11 Best Cat Harnesses in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks
By Ashley Bates
Updated on
If you want to take your cat out to enjoy the lovely weather but worry about them darting off—you may be thinking about buying a harness. This can be a terrific choice for your feline since it keeps them safe and protected.
When you’re shopping for which harness to buy, it is good to read sound reviews about your best options. We consider safety, efficiency, and comfort most seriously in our below selections. So, without further ado, here are the best cat harness reviews for the top on the market today.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2024
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
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Hepper Harness and Leash Set |
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Check Price |
Budget Buy
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Dooradar Cat Leash & Harness Set |
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Check Price |
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BARKBAY Cat Harness & Leash |
|
Check Price |
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rabbitgoo Cat Harness & Leash |
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Check Price | |
|
Aumuca Cat Harness and Leash Most Stylish |
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Check Price |
The 11 Best Cat Harnesses
1. Hepper Harness & Leash Set — Best Overall
The best overall Hepper Harness & Leash Set is the top choice for cat owners who want to take their furry friends on an outdoor adventure and keep their pet safe and secure while doing so! The premium design of the harness and leash is made with matching velvet fabric and cushioning that is both soft and comfortable for owner and pet alike. The rope leash is about 5 feet in length and the harness comes in a variety of five different sizes for all types of cats.
The harness is made with adjustable Velcro straps along the sides for a versatile fit and easy options to adjust the fit around your cat. This harness also has buckles for easy release when your walk is over, and your cat is ready to go back to their napping spot. The leash is made with high-quality nylon climbing rope for security, with a 360-degree clamp that makes it easy for your cat to roam relatively freely without cramping the (although comfortable) neoprene handle around your hands.
- Reflective strips
- High-quality fabrics
- Adjustable Velcro straps
- Comfortable for owner and pet
- Velcro may catch on fur
2. Dooradar Cat Leash and Harness Set — Budget Buy
The Doordar Cat Leash and Harness set is another affordable and practical selection. It’s perfect for any cat that is just learning because it offers lots of mobility and a lightweight fit. But it is a suitable choice for cats with any level of harness experience.
This best cat harness and leash set comes in several color choices: gray, black, pink, royal blue, light blue, red, and yellow. You can choose the style you like most in either small or extra small sizes. Because there is no option for a larger size, it might not work for hefty house cats.
The adjustable strap lets you fit the harness to your cat to create an escape-proof enclosure. We liked how it hugs the back of the front legs to make sure your cat stays in place and is unable to squeeze through or pull out easily.
- Affordable
- Practical
- For beginners and experienced cats
- Escape-proof enclosure
- Won’t work for larger cats
3. BARKBAY Cat Harness and Leash Set
If you’re starting to train your cat, the BARKBAY Cat Harness Set offers everything you need to get started. It fit most of the criteria we looked for during the review process. We think it’s a great option because it is fully functional, incredibly well-fitting, and affordable for most budgets.
This harness set is available in six colors: red, purple, pink, teal, orange, and black. It is available in extra-extra small, extra small, and small—but all sizes cover from 9 to 23 inches high, so it should work for both kittens and adults alike.
The company refers to the design as being “360º wrap-style escape-proof,” meaning that it fits adequately to prevent escapes. The material is also incredibly tough and well-stitched, seeming to withstand wear and tear.
There is both a front and back D-ring attachment that you can alternate between the two. There is also a control handle on the back so you can have more control over your cat if needed.
- Functional
- Works for many cats
- Escape-proof fit
- Perfect for harness training
- Front and back D-ring attachments
- Less affordable than some
4. rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash
Kittens can be slippery little buggers, weaseling out of your arms without flinching. When it comes to their safety, getting a proper harness is paramount. For kittens, we think that the best is the rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash.
This comfortable reflective harness comes in the following color selections: black, red, yellow, blue, green, gray, orange, and pink. It also comes with a leash that is a perfect length.
You can size this harness according to the specific requirements on the sizing chart for optimal fit. Make sure to measure your cat beforehand to avoid returns. This harness fits nicely along the neck and underbelly, creating a comfy but secure fit.
This harness is super soft with an air mesh material outside for proper airflow. It’s easy to slip on with ultra-durable buckles and adjustable straps. They make an escape-proof design, which is crucial for kittens—but if you don’t follow the sizing appropriately, it could be too bulky to fit.
- Comfortable, secure fit
- Soft and breathable
- Multiple colors
- Might be too bulky for some cats
5. Aumuca Cat Harness and Leash Most Stylish
If you want to take your kitty out looking dapper as the dickens, try out the Aumuca Cat Harness and Leash. It offers either a black or red checkered harness with a fantastic bow tie to spice things up. Since there are larger leg holes, this harness is suited best for experienced cats.
