this guy can legit be a therapist how good he is with exposure procedures. my mind is blown. straight forward and informative. best guide in the universe seriously.
Thank you! Glad you found it useful and am also happy you understand the 'baby steps' approach to exposure therapy (aka desensitization). Best of luck!
Glad you like it! Yep, cats tune into songs and phrases really well and associate them with whatever is going on at the time. Repetition is key until the association is cemented.
I would like to add that picking the cat up and carrying the cat through the door every time will curb the desire to dash out the door every time the door is open, also I always carry a big stick (sawed off broom handle) when I am out walking. This will help ward off dog attacks, snake meetings, other cats, etc. Thank you for your vidio. I might add the song to let the cat know it is time to go home is a very good idea because if it should ever get lost singing loudly will help him come home.
This is actually the reason I'm planning to harness-train her in the first place... we live on a park, and there are many temptations (birds, squirrels, mice, etc.), and I want her to know she can go out anytime she "asks", but that we leave the house in a certain way (in a harness, and carried out the door), to curb her from feeling the need to 'sneak' out when someone opens the door. Great point about using a song to call her home, if she does get out - I'm going to def use that!
I don't have a big stick but my boyfriend got me a flashlight that is also a taser. I wouldn't use it of course because the sound alone is scary enough that I don't have to use it and of course I wouldn't even want to tase a person let alone a dog or other animals...but the clicking sound of it can be scary and keep me safe and it can help protect me if I actually have to use it😢😅😊
I have been slowly following your steps and it is working! She lets me put her harness on for 2 minutes now! I will add the leash soon and I am so excited. I just want my kitty to have a richer life. Thank you!
Yes - cats are very tuned in to routines and rituals so if you do your walk at about the same time each day and follow the same routine (singing a walky-walk song, for example) they will get excited about what's coming up next: the actual walk. Good luck with everything!
I have a Ragdoll who is not afraid of anyone or anything. When guests come over, she inspects them and hangs around us out of curiosity. I took her once to my parent’s house and she just ran around exploring and at the end took a nap on her blanket (her scent) that I put on top of a blanket on a couch. Yesterday, when I opened the door, she ran out. She’s so stealth! I didn’t even know she was around me. Luckily, I live in a very secure condo building with door closed everywhere, so she had no chance of escaping. However, because she’s so curious and loves exploring, I bought a harness and a leash for her. I put it on her yesterday. I guess because of her very docile nature, she let me put it on, no problem- but walked very close to the ground. I kept it on her for 2-3 minutes- opened the condo door as I want her to associate the harness with her being able to go out, but she stayed at the threshold. She was not a fan of the harness. I will now follow your steps and hopefully, she’ll be ok with it soon as we’re going on a trip next month. :)
Hi. What you are doing sounds perfect. Just stick with it. It's not unusual for a lot of cats to hunch down - or even flop over on their side - the first few times of having a harness on them. Associating it with the door being open is perfect. Just keep doing what you're doing and before you know it she'll be begging for the harness, wearing it comfortably and confidently exploring outside your door. Keep it up! :)
@@richardbarber5911 Love it! I can’t wait. She’s only 10 months old so hopefully, she’ll be ok as she’s learning at a young age. Luckily, she didn’t just roll over, just walked hunched then laid down on her scratcher/bed and just stayed on it. At one point, I think she forgot she had a harness, she started playing with her favorite toy when I turned it on for her. :) The harness is lying right next to us on the couch as she’s taking a nap….:)
@@aniakrysia Brilliant! Yes, she'll be great because she's learning this at a new age. There's a lot of truth to the expression "You can't teach an old dog new tricks". Almost all animals are much, much more amenable to trying - and getting used to and learning to love - new things and experiences when they are young. Funny that she forgot she had her harness on while on her scratcher. You sound like a great cat mum! Keep it up! And thanks for your feedback on everything - much appreciated. Happy cats is all I care about.
I would like to add a piece of advice. If you use a bungee cord type leash, it makes it a bit less likely that your kitty will pull out of the harness if she backs up suddenly. It's the difference between a hard stop and a less restrictive stop. It seems to cause less panic at feeling trapped, and is actually less likely to pull the harness right off the cat. Excellent video - so important to take the steps to help the kitty feel comfortable and not panic.
After countless hours of searching every kind of harness and every review for escapability and comfort, I purchased two 2 Loop harnesses for my two eight-month-old kitties. When they arrived I took them out of the packages and let them sniff them and play with them. They were anxious to get outside so after just a couple of days I put the harnesses on them, and adjusted them so that I could fit my finger between their body and the harness. The very next day I attached the leashes and thought I'd see how they walked around inside house. I had also purchased a tie out and 2 30-foot nylon cords. With the tie out and nylon cords in place outside, I attached their harnesses and leashes and opened the door. They were absolutely delighted to walk out the door and wait while I attached the leash to the cord clipped on the tie out. I made sure that the cords would not reach any trees or the fence. They were so happy to go outside even though they weren't free to roam beyond their own backyard. I let them out everyday later in the evening weather permitting. I have to stay with them because they do walk around and wrap their leashes and cords around the plants, the pots, the patio stones, the bushes and get stuck. I stay with them the entire time they are outside. There have been a few times they've gotten spooked and went running towards the house. I immediately opened the door to let them in not really understanding what scared them both at the same time. Your video was truly splendiferous. Thank you for all that you do. 💗
Hi Mary. All of it sounds wonderful! Well done! Similarly, I'm in the process of searching for the best method to cat proof my fences so that my crew can have 24/7 access to my backyard. Seems like coyote rollers or netting seem to be the most popular options. Thanks!
