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11 Best Escape Proof Cat Harnesses in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

Hepper Harness white himalayan persian in the grass outside

Some cats really enjoy exploring the outdoors, but it’s not always safe for them to do so. On average, cats that are allowed to roam outdoors only live to age 5, so providing a safe way to explore the outdoors is a great way to provide enrichment to your cat without endangering their life. It’s also important to note that outdoor cats can be detrimental to wildlife and the ecosystem.

Investing in a cat harness that your kitty can’t back out of if spooked is a wonderful option for providing your cat safe outside time. These reviews cover the best of the best cat harnesses that your cat can’t escape from. The last thing you want is to take your cat outdoors in a harness, only for them to escape from it! These reviews can serve as a guide to get you started in finding the perfect harness for your kitty. It’s particularly important to note that no harness is 100% escape proof! They must be fitted and used properly for maximum escape proof-ability.

hepper cat paw divider

 

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Hepper Harness and Leash Set Hepper Harness and Leash Set
  • Five sizes available
  • High-quality 5 ft rope lead with a comfortable grip
  • Breathable
  • Budget Buy
    Second place
    Petsafe Kitty Nylon Harness Petsafe Kitty Nylon Harness
  • Includes guide for fitting and training
  • Bungee material prevents a “hard stop” if your cat bolts
  • Tightening strap puts pressure on the shoulders and not the neck
  • Third place
    Kitty Holster Cat Harness Kitty Holster Cat Harness
  • Adjustments are quick and easy
  • Intended for cats that hate harnesses
  • Smallest size fits kittens and small adult cats
  • Rabbitgoo Cat Harness & Leash Rabbitgoo Cat Harness & Leash
  • 10 color options
  • Breathable mesh material
  • Includes detachable 5-foot leash
  • Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness & Leash Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness & Leash
  • Harness is padded
  • Leash is detachable
  • Six patterns with coordinating leashes available
  • The 11 Best Escape-Proof Cat Harnesses

    1. Hepper Harness and Leash Set – Best Overall

    Check Price on Hepper
    Sizes Available: Harness available in 5 different sizes; leash length 150 cm (XXS – XL)
    Color Options: Black
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 5/5

    Some cats must stay on a leash when enjoying outdoor activities because they tend to dart off. A harness is safe, comfortable, and essential because it’s risky to attach a leash directly to a cat’s collar. Fortunately, Hepper has your back! Our #1 best overall pick, the Hepper Harness and Leash Set, includes a high-quality nylon rope leash that is 5 ft long, with a 360° rotating clamp, to allow your cat a comfortable distance of safe roaming.

    The harness comes in five sizes so there is one available for any size cat and is made from a lightweight premium velvet fabric that is breathable, has a soft edge, and is cushioned for extra comfort and resilience. It also includes multiple adjustable points that can be customized and double aluminum metal D-rings to attach the leash safely. The leash also provides comfort for the owner with its padded neoprene handle for a comfortable and secure grip.

    You will have peace of mind knowing that Hepper’s Harness is made with reinforced stitching, includes a reflective strip for enhanced visibility, and the quick-release buckles keep a curious cat extra safe. The harness is washable, so you can throw it in the machine whenever it needs sprucing up.

    You might have guessed, this is our own product – but we love it so much we just have to share it, and hope you get to own one too!

    Pros
    • Five sizes available
    • High-quality 5 ft rope lead with a comfortable grip
    • Breathable
    • Safe and snug
    • Adjustable with quick-release buckles
    • Includes reflective strips
    • Machine washable
    Cons
    • Some cats dislike wearing harnesses

    2. Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Nylon Harness & Bungee Leash – Budget Buy

    Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Nylon Harness & Bungee Leash

    Sizes Available: S (9”-11” chest), M (10.5”-14” chest), L (13”-18” chest)
    Color Options: Black/silver, lilac/deep purple, red/black, royal blue/navy, dusty rose/burgundy, electric lime/green
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 4/5

    The Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Nylon Harness & Bungee Leash is the best budget-buy escape-proof cat harness. This harness is available in three sizes for small to large cats and comes in six color combinations. This harness and leash combo includes a detachable leash that connects to a tightening strap, which allows the harness to tighten if your cat bolts or pulls against it without putting pressure on the neck. The leash is made with bungee material inside of it to prevent injury if your cat suddenly takes off. It comes with thorough instructions for fitting and training your cat to accept the harness.

    Be warned that the smallest size of this harness may be too large for kittens and small cats. It must be fitted properly to prevent escape. The neck portion of this harness does have to be pulled over the cat’s head to put it on.