This harness has an added layer of protective padding in the front to avoid neck strain. It comes in four sizes: extra small, small, medium, and large. Make sure to measure your cat and compare it to the sizing chart before you buy.
The material does feel a little flimsy but still able to withstand moderate use. If you plan to use this harness occasionally for special outings, we think it will work quite well. Because it’s more suitable for appearance rather than function, you should buy for experienced walkers only.
- Extra front padding
- Adorable design
- Multiple sizes for optimal fit
- Appearance over function
- Larger front leg holes
6. JSXD Cat Harness
We really loved the ultra-reflective JSXD Cat Harness because of its bright, vibrant colors and visibility. It’s made of very durable cotton flannel and air mesh material, making it breathable and easy to wear. It fits snugly without restricting natural movement.
This harness has perfectly adjustable straps to secure an ideal fit. It comes in four multi-colored selections, so you can choose the cool combo that looks the snazziest on your cat. It comes with a matching leash and collar with a bell, so there’s no need for additional purchases.
It comes in three sizes, so make sure to follow the chart depending on your cat’s measurements. There are adjustable straps to make sure your cat is comfortable in its new gear. We’re confident this will work for younger cats and adults alike.
Also, it has quick-release buckles and adjustable points for optimal safety. We think this harness is the best overall because it is brightly colored, highly reflective, safety-enforced, and breathable. Plus, it has some extras that can stretch your dollar. But it might be too thick for some.
- Durable design
- Ultra-reflective and bright
- Comes with accessories
- Optimal safety features
- Many desirable color selections
- Might be too thick for some
7. PUPTECK Cat Harness and Leash Set
If you have a kitty that overheats easily, check out the PUPTECK Cat Harness and Leash set. It has a mesh, breathable design that allows ultimate airflow. On walks, your cat won’t overheat or get uncomfortable with long wear.
It comes in two summer-themed selections—blue with juicy pineapples or pink with sweet watermelons. You can pick the size that aligns with your cat’s measurements, ranging from medium to large. If you have a kitten, the medium might be too big for them.
This harness is perfect for summertime walks since it gives your cat lots of room. There is no restrictive padding that will rub and wear on the skin over time. It’s really quite a simple design with a precise fit.
We think that this will work well for generously portioned or long-haired feline friends. But the sizing can be a bit particular, so make sure to read measurements correctly.
- Adequate airflow
- Cute patterns
- Simple design
- Non-restrictive
- Sizing can be tricky
8. Hicaree Tactical Harness
If you dig the military style, the Hicaree Tactical Harness might work for you. It is very thick and well-made with impeccable construction. Though we loved all the features, this selection won’t work for every cat.
First of all, this tactical cat harness is a bit bulky, so only cats tolerant of walking on a lead will benefit. Next, there are optional patches. If it doesn’t work for your situation, you can simply remove them. The patch that reads “Ask to Pet” can be quite useful if you have an emotional support animal or your cat isn’t fond of strangers.
This is one of the more expensive harnesses we found, but we think it might be just what some people are looking for. The entire design has safety in mind with metal buckles and secure adjustment points.
- Military design
- Optional patches
- Secure buckles and adjustments
- Might be too restrictive for some cats
9. SCENEREAL Cat Harness and Leash Set
If you’re going for a minimalist approach, the SCENEREAL Cat Harness and Leash set might work for you. We liked this harness because it is incredibly lightweight, straightforward, and inexpensive. One strap extends around the underbelly, the other acts as a collar.
This best cat harness and leash set comes in two patterns and color choices: orange and blue. However, it only comes in one size, fitting most adult cats. The maximum neck girth is 7 inches, and the chest girth is up to 12 inches. The material is durable nylon that won’t tear or wear down prematurely.
We must stress that this harness is for experienced walkers only. There is not enough chest and neck support to protect your cat if they misbehave on the lead. If your cat is already a pro, you have nothing to worry about here.
- Lightweight
- Minimalist design
- Strong nylon material
- Not for beginners
- Not as secure as some others
10. Kitty Holster Cat Harness
We think that as far as comfort is concerned, the Kitty Holster Cat Harness is probably the best bet. It fits like a shirt, so if your cat is already used to dressing up, it will be a simple transition, which can actually make it easier to train.
There are seven different color selections and patterns, including red bandana, gray, black, tiger stripe, denim, hunter green, and purple. It is available in four sizes, so you need to follow the guidelines for optimal fit.