@@richardbarber5911 Coyotes! Horrible! I'm not sure what your situation is with the fences but I wish you the best. My cats don't try to really climb the fences but I had to make sure that they couldn't get over and then hang from the other side. Like I said, I have to stay with them the whole time they're outside. I'm going to get them right now and let them out in the yard. Best of luck to you!
@@richardbarber5911 Oh yes! I am fostering a little angel, but he gets scared of anything that wasn't there before. Last night he wouldn't play on the couch, like he loves to do, because there was a hand towel on the arm. Silly fraidy cat!🤭🤭🤭❤
omg THANK YOU FOR THIS pls make more cat training videos! i'm trying to help my two year old cat turn into an adventure cat and been taking her out for walks in her carrier/backpack and she LOVES IT. all other youtube videos on this subject people talk too much thanks for getting straight to the damn point!!
Hi. Thanks for the feedback and I'm glad you are finding the video useful. I'm pleased your cat is liking the backpack walks! Glad you enjoyed me cutting to the chase. I try to trim the fat on all my videos. I'm not sure what to do next. Is there a topic you'd like to see me make a video on? Thanks!
I also agree that this was much more useful than other can training videos, articles and books! I think they are always really vague. For me it was helpful to see it all demonstrated (although this cat didn't have any issues, it would have been extra extra nice to see it done with a cat who was slower to get comfortable with it).
Thank you so much for sharing your marvelous way of training your cat to use a harness and leash. I love the addition of a song so they know what to expect. I have a new kitten which I’m already in love with 😍 and plan on teaching her to use a harness and leash. I already have a cat stroller and she jumps right in it and loves going for walks but I think the addition of being able to walk her outside will be another enhancement in her life. 🥰
Watched dozens of videos on walking your cat. Yours is by FAR the BEST!! Thank you for taking the time to go into such detail. Also ordered the harness you recommended. You should set up a link. There is no shame in getting a little something for referring something you believe in. Will be watching all your videos. Are you still making & posting?
Hi Robert. Thank you very much for your kind comments. I'm glad you found the level of detail useful. I've taken a bit of a break from making videos as over the last 6 months I moved from Honolulu to Florida and setting up my new life, new job and getting my 7 cats here has taken up most of my time and energy. As I see needs arise, I'll make some more videos in the future. Thank you!
Thank you! That's my Squirrel. Found her on the side of the road in Chinatown, Honolulu, squealing up a storm because she was lost. She was about 5 weeks old at the time. Totally daddy's girl :)
This is so useful, thank you. We just got our rescue cat, another Luna, and we want her to be happy in her harness because we would like to take her with us in our camper van and need her to be safe while exploring. A great video, we are more than half way through the process.
Fantastic video, when I get my cat at home again I really wanna harness/leash train them to walk them, when I lived at my parents house they always let them out on their own but I've realized that's not the best for cats or their environment so i really wanna give them the enrichment of it without the danger, so this is incredibly useful. Also I just gotta say this is absolutely adorable, love how you communicate with them and how they respond to your singing, its adorable!
im using this video to train. in terms of steps, im halfway through !! we have slowly been working through for the past month or so. slow and steady. thank you ❤
Thank you so much for your fantastic video! I tried to get my cat used to two different harnesses & he did not like the harness at all. After watching your video, I bought a harness like yours that could be velcroed from the back. That combined with the baby steps you demonstrated allowed my kitty to get comfortable wearing the harness. He isn’t comfortable walking far yet, but now I can at least take him outside into the yard to enjoy the sounds and smells outdoors. Thank you!
Thank you SO much for this video! I watched another video purporting to "Learn how to walk your cat", and the guy showed his cat already in a harness, with a leash on, lounging on an outdoor chair and went on and on about how beautiful his cat was!! It WAS a beautiful cat.... but he didn't teach me squat about how to get MY cat accustomed to wearing a harness and leash! Great, VERY USEFUL video! Thank you so much! Now I just have to get Cleopatra, our Savannah cat to watch it!
Thank you for this video. I"m going to start training my 14 year old cat and I want it to be successful. Every thing you teach here makes perfect sense. We live in the country so she has never been restrained in any way other than a carrier to go for shots. Slow and steady it will be. Thank you again.
Hi James. Thank you for your comment. I am very pleased that you found it helpful. Yes, slow and steady is the key - lots of small successes and going at the cat's pace. 👍
Sorry to be off topic but does anybody know a tool to log back into an instagram account?? I stupidly lost the password. I love any tips you can offer me!
@Emmanuel Alexzander thanks so much for your reply. I found the site on google and im trying it out atm. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will reply here later with my results.
