The 11 Best Cat Leashes of 2023

The trend of walking cats on leashes is fast picking up. The days when cats used to loll about the house are a thing of the past. Some cats want to actively participate in their family’s outdoor activities. It is no surprise that you will require the best cat leashes to ensure that your feline is free to satiate her hunger for adventure but is being carefully monitored at the same time.

Cat hiking is becoming a rage and provides an opportunity for them to explore the great outdoors along with their families. Free-roaming cats and cat leash walking are undoubtedly two different concepts.

The most important part of walking your cat on a leash is the human-pet bond and the concept that your feline pal is family and engaging in an active, healthy lifestyle. If your kitty is showing interest in venturing out and walking on a leash, do take it as an opportunity to bond with him over this unique activity.

Why Do You Need A Cat Leash?

Some may find the idea of walking cats a bit nonsensical. But bear in mind that your cat needs exercise too and it also comes with an added opportunity of allowing him to explore the outside world.

Shopping for the best cat harnesses and cat leashes is bound to be confusing given the variety available in the market. Harnesses may range from simple nylon ones to designer-vest harnesses.

Recently, Actress Marleen Maathuis, from south London, took their Maine Coon cat, Ash, on a three-day walking holiday to Snowdonia.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Ms. Maathuis said that “Cats are curious animals, they like exploring. It would be a shame if he just stayed indoors because of the busy roads.”

A Quick Look at our Favorites of 2023

The 11 Best Cat Leashes of 2023 (Reviews)

1. BAAPET Strong Pet Leash

The BAAPET Strong Pet Leash is the best choice on this list as it is not only comfortable for your pet but also convenient for you to hold. The handle of the cat leash is of padded rubber which provides a smooth grip to you while you take your feline beauty for a walk.

It provides a great way of taking your cat outdoors for a walk as it will help you to keep your pet in control. The long length rope of this cat leash makes it easy for walking long distances and provides full freedom to your cat.

Features

• Length: 5 feet
• Type: Standard
• Material: Rock Climbing Rope
• Attachment: Durable Clip Hook
• Handle: Anti-slip comfortable rubberized handle

The reflective threads also make it visible in the dark which makes it safe to take your pet for a walk at night. It is also available in many color variants so that you can choose the perfect cat leash for your kitty.

To conclude, we think this is the overall best cat leash.

• Durable hook and heavy-duty mountain climbing rope material
• Reflective leash for better visibility at night
• Great for multipurpose use
• Comfortable padded handles for a better anti-slip grip

• The hook does not attach tightly
• The plastic parts of both ends start wearing off

2. WIGZI Two Pet Reflective Retractable Leash

The Wigzi Retractable Cat Leash is the perfect choice for you if you want to take two cats at a time for a walk. Forget the problem of tangling which you had before while taking two cats on different leashes. The distance between the end ropes restricts it from twisting and making a knot.

It is also a retractable cat leash that makes it possible to alter the length of the leash rope. The buttons provided on the handle can be used to release the rope length differently for both sides.

Features

• Length: 10 feet for each rope
• Type: Retractable
• Material: Nylon
• Attachment: Durable Clip Hook
• Handle: Ergonomic Plastic Handle with 2 brake buttons

Its straps are also made up of materials that are sturdy enough to provide it durability and make it long-lasting. Also, the handle is ergonomically designed and is comfortable to hold while you take your cat for a walk.

• Long dual ropes for walking 2 cats at a time
• 2 color-coded brake buttons to stop pets individually
• 360-degree retractable rope for better control from all directions

• This cat leash is not durable
• Brake buttons do not function smoothly

If you get the combination of best cat collars along with the perfect leash, you cat will enjoy her experience of walking with you.

3. PetSafe Standard Nylon Cat Leash

If you are looking for a budget-friendly cat leash then the PetSafe Standard Nylon Cat Leash is definitely the perfect choice for you. This minimalistic cat leash has a simple strap design with easy on and off-hook to keep the leash secure to your cat’s collar.

