Best Harnesses for Cats and Kittens
- Rachel
- Dec 23, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 19
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Information accurate from December 2024. Recommendations are based on extensive research into products, brands, customer feedback and my own reviews wherever applicable.
Whether you're a complete newbie to harness training or searching for the purrfect product for your kitty companion, this article outlines four types of harnesses and one for kittens; and the pros and cons of each.
Situations a harness might come in useful include:
Taking cats on walks for exercise and/or enrichment.
Preventing escape from gardens or yards.
Travelling with cats.
Some cats will take better to harnesses than others - or in many cases, not at all. A collar and leash should be avoided at all costs as they're simply not safe for cats, and there are plenty of more suitable options on the market. Even a perfectly fitted harness shouldn't be considered as escape-proof, so it's crucial to build up that kitty confidence before introducing them to all of the sights and smells of outdoors.
If you're dead set on walking a pet then you might be better suited to a dog than a cat. For those that do enjoy the fresh air in their whiskers and have undergone all of the necessary training, it can be extremely rewarding for both cats and their human guardians. This is especially the case for special needs kitties, such as visual impairment and other health conditions that would otherwise make it impossible to go outside.
Harnesses are not an excuse to force cats into uncomfortable and frightening situations, or drag them to the supermarket while you pick up a loaf of bread. Cats should never be left unattended or tied to a lamppost!
Below are some carefully researched recommendations, taking into account material, durability, ease of use and customer ratings. Before you go rushing off to purchase your first harness, you need to know how to measure your cat for the correct fitting and size.
Here's some essential reading for everything you need to know about walking cats and kittens: How to Harness Train Cats for Walking on a Leash Safely
Best Harnesses for Cats
H-Style Harness
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The H-style harness gets its name from the two loops that sit over a cat's neck and chest, with a strap between the shoulders for a leash to hook onto. While I'm not a fan of these due to fitting like a collar, the minimalistic and non-restrictive design is a good option for cats that have never worn a harness and for training purposes. You can always build up to something bigger and more secure, as H-harnesses can be flimsy and easy for a cat to escape.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2
Based on 1,000+ reviews.
✓ Best for placid cats. | ✕ Flimsy. |
✓ Harness training. | ✕ Can cause chafing. |
✓ Non-restrictive. | ✕ Small or thin cats might escape. |
✓ Lightweight for kittens. |
Y-Style Harness
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The Y-style harness is similar to the H-style except the top loop sits over the shoulders for a more comfortable fit. These are safer for excitable cats that tend to run or leap, but also make it easier to escape. If the harness isn't fitted properly then it could slip right over a cat's head.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3
Based on 11,300+ reviews.
✓ Comfortable to wear. | ✕ Flimsy. |
✓ Safer for excitable cats. | ✕ Easy to escape. |
✓ Harness training. |
Vest Harness
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Vest-style harnesses are my choice of preference, especially for adventurous cats that love to explore. With soft, comfortable material and no thin straps, there's less risk of chafing or choking. Nothing is escape-proof but even slender cats will struggle to wriggle out of a vest.
Of course, the downside is that extra coverage can be cumbersome and restrictive, which some cats might not tolerate.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.1
Based on 44,400+ reviews.
✓ Secure. | ✕ Best for experienced cats. |
✓ Extra comfort. | ✕ Restrictive. |
✓ Fits most sized cats. | |
✓ Won't cause injury. |
Jacket Harness
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Perhaps the least popular option for a harness, jackets offer more coverage than vests and aren't usually necessary in the average climate, as cats may get too hot. Jackets are quite restrictive, which can make it uncomfortable to move around and walk in. If your kitty shies away from the Christmas jumpers or has long, thick fur then a vest will suffice.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3
Based on 25+ reviews.
✓ Best for cold weather. | ✕ Cumbersome. |
✓ Experienced explorers. | ✕ Long-haired cats may get too hot. |
✓ Secure. | ✕ Not suitable for kittens. |
✓ Durable. |
Kitten Harness
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This lightweight, breathable air mesh harness and leash set is suitable for kittens and small breed dogs from sizes XXXS-XS. Built for comfort and durability with an adjustable hook and loop (Velcro) fastener that wraps around a pet's body to distribute pulling pressure across the chest and reduce stress on the neck.
Triple security features include a buckle and double D-rings to make it as "escape-proof" as possible. Made with soft, quick-dry material and reflective strips, this cute harness fulfils all of a kitten's requirements.
Kittens generally shouldn't be allowed outside until 5-6 months of age, at which stage they've developed the instincts and skills to explore their environment - as well as having completed all of their vaccinations. If you're struggling to find a harness small enough to fit, then it's likely that your kitten is too young.
You shouldn't be using harnesses designed for other species, such as rabbits or ferrets.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4
Based on 2,300+ reviews.
✓ Sizes XXXS-XS. | ✕ Not suitable for large cats. |
✓ Lightweight. | |
✓ Safe and secure. | |
✓ Easy to put on. |
Whatever style harness you decide on and whichever is best for your cat, use this handy checklist of important features to look for in a quality harness and leash set.
Lightweight and breathable.
Multiple adjustment points.
Strong, secure clasps.
Easy to put on and take off.
Reflective strips.
Quick release.
Durability.
Snug fit.
Information accurate from December 2024 and may be subject to change. Feel free to get in touch if you think this article needs updating.
Do you have a kitty that loves to explore? Help out fellow cat parents by recommending your best harness, along with any walking tips and tricks.
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