I walk my kitty daily, started as soon as I found her (3 or 4 mo. Stray). I will try the songs. She runs to the door when she hears her harnesses and we do a lot of driving. I agree..always look around while you walk. We meet lots of dogs so have developed a system.
i never thought about getting them used to the sound, put it on and then take it off, i just got a harness, i'll cross my fingers, super helpful, thank you so much
I just got this harness for traveling in the airport thinking what if I have to take him out of the crate, then I started thinking oh maybe occasionally we can go Sit at the park for fresh air. I’m not sure what I may need this thing for but I certainly like the idea of having it available as an option if necessary
If you're going to use the harness and leash just on rare occasions, I would still recommend keeping up a regular (once a week, for example) 'walky walk' session so that your cat remains comfortable with wearing it. All the best!
Hello Richard from our farm in New Hampshire. I can tell you really love your cats! I had an orange and white named Mr. Bean. You have such a patient manner. Lucky cats to be in your care. I lost my beloved Noel this month She was 18. At some point, when I can stop crying, I will talk to my vet about getting a female kitten. I have trained one kitten to a haness. It did not phase the kitten in the least! Liked to attack the leash :-) I took Merlin everywhere. I will follow your channel with interest. All the best! ~ Diane
Hi. I am sorry for your losses. I deliberately adopt super-seniors with special needs and provide hospice care for them so that their last year (months?) are the best they've ever had - so I empathize with our grief and loss. It doesn't 'go away', but it does raise itself less frequently over time. Cry. It's healthy. Yep, kittens tend to stuff around with harnesses and leashes like they are the greatest teaser-toy ever created - ha! ha! Best of luck with everything and your future kitties and hit me up if you have any questions. Kindly, Richard.
Richard- Thanks for responding. I assume you lived in the UK. I worked in Bradford for three years and have a best friend in Leeds. I am researching the standard cost of taking care of a kitten. We have some state programs here that assist with the cost of spaying. My hat is off to you for taking in seniors and giving them a good life. You made my day with your songs! I think I will pick" So long - farewell" from the Sound of Music :-)
@@dianehall5345 Hi Diane. A farm in New Hampshire sounds lovely! Actually, I'm Australian by birth. That video was shot in Hawaii when I lived there. I now live in Florida. I've never been to the UK. Maybe one day - time and money permitting. Glad you liked the songs. Sound Of Music is a classic - love it!
Richard- Ah, now that I'm paying closer attention, you do have a soft 'Down Under' accent. I lived in West Yorkshire for three years. Florida should mirror your country's warm climate to a degree. Yes, we are a 350 acre working farm.
This was an excellent video. This is exactly the cat training that I NEEDED. LOL. I couldn't figure out how to get my cat in the harness. Great techniques and strategy. Best video on training your cat. Can you post link to the harness you used?
That was so awesome! Thank you! Hello from Brisbane, we have the coolest cat/dog who is 10 months old and he has been with us a week and I'm convinced he will be so cool with a harness. Going to do your approach to set us up for success. Love the little songs - now to practise.
I live in a townhome complex where there’s plenty of cars going around, even though we live in the back. I know my little sweet timid curious 2 year old raggie will catch on so quickly as he’s had the harness on before (i was impulsive and absolutely knew better than one slip on & go) we sat on my ground level patio for a few shaky days. I’m just afraid of other peoples dogs. The whole idea is to be able to take him with me wherever possible so we don’t have to be apart, the idea of someone’s dog hurting him scares me. Almost think a car ride elsewhere into a walk may be the only way I match his courage & let him outside fully to explore 😂
This is extraordinarily helpful. Thank you so much!! I have hope again that this might actually work for my cat who needs some exercise and some interesting distractions.
This is my favourite video on the subject! Sooo cute! I'm revving up to getting my indoor senior cat, the Oskartron, into his new harness and out into our new environment. I've watched so many videos and this one resonates on how to do it. Thanx Richard 🐱
Richard, such a good teaching video. My wife and I are going to start walking our young cat Piepan (1 year old) and are looking for good advice. Your presentation was great!!!
Awesome vedio, I think it's the best one on UA-cam yet. Thanks a lot. One question though, did you make this video actually following the steps? Or was it made after the cat was trained? Your cat is ameowizing 😻
After the cats were trained. The reality is that I'd already trained 3 of my cats to walk with a harness and leash. People kept asking me for a video on how I did it so I went back and filmed each step as I had done it previously.
Amazing video, really one of the best ones I’ve seen as I’ve been searching on how to walk my cat for the last 3 hours! Thank you for the in depth video & helpful tips!
Best video yet! Any suggestions if you live in an apartment building with inside corridor and elevator down into a lobby where one exits to the outside?
Thank you! The song at the end is just something I came up with. If you use songs consistently your cats will tune in to them and understand what's going on. 👍
@@richardbarber201 your song is so catchy, good job :) In my country not so many people walk the cats, in my town I maybe saw two persons, it's going to be extra fun (not to say weird) when I start to sing to my cat on the street :D but I'm going to, it looks like it's really working. Thank you, again
I can tell that you love and respect your kitties 😸 ❤️ 💕 it's so sweet. I just got a leash for my 11 year old who befriended some strays and is curious about being outside. This is a very helpful video. Thank you!
