Unleash the Adventure: 10 Escape-Proof Cat Harnesses for Your Feline Explorer
As much as we love our feline friends, keeping them safe and secure can be a challenge, especially when they’re outside exploring. Fortunately, escape-proof cat harnesses can help give you peace of mind and allow your cat to safely explore their surroundings. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to choose the right one. In this article, we’ve gathered a list of 10 of the best escape-proof cat harnesses, designed to keep your furry friend safe and secure while still allowing them the freedom to explore and play. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting out, there’s sure to be a harness on this list that will work for you and your cat. So, let’s get started and find the perfect harness for your feline explorer!
- How To Choose a Cat Harness
- Different Types of Cat Harnesses
- How to Measure a Cat Harness
- Our Favorite Cat Harnesses For Houdinis
- Cat Harness Comparison Chart
- 1. Kitty Holster Cat Harness
- 2. PetSafe Come With Me Kitty Harness & Bungee Leash
- 3. Pidan Cat Harness & Leash Set
- 4. Mynwood Cat Jacket
- 5. Voyager Step-in Lock Cat Harness
- 6. Travel Cat The True Adventurer – Reflective Cat and Kitten Harness & Leash Set
- 7. Rabbitgoo Cat Harness & Leash
- 8. PUPTECK Cat Harness & Leash Set
- 9. Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness and Leash
- 10. Kitten Harness and Leash Set
- Frequently Asked Questions
How To Choose a Cat Harness
When choosing a cat harness for your Houdini, it’s essential to consider various factors such as material, fit, leash attachment, adjustability, ease of use, and durability.
Material
There are a variety of materials that cat harnesses can be made from, including nylon, mesh, cotton and neoprene. Nylon is a strong and durable material that is often used in cat harnesses because it is comfortable for the cat to wear and easy to clean. Mesh is a lightweight and breathable material that is also comfortable for the cat to wear and allows for good ventilation. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber material that is waterproof and can be used in harnesses that are designed for outdoor activities like hiking or walking in inclement weather. Ultimately the best material for a cat harness depends on the intended use and the preferences of the cat and its owner.
Fit
Fitting and measuring a cat harness properly is important to ensure that the harness is comfortable for the cat to wear and that it fits securely. Here are some steps to help you fit and measure a cat harness for your cat:
- Measure your cat’s chest and neck: Use a flexible tape measure to measure the widest part of your cat’s chest, just behind the front legs, and the base of the neck where the harness will sit.
- Choose a harness that fits your cat’s measurements: Look for a harness that is adjustable and that corresponds to your cat’s chest and neck measurements.
- Adjust the straps: After putting the harness on your cat, make sure to modify the straps in a way that the harness fits tightly, yet not excessively tight. It’s important to ensure that there’s enough space for two fingers between the harness and your cat’s skin.
- Check for any chafing or rubbing: Make sure that the harness is not rubbing or chafing against your cat’s skin. If it is, adjust the straps again or try a different harness.
- Take your cat for a test walk: Take your cat for a short walk to see how the harness fits and to make sure that it is comfortable for your cat to wear.
- Monitor your cat while they wear the harness and adjust as necessary if your cat seems uncomfortable or the harness is loose.
It is important to remember that each cat is different, what works for one cat might not work for the other, so it is important to take the time to properly fit and measure the harness for your cat and make any necessary adjustments.
Adjustability
Adjustability in a cat harness refers to the ability to adjust the fit of the harness to the individual cat’s body. A well-fitting harness will ensure the cat’s comfort and safety while wearing it. Adjustable features can include straps around the chest and neck that can be tightened or loosened to fit the cat’s body, as well as buckles or snaps that allow you to adjust the overall size of the harness.
It’s important to adjust the harness correctly, you should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your cat’s skin. The chest strap should be snug but not too tight, so that the cat can breathe comfortably. The neck strap should be loose enough for the cat to open its mouth, but not so loose that the harness can slip off.
Additionally, some harnesses come with a padded chest and belly area for added comfort and others come with reflective materials to make your cat more visible during walks in low light conditions.