The straps are made up of nylon which makes it strong and durable. It is also available in various strap lengths, thicknesses, and colors that make it compatible with any type of pet. The other end of the leash forms a loop to make a handle.

Features

• Length: 6 feet
• Type: Standard
• Material: Nylon
• Attachment: Durable Clip Hook
• Handle: Loop like handle at the end of the leash

These leashes match perfectly with many training aids like PetSafe Easywalk Harnesses and Gentle Leader Headcollars making it an easy and effortless training experience for your cat.

• Simplistic design with multiple sizes and color variations
• Compatible with different types of collars and harnesses
• Easy to hook and clip off from pet collar

• The handle grip of cat leash is not comfortable
• The material is not waterproof or chew proof

4. TaoTronics Retractable Cat Leash

TaoTronics Retractable Cat Leash is the best option if you are looking for a cat leash with adjustable rope length. The length can be varied depending upon the requirement. It can be extended up to 6 feet of maximum length.

The handle is also made from ABS plastic which is sturdy and durable, giving it a comfortable grip to hold. The handle is ergonomically and strategically designed to fit in your hand just like a glove.

Features

• Length: 6 feet
• Type: Retractable
• Material: Nylon tape
• Attachment: Durable Clip Hook
• Handle: ABS casing plastic handle; anti-slip ergonomic design

The leash comes with a free roll of plastic bags for you to quickly pick up and clean any mess that your cat makes while walking. Give your kitty the maximum freedom of walking while he has fun being under control.

• Durable ABS plastic handle for durability and grip
• Strong clip hook for attaching to the collar
• One-hand braking for controlling your cat easily
• Freeroll of plastic bags available

• Product is not weatherproof or chew proof
• Heavy as compared to other leashes

5. TUG Patented 360° Tangle-Free Cat Leash

The Tug Taangle-Free Retractable Cat Leash made from a patented design is the best choice for your pet if you are looking for a sturdy and durable cat leash. It has a clasp/hook on its end for attachment to the harness or collar.

You can easily roll on and roll off the rope with the buttons whenever required. You can extend the rope of this cat leash to 16 ft with the help of the button present on its handle. The quick lock and brake system also makes it possible to stop the rope from releasing from the handle when locked.

Features

• Length: 16 feet
• Type: Retractable
• Material: Nylon tape
• Attachment: Durable Clip Hook
• Handle: Ergonomic anti-slip handle with a comfortable grip

The straps are made from a material having good strength and high durability that makes it long-lasting. You also have three color variants available for this cat leash so that it is compatible with your cat’s coat.

• Extra-long tape leash with easy-adjust retraction
• Quick-lock and unlock feature to stop the leash from extending
• Comfortable anti-slip handle grip for long walks
• Retraction is possible from any angle

• The brake lock gets stuck at times and is not smooth
• The rope is not durable

6. Primal Pet Gear Heavy Duty Cat Leash

Primal Pet Gear Cat Leash has added features for controlling your cat, especially if it is not used to walking on a leash. The handle provided on the shorter length is helpful in controlling your cat while you are in traffic or in any place that requires caution.

The main handle on the other end is situated at 6 ft. the distance which is suitable when you are on a walk with your cat at a garden or any other spacious place. The dual handle design makes it easier to control and manage your cat. The clip hook is quite durable and made with a thicker thumb release knob that is durable.

Features

• Length: 6 feet
• Type: Adjustable
• Material: Woven thick nylon fabric
• Attachment: Thick thumb release knob
• Handle: Dual handle design for better control made of Neoprene

There are multiple color options available to suit your feline’s coat and the soft neoprene handles allow you to take long walks with your cat at ease. The reflective stitching improves your pet’s visibility while walking at night.