That was awesome. 🥰 I have 3 dogs and 4 cats ... 2 cats are fully outdoors, 1 cat fully indoors, and 1 cat is indoor/outdoor (out to play with the others during day and comes in for the night at bedtime, and throughout the day for meals/snacks - comes when called, always. This guy needs to get trained for a harness & leash since he'll be going on a long road trip with us, which is why I'm here. Great tips, thanks!
very comprehensive video and great advice-- gosh I hope this works. I may need to record your walkie-walkie song, I think that is the key!! thanks for the video 😸
Brilliant, informative, clearly you are knowledgeable and incredible with your beautiful cats. I'm going to try with my wee kitten....using your advice. Looking to get a rucksack to put her in...so we can go walking...hopefully Best wishes xx
Thank you for the video. I recently bought 2 harnesses for my 2 cats and they're both hating it. Unfortunately we don't get the ones you showed here, so I had to buy a Ruffwear Front range harness. They hate it right now so I will try to do the steps you have listed out and try to make them be friends.
As long as the cats value going outside they will tolerate the harness training. If they don't value going outside, they won't see the point in it. I presume they actually want to go outside. Remember - some cats are perfectly happy *inside* the home and have no desire to go outside. I hope that helps. Thanks!
Love this! Our 7 year old Bombay is loving outdoor time and I’ve been following this video as reference. What’s the bungee leash extension brand you’re using?
Hi. Glad you enjoyed the video and your 7 year old is getting into the great outdoors. The bungee leash was re-purposed from a harness + leash kit I found in a big box store. I honestly can't remember the brand name. I, too, wanted to buy just the bungee leash part a few years ago and I wasn't able to find anyone online selling such a product. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
Thank you. It really is just a matter of doing a tiny bit every day. Each step might only take 1-3 minutes a day, but the accumulative effect over a month builds up to success.
this guy can legit be a therapist how good he is with exposure procedures. my mind is blown. straight forward and informative. best guide in the universe seriously.
Thank you! Glad you found it useful and am also happy you understand the 'baby steps' approach to exposure therapy (aka desensitization). Best of luck!
that walky walk got me 😂♥️
ha! ha! Thanks!
the WALKY SONG tip is genius 🤣👏 thank you!!
Glad you like it! Yep, cats tune into songs and phrases really well and associate them with whatever is going on at the time. Repetition is key until the association is cemented.
I love that your cats come running when they hear the song! I'm definitely going to do this.
Thank you! Yes, songs work really well with cats!
I would like to add that picking the cat up and carrying the cat through the door every time will curb the desire to dash out the door every time the door is open, also I always carry a big stick (sawed off broom handle) when I am out walking. This will help ward off dog attacks, snake meetings, other cats, etc. Thank you for your vidio. I might add the song to let the cat know it is time to go home is a very good idea because if it should ever get lost singing loudly will help him come home.
This is actually the reason I'm planning to harness-train her in the first place... we live on a park, and there are many temptations (birds, squirrels, mice, etc.), and I want her to know she can go out anytime she "asks", but that we leave the house in a certain way (in a harness, and carried out the door), to curb her from feeling the need to 'sneak' out when someone opens the door.
Great point about using a song to call her home, if she does get out - I'm going to def use that!
L is uuup kkkkoiiiiiiii kill lol ok I kkkkii you
I don't have a big stick but my boyfriend got me a flashlight that is also a taser. I wouldn't use it of course because the sound alone is scary enough that I don't have to use it and of course I wouldn't even want to tase a person let alone a dog or other animals...but the clicking sound of it can be scary and keep me safe and it can help protect me if I actually have to use it😢😅😊
Finally, someone who makes total sense. Not an amatuer!
Hi. I'm so glad you found it useful!
It’s the song of going home that won me ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I have been slowly following your steps and it is working! She lets me put her harness on for 2 minutes now! I will add the leash soon and I am so excited. I just want my kitty to have a richer life. Thank you!
You are totally welcome! :)
You are totally welcome!
Her tail is so up, she's so excited!
Yes - cats are very tuned in to routines and rituals so if you do your walk at about the same time each day and follow the same routine (singing a walky-walk song, for example) they will get excited about what's coming up next: the actual walk. Good luck with everything!
I have a Ragdoll who is not afraid of anyone or anything. When guests come over, she inspects them and hangs around us out of curiosity. I took her once to my parent’s house and she just ran around exploring and at the end took a nap on her blanket (her scent) that I put on top of a blanket on a couch. Yesterday, when I opened the door, she ran out. She’s so stealth! I didn’t even know she was around me. Luckily, I live in a very secure condo building with door closed everywhere, so she had no chance of escaping. However, because she’s so curious and loves exploring, I bought a harness and a leash for her. I put it on her yesterday. I guess because of her very docile nature, she let me put it on, no problem- but walked very close to the ground. I kept it on her for 2-3 minutes- opened the condo door as I want her to associate the harness with her being able to go out, but she stayed at the threshold. She was not a fan of the harness. I will now follow your steps and hopefully, she’ll be ok with it soon as we’re going on a trip next month. :)
Hi. What you are doing sounds perfect. Just stick with it. It's not unusual for a lot of cats to hunch down - or even flop over on their side - the first few times of having a harness on them. Associating it with the door being open is perfect. Just keep doing what you're doing and before you know it she'll be begging for the harness, wearing it comfortably and confidently exploring outside your door. Keep it up! :)
@@richardbarber5911 Love it! I can’t wait. She’s only 10 months old so hopefully, she’ll be ok as she’s learning at a young age. Luckily, she didn’t just roll over, just walked hunched then laid down on her scratcher/bed and just stayed on it. At one point, I think she forgot she had a harness, she started playing with her favorite toy when I turned it on for her. :) The harness is lying right next to us on the couch as she’s taking a nap….:)
@@aniakrysia Brilliant! Yes, she'll be great because she's learning this at a new age. There's a lot of truth to the expression "You can't teach an old dog new tricks". Almost all animals are much, much more amenable to trying - and getting used to and learning to love - new things and experiences when they are young. Funny that she forgot she had her harness on while on her scratcher. You sound like a great cat mum! Keep it up! And thanks for your feedback on everything - much appreciated. Happy cats is all I care about.
