Most people who have owned, or been owned by, a highly independent cat, would never even conceive of the idea of putting a harness, or leash (leash!!) on their kitty and taking her for a walk. The mere thought is bound to produce some deep rumbling chuckles within the cat owner. Their cat on a leash, being told where to go? Sounds unbelievable, but read on, your kitty may be about to discover a whole new exciting world!

Even considering the nature of the cat, many cat owners are happily walking their very happy cats on a harness, walking jacket or leash. It may sound impossible, but it can be done with some patience, (OK, maybe a LOT of patience) and your cat can get a whole new life, safely enjoying the outdoors and getting much needed exercise at the same time.

Getting your cat to accept the leash or harness may take some doing on your part. Going in baby steps will reward you. Rub the harness with catnip. Let kitty sleep with the harness before you put it on. Patience will pay off.

The first few times you take your cat outside on a leash will probably result in a freaked out cat, especially if your cat has always been an indoor cat and has never really ventured outside.

For an inside cat the outside world will seem frightening at first, so be patient and gentle. Before long your cat will learn to love the excitement of going outside.

Don't buy a leash that is designed for a small dog, but instead look into purchasing a leash or lead that is specifically designed with a cat in mind. These leads wrap around your cat, giving you control of the cat and keeping the cat from choking itself in a frantic attempt to get away.

Before venturing outside you may want to practice with the lead at home first. Don't be overly concerned with your cat's reaction at this. Once outside they do tend to get a selective focus, tending to forget all about their leash as they sniff and explore a myriad of fascinating items.

While persistence and patience pays off in making your cat get used to not only a leash and harness, but also going outside, if it is obvious that your cat is not getting less stressed and is indeed suffering, then maybe you are better off finding some other way for your cat to enjoy the outdoors.

If you have been patiently trying, taking small steps, taking your cat to a quiet place with interesting things to sniff and she you see no improvement in her comfort level, then, maybe walking on a leash is not for your cat.

However, before long you may be surprised at your cat. She may begin to see her safe outside excursions as a highlight of her day. Something fun, interesting and stimulating to break up the monotony of being inside.