I’m sharing what I’ve learned from my own experience leash training Sushi. Every cat is different, so what worked for us might not work for everyone…but hopefully, it gives you a good place to start.
No two cats are the same. Some are fearless little panthers ready to roam the neighborhood (on a leash, of course), and some would rather nap in a sunbeam and pretend the outdoors doesn’t exist.
And there are some that are just such great kitties, they stick by you and you don’t need a leash. That takes trust, and I definitely wish Sushi could be like one of those cats. She loves to get stuck in trees.
If your cat isn’t into exploring—totally fine. Some cats are in between the two, they might like to lounge outside but not go anywhere.
A pet stroller could be used, so they feel safe. A catio is a perfect alternative if your cat does not warm up to leash training or a stroller.
But if you’ve got a curious kitten or even a chill adult cat, leash training can be a fun way to bond and let them safely experience the world.
They have a short life, might as well try to make it a great one. Starting young definitely helps, but no matter your cat’s age, patience and treats go a long way.
Cute pix and a list of products listed at the bottom of the page.
Affiliate Disclosure, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only recommend things I genuinely love or use myself. Thanks for supporting this blog!
What You Will Need
Probably an obvious list of things...
Of course, you’ll want to choose a harness designed specifically for cats—something lightweight, non-restrictive, and comfortable. The goal is to keep your cat secure without limiting their natural movement.
Look for a style that won’t cause irritation or chafing, but still holds them safely in place. You can explore Amazon and pick whatever you think would work best. I went with this [harness].
I also recommend using a retractable leash. It gives your cat a bit more freedom to explore without the risk of sudden tugs or jerks when they dart off (which they absolutely will). And if your cat is anything like Sushi, get ready, tree climbing might be part of your future.
I picked this [retractable leash], because it was pink and cute. 16ft is more than enough, any more than that and there might a chance for them to get caught up and tangled, or they might run off too far and get hurt.
Now this one is key, treats! And I mean lots of them. Your cat isn’t working for free, after all. Positive reinforcement goes a long way when it comes to training, and a few well-timed rewards can make all the difference in helping your cat feel confident and cooperative. I’ll list a few of Sushi’s favorite treats below.
Lickable Treats – soft puree treats
Lickable Treats – heart shaped crunchy treats
Lickable Treats – circular crunchy treats
And don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and videos…because let’s be real, this is going to be ridiculously cute.
How to Start Step-by-Step
Take it slow step-by-step no need to rush...
Step 1: Let them check it out first
Before anything goes on their body, let your cat sniff the harness. Leave it out for a while so it becomes something familiar and not scary.
Step 2: Try it on—but just for a bit
Once they’re cool with the sight of it, gently put the harness on for a short time inside. Give them lots of treats and love while it’s on, then take it off before they get annoyed. Filming or taking pictures of this part is encouraged. Sushi was hilarious.
Step 3: Add the leash and let it drag
After your cat is okay with the harness, clip on the leash and let them walk around the house with it trailing behind them. No pressure, just getting them used to the feel. Give the leash a lot of slack, and keep an eye on it so it doesn’t snag anywhere.
Step 4: Try holding the leash inside
Once they seem comfortable, hold the leash gently and walk around with them a little. Don’t pull, just follow their lead and offer treats when they stay calm or come to you.
Step 5: Head outside (slowly!)
Start with a quiet, secure area like a patio or backyard. Let them take it in at their own pace. It might take a few tries before they’re comfortable out there.
Step 6: Keep it short, sweet, and positive
End on a good note—don’t force it! A few minutes at a time is how we started. Every step forward is a win. Treats, praise, and patience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Lets break it down...
1. Rushing the process
Trying to put the harness on right away or pushing your cat outside too soon can backfire. Cats need time. Let them move at their own pace…even if that means it takes days (or weeks) to get comfortable.
2. Using the wrong harness
Not all harnesses are cat-friendly. Make sure it’s made for cats (not dogs!) and fits snugly without being too tight. If it’s bulky, uncomfortable, or easy to wiggle out of… your cat will let you know. Sushi escaped from the first hardness we bought.
3. Skipping the treats
Treats are your secret weapon. Don’t try to train without them, but don’t give them for no reason. Your timing could make or brake your chances of success. Treat for putting on the harness, taking it off, walking around with the leash, and so on. You’re basically asking your cat to step out of their comfort zone, bribes are totally allowed – just not too many.
4. Pulling or jerking the leash
Let your cat lead the way. Tugging the leash or trying to “walk” them like a dog will only stress them out and make them resist. The leash does make a noise when you try to retract it. Without retracting it still makes a noise, that was a good indicator for Sushi. She knew by the noise I wanted to her to change direction.
5. Expecting too much too soon
Not every cat is going to love being outside, and that’s okay. Some will explore like little adventurers, while others just want to sunbathe on the patio and head right back inside. Let them be who they are.
6. Not checking your surroundings
Before heading outside, make sure the area is safe. Loud noises, other animals, or cars can scare your cat and ruin their confidence. Late night walks worked for us.
Sushi's Journey
Here's a little story of Sushi's journey with some cute pictures...
Here she is the day we brought her home. A friend found her running down the side of a highway during traffic.
Sushi was lucky enough to be found and brought in. That night myself and my fiancé went to go visit that friend. Her and her husband convinced us to adopt her.
Didn’t take much convincing, but I had never had a cat before. I had no idea what I was getting into.
Found on the side of the road she had a gash on her face and a limp affecting her back left leg.
We took her to the vet and they said she would be fine, with some rest and to do our best to keep her off her leg.
Which was not easy. Sadly she still has problems with that leg today.
She was absolutely adorable, with her black eyeliner looking eyes, and flirtations looks.
We fell in love with her instantly. A love that I didn’t know I had in me.
This picture shows the first harness we bought her.
It was too big, and she would flop over every time we put it on her. Again so freaking cute.
She grew up a little and we took her to a park she excelled there.
It was her first park visit and she loved it so much!
Below I will share just a few cute photos of Sushi.
Feel free to Follow her on Instagram @sushithepurrbaby.
Final Thoughts
Take it slow. You might spend a week just letting your cat sniff the harness, another week gently putting it on and taking it off, and then a week getting them used to having the leash attached.
The key is to go at your cat’s pace, if they feel forced, they’ll resist. Be loving, patient, and consistent. You’ve got this! 🐾
Here’s the List of Products I Mentioned:
Also Mentioned Products:
I use (and totally love) all of these products myself. Hope this post gave you some inspiration or at least made you smile! If you liked it, come hang out in my inbox—sign up for my newsletter below. I promise I don’t bite. 