I would like to add a piece of advice. If you use a bungee cord type leash, it makes it a bit less likely that your kitty will pull out of the harness if she backs up suddenly. It's the difference between a hard stop and a less restrictive stop. It seems to cause less panic at feeling trapped, and is actually less likely to pull the harness right off the cat. Excellent video - so important to take the steps to help the kitty feel comfortable and not panic.
Excellent additional tip! Makes perfect sense. Thank you! 🙏
"So, watch out for weirdos"
After countless hours of searching every kind of harness and every review for escapability and comfort, I purchased two 2 Loop harnesses for my two eight-month-old kitties.
When they arrived I took them out of the packages and let them sniff them and play with them. They were anxious to get outside so after just a couple of days I put the harnesses on them, and adjusted them so that I could fit my finger between their body and the harness. The very next day I attached the leashes and thought I'd see how they walked around inside house. I had also purchased a tie out and 2 30-foot nylon cords. With the tie out and nylon cords in place outside, I attached their harnesses and leashes and opened the door. They were absolutely delighted to walk out the door and wait while I attached the leash to the cord clipped on the tie out. I made sure that the cords would not reach any trees or the fence. They were so happy to go outside even though they weren't free to roam beyond their own backyard. I let them out everyday later in the evening weather permitting. I have to stay with them because they do walk around and wrap
their leashes and cords around the plants, the pots, the patio stones, the bushes and get stuck. I stay with them the entire time they are outside. There have been a few times they've gotten spooked and went running towards the house. I immediately opened the door to let them in not really understanding what scared them both at the same time. Your video was truly splendiferous. Thank you for all that you do. 💗
Hi Mary. All of it sounds wonderful! Well done! Similarly, I'm in the process of searching for the best method to cat proof my fences so that my crew can have 24/7 access to my backyard. Seems like coyote rollers or netting seem to be the most popular options. Thanks!
@@richardbarber5911 Coyotes! Horrible! I'm not sure what your situation is with the fences but I wish you the best. My cats don't try to really climb the fences but I had to make sure that they couldn't get over and then hang from the other side. Like I said, I have to stay with them the whole time they're outside. I'm going to get them right now and let them out in the yard. Best of luck to you!
That's a great tip to get them used to the sound of the velcro!
Thank you! Some cats are more scared by velcro sounds than others - that's why we love cats, because they are all different :)
@@richardbarber5911 Oh yes! I am fostering a little angel, but he gets scared of anything that wasn't there before. Last night he wouldn't play on the couch, like he loves to do, because there was a hand towel on the arm. Silly fraidy cat!🤭🤭🤭❤
Lots of work to convince a cat to go in a walk but this is pretty amazing.
omg THANK YOU FOR THIS pls make more cat training videos! i'm trying to help my two year old cat turn into an adventure cat and been taking her out for walks in her carrier/backpack and she LOVES IT. all other youtube videos on this subject people talk too much thanks for getting straight to the damn point!!
Hi. Thanks for the feedback and I'm glad you are finding the video useful. I'm pleased your cat is liking the backpack walks! Glad you enjoyed me cutting to the chase. I try to trim the fat on all my videos. I'm not sure what to do next. Is there a topic you'd like to see me make a video on? Thanks!
I totally agree about other cat tutorial videos being too much, regarding too much talking and complicated information 🐱
I also agree that this was much more useful than other can training videos, articles and books! I think they are always really vague. For me it was helpful to see it all demonstrated (although this cat didn't have any issues, it would have been extra extra nice to see it done with a cat who was slower to get comfortable with it).
Thank you so much for sharing your marvelous way of training your cat to use a harness and leash. I love the addition of a song so they know what to expect. I have a new kitten which I’m already in love with 😍 and plan on teaching her to use a harness and leash. I already have a cat stroller and she jumps right in it and loves going for walks but I think the addition of being able to walk her outside will be another enhancement in her life. 🥰
Watched dozens of videos on walking your cat. Yours is by FAR the BEST!! Thank you for taking the time to go into such detail. Also ordered the harness you recommended. You should set up a link. There is no shame in getting a little something for referring something you believe in. Will be watching all your videos. Are you still making & posting?
Hi Robert. Thank you very much for your kind comments. I'm glad you found the level of detail useful. I've taken a bit of a break from making videos as over the last 6 months I moved from Honolulu to Florida and setting up my new life, new job and getting my 7 cats here has taken up most of my time and energy. As I see needs arise, I'll make some more videos in the future. Thank you!