    Pros
    • Three sizes available
    • Six color combos available
    • Includes detachable bungee leash
    • Tightening strap puts pressure on the shoulders and not the neck
    • Bungee material prevents a “hard stop” if your cat bolts
    • Includes guide for fitting and training
    • Budget friendly
    Cons
    • Not escape proof if not fitted properly
    • Too large for small cats and kittens
    • Has to be slipped over cat’s head

    3. Kitty Holster Cat Harness

    Kitty Holster Cat Harness

    Sizes Available: XS (10”-14” chest), S/M (13”-17” chest), M/L (16”-20” chest), XL (19”-23” chest)
    Color Options: Denim, black, tiger stripe, grey, purple, hunter green, red bandana
    Price: $$
    Escape Proof-ability: 5/5

    The Kitty Holster Cat Harness is a great harness for fashion kitties. This harness is made to help cats who hate harnesses be comfortable. It’s available in four sizes five solid colors and two patterns. The smallest size will fit large kittens and small adult cats. It opens and closes with Velcro, so adjustments for fitting are quick and easy. It’s made from 100% cotton and the lining is undyed cotton, making it a good pick for cats with sensitive skin. It’s also machine washable.

    The Velcro attachments on this harness can be loud, especially with the first few uses, which may frighten your cat. This harness does not include a leash, so you will need to purchase one separately. It does not include training materials.

    Pros
    • Intended for cats that hate harnesses
    • Available in four sizes
    • Five solid colors and two patterns
    • Smallest size fits kittens and small adult cats
    • Adjustments are quick and easy
    • 100% machine washable cotton
    • Undyed liner is good for cats with sensitive skin
    Cons
    • Velcro attachments are loud
    • Does not include a leash
    • Does not include training materials
    • Premium price

    4. Rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash

    rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash

    Sizes Available: XS (13.5”-16” chest), S (18”-20” chest)
    Color Options: Black, emerald, grey, light blue, navy, orange, pink, purple, red, yellow
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 5/5

    Another great escape proof cat harness is the rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash. It has over 22,000 reviews with over 80% being positive at the time of writing. This product is available in two sizes for small and large cats and comes in 10 color options. It includes a 5-foot leash that can be disconnected from the harness. The harness itself is made from sturdy but breathable padded mesh. This harness comes with a guide on how to properly acclimate your cat to use a harness to make the process less stressful and more successful. This harness and leash set is also very budget-friendly.

    If this harness is not fitted properly, it is not escape proof! It’s extremely important that you follow all instructions on proper adjustments to make this harness safe for your cat. The neck portion of this harness has to be slipped over the cat’s head to get it on, which may be difficult for some people.

    Pros
    • Highly rated
    • Two sizes available
    • 10 color options
    • Includes detachable 5-foot leash
    • Breathable mesh material
    • Includes guide for fitting and training
    • Budget friendly
    Cons
    • Not escape proof if not fitted properly
    • Has to be slipped over cat’s head

    5. Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness and Leash

    Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness and Leash

    Sizes Available: XS (8”-10” chest), S (9”-11” chest), M (11”-13” chest), L (13”-16” chest), XL (15”-18” chest)
    Color Options: Black plaid, camo, polka dot black, polka dot blue, polka dot pink, sailor suit
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 5/5

    The Yizhi Miaow Cat Harness and Leash comes in five sizes for cats 2 pounds up to greater than 11 pounds, making it a great pick for kittens and small adult cats. This harness is available in six adorable patterns and uses strong Velcro closures, making adjustments easy. It comes with a detachable leash that is coordinated with the pattern of the harness. The harness is made from padded fabric and the leash is sturdy canvas. This manufacturer provides online videos and pictures to show how to train and use the harness and leash properly.

    This harness does run slightly smaller than the measurements for the sizes suggest, so some people have found success with purchasing a size up from the recommended size. If this harness is too small, your cat is just as likely to escape as they would if it’s too big. It’s important that you check the Velcro frequently to make sure it is still functioning properly because it will wear out over time.

    Pros
    • Five sizes available
    • Great sizing for kittens and small cats
    • Six patterns with coordinating leashes available
    • Adjustments are quick and easy
    • Leash is detachable
    • Harness is padded
    • Videos and photos available online for training and sizing
    Cons
    • Runs small
    • Not escape proof if too small or too large
    • Velcro will wear out over time

    6. Zee.Dog Skull Polyester Cat Harness and Leash

    Zee.Dog Skull Polyester Cat Harness and Leash

    Sizes Available: One size (10.2”-16.2” chest)
    Color Options: Black with skull pattern
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 5/5

    If you’re hoping to find something “punk” for your cat to wear, look no further than the Zee.Dog Skull Polyester Cat Harness and Leash. This black set features a cute pattern of cartoon cat skulls on the harness and detachable leash. It’s made from weather-resistant polyester and is easy to keep clean. This harness is soft on your kitty’s skin and has a 4-point lock system to keep it securely in place. It’s fully adjustable to best fit your cat.

