Kelly and her 6-year-old cat Fizzgig’s daily walk around their SE Portland apartment complex have become a happy routine. The time allows the duo extra space to unwind and bond together—all thanks to two OHS alumni cats who inspired Kelly to give it a try. “Fizzgig used to see our two neighbor cats, Bronte and Millie, out on harness walks. My cat has a lot of energy and a big, adventurous spirit—Millie and Bronte inspired us to try providing her some extra stimulation and change in scenery beyond the walls of our tiny apartment.”
Today, the trio of kitties will happily explore the safety of the courtyard outside their home, side by side. As Kelly got better acquainted with Bronte and Millie’s owners, she discovered they each had very different reasons for beginning their adventure-cat journey.
Bronte and Nicole Walk for Health
Nicole adopted Bronte from OHS in 2020. Diagnosed by the OHS Medical Team with Feline Idiopathic Cystitis or FIC, Bronte needed extra support to maintain his health.
“There is a lot that we do not understand about FIC, but we think stress plays a significant role in exacerbating the condition that leads to inflammation in the bladder. Unfortunately, this inflammation can lead to painful and sometimes life-threatening conditions including the formation of crystals, mucus, spasms or in worst case scenarios, a urinary blockage.” says Dr. Franci Forman, Medical Director of OHS’ Community Veterinary Hospital. “Playtime and enrichment activities can play a role in long-term management of FIC to minimize stress and promote the increased release of endorphins.”
In Nicole’s research, she stumbled across a recommendation for leash training as a way to help reduce stress. Eager to keep Bronte in tip-top shape, Nicole decided to give it a go. “Bronte immediately took to the harness and was eager to start exploring our building and the neighborhood,” recalls Nicole.
In early leash-training days with Bronte, Nicole found that consistency was key. Providing a steady routine helped grow Bronte’s confidence with the leash while boosting his overall interest in walks. Nicole’s advice for those interested in giving it a try: “Learn how to safely hold an upset cat. Bring a toy or treats to redirect them and limit outside walks to quiet hours in your neighborhood.”
The mental and physical stimulation from his outdoor time has really helped Bronte—by the end of his morning rounds with Nicole, Bronte is relaxed and ready for cuddle time.
Millie and Charlie Walk for Fun
Charlie always dreamed of having an adventure-cat and when he adopted Millie from OHS in 2020, he quickly recognized that she might be a good candidate. Upon bringing her home, Charlie noticed Millie seemed especially interested in the world outside of the apartment. She seemed eager for more stimulation than he could provide with indoor games and playtime alone. Inspired by Millie’s curiosity, Charlie began to see how Millie might take to wearing a harness and a leash.
Starting slowly, Charlie introduced the harness first—letting Millie wear it indoors while she spent time in her favorite window spot. As Millie got more comfortable, the duo began to go outside.
Today, Millie is a confident walker, but Charlie is still mindful when exploring. He avoids taking Millie out when it’s too loud or venturing to unfamiliar places that might overwhelm her. “Be aware of your surroundings and potential triggers that will scare your cat, like dogs, big trucks, or construction noises,” recommends Charlie to those wanting to give leash walking a try.
The duo enjoys staying close to home, but the outdoor time has helped expand Millie’s world. Charlie’s favorite part about his walks with Millie is seeing her wonder and excitement for the world around her grow.
Planning Your Own Adventure
If your cat is comfortable being handled, shows an interest in the outdoors, and isn’t often spooked by loud noises, they may be a good candidate for leash training!
Start slowly, first ensuring you find a well-fitting harness and practice leashed walking inside before venturing out for short bursts.
OHS Behavior and Training Director, Tanya Roberts, suggests that not all cats who are leash trained need to walk any distance at all, “For some cats, supervised and leashed outdoor time spent just lounging in the sun on a patio is more than enough stimulation. For others, a catio or fully enclosed outdoor area might be a safer alternative.”
