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Whether you’re taking your cat for a walk around the block or need to move them quickly in the event of an emergency, you’re going to need an escape-proof cat harness and leash to do it.
Most cats love the thrill of being outdoors. Unfortunately for us, this typically means they’re climbing up, over, and out of sight. Losing your cat can be a scary situation. However, cat harnesses and a leash can prevent that situation from occurring and still let your cat be their wild, rowdy selves outside.
There are plenty of escape-proof cats harnesses to choose from depending on your cat and how much experience they have with harnesses. We really loved KITTY HOLSTER Cat Harness for its full-coverage design and safety reflective strips.
Check out the other best cat harnesses that made our list below.
Products discussed in the article:
#1: Best Vest Style Cat Harness
#2: Most Breathable Cat Harness
#3: Best H-Style Harness
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#4: Most Secure Harness
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Buying Guide
How to Choose the Best Escape Proof Cat Harness
When shopping for an escape-proof harness, you’ll want to keep these things in mind. The durability of the harness; you want it to be strong enough to hold up to your cat’s shenanigans and provide a snug fit.
Consider the amount of coverage the harness provides; if your cat can easily slip out from the neck, it’s not as escape-proof as you thought.
Look for something comfortable for cats; since your cat will need to be moving around in it and possibly wearing it for lengthy times, make sure it’s a good fit and won’t pinch or rub in the wrong spots.
What are the Benefits of having an Escape Proof Cat Harness?
Cats generally spook pretty easily. This means that if you have to rush out of the house due to an emergency, your cat may bolt.
When you have a harness easily accessible, you can simply put it on them, clip a leash to the harness and carry your cat out to safety. You don’t have to worry about them bolting even if they get loose.
If your cat is adventurous, accompanying you on your many outdoor treks, having a harness on your cat can ensure they won’t runoff. When a cat is close to home and gets loose, it may be able to find its way home through scent. But so far away, and likely surrounded by more predators, this could end badly for your feline friend.
Keep them safe and keep them harnessed and leashed when you’re out of the house.
What are the Different Types of Cat Harnesses?
There are a few cat harness styles you can choose from. Each one is unique and offers different qualities. Let’s discuss.
Vests
Yes, just like vests made for people, these will be the most stylish. Most cat vest-style harnesses provide sufficient coverage so your cat can’t squeeze and shimmy out of it. Sometimes, this harness can be a little heavy due to the amount of coverage. If your cat already strongly dislikes the feel of a harness, they may have a challenging time adapting to these.
Step-In
The name of this harness style accurately reflects how to use it. Just have your cat step into it. Then, just as quickly, have them step back out to take it off. This is an excellent style if your cat loves to twist and turn when you attempt to put a harness on them. Most cat owners can get these on their feline friends without much fuss.
H-Style
These are named effectively after their shape. The H shape of this harness style provides a highly comfortable and breathable feel for cats. Some can become so accustomed to them that they pay no mind wearing them anymore. It doesn’t offer as much coverage as other styles, though, so if you don’t have complete trust in your cat that they won’t attempt to wiggle out of it, this may not be the best fit.
Figure Eight
Another cat harness that is named appropriately after its shape. The figure-eight style is similar to the H style but provides more security. It fits snug around a cat’s waist and chest, so they won’t get far even if they lunge at a squirrel or bird. Still providing plenty of breathabilities and an easy-to-put-on design, this is an excellent everyday use cat harness.
Vest-style harnesses are easy to put on and hard to escape from. The extra fabric can take time for your cat to get used to, but the snug design helps them feel secure with even pressure. This cat harness offers sufficient coverage and wide velcro closures above the front legs for better mobility. In addition, this vest-style cat harness keeps your cat’s sensitive skin and fur safe.
This vest-style cat harness’s 100% cotton fabric shell and interior are lightweight, breathable mesh material and hypoallergenic. You can also easily clean this harness if your cat gets into mischief by tossing it in the wash. This is great for outdoor adventure cats that like to roam and roll in the dirt.
Four different sizes allow a good fit for cats of any stature—even a boutique line featuring fabrics such as satins and silks, customizable prints and embroidery. If visibility is a priority, you can choose from their high-visibility options. Clip a leash through the leash loop on the vest to easily take your cat out and about.