    This harness is only available in one size that is best suited for medium to large cats, making it a poor option for kittens and small cats. It’s also only available in one pattern and color. The included leash is only 4 feet long, which some people find to be too short for attempting to walk a cat.

    Pros
    • Has a “punk” feel with unique pattern
    • Includes a detachable leash
    • Made from weather-resistant polyester
    • Easy to clean
    • Soft on kitty’s skin
    • 4-point lock system and fully adjustable
    Cons
    • Only available in one size
    • Poor option for small cats and kittens
    • Only one pattern available
    • Leash is only 4 feet long

    7. Pidan Cat Harness and Leash Set

    pidan Cat Harness and Leash Set

    Sizes Available: One size (10.2”-16.9” chest)
    Color Options: Grey, multicolor
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 5/5

    The pidan Cat Harness and Leash Set is a one size fits most harness that is available in one solid color and one multicolor pattern. It includes a matching detachable leash. The harness is made from silky polyester, so it’s easy on your cat’s skin and is easy to keep clean. It’s fully adjustable and features quick-release buckles in case of a problem. It’s designed to not put pressure on your cat’s neck.

    This set is only available in two color options and the leash is only 4 feet long, which may be too short for your preference. It is also only available in one size, so it may not be a good fit for small cats and very large cats.

    Pros
    • Detachable leash matches the harness
    • Harness is made from silky-feel polyester
    • Easy to clean
    • Soft on kitty’s skin
    • Fully adjustable and has quick release buckles
    • Designed to not put pressure on cat’s neck
    Cons
    • Only two color options
    • Leash is only 4 feet long
    • Only available in one size
    • May not be a good fit for kittens, small adult cats, and very large cats

    8. Red Dingo Classic Nylon Cat Harness

    Red Dingo Classic Nylon Cat Harness

    Sizes Available: One size (11”-19” chest)
    Color Options: Black, green, pink, red
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 5/5

    The Red Dingo Classic Nylon Cat Harness is a one size fits most harness that’s available in four solid colors. It’s made from soft, fade-resistant nylon webbing that is cut to prevent skin irritation. It’s easy to clean and washable. This harness is fully adjustable and includes a matching detachable leash. The leash includes a padded handle for your comfort while walking your cat.

    This harness is only available in one size and is likely too large for kittens and small cats. The leash is 4 feet long, so it may be short for some people’s preferences. The buckles on this harness are unique “fish clips”, which are made to be sturdier than most buckles, but also may be more difficult to release quickly if needed.

    Pros
    • Available in four colors
    • Includes detachable matching leash
    • Made from fade-resistant nylon webbing
    • Easy to clean
    • Cut to prevent skin irritation
    • Leash has padded handle
    Cons
    • Only one size available
    • Too large for kittens and small cats
    • Leash is only 4 feet long
    • Buckles may be difficult to quickly release

    9. Necoichi Zen Fish Charm Cotton Cat Harness & Leash

    Necoichi Zen Fish Charm Cotton Cat Harness & Leash

    Sizes Available: One size (12.6”-17.7” chest)
    Color Options: Red, blue, green
    Price: $$$
    Escape Proof-ability: 4/5

    The Necoichi Zen Fish Charm Cotton Cat Harness & Leash is a cute, one size fits most harness option that is available in three colors that feature traditional kimono patterning. Each harness includes a bow and gold fishbone charm. This harness includes a leash that is not detachable and is made from soft cotton and polyester. Fully adjustable for the best fit and the leash is part of a tightening strap that allows you to better control your cat if they bolt.

    This harness is too large for small cats and kittens. It does not include instructions on how to fit it correctly or put it on, which may be confusing for some people. There is not a harness option that does not have a built-in bow, which some people may not prefer. The leash is not detachable but does help keep the harness on your cat securely.

    Pros
    • Three colors available
    • All options include attached bow and gold fishbone charm
    • Includes matching leash
    • Made from soft cotton and polyester
    • Leash connects to tightening strap for secure fit
    • Fully adjustable
    Cons
    • No instructions for fit or use
    • Too large for small cats and kittens
    • Only available in one size
    • Bow is not detachable
    • Leash is not detachable

    10. AOKCATS Cat Harness and Leash Set

    AOKCATS Cat Harness and Leash Set

    Sizes Available: S (10.5”-13” chest), M (13”-16” chest)
    Color Options: Black, blue, green, grey, orange, pink, red, purple, yellow
    Price: $
    Escape Proof-ability: 4/5

    The AOKCATS Cat Harness and Leash Set is available in two sizes and nine solid color options. Each purchase includes a matching detachable leash. This harness features a Velcro attachment for the neck and buckles for the chest piece. It’s made from breathable mesh and has a soft-touch edge design. This harness also has reflective stripes to keep your kitty safe in the dark or if they manage to get off the leash.

