leash, which gives your cat plenty of room to roam without leaving your side. If your cat does jump, the harness keeps your cat’s weight off its neck and prevents choking.
- Pros
- Escape-proof
- Breathable mesh
- Several sizes/colors
- Cons
- Adjustment straps are hard to adjust
- Hard to get over a cat's head
Another of the best cat harnesses and leashes is the VavoPaw cat harness and leash.
The harness acts like a vest. It slips over the cat’s head and wraps around its middle in a way that is easy to secure.
Like all harnesses, you must size it correctly if you want to prevent your cat from escaping. Helpfully, VavoPaw integrates an easy-to-read size chart into its product description.
The harness also includes a long leash that allows your cat to roam safely. It’s also a lightweight, breathable material that is ideal for summer walks.
A D-ring on the back makes securing the leash straightforward.
- Pros
- Easy to put on
- Includes comprehensive sizing instructions
- D-ring for the leash is easy to access
- Cons
- Hard to adjust
- Difficult to size for larger cats
Unlike the previous harness, which was ideal for small cats and kittens, the SALFSE Tactical cat harness and leash cater to various sizes of cats.
Though the target of this harness is adult cats, it’s also effective on small dogs. It’s made of military-grade nylon, making it sturdy, light, and breathable.
There’s a D-ring to clip the leash to and a sturdy metal handle in case you take your cat adventuring on the water and need to hold them still.
Decorative Mollie patches give this harness an extra bit of style. You attach the harness to the cat using buckles. Though the procedure is uncomplicated, many reviewers found securing the harness challenging, especially on a cat unused to wearing a harness.
- Pros
- Escape-proof
- Available in several sizes
- D-ring and handle attachments
- Cons
- Buckles are tricky to secure
- Some friction caused by back clips rubbing against the cat
Tractive’s Waterproof GPS Cat Tracker is a must-have for cat owners who take their cats on hikes and outdoor excursions.
It’s a lightweight harness add-on that can be easily secured to the harness and, once in place, helps you keep track of your cat.
It’s waterproof and won’t be damaged by trees or shrubs.
However, the tracker requires a monthly subscription for you to use it. Once you subscribe, you can do things like mark designated ‘safe’ areas for your cat. The tracker then tells you if your cat leaves them.
- Pros
- Helps keep track of adventurous cats
- Easily attaches to harness
- Allows you to mark areas safe and tells you if the cat leaves them
- Cons
- Only works if the cat doesn't lose the harness/collar
- Requires a subscription
Buying Guide
Those are some of the best cat harness and leash options available, as well as harness accessories. But what makes these harnesses and leashes superior?
Comfort
Cats are creatures who prioritize comfort. If something causes them distress, they avoid it. Consequently, you need to prioritize harnesses that are comfortable for your cat to wear.
Part of that process involves sizing the harness correctly. Measuring your cat is challenging. But when done properly, you should be able to fit one finger comfortably between your cat and its harness.
Leash Attachment
You can’t be beholden to the whims of your cat on these walks. That way soon finds you up a tree or bird watching deep in a hedge.
To ensure you keep control of your cat, you need a sturdy and accessible D-ring attachment harness. It also helps if the harness has a handle, especially if you plan on taking your cat in a boat.
Adjustable Straps
Another thing that distinguishes between the best cat harnesses and leashes and more inferior models is straps that adjust easily.
Your cat’s weight will inevitably change over time. For example, it might lose weight as it becomes more active. Or perhaps it is older and gaining weight from increasing inactivity.
Either way, you need straps that adjust. It helps you tailor the harness to fit your cat and prevents it from being too tight for comfort or so loose that the cat escapes.
Conclusion
For a cat to enjoy walking, they need a good harness.
The best cat harness and leash we researched was the Rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash. It’s easy to get the cat into, the straps adjust, and the material is breathable. It’s hard to get better than that.