Answer: Many cats can be trained to walk on the lead (Siamese and other oriental cats in particular), preferably starting when they are kittens. A lead can prove a great asset in allowing in safe exercise for the cat during long journeys and in hazardous urban areas. Cats won’t walk to hell in the way that dogs will, but the can be trained to walk alongside you.
The cat should were a harness rather then a collar. Collars tend to be easy for the cat to slip through, and in any case pressure around the nick makes a cat reluctant to move. Certainly a ‘choke’ chain as used on dogs shouldn’t be used with cats. The harness should be capable of adjustment and fitted so that it is tight enough to prevent the cat wriggling free. Then a lead of light leather, canvas, nylon or cord, six to seven feet long, attached to the harness.
The keynote of training is to have a number of short training sessions and not to attempt too much at one time. At first, training should be performed indoors, the cat simply dragging the lead around without you holding it. Later, he should be encouraged to walk with you holding the lead; wherever he wants to go at first, but later where you wish to go. He should be checked from dashing ahead or pulling back by a pull on the lead. If he is stubborn, don’t drag him along-rather try to cajole him into walking a few more steps. A reward can be given afterwards in the form of a little favorite food, but only if he does what is asked of him. Some trainers recommend using a log stick such as garden cane, not to hit but to push the cat gently and persuade it to move into a position nearer to you. Whether the cats walk on your right or left side is unimportant, but the some side should be adhered to.
When he is able to walk alongside and to change direction when you do, he can be taken outdoors though he will need to be reassured frequently about his safety. Do this by picking him up very few seconds at the start and gradually the periods on the ground can become longer.
With a policy of gentle persuasion, rewards for good behavior and reassurance, it should be possible to train your cat to walk on the lead by your side. However, don’t be tempted to let the cat loose if things are going well; without restrain any sudden starling noise or movement could send him scuttling away.