Leash Attachment
A cat harness leash attachment feature is a mechanism on a cat harness that allows you to attach a leash. This allows you to take your cat for walks or keep them on a leash while you are outside. The attachment feature is typically a loop or a ring located on the back of the harness where the leash can be connected. Some harnesses also include a front attachment option for added control during walks.
Ease of Use
Ease of use refers to how simple and straightforward it is to put the harness on and take it off your cat, as well as how easily the harness can be adjusted to fit the cat properly.
Some cat harnesses are designed with ease of use in mind, featuring simple buckle or snap closures that can be quickly and easily fastened and unfastened. Others may have more complex fastenings, such as multiple straps or buckles that may take more time to adjust.
A harness that is easy to use should have clear instructions and should be easy to adjust and fasten while your cat is wearing it. You should be able to put it on and take it off your cat without much hassle, and without having to struggle with buckles or straps.
Additionally, a harness that is designed for ease of use will often have a design that allows for the cat to move freely and comfortably, without constricting the cat’s movement or causing any discomfort.
Durability
A durable cat harness should be made of strong, high-quality materials that can withstand regular wear and tear.
Some cat harnesses are made from lightweight materials that may not be as durable as others. Others may be made from heavy-duty materials, such as nylon or neoprene, that are more resistant to wear and tear.
The stitching and construction of the harness can also affect its durability. A harness that is well-constructed and has reinforced stitching is more likely to hold up over time than one that is poorly made.
Additionally, some harnesses may have additional features that make them more durable, such as reinforced buckles or clips, or extra padding in high-wear areas.
It’s worth noting that a durable harness will not only make it last longer, but it will also keep your cat safer. A harness that is worn out or damaged can easily break or come loose, putting your cat at risk.
Different Types of Cat Harnesses
There are many different types of cat harnesses available on the market, and what may be considered the most secure will vary depending on personal preferences and the specific needs of the cat and owner. However, some cat harnesses that are often considered to be more secure for escape artists include:
1. The “H” Style Harness
The “H” style harness is a type of cat harness that features a strap that goes around the cat’s chest and another that goes around the cat’s belly, connecting in the center. This creates an “H” shape and provides extra security as it is more difficult for the cat to slip out of.
One of the benefits of this style of harness is that it distributes the pressure evenly around the cat’s chest and belly, making it more comfortable for the cat to wear. Additionally, the design of the “H” style harness makes it difficult for the cat to wriggle out of the harness, which can be a common problem with other types of harnesses.
This style of harness typically has a buckle or snap closure at the center of the “H” shape, and it can be adjusted to fit the cat’s body. Some “H” style harnesses also include additional straps or buckles for added adjustability, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
It’s also worth noting that the “H” style harness can be more difficult to put on than other types of harnesses, but it can be more secure and comfortable for your cat. It’s important to check the instructions and make sure you are putting the harness on correctly before taking your cat for a walk.
It’s also important to note that not all cats will enjoy this style of harness, some cats may find it uncomfortable or restrictive, so it’s always best to observe your cat’s reaction when putting the harness on and adjust accordingly.
2. The “Vest” Style Harness
The “vest” style harness is a type of cat harness that is similar to a dog harness and wraps around the cat’s chest and belly, with straps that buckle or snap closed. This style of harness is considered secure as it distributes the pressure evenly around the cat’s chest and belly, making it difficult for the cat to slip out.
This harness can be made of various materials, such as nylon or neoprene, that are durable and breathable. The straps that go around the cat’s chest and belly are adjustable, allowing you to get a good fit for your cat. The straps are usually secured with buckles or snaps, which can be easily fastened and unfastened.
One of the advantages of the vest style harness is that it provides more coverage than some other types of harnesses, which can make it more secure. Additionally, because the harness is worn around the cat’s chest and belly, it’s less likely to ride up or twist, which can be a problem with other types of harnesses.
The vest style harness is also typically more comfortable for cats to wear. The straps are adjustable, so you can get a good fit for your cat, and the design distributes pressure evenly, which can be more comfortable than harnesses that put pressure on just one area of the cat’s body.