This vest-style cat harness design keeps cats stylish and secure in this lightweight yet full-coverage vest. An added perk is that each purchase from this non-profit company supports animal rescue and sanctuary. If you and your cat are both new to harnesses, instructions are included for teaching cats to be comfortable and eager to wear their new harness.
The strong velcro stays on even when cats bolt but is noisy to unhook and may catch the hairs of furrier felines. If your cat has long, luscious locks, you may want to choose something with quick-release buckles rather than velcro straps. But, then, your cat won’t be thanking you when their hair gets pulled!
Vest styles offer the most security in escape-proof cat harnesses. If you have a short-haired cat that wants to be outside, I think this is the best escape-proof cat harness on the market. Your cat can explore your backyard from the safety of this cat harness and a leash.
The durable nylon straps on this escape and snag-proof cat harness keep your furry friend safe on walks while allowing full breathability and minimal chafing. In addition, it features an adjustable design that moves with your cat, allowing the chest and belly loops to adjust in size as your cat explores.
Cats are frisky creatures even when they are indoors. With the endless adventure presented by the wild outdoors, cats can get caught up in the moment– and in their leashes. This minimalistic harness features a durable 360-degree swivel clip on its back. This allows your cat to explore comfortably and without the risk of getting hooked on something.
This figure-eight style cat harness allows your cat to move in any direction without twisting and tangling its leash. Swivels are especially useful for cats new to walking on leashes that have not learned proper etiquette. In addition, this design makes it one of the best escape-proof cat harnesses available.
When properly sized, this lightweight figure-eight design does not allow cats to escape when properly sized. Just slip the chest loop over your cat’s head and fasten a single clip under the belly before embarking on an adventure. This is especially great for cats who tend to squirm as it’s fast and easy to put on them.
The downside to this escape-proof cat harness is that figure eight designs can tighten when cats lunge or bolt, which keeps them secure but may cause some cats anxiety. In addition, as the straps constrict slightly on them, it may exacerbate their fight or flight response.
Easy-going cats appreciate this minimal harness for its barely-there feel, while owners love the adjustability. If you have a cat that’s unsure about harness or won’t allow you enough time to put a full coverage one on, this may be a good choice for you and your cat. The snag-proof design elements make this an excellent choice for active climbers and backyard kitties too.
In general, H-style harnesses offer more mobility than vest-style ones but don’t offer as much security as the full-coverage designs. However, this escape-proof cat harness and leash set is entirely breathable due to its lightweight nylon straps, plus this harness can even be used by adventurous cats who like to play in the water.
Though the straps are thinner than vest or step-in designs, with multiple adjustment points, pressure is applied evenly. The design of this harness is made to sit across the front of a cat’s shoulders rather than close to the throat. These fittings keep your cat’s sensitive trachea safe from pinching.
This harness includes a unique bungee leash that allows you to guide your cat on outings gently. For example, when cats lunge to chase birds, mice, or leaves, you can uncomfortably jolt them on regular fixed leashes. The flexible bungee design softens impact and prevents your explorer from tugging.
Many strappy harnesses can be puzzles when you are ready to put them on. This color-coded harness makes donning gear easier for you and your cat. The chest and waist strap adjusts to allow for a purr-fectly snug fit. This package deal also includes a detailed guide for changing the fit and helping your cat learn to love this H-style harness.
The hardware that adjusts this harness’s girth may eventually wear out with heavy use. Many cat-owners can fix this by simply tying a knot to replace the rubber stopper when it faults. However, if your cat is incredibly rambunctious, they can wear out this feature more quickly.
Due to the thinner design, I think this harness may be best for more docile cats who are less likely to attempt escape. It’s also a light and breathable design perfect for sunny playdates in the backyard and garden. So while it may not hold up for an adventure cat, it’s excellent for an in-town feline.
Voyager Step-In Air Harness – All Weather Mesh Step in Vest Harness
Option #4: Most Secure Harness
Rating: 8/10
If you worry your cat can bust through a harness, this three clasp system will make sure they can’t. This cat vest harness fits your cat with a velcro strap before clasping it with solid buckles. Dual metal rings come together within this cat harness and leash attachment point for a failsafe design.
