Leashing cats is a lot easier than herding cats, as this selection of well-behaved – well, mostly – felines at the end of their ropes plainly illustrates.
1) Leading The Trend
Some say the recent popularity of cats on leashes is a reflection of “helicopter parenting” projected onto our beloved pets. Perhaps so, but one can't argue the fact that cats on leashes get into less trouble than free-ranging felines. (cats on leashes images via Kent Wang on Sept 13th and Sept 18th of 2018)
2) Dog Dazed
One can only imagine what this dog thought after meeting up with a leashed cat. We're thinkin' something like... “Wow, does your owner pick up your poop too??” (cats on leashes image via Pretty Poo Eater)
3) Nobody's Business But The Turk's
Once upon a time, just the thought of walking a cat on a leash would prompt smirks, laughter, even ridicule. Why that changed we cannot say, people just liked it better that way – and as proof, we offer the above leashed cat from Istanbul, not Constantinople. (cats on leashes image via mia!)
4) Harness The Meower
One does not simply leash a cat and walk into Mordor. Cats in general (and your cat in particular) aren't always amenable to being leashed, so the type and style of leash can make a huge difference in how they'll react. If possible, try to use a harness-type leash that won't choke the wearer when stretched to the limit. (cats on leashes image via Michael Allen Smith)
5) Well Red Kitty
Coordinate or contrast, that is the question. Diesel here (or at least, his owner) has opted for the latter: a bright red leash really stands out against his midnight black coat. Maybe that's just how they roll in South Africa. (cats on leashes image via Chris Bloom)
6) Cat Grass Fever
Leashing your cat isn't crazy at all so ignore the haters and enjoy the great outdoors with your pet! “Fortunately for me she actually likes the damned thing and purrs when I get it out,” relates the photographer. Purr-haps she doesn't like the leash as much as those lush “herbs” in the garden. Catnip... it'a helluva drug. (cats on leashes image via Caitlin Childs)
7) Shock & Awe
We get it – cat leashes don't exactly grow on trees and finding the right leash for your cat can take time and money. That said, do take the time and spend some green... an old electrical cord is a poor substitute, especially if the other end's plugged into a live socket. (cats on leashes image via Lisa Larsson)
8) Board Certified
They see me rollin' but are they hatin'? Nyaaaa. Eaten up by jealousy? Yeaaah! Seriously tho', if your cat can skateboard then it doesn't need a leash, it needs an agent, a manager and all the top-quality cat food it wants. (cats on leashes image via freestocks.org)
9) Dump & Dumpsterer
“I love how the cat sees me but not the crazy cat lady walking the cat on the leash,” states the photographer. “Hilarious!” Laugh while you can, smug photog, that cat might be on a leash NOW but when it comes off she WILL remember you! (cats on leashes image via lostintheredwoods)
10) End Of The Line
Lost in the visual noise of this cat from China wearing a custom full-face anti-virus mask is another, less obvious attribute: a leash, put in place by the unnamed owner, that doubles down on their care and concern for a beloved pet. It's a reminder that while cats can be amazingly independent and self-reliant, urban settings can be a dangerous environment. Word up, pet owners: before you release your cat, consider re-leashing it first. (cats on leashes image via Daily Star c/o new/qq/com)