Are you looking for cat breeds you can walk on a leash?
As you know, all cats have different personalities!
Some may be willing to be on a leash or to be trained to walk on one, while others may not.
Below are some cat breeds that are more likely to at least let you try leash-training, based on their character traits and physical activity needs.
Cat Breeds You Can Walk On A Leash
As mentioned above, remember that these cats are more likely to take to walking on a leash.
That doesn’t mean they definitely will. It all comes down to personality.
#1 Abyssinian
The Abyssinian is one of the most friendly and intelligent cats.
They’re also quite active, and they enjoy aerobics and other physical and mental stimulation games.
They have been referred to as the clowns of the cat kingdom since they love following their owners.
And they also display some dog-like characteristics.
The good thing about Abyssinian cats is that you can train them to do most tricks, including walking on a leash.
And since they love adventure and meeting new people, they’ll enjoy walking alongside you at the park or as you stroll around the neighborhood.
#2 American Shorthair
American Shorthairs have a long history as working cats, where they were instrumental in rodent control.
Being one of the most popular pedigreed cats in the USA, American Shorthairs can be described as easygoing, affectionate, tranquil, and they quickly adapt.
Their relaxed nature is what makes them great for walking on a leash.
#3 Bengal
They may have a wild look, but Bengal cats are friendly and quite loyal to their owners.
However, they crave physical and mental stimulation.
If you don’t make any attempts to engage them, they’ll leave a mess around the house as they try to “investigate” every item they find.
Leash training is one way to keep them busy.
In some cases, you’ll find them pulling towards the areas they want to go, rather than where you want them to go.
So, make sure the leash’s harness is working as expected to prevent straining their necks (more on this later).
#4 British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a native to the UK, and it’s characterized by a muscular build, grey-blue coat, and a cat with big eyes that’s colored orange
They are pretty easygoing, making them perfect for leash training.
However, they’re also placid, and they enjoy lying around and observing nature rather than going for long walks.
#5 Burmese Cats
The Burmese are pretty well-known for their “dog-like” characteristics.
They form strong bonds with their owners, to the extent where they overtly depend on human connection than other cats.
Since you can effectively train them to fetch and tag, you can also add leash training to keep them entertained and give the two of you more time together.
#6 Maine Coon
Don’t let their large size intimidated you! Nicknamed “the gentle giants,” they’re actually a very sociable breed!
Like the Burmese above, Maine Coons also exhibit dog-like characteristics; they’re intelligent and trainable.
These traits make them perfect for walking on a leash.
Surprisingly, Maine Coons also love water. Don’t be surprised when they pull you towards a fountain or a pond as you walk them outdoors.
#7 Ocicat
This is another cat breed with a wild look but is friendly.
Considering these cats resulted from crossing a Siamese cat and an Abyssinian cat (which are both in this list), you can expect them to gladly accept to be walked on a leash and harness.
Besides walking on a leash, Ocicat cats exhibit other dog-like traits, such as playing fetch and understanding and responding to commands such as “sit”, “come”, and “speak”.
#8 Persian
The Persian is the ultimate lap cat. They’re easygoing, placid, and loyal.
They’re also very sociable and friendly to strangers.
That’s why they’ll even try to greet other pets or strangers as you walk around the neighborhood.
When in the house, they’re not jumpers or talkers. They’ll mostly spend their time lying on your couch.
#9 Pixie-Bob
The easygoing nature, playfulness, and devotion to their owners are what makes the Pixie-bob ideal for leash walking.
They’ll also enjoy a game of fetch. These house cats are also calm, less talkative, and love to express their affection by headbutting.
#10 Savannah
Savannah cats are known for their hyperactivity, loyalty to their owners, and friendliness.
They’re also intelligent and quick learners, so you’ll have no problem training them to walk on a leash.
Breeders noted that most Savannah kittens might suffer fear and anxiety early on in their lives.
So it’s vital to deal with this fear by introducing them to new people and pets as they grow up. Another fascinating feature about Savannah cats is their ability to jump.
They can jump up to 2.5 Metres (8 feet) from the ground. So keep that in mind and make sure there are no objects they can knock over.
And to prevent them from engaging in destructive jumps, keep them busy with leash training, interactive toys, and other mental, physical stimulation games.
#11 Siamese Cats
A native to Thailand, the Siamese cat is affectionate, has an outgoing personality, and is quite vocal.
