Do you recommend taking a cat out on a leash for a walk?

[boodles]

Hello,
I have a 5 month old cat and he so desperately wants to go outside. I won't let him become an outdoor cat, but I would consider taking him for walks similar to a dog.
Is this a recommended activity to start?
Thanxs,
boodles

[Yzma]

i think you can safely take him out for a walk on a leash... but if i were you i'd get a harness instead of a leash. some friends of ours walk their norweigan forest cat on a leash and he doesn't seem to mind... in fact i've heard of a couple of people walking their cats... i think it's just a matter of getting them used to the idea... bear in mind that's it won't be quite the same as walking a dog, it'll be more like taking your cat exploring on a leash

[Yzma]

some helpful links:

PetPlace.com - Article: On the Road: Walking Your Cat on a Leash
www.petplace.com/Articles/artShow.asp?artID=3823

Cat Leash Training Basics
www.peoriahs.org/catleash.html

[boodles]

Thank you for replying and for the links.
My theory on this topic is that a cat needs some exercise too. I hope that it doesn't backfire in my face though, and my cat won't want to escape to the wildnerness by himself. I definitely don't want an oudoor cat.
Boodles

[Yzma]

Just don't take him OFF the leash...
i think if he's tired out and you make sure it's a treat rather than something he can demand you should be ok...
good luck

[guest]

I've done it, and Yzma's right--"... bear in mind that's it won't be quite the same as walking a dog, it'll be more like taking your cat exploring on a leash." He already had the "wanderlust," but I'd be afraid of introducing it or cementing it in place!

[puddypaws100]

I once put a harness on one of mine and took her outside for walks. The problem was that every time I opened the door she thought it was time to go for a walk, and I got nervous because I was afraid she might try to go out by herself. I think it confused her--she didn't know whether she was indoor or outdoor. So I decided to keep her indoors. However, we have a back porch and sometimes if my husband and I are sitting out there we put her in very large open air cage and she can get some fresh air.