It’s worth noting that like the “H” style harness, this type of harness can be more difficult to put on than other types of harnesses, but it can be more secure and comfortable for your cat. It’s important to check the instructions and make sure you are putting the harness on correctly before taking your cat for a walk.
3. The Front-clip Harness
The front-clip harness is a type of cat harness that features a clip or ring located at the front of the harness, where the leash is attached. This design allows for more control over your cat’s movements and makes it harder for them to pull away.
This type of harness typically has a simple design, with a single chest strap that goes around the cat’s chest and fastens with a buckle or snap. The front clip or ring is usually made of sturdy metal, such as steel or aluminium, and is designed to be strong enough to hold the cat’s weight.
One of the main benefits of the front-clip harness is that it allows you to have more control over your cat during walks. Because the leash is attached at the front of the harness, you can steer your cat more easily and redirect their attention if they start to pull or wander.
Additionally, the front-clip harness is less likely to cause choking or discomfort to the cat as the leash is attached in the front and not in the back, which is a common problem with other types of harnesses.
It’s also worth noting that this type of harness is usually more comfortable for cats as it doesn’t put pressure on the neck and spine, allowing the cat to move more freely.
It’s important to note that not all cats will enjoy this style of harness, as some cats may find it uncomfortable or restrictive, so it’s always best to observe your cat’s reaction when putting the harness on and adjust accordingly.
How to Measure a Cat Harness
Measuring a cat harness properly is crucial for ensuring a good fit and preventing escape. Here are the steps to measure a cat harness for your cat:
- Measure the girth of your cat’s chest: To do this, wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of your cat’s chest, which is typically just behind the front legs. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight, and record the measurement.
- Measure the neck of your cat: To do this, wrap a measuring tape around the base of your cat’s neck, where the collar would sit. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight, and record the measurement.
- Measure the length of your cat’s back: To do this, measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
- It is crucial to compare your cat’s measurements to the harness’s size chart you’re contemplating. Opt for an adjustable harness to ensure a proper fit.
- Once you have the measurements, it’s important to try the harness on your cat to ensure a good fit. The harness should fit your cat snugly, but not be overly tight, and provide ample space for your cat to move around comfortably. Also, check the harness often and adjust as necessary to maintain a good fit.
It’s important to note that some cats may have unique body shapes that make it difficult to find a perfect fit, in those cases, it’s recommended to consult with a veterinarian or a professional in cat behavior or a professional in the pet store to help you find the best fitting harness for your cat.
Our Favorite Cat Harnesses For Houdinis
Cat Harness Comparison Chart
| Check on Amazon | Price USA | Price UK | Material | Style | Machine washable | Leash Included | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winner | Kitty Holster Cat Harness |  | $28.99 | £33.60 | Cotton | Vest | Yes | No |
| Runner Up | PetSafe Come With Me Kitty Harness & Bungee Leash |  | $16.95 | £14.13 | Mesh | H-style | Yes | Yes |
| Pidan Cat Harness |  | $18.99 | £9.99 | Mesh | H-style | Yes | Yes | |
| Mynwood Cat Jacket |  | $28 | £20 | Cotton | Vest | Yes | No | |
| Voyager Step-in Lock Cat Harness |  | $22.99 | £26.90 | Air mesh | H-style | Yes | Yes | |
| Travel Cat The True Adventurer – Reflective Cat and Kitten Harness |  | $25.49 | £26.90 | Mesh | Vest | Yes | Yes | |
| Rabbitgoo Cat Harness |  | $15.98 | £14.99 | Air mesh | H-style | No | Yes | |
PUPTECK Cat Harness |  | $15.29 | £13.99 | Air mesh | H-style vest | Yes | Yes | |
| 3rd Place | Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness |  | $15.99 | £21.46 | Mesh | Vest | Yes | Yes |
| Kitten Harness |  | $29.99 | £34.67 | Mesh | H-style | Yes | Yes |
1. Kitty Holster Cat Harness
The Kitty Holster is a popular brand of cat harness that is designed to be escape-proof. It is made with a soft, breathable cotton material that is comfortable for cats to wear, and features a secure buckle that snaps shut to prevent cats from slipping out.
