Harness training cat will take time
Q: We are hoping to take 7-year-old Smoky the Cat traveling with us. I think I will need to have a harness on him. I tried one out and once I got it on Smoky, he either hid under the bed or in my closet. How do I go about harness training him without totally freaking him out?
Dr. Nichol: Smoky’s hip to the trip. He believes you’re making good on your threats of military school. No wonder the little guy is scared.
Not only should Smoky wear a harness and leash for travel, he’ll be safest riding in his carrier. Cats can panic and bolt on road trips. They’ve been known to hide, never to be found. Your boy can learn to accept his harness, but it will take repetition and patience.
Offer a hungry Smoky a tasty tidbit while holding the harness near his chest. If he won’t take the treat, move the harness a little farther away. When you find the distance where a mildly wary but motivated kitty will accept the food, you can repeat short (three to five repetitions) sessions until he ignores the harness. Then hold it a little closer as you offer snacks. Repeat at this distance until it’s a nonissue. When it’s clear that Smoky associates the harness with treats, you can drape his new fashion accessory over his chest as you hand-feed him. When this goes well, buckle it on him as you reward his cooperation.
Some cats are happy to accept a harness, no questions asked. Others need to gradually work up to wearing it for longer durations. Take it slow and easy. You can diminish Smoky’s travel anxiety with the chewable supplement Anxitane. If he acts out in the car, please don’t make him ride on the roof. It’s just politically incorrect in an election year.
Cat behavior class
Do your cats bite, fight or use your carpet as their bathroom? Are they de-upholstering your furniture? I’ll address any unhealthy behaviors in my seminar at the Animal Humane Adoption Center, 9132 Montgomery NE on Monday, July 16, from 6 to 9 p.m. Cost: $40. To register go to facebook.com/drjeffnichol (events) or call 792-5131. Bring plenty of questions. I’ll give individual help.