    This harness is available in two sizes but may not be large enough for large and very large cats. This harness is minimally adjustable, so it may be difficult to find the right fit to keep your kitty from slipping out of it. To put this harness on your cat, they will have to let you put their feet through holes since the closures are on the back.

    Pros
    • Nine colors available
    • Includes matching detachable leash
    • Velcro and buckle closures
    • Breathable mesh with soft-touch edge
    • Reflective stripes to keep kitty safe
    Cons
    • Too small for large and very large cats
    • Only two sizes available
    • Minimally adjustable
    • Difficult to find the right secure fit
    • Requires cat to step front feet into holes

    11. Ohyes Tactical Cat Harness

    ohyes Tactical Cat Harness

    Sizes Available: L (13.7”-16” chest)
    Color Options: Black, khaki
    Price: $$
    Escape Proof-ability: 4/5

    The ohyes Tactical Cat Harness is a fun option to give your kitty an “army” look. This tactical design harness includes a handle on the back for easy lifting when necessary and a patch that says, “Mama says I’m special”. It also includes a patch that says, “emotional support”, but it’s important to only use this if your cat is actually a prescribed emotional support animal. This harness has a 4-point buckle system to keep it securely on your cat. It’s made from breathable mesh.

    This harness does not come with a leash, so you will need to purchase one separately. It is designed for cats that are on the large end of medium and above, so it’s not good for kittens, small cats, and some medium cats, and it is minimally adjustable. The handle on this harness may encourage people to pick the cat up this way, especially small children, but it’s important to avoid picking your cat up this way unless absolutely necessary.

    Pros
    • Cute “tactical” look
    • Includes patches
    • 4-point buckle system
    • Breathable mesh
    Cons
    • Does not include a leash
    • Only available in one size
    • Minimally adjustable
    • Too large for kittens, small cats, and some medium cats
    • Handle may encourage inappropriate lifting of the cat
    • “Emotional support” patch may encourage abuse of ESA laws

    hepper single cat paw divider

    Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Escape Proof Cat Harnesses

    How Can I Make Sure My Cat Doesn’t Escape Its Harness?

    No harness is 100% escape-proof, no matter what a manufacturer or seller may tell you. Choosing a harness that is designed to be escape-proof is a good start, but you must ensure the harness fits your cat correctly. It should be snug without squeezing. Some people underestimate the size of their cats or inappropriately measure them because of the thickness of their fur. Your cat’s harness should fit their body, not their fluff.

    If you use a harness that is too small or too large for your cat, you are risking an escape. Cats can be escape artists, especially when frightened. Make sure you acclimate your cat to the harness safely in your home for at least a couple of weeks before attempting to introduce them to the outdoors. Ways to help prepare your cat for the outdoors can include allowing them to sit in screened, open windows so they get used to the smells and sounds and taking your cat out in a secure carrier for short periods of time.

    What to Consider when Choosing the Right Escape Proof Harness for Your Cat

    • Size: How to fit your cat for a harness involves using a soft measuring tape to measure the neck and chest. These measurements will help you choose a properly fitting harness. If you need help, get a second set of hands so you can feel confident in your measurements. If you get improper measurements and purchase a harness off of those measurements, you may end up with a harness that allows your cat to escape.
    • Age: If your cat is a kitten and still has a lot of growing to do, consider choosing a less expensive harness for training purposes, but invest in a higher-quality harness when they are older. Kittens are still learning about the world and should not be taken on adventures until they are fully vaccinated, so this gives you time to help them get used to the feel of a harness without leaving your house.
    • Coat: As previously mentioned, you must measure your cat based on their body measurements, not their fluff measurements. Some cats have very thick coats that may cause you to get larger measurements than their true size. A too-big harness can allow your cat to back out of the harness or jump forward out of it.
    • Usage: Where you intend to take your cat can guide you in choosing the right harness. If you intend to take your cat into a fenced yard, then you have some space to choose a harness that may not be the most secure harness on the market. However, if you’re taking your cat hiking or walking near busy roads, then you want to choose an extremely secure harness, even if it means spending more money to get it.

    hepper cat paw divider

    Conclusion

    The best overall escape-proof cat harness is the Hepper Harness and Leash Set, which is secure and affordable. Our budget buy pick is the Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Nylon Harness & Bungee Leash, which allows you to stay within your budget and keep your cat safe with a stretchy leash. The Kitty Holster Cat Harness fits securely and comes in multiple fun patterns.

    Choosing the right harness to keep your cat safe is important, but it can open opportunities for your cat to join you on cat-friendly adventures. These reviews only scratch the surface of safe harnesses available for cats. Once you choose a harness, take training slowly with your cat to prevent stress.

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