The Kitty Holster also has a unique design that covers the cat’s back and chest, making it more difficult for them to wriggle out of the harness. It also has a D-ring attachment point for a leash, and the harness is adjustable to ensure a snug and secure fit.
One of the advantages of the Kitty Holster is that it is made with a lightweight and breathable material which allows a cat to move comfortably, it is also machine washable and it comes in different sizes and colors.
Pros
- Made with a soft, breathable cotton material that is comfortable for cats to wear
- Secure buckle that snaps shut to prevent cats from slipping out
- Unique design that covers the cat’s back and chest, making it more difficult for them to wriggle out
- Super strong velcro
- One of the best and most secure escape-proof cat harnesses
Cons
- Some customers think it’s too bulky around the neck
2. PetSafe Come With Me Kitty Harness & Bungee Leash
The PetSafe Come With Me Kitty Harness and Bungee Leash is a type of cat harness that is designed to be comfortable and secure for cats. The harness is made with a soft, breathable mesh material that is comfortable for cats to wear, and features a secure buckle that snaps shut to prevent cats from slipping out.
The harness also has a unique design that covers the cat’s chest and back, making it more difficult for them to wriggle out of the harness. It also has a D-ring attachment point for the included bungee leash which is designed to absorb shock and reduce tension on the cat’s neck and back. The harness is also adjustable to ensure a snug and secure fit.
One of the advantages of the PetSafe Come With Me Kitty Harness and Bungee Leash is that the bungee leash reduces tension on the cat’s neck and back making it more comfortable for the cat, also the harness is made with a lightweight and breathable material which allows a cat to move comfortably, it is also machine washable and it comes in different sizes and colors.
Pros
- Very secure
- Comfortable for your cat
- Lightweight
- Great bungee action
Cons
- Can be complicated to put on at first
- The rubber stopper doesn`t stay in place
3. Pidan Cat Harness & Leash Set
This Harness and Leash Set is stylish, practical and well coordinated. The harness is not easy for your cat to take off as it is H-style design. It allows your kitty to experience optimal tactile sensitivity and does not put pressure on the chest. The harness is made from lightweight material so that your cat won’t even notice they are wearing a harness. Works as described and has lots of good customer reviews.
Pros
- Well made
- Comfortable for your cat
- Allows your cat to move freely
- Lightweight
- Secure
Cons
- The leash is short (48 inches or 122 cm)
- Too small for large cats
4. Mynwood Cat Jacket
The Mynwood Cat Jacket is a product made by the UK-based company Mynwood Cat Jackets. It is a specially designed jacket for cats, meant to keep them warm during cold weather. The jacket is made with a water-resistant and windproof outer layer, and is lined with a soft cotton material for added warmth and comfort. The jacket also features a harness hole, so that it can be worn with a harness, allowing cats to be safely walked on a leash while wearing the jacket. It comes in different sizes and colors to fit different cats.
Pros
- Well made
- Comfortable for your cat
- Easy to put on
- Lightweight
- Secure and strong
Cons
- Great harness but a quick challenge for a good escape artist if not fitted correctly
5. Voyager Step-in Lock Cat Harness
The Voyager Step-in Lock cat harness is a user-friendly harness that features a secure locking mechanism and is effortless to put on and remove. Constructed from sturdy materials, it can be adjusted to suit various cat breeds and sizes. The step-in design allows the cat to simply step into the harness and the locking mechanism is then secured, making it a quick and easy alternative to traditional harnesses that require the cat’s legs to be lifted through the straps.
