In article ,
bobblespin wrote:
(Claude V. Lucas) wrote in
:

In article ,
CatNipped wrote:
"Claude V. Lucas" wrote in message
.. .
Hi

Due to a pending car trip, I'm trying to acclimate
Bubba the 25Lb Maine Coon to a harness and leash so
that he can have an occasional break from the carrier
without me having to chase him around the rest stop.

I got a harness from the Pet Labyrinth that is
designed for a small-medium dog (don't tell him)
and put it on him around the house to give him
a chance to get used to it. It's not too tight,
I can slide both hands under it, but he's none
too happy with the imposition in spite of
additional treats.

If looks could kill...

I'm figuring to get him used to the harness by
having him wear it while I can keep an eye on him
so nothing catastrophic happens for increasing periods
of time before I try to use the leash too.

Any helpful hints or suggestions?

Nope, I think what you're doing is fine. One caution, through, be
careful not to make the harness *too* loose - I've seen cats wriggle
out of them and you don't want that to happen next to a busy highway
if he gets spooked by something!


Thanks.

I'm gonna start it off loose to minimize the angst on his part
and tighten it up if it needs it later...

Yes, do make it snug when he's used to it. Some of mine used to back-up
out of their harness when something scared them.


He's already tried the "back-up" trick, but without it hooked
to anything he's just been backing up in circles.

Kinda funny in a sad way.

I wish I had a video camera...