Instead of endless buckles and adjustment points, this harness latches with Velcro. It makes things much easier when you are putting it on, especially if your kitty is in the mood to resist. You pretty much swaddle them, latch the belly and neck, and you’re off on your adventure.
The only downfall we really see here is that the Velcro can collect debris and become less efficient over time.
- Easy Velcro fit
- No difficult buckles or adjustment points
- Comfortable design
- Velcro might wear down over time
11. Travel Cat: The True Adventurer Harness
The Travel Cat: The True Adventurer Harness wasn’t our favorite, but it has definite upsides that we want to mention. It comes with a leash included that matches the harness perfectly.
This harness comes in four colors: red, black, orange, and gray. You can choose whichever color complements your kitty’s coat. It also comes in four different sizes, so you can almost assuredly find an option that fits.
Rather than having several points to adjust or fasteners, this harness has Velcro attachments that you can latch for a secure fit. While we like the idea of making things easier, we found that it can be less efficient, not holding up with extended or vigorous use.
Also, because of how this harness fits the cat’s body, it can make it easy for thinner, more agile cats to slip free.
- Effortless to put on
- No buckles or adjustments
- Velcro isn’t as efficient
- Some cats can back out of the harness
Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Cat Harnesses
The most crucial part of buying a harness is making sure your cat can’t slip out in a tense situation. Losing track of your buddy can be insanely hard, especially when they are so vulnerable. The harness you buy has to be well-made, appropriately fitted, and easy to use.
Below, we will go over each aspect of harnesses and why they’re important for your feline.
When Should Your Cat Wear a Harness?
If you take your kitty outdoors in an unsecured location, you want to teach them to tolerate the lead. Even though some cats are unlikely to run off, a loose kitty can pose all sorts of dangers. It’s best to keep them as close to you as possible in unfamiliar territory while also giving them the space to explore. A harness connected to a lead offers a solution to both of these things.
Learning to Wear a Harness
Early acclimation to wearing a harness will help your kitty most of all. The earlier they can adjust, the easier the process will be. However, in some cases, we all know that’s not possible. If you adopt an adult cat or have recently found that you actually can teach a cat to walk in a harness—they are still trainable.
Granted, some cats will fight you every step of the way. Some might never fully accept the harness. This outcome is very based on the cat itself. However, most kittens and many full-grown cats can still learn the concept.
What to Look for in a Harness
You’ll want a harness that’s as functional as comfortable.
- Durability — you should always select a material that is well-stitched and multi-layered to prevent premature unraveling. The fabric should be tightly wound and tear-resistant to avoid mishaps or accidental escapes.
- Security — the main purpose of the harness is to ensure your cat stays secure with its owner. It would help if you had an adjustable harness with proper buckles for optimal fit and safety.
- Comfort — another huge factor for cats is overall comfort. They won’t want to be in a harness if it doesn’t feel right on their body or irritates their skin. Harnesses should have padding and breathable fabric—and each should allow natural mobility.
- Style — for some owners, you want your cat to look its best. You can find many satisfactory harnesses that offer some fashion sense, too. While this isn’t an essential factor in determining what harness works best, you can undoubtedly find something to your taste.
- Visibility — most harnesses have reflective strips and bright colors to provide clear visibility, even at dusk or nighttime hours.
Common Materials
While companies can vary a bit in what materials they use for their products, these fabrics are often found in cat harnesses.
- Nylon — this material is a top pick for pet products because it is strong, long-lasting, and inexpensive.
- Mesh — mesh on harnesses keeps the design completely breathable for long walks or outings.
- Cotton — cotton is a comfortable material that is found in many clothing items for pets and humans alike. It is washable, durable, and easy to wear for extended uses.
- Polyester Blends — polyester is another material used in clothing pieces because it is hard-wearing and lightweight.
Measuring Your Cat
Before shopping even starts, it’s best to get the tape measure out to find out what range you need to look for. Each product will have a sizing chart specific to the product—and it won’t be the same for every harness.
- A soft tape measure
- A pencil and paper
- Your fluffy feline close by
In the useful YouTube video below, a guide shows you how to take the appropriate measurements for your cat before buying a harness. Keep the sizes while you shop so you can match them up accordingly.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our cat harnesses reviews. We stand by our number one choice for the best cat harnesses—the Hepper Harness and Leash Set. Because it’s so versatile and covers all the basics of what we think makes a cat harness great, it takes the cake. It is bright, very reflective, comfortable, and fairly priced.
But if you’re looking for both savings and functionality, check out the Doordar Cat Leash and Harness. It may not be fancy, but it is practical and light on the wallet. It does exactly what it advertises, keeping your cats safe on any journey you take.
Of all the harness reviews you’ve read, which of them won your vote?
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