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Durable
- Escape proof
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
Cons
- The locking mechanism jams occasionally according to customers
6. Travel Cat The True Adventurer – Reflective Cat and Kitten Harness & Leash Set
The Travel Cat The True Adventurer – Reflective Cat and Kitten Harness and Leash Set is a great choice if you want to take your cat on outdoor adventures such as walks, hikes, or training sessions. It is made of breathable and durable material, and the harness is adjustable with a velcro closure and plastic clip, making it comfortable for your cat and allowing room for growth. Additionally, the reflective strip on the harness helps to keep your cat visible at night. The leash is 4 feet long, providing your cat with freedom to explore while you maintain control. The snap clip on the leash has a 360-degree rotation and is made of high-quality metal alloy.
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Soft material
- Escape proof
- Comfortable
Cons
- Pricey, not the best option on the market: Customers say the leash is of poor quality and the velcro could be stronger
- Rather loose design (go size smaller)
7. Rabbitgoo Cat Harness & Leash
Rabbitgoo Cat Harness is a brand of cat harness that is designed to provide a comfortable and secure fit for cats. It is made of durable and breathable materials, and features a double-layered mesh design for added security. The harness also includes a leash attachment, making it easy to take your cat for walks or outdoor adventures. Some key features of the Rabbitgoo Cat Harness include its adjustable straps and buckles, which allow you to customize the fit for your cat, and its reflective strips, which provide added visibility in low-light conditions. Overall, the Rabbitgoo Cat Harness is a great option for cat owners who want to give their feline friends a safe and comfortable way to explore the great outdoors.
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Soft material, padded underneath the buckles
- Very sturdy and well made
- Secure
Cons
- The neck part loosens eventually, it should have a clip
- Can’t be machine washed
8. PUPTECK Cat Harness & Leash Set
Your Cat Will Love This Harness – It’s obvious that some cats dislike wearing a harness, and if you try to put one on, the cat will almost likely escape. As a result, when your cat doesn’t respond, we need to put the harness on faster. The Pupteck harness has two quick-release buckles that make it simple to put on and remove. Pupteck advises you to place the harness in your pet cat’s bed so he becomes familiar with it. The harness has four adjustable straps that are flexible, allowing you to resize it to perfectly fit your beloved cat and prevent them from escaping the harness.
Pros
- Well made with strong clasps
- Soft material
- Very secure and escape proof
- Comfortable
- Reflective at night
Cons
- Hard to put on
- Great for large cats but too big for smaller cats
9. Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness and Leash
The Yizhi Miaow cat-specific harness and leash are made without many buckles because cats are created differently than dogs. Both the neck and chest straps have an adjustable Magic Tape fastening and are comfortable. Choose the correct size for your pet by measuring its neck and chest. With robust and resilient Magic Tape, the cat harness is escape-proof. If you master the leash, it is incredibly challenging to break free of the Yizhi Miaow harness. Your cat needs to be trained so that the harness functions as a safety mechanism rather than a means of dragging it about. It’s okay for your cat to keep falling over at first; just practice for 30 minutes inside, once or twice a day. To discover how to teach your cat to walk, please view the instructional video available on Amazon.
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Well made
- Escape proof
- Comfortable
Cons
- The material is thick, not great for hot summer days
10. Kitten Harness and Leash Set
This cat harness provides a snug fit for your cat with adequate padding on the chest to prevent choking. Use the size chart and the cat’s girth measurement to ensure maximum comfort and safety. Super simple to put on and take off. Using the cord stopper, fasten the harness’s neck. After that, encircle the harness with the adjustable straps. Utilize the adjustable buckles to finalize the girth adjustment. The chest mesh is big enough to protect your cats’ chests while remaining light and small enough to allow them to move around freely. The passing ring around the cat’s neck enables stronger restraint when the cat is moving forward, but it also allows for a softer grip when the cat stops pulling.
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off
- Lightweight and adaptable
- Escape proof
- Sturdy
Cons
- The leash can’t be removed
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ’s About Cat Harnesses
What is a cat harness and why do I need one?
A cat harness is a device that is worn by a cat and attaches to a leash. It allows you to take your cat outside for walks, hikes, and other outdoor activities while keeping them safe and secure.
How do I know what size harness to buy for my cat?
Measure your cat’s chest and neck to ensure you get the right size harness. It should be snug but not too tight, and allow room for your cat to move comfortably.