• Dual handle design for better control of cat
• Reflective stitching for better visibility at night
• Thick thumb release knob for easy clip-on and off
• Neoprene handles for better comfort and grip

• The clip on the leash is not durable
• The rope is not very strong and thick

Read Next: The Best Cat GPS Trackers

7. Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Leash

Walking your feline friend is a fun experience with Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Leash which offers a good length for you and your kitty to walk miles together while it is retractable to keep them secure in place.

The cat leash is made of nylon material which is extremely durable for the mightiest pull and allows your cat to walk at a safe distance freely while also remaining in your control. For retraction, all you need to do is hold the handle straight while the leash becomes retracted and tight.

Features

• Length: 16 feet
• Type: Retractable
• Material: Nylon Ribbon
• Attachment: Hook locking system
• Handle: Handle with a comfortable, anti-slip grip and brake button

To stop the leash, you can press the brake button and the leash stops extending in length any further allowing your cat to stay at a place. The handle is very comfortable to hold and grip and does not slip off your hands keeping your cat secure around you. The hook locking to the collar is also durable to the strongest of pulls.

• Long nylon ribbon for your cat to walk at a large distance
• Durable and easy to retract
• Brake button for stopping the leash when the cat goes beyond control
• Secure hook attachment to collar

• The leash is not waterproof and remains damp
• Product is not durable

8.Triton Retractable Leash for Pets

Triton Retractable Leash is extremely durable as it is made of reinforced nylon ribbon which makes it long-lasting and chew resistant. The length is great which allows your feline beauty to walk freely at a distance while she remains secure with the leash.

This cat leash offers a one-touch brake system that has been tested over 1000 times and is strong to hold your pet having the mightiest of pulls. All you have to do is, push the button to lock the dog leash in place and then push the slider forward to wait for the leash to extend the desired distance.

Features

• Length: 16 feet
• Type: Retractable
• Material: Reinforced Nylon Ribbon
• Attachment: Carabiner clip
• Handle: Comfortable, non-slip, rubber handle with a one-touch locking system

The nylon ribbon is water-resistant and is tangle-free, extending to a good length. The handle grip is comfortable, rubberized, and non-slippery giving you a secure grip over your pet. Moreover, the product comes with a collapsible bowl and offers a carabiner clip to fix with the collar.

• Waterproof and chew resistant
• Lightweight
• Comfortable rubberized handle to prevent slipping
• One-touch locking system to stop your pet from running or escaping

• Cheap quality
• The product starts tearing off within a few uses

9. OFPUPPY Cat Tie Out Rope Leash

The tie-out rope by OFPUPPY is quite long and best suited for outdoor use. The nylon braided material has a good thickness that withstands the strongest of pulls not allowing your cat to escape.

The nylon material of the cat leash is weather-resistant and durable making the rope suitable for outside running, and playing, by just fixing the rope using strong and durable clasps. The clasps are present on both ends to attach one end to any surface.

Features

• Length: 26 feet (options available)
• Type: Standard/Tie Out
• Material: Braided Nylon Rope
• Attachment: Durable Clasp
• Handle: Dual-sided clasp for attachment; no handle

You can use the rope as a slip lead too. The standard rope is light in weight and easy to grasp and hold. With the huge length of the rope, your cat can wander about to great distances by remaining secure.

• Extra-long rope
• Water-resistant and thick braided nylon rope
• Strong clasps on both ends for attachment
• Multipurpose and suitable for outdoor use

• Requires attention while handling
• Product is not durable

10. RC Pet Products Kitty Cat Leash

The Kitty Cat Leash by RC Pet Products is available in a colorful range of multiple designs and types to match your feline friend’s style. The leash is made of soft-quality webbing and nickel-plated hardware.

The product also has matching harness and pet collars available along with a range of colors to choose from. The leash is of moderate length, sufficient to keep your kitty free yet secure.

Features

• Length: 6 feet
• Type: Standard
• Material: Soft quality ½ inch webbing and nickel-plated hardware
• Attachment: Durable Clasp
• Handle: Loop for holding the leash; no handle

There is a clasp attachment at the end of the rope to fix it to a collar or harness. The leash is machine washable. It comes with a loop on the other end to easily grip the leash without slipping off your hands.

