How to Train Your Cat to Sit in a Stroller

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

There are many benefits to taking your cat outside in a stroller. Your pet can enjoy the sunshine, take in the fresh air and interesting smells, and see some wildlife—and you won’t have to worry about her running off.

But before you buy a stroller for cats, consider that your frisky feline might not be too keen on the idea—at least not at first. It may take some time to train your kitty and get her comfortable with being inside a stroller.

Start Inside the House

After buying a pet stroller, it isn’t a good idea to immediately put your kitty in it and go outside. Instead, set it up and let your cat inspect it, but don’t force her to spend a lot of time in it. Instead, let her decide when she’s had enough.

To entice your cat to stay in the stroller, you could use treats, catnip, and toys. Be there while she’s in the stroller so you can pet her, give her some food, and tell her how good she is. That way, she can start to see it as a safe and happy place.

Then, take additional steps to prepare for going outside. For example, get your cat accustomed to wearing her harness little by little, especially if she’s never worn one. And get her used to having the top of the stroller closed around her—you might close it for mere seconds the first few times, depending on how she reacts.  

The next step is to start moving the stroller around the house. The motion might be jarring for your kitty at the beginning, so be patient and consistent.

Take It Outside

It might take days or even weeks for your cat to feel totally at ease in an enclosed, moving stroller. Once that happens, you can start taking her outside. It’s best to go slow again, as this will be a new experience. Calming pheromone sprays, treats, and plenty of reassurance may help at this stage of the training process as well.

Stay close to home, such as by only going into your backyard. A few minutes might be all that she’ll tolerate at first. Do this often and consistently, keeping an eye on your pet’s reaction every time.

When both you and your cat are ready, you can take it to the next level by going for short walks near your home. If you live near a park, you might even walk there and sit for a while as your cat takes in the surroundings.  

Take Your Time and Consider Your Cat’s Preferences

Although you might really want to take your cat for a walk in a stroller, the truth is not all kitties will enjoy the experience. If you find that your pet just isn’t having a good time, and no amount of training is making a difference in how she feels, it may be best to let go of the idea of taking her outside. Or, there might be other things you can try, such as using a catio to give her the opportunity to spend time outdoors safely. Ultimately, it’s all about working with your unique kitty so you and your pet can be happy.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Blue Rumped Parrot

As a pet, the Blue Rumped Parrot is generally considered to be a calm, docile bird. Their quietness and sweet nature make them great apartment pets.

Cheetoh

The Cheetoh is a product of the Ocicat and the Bengal cats. This fun-loving kitty enjoys playing, running, and jumping through every room in your house.

FDA Approves Mirataz, A New Weight Loss Control Medicine For Cats

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Mirataz, a new drug for managing unintentional weight loss in cats.

Top 12 Cat Halloween Costumes to Hiss At

Cats and Halloween go together... but have you ever dressed your kitty in a costume? Try on one of these cat Halloween costumes - if your cat will let you!

Responsible Pet Ownership: Beyond the Basics

Mike Bober, the President and CEO of PIJAC, shares his thoughts on why responsible pet ownership begins before you get a pet.

The Most Cat-ified Cat Video You’ve EVER Seen [Video]

What happens when you take a cat video, fill it up with cat graphics... and then throw more cats into the mix? You get cattiest cat video we have ever seen!

Lurcher

Technically, the Lurcher is a cross between a sighthound and any non-sighthound breed. These dogs are intelligent and hardy, ideal for hunting purposes.

Bolonoodle

The Bolonoodle is a cross between a purebred Bolognese and Poodle. Full of love and energy, these dogs are a true pleasure to be around.

How To Stop Your Dog From Following You Around the House

We love them to bits yet, let’s be honest, there are times when being followed around all day by our furry little buddies becomes, well, annoying. Am I right?…

Plush Lop

The Plush Lop is a newer breed that can be divided into the standard size and the mini size. The coat of a Plush Lop is smooth, soft, and silky.

UNC Students Allowed To Bring Their Pets Back To School With Them

Colorado college tests out pilot program allowing pets in campus dorms It’s the most wonderful time of the year (back-to-school, that is) and a few luc…

Spinone Italiano

Bred in Italy as a specialist hunting dog, the Spinone Italiano is intelligent and strong and has almost human-like eyes which lend to its gentle appearance

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Showing Off My Pooch Pride

It''s the most wonderful time of the year - Gay Pride! The Hairy Dogfathers have some advice when it comes to bringing your dog along to Pride celebrations.

Dog Tries To Fetch Baseball on TV

This German Shepherd wants you to take her out to the ballgame. On second thought, that wouldn’t be a good idea, based on what she does when she sees t…

Winners Of Our True Love Valentine’s Day Contest

We love our readers! You guys really came through for our True Love Valentine’s Day Contest. Based on votes, here are our winners: Grand Prize: Hawke…