The Rise of Cat Walking: Benefits, Risks and Owner Experiences

In recent years, walking cats has become increasingly popular, particularly among younger people living in urban areas with limited outdoor space. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have highlighted adventurous cats, from paddling on boards to exploring beaches. While owners like Alana Kestle and her partner in Cardiff have successfully harness-trained their cat Roo, emphasising safety and gradual acclimatisation, experts caution that not all cats are suited to this activity. Cats Protection and animal behaviourists advise selecting pets that can thrive indoors or in controlled environments, rather than forcing them into outdoor experiences. Training methods often involve clicker-based rewards, and careful attention to feline body language is essential. Clinical animal behaviourist Daniel Warren-Cummings highlights that many social media trends, including leads and bubble-backpacks, may compromise cat welfare if not handled responsibly. Overall, cat walking can be beneficial for enrichment when done properly, but it requires patience, understanding, and respect for each cat’s personality and comfort levels.