• Multiple color options to look stylish
• Simple and attractive design
• Machine washable
• Matching collar and harness available

• Suitable for up to a short length
• No retractable mechanism
• Not durable or chew proof
• Non-comfortable grip

11. Catit Nylon Cat Leash

The strong and durable-looking cat leash from Catit is snag proof and fray resistant, available in a single color, and can withstand strong pulling. It is made of safe and comfortable nylon material and is quite light weighed.

The design is simple yet it is quite strong and supports pets and cats to stay secure and go up to long distances for them to explore safely and securely. The hook is snap-resistant and gold-plated for maximum durability.

Features

• Length: 4 feet
• Type: Standard
• Material: Durable Nylon Material
• Attachment: Gold plated bolt snap
• Handle: No handle

The product is worth the price and serves the purpose well but will require a harness and collar for attachment.

• Basic and Simple design
• Durable and strong rope and clasp
• Easy to handle and wash

• Not fancy
• Requires additional accessories

Buyer’s Guide for Cat Leash

It is important that you choose among the best leashes, and you are aware of the purpose and compatibility with your pet. To make your selection easy, refer to this buying guide before getting the best cat leash.

Types Of Cat Leashes

Cat Leashes also come in various types, the purpose for the different types is the same however the way it can be used may differ. The most common one is the Standard Leash. Here are a few of the other types of cat leashes available in the market.

• Standard Leash

The most common type is the Standard Leash. It simply has a thin strap that is folded to form the handle on one end. On the other end, Clasp is attached to it for the attachment purpose.

• Retractable Leash

These types of cat leashes have variable lengths of their rope. So you can easily adjust the length depending upon your requirement. The retractable leash also makes it easy to wrap up and keep the rope safely, as it can be folded entirely towards the handle part.

• Adjustable Leash

Adjustable Leashes provide you a way to adjust the length of the leash. It does not have the folding mechanism of the rope like a retractable leash, rather the straps can be folded to shorten the length of the Leash.

FACT: Expect some strange behavior when you first put the harness on. Most cats initially dislike the feeling of the harness.

How to Choose the Best Cat Leash?

Before buying a Leash for your feline, here are a few things which you should consider to make a perfect choice.

• Length

Cat Leashes come in various length sizes generally ranging from 3ft to 6ft there are also some types of cat leashes. It is important to choose a cat leash with proper length so that it is convenient for you as well as Pet to walk.

If you generally take your pet for walking, then the larger length is not a problem. However, for jogging, the appropriate length is recommended. As a cat leash with size larger than required may get stuck in cat’s paws if it is slinging.

There are also retractable leashes available of which the length can be varied. In this case, it can conveniently be used for walking as well as running for any size of cat.

• Material

The material used to frame out the rope and the attachment clip is also important to consider, as based on this the strength and durability of the leash are dependent.

Few leashes are made up of metal. It is however not recommended to be used for cats due to its weight. So make sure that you don’t use a metallic leash for your cats.

• Attachment

Cat leashes are not meant to be used separately as it is attached to either a cat harness or collar. Generally, a clasp is used in the cat leash that can be easily attached to a circular or D-ring. So make sure that the attachment used in the leash is compatible with the harness or collar.

• Handle

Make sure the handle of the cat leash has soft and padded rubber covering so that it is comfortable and provides a proper grip while walking or jogging. Besides being comfortable while holding, it should also be sturdy enough so that it does not release from the leash rope.

FAQs About Cat Leash

The Final Note

We have all heard of walking dogs with a leash but cat leashes are the new thing since cats are equally agile and friendly as dogs. The best way to spend time with them outdoors is by taking them for a walk or run with a cat leash. These are made of different materials and come in various lengths, designs, and attachments to suit your cat’s comfort.

With our reviews on the best cat leash, choose the most appropriate and convenient accessory for you and your feline friend to enjoy walking with grace.