There’s nothing cooler than seeing a cat on a leash out for a walk or hitting the hiking trails with their favorite human. If you’ve been inspired to take your cat out exploring in the great outdoors, there are few things you’ll want to keep in mind before you go. Here are some top tips for keeping your cat safe while exploring!

1. Exploring isn’t for every cat

While most cats are curious by nature, exploring isn’t for every cat. Some cats hate walking on a leash. Others are homebodies who would rather stay in familiar surroundings.

Consider your cat’s personality carefully before you go exploring to determine if they will appreciate outdoor activities.

A cat who’s very curious and smart but doesn’t get scared or stressed out easily will love exploring. On the other hand, if your cat just wants to snuggle on the couch and prefers peace and quiet, they might not appreciate your efforts to get them out of the house.

Your cat’s behavior can tell you a lot, too.

Do they spend their day gazing out the window, getting excited every time they see a bird or insect? Do they zip out the door at every opportunity?

If so, it sounds like you might have a catexplorer in the making!

2. Ensure that your cat is healthy and up to date on their vaccines

Before you even consider taking your cat exploring, you’ll want to take steps to safeguard their health.

Bond Vet’s team of expert veterinarians in the Upper East Side of NYC recommend annual check-ups for cats, as well as current vaccines. While required vaccines will vary based on your location, they encourage that your exploration buddy receives a basic rabies shot by the time they’re 4 months old, at the latest. A little preventive care can go a long way toward keeping your cat safe when you go exploring.

Cats who go outdoors may need additional vaccines, depending on your area, so be sure to let your vet know what your plans are. You should also consult with your vet about the best way to prevent fleas, ticks, and heartworms when you’re exploring the wilderness.

3. Harness train your cat indoors.

If your cat seems to love being outdoors, you’re ready to introduce him to walking with a harness and leash.

Catexplorer doesn’t recommend collars for catexploring as they can be a strangulation risk. Similarly, collars aren’t a good choice for outdoor exploring because your cat could slip it off easily.

Choose a harness that can be adjusted for a comfortable fit and make sure it doesn’t constrict your cat’s neck or throat. See here to choose the right harness for your cat.

Download a free harness training guide here.

Initially, put your cat’s new harness on them for a few minutes at a time and build up the time slowly. Reward them every time they wear the harness with positive reinforcement like treats. Don’t be surprised if they lay down or go limp the first couple of times you put it on – this is normal.

Once your cat is comfortable wearing the harness, practice walking him on the harness and leash in a safe indoor environment first.

4. Start with a safe place

So, you’ve decided your cat has the right personality for outdoor exploration. What’s next?

The key is to start slow!

Don’t stick a harness and leash on your cat and expect them to just follow along.

Set up an outdoor safe place for them first, such as a cat backpack or stroller.

This will give you a chance to see if they enjoy being outdoors or if they are totally terrified and just wants back in the house.

5. Go slow at first

If your cat has always been indoors, don’t expect them to be able to keep up on long walks and hikes right away.

This is all brand new to your cat, so give them time to adjust.

Start by taking them out in a quiet place like your yard at first, and then progress to short walks in quiet, low population areas. Over time, you can increase the length and intensity of your activities.

6. Use a leash

We always recommend that you use a leash when catexploring your cat.

Many cats will not come when they’re called, especially if they’re curious about their new surroundings.

This runs the risk of your cat running out into the road and get hit. Or, they might also be tempted to chase after dangerous wildlife like snakes or shoot up a tree after a bird. And, if a dangerous situation comes up, such as the sudden appearance of a not so friendly dog, you’ll be able to get them to safety more quickly.

7. Have a plan in case your cat can’t keep up

Cats are independent creatures and they tend to do what they want.

Follow your cat’s lead and don’t push them to keep going if they don’t want to. If your cat gets tired or wants a nap while you’re hiking, forcing the issue will just cause stress and ruin everyone’s good time.

We recommend using a cat backpack or stroller as a safe space.

These are also great options when your cat decides they’re ready for a catnap. It will also give you a safe place to put him in an emergency, such as if you encounter a dangerous dog or wildlife.

8. Plan ahead to keep your kitty safe

Think about where you’re going and plan ahead to keep your kitty safe.

Make sure you have water, cat food and a kitty first aid kit with you every time you go.

Your cat should also have an ID tag on their harness and a microchip with up to date contact information, just in case you get separated. Microchipping will help your cat find their way back to you even if they slips out of his harness, so don’t overlook it!

If you’ll be on the water, bring a kitty life vest. If you’re going camping, make sure there’s a safe place for your cat to sleep – for some ideas see here. If you’re going to be in the woods, make sure you know what kind of wildlife or poisonous plants you might encounter.

Thinking ahead about all the possibilities will help you keep your kitty safe.

Exploring with your cat is so much fun and it’s a great way to improve their quality of life. Once you’ve planned ahead for your cat’s safety, you can simply enjoy the experience with your trailblazing kitty.

9. Snap some photos

Don’t forget to snap some pictures to memorialize the experience! And use #catexplorer when you upload them to social media!

About the Author- Nicole McCray is dog mum to 2 rescue pups and has been working with all types of animals as a vet tech for 10 years.