2:25 omg what a beautiful battlecat!!!
Awww what a cute lil pink harnessed lil girl. Super cute.
Thank you! That's my Squirrel. Found her on the side of the road in Chinatown, Honolulu, squealing up a storm because she was lost. She was about 5 weeks old at the time. Totally daddy's girl :)
This is so useful, thank you. We just got our rescue cat, another Luna, and we want her to be happy in her harness because we would like to take her with us in our camper van and need her to be safe while exploring. A great video, we are more than half way through the process.
Glad you found it useful! I hope you and your Luna have a great time in the camper and exploring! :)
Fantastic video, when I get my cat at home again I really wanna harness/leash train them to walk them, when I lived at my parents house they always let them out on their own but I've realized that's not the best for cats or their environment so i really wanna give them the enrichment of it without the danger, so this is incredibly useful. Also I just gotta say this is absolutely adorable, love how you communicate with them and how they respond to your singing, its adorable!
Hi Fritz. Thank you! Yep - loving communication is key to all aspects of cat care, in my opinion.
My cat came running to your song lmao
Thank you for your lovely sound thoughtful video. 🐈⬛ She really swished her tail about going in....
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed it :)
im using this video to train. in terms of steps, im halfway through !! we have slowly been working through for the past month or so. slow and steady. thank you ❤
I love the way you say Hawness
The walk song is Wagnerian. Bravo!
ha! ha! Yeah, I suppose it is, isn't it? I hadn't thought of that. Thanks!
This needs a ton of views. Every single tip is gold! Thank you! 🙂
Glad you found it useful and thank you for the positive feedback! :)
Our cat hates that fish treats lol
Thank you so much for your fantastic video! I tried to get my cat used to two different harnesses & he did not like the harness at all. After watching your video, I bought a harness like yours that could be velcroed from the back. That combined with the baby steps you demonstrated allowed my kitty to get comfortable wearing the harness. He isn’t comfortable walking far yet, but now I can at least take him outside into the yard to enjoy the sounds and smells outdoors. Thank you!
Thank you SO much for this video!
I watched another video purporting to "Learn how to walk your cat", and the guy showed his cat already in a harness, with a leash on, lounging on an outdoor chair and went on and on about how beautiful his cat was!!
It WAS a beautiful cat.... but he didn't teach me squat about how to get MY cat accustomed to wearing a harness and leash!
Great, VERY USEFUL video! Thank you so much!
Now I just have to get Cleopatra, our Savannah cat to watch it!
this video deserved more views!! thank you for all the tips you offered.
Hi. Thank you for your kind comment and you're totally welcome for all the tips. Glad you found it useful! :)
Thank you for this video. I"m going to start training my 14 year old cat and I want it to be successful. Every thing you teach here makes perfect sense. We live in the country so she has never been restrained in any way other than a carrier to go for shots. Slow and steady it will be. Thank you again.
Hi James. Thank you for your comment. I am very pleased that you found it helpful. Yes, slow and steady is the key - lots of small successes and going at the cat's pace. 👍
HOWD IT GOOOO
Sorry to be off topic but does anybody know a tool to log back into an instagram account??
I stupidly lost the password. I love any tips you can offer me!
@Caiden Amos instablaster :)
@Emmanuel Alexzander thanks so much for your reply. I found the site on google and im trying it out atm.
Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will reply here later with my results.
this is FANTASTIC 💗 my one critique is for indoor cats is to always CARRY them outside so they dont venture out on their own
Depending on the house/apartment set up, absolutely. Use your best judgement, always erring on the side of safety.
I walk my kitty daily, started as soon as I found her (3 or 4 mo. Stray). I will try the songs. She runs to the door when she hears her harnesses and we do a lot of driving. I agree..always look around while you walk. We meet lots of dogs so have developed a system.
Good on you!
curious to know what's worked for you in terms of dealing with dogs. my kitten is taking to the harness, but predators are my biggest fear.
i never thought about getting them used to the sound, put it on and then take it off, i just got a harness, i'll cross my fingers, super helpful, thank you so much
You're totally welcome!
This was the best video ive seen.
Thank you very much! Glad you found it useful!
Lol I love the singing :-)
ha! ha! Thanks!
Very helpful! Lots of great pearls not in other videos
Glad you found it useful!
I just got this harness for traveling in the airport thinking what if I have to take him out of the crate, then I started thinking oh maybe occasionally we can go Sit at the park for fresh air. I’m not sure what I may need this thing for but I certainly like the idea of having it available as an option if necessary
If you're going to use the harness and leash just on rare occasions, I would still recommend keeping up a regular (once a week, for example) 'walky walk' session so that your cat remains comfortable with wearing it. All the best!
Hello Richard from our farm in New Hampshire. I can tell you really love your cats! I had an orange and white named Mr. Bean. You have such a patient manner. Lucky cats to be in your care. I lost my beloved Noel this month She was 18. At some point, when I can stop crying, I will talk to my vet about getting a female kitten. I have trained one kitten to a haness. It did not phase the kitten in the least! Liked to attack the leash :-) I took Merlin everywhere.