This soft mesh vest harness’s step-in design is perfect for cats who don’t like pulling gear over their heads. Simply step your cat’s front paws through the arm-holes before securing the vest at the back. A step-in vest is a safe option with full coverage, applying pressure evenly across your cat’s chest and back.
With a range of available colors, you can easily personalize your cat’s outdoor style or tell the difference between sets for a multi-cat family. In addition, reflective details along the shoulders keep your kitty visible even in dim conditions. This is great if they happen to wander out of the backyard at night, as you can spot them more easily.
This is one of the bulkier harnesses for cats. With a bit of reward-based training, most cats don’t seem to mind. However, if your cat freezes up when a harness is on them, they may resent this style.
While the three-step closure offers peace of mind, cats new to cat harness and leash-walking or attire may feel uncomfortable wearing this at first. Therefore, I would recommend this vest for cats accustomed to wearing vest harnesses or who don’t mind a little extra weight.
Note: even though this is made specifically for dogs. It’s also a perfectly safe for cats!
High Visibility Water-repellent Yellow Safety Cat Harness
Option #5 Most Safest Cat Harness
Rating: 8/10
Visibility and a comfortable, snug fit are necessary safety features in an escape-proof cat harness. Fortunately, this cat harness checks both of those boxes. Available in custom sizes and bright colors with reflective strips, you will safely spot your cat in this harness.
This custom cat harness allows you to explore the world with your feline friend by your side. Escape is futile in this harness hand-sewed to fit your cat’s measurements exactly. Custom sizing means your cat will be more comfortable and less likely to feel stressed by unwieldy attire.
Large reflective strips on a high visibility fabric keep it accessible to see your cat no matter where they go. This design, in particular, features water-repellent fabric, perfect if you are caught in the rain or exploring on dewy mornings. If your cat escapes with this vest on, it may be easier to spot them in your search.
This cat vest-style harness is one of the most secure and doesn’t require your cat to slip its head through any material. Even the most muscular cats will have no chance of escaping the two strength-tested velcro closures. In addition, the durable loop for leash attachment can disperse pressure evenly across the vest, so there’s little discomfort when worn.
Because it is a custom design, this harness is a bit more expensive than others on the market. While some may view this as a con, others may view it like a pro. You’ll be supporting a small business when you choose this cat harness.
Most cats are difficult to size, so you’ll find peace of mind knowing your pet will be secure and comfortable in this custom-sized harness. This tailor also offers fashion-forward designer harnesses worthy of any catwalk. If a unique cat harness is essential to you, this one fits the bill.
FAQ
How to Measure Your Cat for a Harness
Measuring a cat for a harness is relatively simple. First, you’ll need a standard soft measuring tape and your cat.
First, you’ll want to measure around your cat’s chest. Hold them on a flat surface and encourage them to stand up. Before your cat can run away, wrap the soft tape measure around their chest, behind their front legs, and record the measurement in inches.
This sizing will typically allow you to find an appropriately sized cat harness. You’ll know you have the right fit if the harness fits snug on your cat while still allowing you to put two fingers between your cat and the harness. This is the proper way to measure your cat.
How do I get My Cat used to Wearing a Harness?
While some cats will take to a harness naturally, regardless of the style, some cats freeze up and refuse to move. You can have the best escape-proof harness and leash set money can buy, and your cat may still reject it. The best way to get your cat to adjust to a harness is through practice and exposure.
Leave the harness out in a place your cat can easily see, touch, and smell. You can associate the movement of you putting it near them with something happy by giving them a treat.
Practice makes perfect. If your cat turns into a statue every time you put a harness on them, keep trying. Don’t traumatize your kitty but allow them to wear it for a few minutes at a time and give them treats and words of encouragement till you take it off. Eventually, they will catch on that this is an okay situation. You can also get them more comfortable walking in a harness by encouraging them to take a few steps to reach a treat.
Final Thoughts
Think of harnesses to your cat like shoes to our feet. You probably don’t leave the house without shoes and your cat shouldn’t leave the house without a harness.
An escape-proof cat harness and leash will provide more security than just a leash and collar when it comes to exploring outside or evacuating in an emergency. Our products listed above are some of the best escape-proof cats harnesses around and are sure to be comfortable, safe, and escape-proof.