They are also quite demanding attention, and sometimes they’ll demand vocalizations that resemble a crying baby.
Their need for attention and their dog-like characteristics that enable them to play fetch make these cats great for walking on a leash.
#12 Somali Cats
Somali cats are brilliant, playful, and sometimes clownish. But they’re also friendly to other cats and their owners.
These cats are suitable for people who are willing to spend more time with them.
If you’re not around, they may jump around and engage in other destructive habits.
Another alternative is to get them another cat to act as a companion. Besides being highly active, they can also be trained to walk on a leash.
Leash training will also be an excellent way to keep them busy until they’re too tired to engage in other unnecessary adventures.
#13 Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is a rare breed that originated from Turkey.
It has a unique “van” coat color pattern where the coat is white, but the head and the tail have a different color.
Originally, Turkish Van cats were aggressive and excellent hunters.
But thanks to selective breeding, the modern-day Turkish Van is friendly, sociable and love spending time with their owner.
You can train them to walk on a leash. Just make sure you bring toys that you can use to engage your feline friend when outdoors.
#14 Ragdoll
The major selling point of the Ragdoll cats is their extreme docility.
This means that they’re ready to be totally submissive to their owners.
While it may not be the best trait, it’s better than having an extremely stubborn cat.
They’re also affectionate, intelligent, and relaxed.
Ragdoll cats have also exhibited “puppy-like” traits due to their methods of seeking their owner’s affection.
You can train a Ragdoll cat to walk on a leash or to fetch a toy.
#15 Korat
This is another cat that’s a native to Thailand.
This breed may also be related to the Siamese, but they aren’t as vocal.
They’re famous for the shining silver coat and their love for being “in charge”.
Korat cats are very protective of their owners, and they’ll submit to training and playtime.
If they happen to get lost in an area they’re familiar with, Korat cats can find their way home.
FAQS
Is It Okay To Walk A Cat On A Leash?
Yes, it’s okay. Walking your cat on a leash helps improve her mental health, physical health, and social skills. It also helps prevent destructive habits that may result from boredom.
Can Cats Be Taught To Walk On A Leash?
Yes. But due to the differing personalities, some are easier to train than others. Some of the cat breeds you can train to use a leash include American Shorthairs, Abyssinian, Persian, and Maine Coon.
How Long Does It Take To Train Cats To Walk On A Leash?
Training can take a few days, or even a few months, depending on the cat breed you’re dealing with, their age, and health.
Make sure the breed you have is trainable and is not suffering from any health issues. It’s also best to start leash training and socializing your cat from a young age.
What Kind Of Leash Should I Use?
The leash should be made of lightweight materials and at least 1 to 1.5 metres long. Most leashes are sold together with a harness. The PetSafe leashes and harnesses are some of the best.
Conclusion
Dogs aren’t the only pets you can walk on a leash. There are cat breeds you can walk on using a leash.
But as we’ve established, you’ll need to train them and be patient with them.
You should also be cautious as you walk them outdoors since you risk exposing them to parasites and poisonous plants.
What are your favorite cat breeds you can walk on a leash? Please share with us!
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Ben is an animal lover, blogger, and all around geek. He divides his love equally between his family, his animals, and his video games. In his spare time he is attempting to get a blog off the ground. Boy, are they heavy!
I have never thought about putting a cat on a leash. But hey!! Why not. They like to walk too. Loved this post.
I know you can for my ragdoll because he has allowed it. My tortie is like no way.
That is cool that these cats will walk on a leash. I cant picture so many cats doing this.
I never knew you could walk a cat with a leash. Can they also be trained to go to the bathroom outside?
We used to take our old cat out on a lead until she got used to the area, it seems to be something that is becoming more common as well.
Very thorough article for cat lovers. I personally did not know that there are breeds of cats that can be put on a leash and taken out for walks.
I never knew certain cats liked getting walked. I thought that all cats hated it, interesting. Thanks for sharing!
I have seen other cats on a leash but mine would lay down like the thing weighed 100 pounds.
I really can’t help but laugh when I see cats on a leash. Still, they are too cute!
Some cat breeds are so beautiful. I think I prefer my cat to walk free. I think it’s their nature to be free.
This is great to know. I’ve always wondered if my cats would like being on a leash or not. I’d love to try it out sometime.
I’ve seen a few people walk their cats or put them on a leash. Now, I know there are certain breeds that are trainable. Very interesting article.
I like American shorthair sounds like great companion for walk.