I will follow your channel with interest. All the best! ~ Diane
Hi. I am sorry for your losses. I deliberately adopt super-seniors with special needs and provide hospice care for them so that their last year (months?) are the best they've ever had - so I empathize with our grief and loss. It doesn't 'go away', but it does raise itself less frequently over time. Cry. It's healthy. Yep, kittens tend to stuff around with harnesses and leashes like they are the greatest teaser-toy ever created - ha! ha! Best of luck with everything and your future kitties and hit me up if you have any questions. Kindly, Richard.
Richard- Thanks for responding. I assume you lived in the UK. I worked in Bradford for three years and have a best friend in Leeds. I am researching the standard cost of taking care of a kitten. We have some state programs here that assist with the cost of spaying. My hat is off to you for taking in seniors and giving them a good life. You made my day with your songs! I think I will pick" So long - farewell" from the Sound of Music :-)
@@dianehall5345 Hi Diane. A farm in New Hampshire sounds lovely! Actually, I'm Australian by birth. That video was shot in Hawaii when I lived there. I now live in Florida. I've never been to the UK. Maybe one day - time and money permitting. Glad you liked the songs. Sound Of Music is a classic - love it!
Richard- Ah, now that I'm paying closer attention, you do have a soft 'Down Under' accent. I lived in West Yorkshire for three years. Florida should mirror your country's warm climate to a degree. Yes, we are a 350 acre working farm.
Really awesome video!!!
You are an amazing feline behaviorist! And an amazing human!
LOVE THE SINGING!!
This was an excellent video. This is exactly the cat training that I NEEDED. LOL. I couldn't figure out how to get my cat in the harness. Great techniques and strategy. Best video on training your cat. Can you post link to the harness you used?
Hi. I'm glad you found the video useful and thank you for your kind feedback. www.kittyholster.com
Really loved your video! Thank you so much for sharing with us.
Thanks for the video very usefulll , love your cats and the songs .
Great video, thank you for uploading, I am trying to walk my cat and one vital thing I have learnt from your video is to be very patient.
Thank you!
So helpful and I enjoy watching this video!
That was so awesome! Thank you! Hello from Brisbane, we have the coolest cat/dog who is 10 months old and he has been with us a week and I'm convinced he will be so cool with a harness. Going to do your approach to set us up for success. Love the little songs - now to practise.
Lots of good info!!! Thank you !
Glad you found it helpful! :)
I live in a townhome complex where there’s plenty of cars going around, even though we live in the back. I know my little sweet timid curious 2 year old raggie will catch on so quickly as he’s had the harness on before (i was impulsive and absolutely knew better than one slip on & go) we sat on my ground level patio for a few shaky days.
I’m just afraid of other peoples dogs. The whole idea is to be able to take him with me wherever possible so we don’t have to be apart, the idea of someone’s dog hurting him scares me.
Almost think a car ride elsewhere into a walk may be the only way I match his courage & let him outside fully to explore 😂
Love this! Thank you for the detailed tutorial!
Thank you for the feedback! I'm glad you found it useful!
This is a very informative video! Thank you very much, I'll try these steps to train my cat to her harness
Yo!! This is super useful info!! Thank you!!
Glad you found it useful! You're totally welcome!
This was an especially helpful video. Thank you!
Glad you found it helpful! You're welcome!
I haven’t tried any of the tips yet. But they make sense. I have a black cat as well, he’s very frightened cat though. Love the video
Thank you!
❤ty for this
Awesome video, Richard. patience is the name of the game. subscribed.
Hi Amardeep. Thank you very much!
Great video, Richard...thank you!
Glad you found it useful! :)
So cute!!!!@
Thank you!
AMAZING VIDEO !!!!!!! I truly love it !!!! Thank you so much for the steps and tips
So glad you found it useful and like it. You're totally welcome!!
This is really helpful. Thank you!
You're totally welcome!
Amazing! Your video is so helpful. Thank you for the great tips.
Hi. Glad you found it useful! :)
Thanks! I wish I saw this before I bought the leash.
I even picked my song ...
“The Whistling Gypsy!” 🤗
Glad you found it useful! I don't know that song but as long as you consistently sing the songs your cat will make the association.
amazing!!! specially the song part jeje thanks
You're welcome!
👍🏼Very good tips!!Thanks 🥰❤
You're totally welcome!
fantastic video!
Thank you! Glad you found it useful! :)
I really enjoyed this video, thank you for sharing your song, the home time song has me feeling good about humanity :)
Hi Luke. Glad you enjoyed it! And glad you got some good vibes from it :)
Amazing video!
Thank you! Glad you found it useful! :)
This is extraordinarily helpful. Thank you so much!! I have hope again that this might actually work for my cat who needs some exercise and some interesting distractions.
This is my favourite video on the subject! Sooo cute! I'm revving up to getting my indoor senior cat, the Oskartron, into his new harness and out into our new environment. I've watched so many videos and this one resonates on how to do it. Thanx Richard 🐱
Hi Tanya. I'm so glad you found it useful. You are totally welcome! Thank you. Richard.
Thank you for this video.
You're welcome!
Very well presented! What about climbing trees?
I have enjoyed it
Thank you!
Richard, such a good teaching video. My wife and I are going to start walking our young cat Piepan (1 year old) and are looking for good advice. Your presentation was great!!!