Can cats get used to wearing a harness?
Yes, with patience and positive reinforcement, most cats can become accustomed to wearing a harness. It may take some time, but it is important to be patient and make the experience positive for your cat.
Is it safe to walk a cat on a leash?
Yes, it is safe to walk a cat on a leash as long as you use a harness that is properly fitted and adjusted for your cat’s size and comfort. It is also important to supervise your cat at all times during walks to ensure their safety.
How should a cat harness fit?
A cat harness should fit snugly but not too tightly on your cat’s body. The chest strap should be positioned just behind the front legs and should not be too loose or too tight. It should be comfortable for your cat to move and breathe in. The neck opening should also be adjustable and should not be too tight or too loose. It should be comfortable for your cat to move their head without restriction. The harness should be adjusted to the cat’s body, not too loose or too tight, it should allow your cat to move comfortably and breathe easily. It should be secure and not have any excess space that your cat could wiggle out of. Make sure that the harness is not too tight around the chest or neck, as this could cause discomfort or restrict breathing. It is important to check the fit of the harness regularly and adjust it as needed to ensure that it remains snug and secure.
Which cat harness is the most secure and escape proof?
It is difficult to say which cat harness is the most “escape proof” as all cats have different abilities and personalities. Some cats may be able to escape from any harness, while others may be content with a basic design. However, some features that can make a harness more escape-proof include:
- A secure fit with multiple adjustment points to ensure that the harness is snug and cannot be wriggled out of
- A front D-ring attachment, which prevents the cat from backing out of the harness
- A double-ended snap hook or buckle that attaches to the cat’s collar or chest as well as the harness
- A full-body harness that covers the cat’s chest, back and belly, making it harder for the cat to slip out
- A harness with a high-quality construction, that is made of durable materials, with double stitching or reinforced stitching on stress points, will be less likely to break or tear, making it harder for the cat to escape.
It is important to note that no harness is completely escape-proof, and it’s always important to supervise your cat when they are wearing a harness, especially when you’re training them to get used to it.
My cat won’t wear a harness, what shall I do?
Getting your cat used to a harness can take time and patience, but with the right approach, most cats can become accustomed to wearing one. Here are some tips to help your cat get used to a harness:
- Introduce the harness gradually: Start by leaving the harness out for your cat to sniff and investigate. Then, place a treat or food inside the harness and let your cat explore it.
- Make it a positive experience: Reward your cat with treats or praise when they show interest in the harness or allow you to put it on them.
- Start with short periods of wear: Once your cat is comfortable with the harness, put it on them for short periods of time (a few minutes at a time) and gradually increase the duration over time.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward your cat with treats or praise when they wear the harness without trying to escape.
- Keep it relaxed: Do not force your cat to wear the harness, if your cat shows signs of stress or discomfort, remove the harness and try again later.
- Pair the harness with something positive: Try to associate the harness with something your cat enjoys, such as a walk or playtime.
- Be patient: It may take some time for your cat to become comfortable with the harness. Be patient and consistent in your efforts to get them used to it.
- Make sure the harness is a good fit: Make sure the harness is properly adjusted to your cat’s size and comfort. A ill-fitting harness can be uncomfortable and stressful for your cat.
Remember, every cat is different and the process of getting them used to the harness can take time, it’s important to be patient and positive throughout the process.
Can I leave a harness on a cat?
It is generally not recommended to keep a cat harness on a cat all the time. Cats are active and playful animals and need to move freely and comfortably. A harness that is left on for an extended period of time can cause discomfort and restrict their movement, leading to stress and potential injuries.
Additionally, leaving a harness on for an extended period of time can also increase the risk of your cat getting tangled or caught on something, which could lead to injury.
It is best to use the harness only when you are actively walking or supervising your cat and remove it when your cat is not being supervised.
It is also important to regularly check the fit of the harness and adjust it as needed to ensure that it remains snug and secure, but also comfortable for your cat.
As a general rule, you should put on the harness on your cat only when you are ready to take them out, and take it off as soon as you return home.
