Walking Sophie on a leash

[lizzielou742]

Hi all! It's been a while since I posted.

Sophie has recently discovered the joys of walking on a leash, and it's like she's a different cat. Much more active, loves all over me now (because she wants me to take her outside!), meows like crazy at the front door (she *never* meowed before). She also bumrushes the door every time we come in the house now - not exactly a great development.

Sooo...I can't decide if this is good or bad. Have I created a monster? We live on a busy street, there are other stray cats around, and we don't have a fenced-in backyard so I just don't feel comfortable letting her roam free. I just want her to be happy.

Should I stop taking her outside? What do you guys think?

liz

[catmandu]

For Some Reason That Reminds Me Of One Of My Mothers Favorite Old Songs.
How Are You Going To Keep Them Down On The Farm
Now That They Have Seen Gay Paree!
Thats A Tough Problem As You Have To Watch That She Doesnt Rush Out On Her Own,and Get Away From You.
I Have That Problem With Jjj3,as He Used To Go Out,and Still Gets The Urge To Scout The Neighborhood.
I Wouldnt Let Her Out Except On A Leash,as All It Takes Is A Careless Driver,or A Mean Dog,and Tragedy.
I Wish You Luck With Your Kitty.
Can You Enclose A Small Spot For Her,on The Porch So She Cant Get Out?
Thats What Im Doing For The Found Ctas When My Income Tax Comes In.

[G535]

I take my cat for a walk every day except for wet days because he doesn't like getting wet. I should really say he takes me for a walk! He doesn't mind the collar and leash, he did object strongly to a harness when he was younger.

[momcat]

As long as Sophie is on her leash and under your control, I really don't see a problem. She enjoys going for a walk and you both get some exercise. When Soncat lived in Rhode Island he adopted a senior shelter kitty that loved her daily walks on her leash. Just be careful that the strays don't try to hurt her.

[Barbara]

Lizzie, glad to see you again

I think as long as you take Sophie out on a leash nothing bad will happen. And if she wants to go out in between it would be time for some heavy playing. Even ten year old Tigris gets nervous now in spring and sits at the door and meows (he has escaped some times in the staircase and thinks it is an area of adventure )- then he needs a playing session to calm down.

[jazzcat]

HI!!! Long time no see!

I think that is cool that you've taught Sophie to walk on a leash. I would love to try that with mine, especially Rocky and Jazz. I think they would love it but I'm worried it would make them try to get out every time the door opens.

I agree with Barbara, just keep her safe by always having her on the leash.