You are an awesome teacher! Thank you for this video! I needed help😹!
Aw, thank you! You're totally welcome and I'm glad you found it useful!
Awesome vedio, I think it's the best one on UA-cam yet. Thanks a lot.
One question though, did you make this video actually following the steps? Or was it made after the cat was trained? Your cat is ameowizing 😻
After the cats were trained. The reality is that I'd already trained 3 of my cats to walk with a harness and leash. People kept asking me for a video on how I did it so I went back and filmed each step as I had done it previously.
Amazing video, really one of the best ones I’ve seen as I’ve been searching on how to walk my cat for the last 3 hours! Thank you for the in depth video & helpful tips!
Hi Kiara. Thank you for the feedback and you are totally welcome! Good luck with your harness training!
@@richardbarber5911 thank you ! I have a feeling I’ll need it 😅
@@kiaranicole1174 Slow and steady. A little bit every day adds up to a wealth of success in training over a month. Go for it! :)
This is a great video ! Thank you for the upload , it's exactly what I needed! More training days ahead for my little Ching's journey 🎉
Glad you found it useful. Give Ching a pat from me! 😻
Best video yet! Any suggestions if you live in an apartment building with inside corridor and elevator down into a lobby where one exits to the outside?
Great and helpfull video and you are such a patient man :) I like the song at the end too, would love to know what that song is :) Thank you
Thank you! The song at the end is just something I came up with. If you use songs consistently your cats will tune in to them and understand what's going on. 👍
@@richardbarber201 your song is so catchy, good job :) In my country not so many people walk the cats, in my town I maybe saw two persons, it's going to be extra fun (not to say weird) when I start to sing to my cat on the street :D but I'm going to, it looks like it's really working. Thank you, again
@@jeffca027 My pleasure!
If I sang my cat would run away lol
❤Excellent ...
Hi. Glad you found it useful! Thanks!
thank you for 🔝the precious advises and great video ! I will try with my kittens 🐱🐱
You're welcome! Let us know how it goes!
At 8:50 you remind me of Seth rogan!
Also nice video ! I appreciate it
you are a genius
That's very kind of you.
I can tell that you love and respect your kitties 😸 ❤️ 💕 it's so sweet. I just got a leash for my 11 year old who befriended some strays and is curious about being outside. This is a very helpful video. Thank you!
You're totally welcome! My crew befriended neighborhood kitties, too, and looked forward to going for a walk to say hi to them and nose-kiss them :)
Great!!!
Thank you!
That was awesome. 🥰 I have 3 dogs and 4 cats ... 2 cats are fully outdoors, 1 cat fully indoors, and 1 cat is indoor/outdoor (out to play with the others during day and comes in for the night at bedtime, and throughout the day for meals/snacks - comes when called, always. This guy needs to get trained for a harness & leash since he'll be going on a long road trip with us, which is why I'm here. Great tips, thanks!
You're welcome! Glad you found it useful! Thanks! Richard
Woderful tutorial and cats :) I have been trying various tactics for months to walk my cat safely, and I will apply your advices, thank you.
You are totally welcome!
very comprehensive video and great advice-- gosh I hope this works. I may need to record your walkie-walkie song, I think that is the key!! thanks for the video 😸
Glad you found it useful. ha! ha! Yep - cats usually pick up on regularly-sung songs being associated with activities very well. Best of luck!
Brilliant, informative, clearly you are knowledgeable and incredible with your beautiful cats. I'm going to try with my wee kitten....using your advice. Looking to get a rucksack to put her in...so we can go walking...hopefully
Best wishes xx
Thank you! Glad you found it informative. Tiny little kittens are pretty much up for any adventure so I'm sure you'll have great success.
Absolutely loved the video! Thank you so much to you and your cats for the wonderful job 😽😽😽 Will attempt to replicate with my own feline crew
awww so adorable!!! mine is okay walking outside next to me without a leash
Btw, I love the singing. I sing to mine all the time 😻
Thank you for the video. I recently bought 2 harnesses for my 2 cats and they're both hating it. Unfortunately we don't get the ones you showed here, so I had to buy a Ruffwear Front range harness. They hate it right now so I will try to do the steps you have listed out and try to make them be friends.
As long as the cats value going outside they will tolerate the harness training. If they don't value going outside, they won't see the point in it. I presume they actually want to go outside. Remember - some cats are perfectly happy *inside* the home and have no desire to go outside. I hope that helps. Thanks!
i love it thanks, also i loved ...'also there are people around that don't like cats...so watch out for weridos' lmao
Hi Alexandra. Glad you enjoyed it! :)
Love this! Our 7 year old Bombay is loving outdoor time and I’ve been following this video as reference. What’s the bungee leash extension brand you’re using?
Hi. Glad you enjoyed the video and your 7 year old is getting into the great outdoors. The bungee leash was re-purposed from a harness + leash kit I found in a big box store. I honestly can't remember the brand name. I, too, wanted to buy just the bungee leash part a few years ago and I wasn't able to find anyone online selling such a product. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
This guy has so much patience wow. I need to do better lol
Thank you. It really is just a matter of doing a tiny bit every day. Each step might only take 1-3 minutes a day, but the accumulative effect over a month builds up to success.