Are you interested in getting a cat harness so you can take your kitty on walks and outdoor adventures? Before you begin shopping for the best cat harness, there are some important things to note, both in terms of the benefits and safety tips to be aware of when harness training your cat.
“Cat harnesses allow cats to safely explore the outdoors with their owners without the risk of escape or injury. Walking on a harness can provide much-needed exercise for indoor cats and can help improve their physical and mental health with environmental enrichment,” says Nicole Savageau, veterinarian with The Vets. Savageau notes that the activity can be a bonding experience for you and your feline, too. And if you’re traveling, a harness can be safer and more comfortable than a cat collar. However, there are also potential dangers, such as the possibility of your cat escaping if they are not properly secured in the harness. “Some cats may struggle against the harness or try to wriggle out of it, which can lead to injury if they become tangled or trapped,” Savageau adds. “Some cats may become overstimulated or overwhelmed when wearing a harness and may exhibit signs of stress or anxiety.“
To safely test whether your cat is open to a harness, it’s best to “start by introducing the harness slowly,” says Dan Capkin, certified applied animal behaviorist, pet trainer, and content manager for PetLovers.com. “Place the harness near your cat’s favorite spot and allow them to sniff and explore it. Gradually increase the harness’s contact with your cat by putting it on for short periods. If your cat seems comfortable and doesn’t resist or panic, they may be well-suited for a cat harness.”
Ahead, our top picks for the best cat harnesses, plus more tips from experts on what to look for and how to use a cat harness.
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Best Overall
rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash
$16 at AmazonCredit: rabbitgoo
Pros
- Made of breathable mesh
- Has 4 adjustable straps
- Has reflective harness
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons
- If your cat’s head is smaller than 10 inches in circumference, he or she may slip out
Made of breathable mesh (which is ideal for hot, summer days), this cat harness can work for cats with chest girths ranging from 13.5 to 16 inches. Your cat will feel snug thanks to four adjustable straps. There are two safety buckles on each side to add more security, while also making it easy to get your cat out.
This lands as our best pick overall because it’s easy to put on and take off.
Product Specs
| Colors | Black, Emerald, Grass Green, Grey, Light Blue, Light Purple, Navy Blue, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Rose Red, Yellow |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS, S, M |
| Closure Type | 2 snap side buckles |
Most Secure Cat Harness
Kitty Holster Cat Harness
Pros
- Award-winning walking vest
- Soft and made of breathable cotton
- Machine washable
Cons
- While lightweight, this product has a lot more fabric than others on the list
Is this a cat harness or a vest? It can be both! While many of the cat harnesses on our list claim to be “escape proof,” this one truly seems the most secure. Its design and strong velcro provide a snug fit that won’t allow your cat to break free.
The fabric of this one (undyed cotton) is best for cats who suffer from allergies. If it gets dirty, simply clean it in the washing machine.
| Colors | Denim Blue, Black |
|---|---|
| Sizes | X-Small, Small/Medium, Medium/Large, X-Large |
| Closure Type | Two fuzzy fastener closures |
Best for Cats of All Sizes
Voyager Step-in Lock Pet Harness
$28 at AmazonCredit: voyager
Pros
- So many sizes to choose from to get the perfect fit
- Breathable material
- Mesh has padding for extra comfort
Cons
- You’ll need to measure your cat to find the correct size
Made of soft, breathable air mesh, we love this cat harness because it’s lightweight (so your cat will hardly feel they’re wearing anything), and fully adjustable to help your cat fit perfectly inside.
Cat parents will appreciate its strong buckles and a heavy-duty D-ring that attaches the back of the harness to a leash (if you get it as a set).
Product Specs
| Colors | 44 options |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXXS, XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL |
| Closure Type | 2 snap side buckles |
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Most Stylish
Supet Cat Harness and Leash
$13 at AmazonCredit: Supter Cat
Pros
- Super stylish
- Fits snug
- Has reflective trim
Cons
- You’ll have to slip your cat’s head through the neck piece when putting it on
Just because you want safety and comfort, doesn’t mean you should skimp on style. We love this cat harness for its fabulous pattern options. Not only is it “escape proof,” this vest is also adjustable to fit small to large cats, as well as dogs.
Its four adjustable side clips (two on the neck, one in the middle, and and one on the back) will keep cats (including kittens) secure. Your cat will appreciate the comfort of the back cushion, and you’ll like the safety provided through a more snug fit to keep cats from escaping. A reflective trim also provides good visibility for nighttime walks.
Product Specs
| Colors | Green, Beige, Blue, Pink, Rose (Patterned) |
|---|---|
| Sizes | S, M |
| Closure Types | 1 durable quick-release buckle |
Best Budget
Pupteck Adjustable Cat Harness Collar With Leash
Now 17% Off
$10 at AmazonCredit: pupteck
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Great customer service if you’re not satisfied with your product
- Features a 360-degree rotation leash hook
Cons
- Because it’s not a vest, it’s the least secure on this list
This cat harness boasts an adjustable H design to give your cat a snug fit. The durable snap buckles are made to last, so don’t worry about fumbling with them constantly. A 360-degree rotation leash will make it the best for long walks with adventurous cats. You won’t get a lot of tangling with this one, if at all.
And if you’re not satisfied about this product for any reason, you can contact the company with their 100% quality guarantee.
Product Specs
| Colors | Black, Blue, Grey-Red Mixed, Multicolor, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Rose |
|---|---|
| Sizes | One size |
| Closure Types | Quick-release buckle |
What to look for when shopping for a cat harness
✔️ Comfort and adjustability: “Cat parents should look for a harness that fits comfortably and securely on their cat,” says Savageau. “It’s important to measure the cat’s girth and neck to ensure a proper fit. The harness should be adjustable and not too loose or too tight. The harness should not be too thin or it will not be comfortable for your cat.”
✔️ Durability: Savageau also advises choosing a harness that is made of durable and breathable material. “The harness should have sturdy buckles and clips to ensure the cat cannot escape.” You’ll want a harness that doesn’t irritate your cat’s skin, Capkin adds.
✔️ Ease of use: The best cat harnesses will also have special features, such as reflective strips or a D-ring for attaching a leash, Capkin notes.
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FAQ
- How will you know if your cat will take well to the cat harness?
You can start by introducing it slowly and gradually. First, allow your cat to sniff and investigate the harness while it is lying on the ground. Then, once your cat seems comfortable with the harness, you can try putting it on your cat for short periods of time indoors. Reward your cat by offering it treats when it is interacting with the harness and when you put the harness on. If your cat responds well to the harness, you can gradually increase the amount of time that they wear it, and eventually start taking them outside on a leash, while still rewarding them with treats. - How will you know if your cat is not okay with the cat harness?
It’s important to pay attention to your cat’s behavior and body language throughout the process to ensure that they are comfortable and not stressed. It may depend on the individual cat’s personality and temperament, according to Savageau. - Are there certain cat breeds that are better with using cat harnesses than others?
Some cat breeds, such as the Bengal and the Abyssinian, are known for their active and curious personalities, and may be more likely to take well to a harness. However, every cat is different, so it’s important to take things slowly and pay attention to your cat’s individual personality and behavior.
How to harness train a cat
Capkin shares important tips for using a cat harness:
- Introduce the harness gradually, allowing your cat to get used to its presence and feel.
- Practice indoors before venturing outside to ensure your cat is comfortable and familiar with the harness.
- Always check the fit of the harness before going out to prevent injuries or escape.
- Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to encourage your cat to accept the harness.
- Be patient and never force your cat to wear the harness if they are visibly distressed or uncomfortable.
