Top 5 Escape-Proof Maine Coon Harnesses
Maine Coons are sturdy, muscular felines weighing up to a staggering 22 lbs. Known for their dog-like traits, this former wild cat is now domesticated and loves walking with its owners!
Many cat harnesses are not suited to this large cat breed though, keep reading to find out why!
Cat Harnesses
Whilst the idea of walking a Maine Coon cat on a leash seems foreign in some countries (especially the United Kingdom where I live) it’s a relatively common and accepted sight in the United States.
For those of you looking to own a Maine Coon, keep in mind that the best Maine Coon cat harnesses have adjustable straps that can be adjusted to ensure the harness fits securely around your Maine Coon cat’s muscular body.
Keep a Maine Coon safe by only using an escape-proof harness.
Padded harnesses are more comfortable for Maine Coons sensitive skin. Always measure your cat first before fitting a cat harness.
These are my 5 favorite Maine Coon cat harnesses:
- Tactical Cat Harness
- Reflective Cat And Kitten Harness
- All Weather Breathable Cat Harness
- Escape Proof Harness
- Award Winning Cat Walking Vest
1. Tactical Cat Harness
This escape-proof cat harness is ideal for your Maine Coon cat. The soft mesh vest is comfortable for your long-haired cat and is designed not to rub against sensitive skin.
The vest is effective because it distributes the least pressure across a cat’s shoulder and chest, reducing the chances of choking a cat or causing neck strain while walking it.
Owners can use the adjustable straps on this harness to ensure it fits correctly to their ever-growing Maine Coon kitten.
This adjustable large cat harness will fit a Maine Coon cat with a neck girth of 9.7″ – 12.6″, and a chest girth of 13.7″ – 16″.
One of the amazing features of this cat harness is the rubber handle on the back of the cat’s harness which enables an owner to quickly grab their Maine Coon if they are in danger.
The quick-release buckles also help an owner quickly release their Maine Coon cat, which is ideal if the cat harness is causing the cat to feel stressed.
2. Reflective Cat And Kitten Harness
This is a fantastic harness for your cat because it can be adjusted to fit your cat’s body shape.
The reflective strip is a great idea too, as it helps owners spot their cats, even in the dark, thereby helping to keep your cat safe at all times.
We love that it is lightweight and breathable. These features are important as they make this Maine Coon accessory comfortable for your Maine Coon cat to wear.
Finally, the leash is made from durable materials and extends to 3.9ft, which is ideal if you want to let your cat explore the outside world more freely.
3. All Weather Breathable Cat Harness
This range of pet harnesses has been around for some time and is a great cat harness option.
Available in a variety of colors, this cat harness is ideal because it has an all-weather mesh that can be used all year round, whatever the weather conditions.
The breathable nature of the mesh makes this cat harness more comfortable for your cat to wear, while the reflective bands on the side of the harness help to enhance your cat’s visibility.
I love the simplicity of the step-in and clip functionality because it makes putting the cat harness on really easy.
You can purchase this item in a wide range of sizes, so make sure you use our guide below to ensure you purchase the correct-sized harness for your Maine Coon.
4. Escape Proof Cat Harness
This escape-proof cat harness is a great choice for your precious cat because it has four adjustable straps that can be tightened or loosened perfectly according to your cat’s body.
Made of soft material, this budget-friendly harness caters to cats with a neck girth between 8.5″ – 13.7″, and a chest girth of 13.5″ – 20″ inches.
This is a soft and lightweight harness, weighing approximately 100g.
This hassle-free over-the-head cat harness can be quickly fitted to your pet, and easily released using the two snap-side buckles.
5. Kitty Holster Cat Vest
This AWARD-WINNING cat vest is available in various patterns and is exceptionally stylish! Whether you fancy a red bandana print, a tiger print, or simply a plain cat walking vest, this cat harness is guaranteed to look awesome!
This cat harness is designed to fit cats with a neck girth of 11″ – 15″ inches, and a chest girth of 19″ – 23″.
The soft, non-abrasive 100% undyed cotton lining is an excellent choice and should not cause issues when fitted closely to your Maine Coon cat’s delicate skin.
How To Choose A Cat Harness
If you are keen on walking your Maine Coon on a harness, the harness should have the following attributes:
- Escape Proof
- Adjustable Straps
- Durable material
- Lightweight
- Breathable
Escape Proof
If you are wondering what harness is best for your cat, then the first thing you need to do is purchase an escape-proof Maine Coon harness.
The outdoor world is full of surprises that you cannot account for.
For example, you cannot predict whether a dog will suddenly come charging around the corner without its lead on, thereby terrifying your Maine Coon cat.
An escape-proof Maine Coon cat harness is a vital addition to your Maine Coon cat products as you can keep your cat safe and away from harm, without them escaping.
Adjustable Straps
Your Maine Coon cat will escape their harness if it is not fitted correctly i.e. too loosely.
Look for a cat harness that has adjustable straps on both sides so that you can fit the harness securely around the body.
Please do not fit the straps too tightly though, as this can hurt your Maine Coon cat and damage their delicate skin.
Durable Material
The best cat harness for Maine Coons are ones that are made of durable material that sits comfortably against your cat’s body.
Maine Coons are strong, therefore they should only be put in high-quality durable cat harnesses that are built to withstand their strength.
Lightweight
When buying a cat harness, make sure you check how much it weighs.
Whilst you, as a human, might not think the harness is heavy, your cat might have a different opinion!
If your cat continually resists wearing its harness, this might be because the cat harness feels too heavy on them.
Breathable
Look for breathable harnesses that allow your Maine Coon cat to remain cool and happy whilst walking, rather than overheating.
What Size Harness Do I Need?
Whilst many Maine Coon accessories can be purchased based on your cat’s weight, this is not the case with cat harnesses.
Instead, owners must measure their cat rather than assuming any Maine Coon harness will be suitable.
Here are the steps on how to measure your cat for a harness:
1. Get A Tape Measure
Use a soft tape measure, to measure your Maine Coon cat.
Alternatively, find a piece of string that will not stretch as you wrap it around your cat’s muscular body. Then, measure the string against a ruler.
2. Ensure Your Cat Is Standing Up
Before taking cat harness measurements, ensure your Maine Coon is standing up so that the harness fits them correctly.
3. Front Measurement
You need to take two measurements of your Maine Coons large muscular body.
Firstly, measure the full length between your cat’s shoulder blades to its breastbone and back up again so that your tape measure forms a circle.
4. Back Measurement
Secondly, take your tape measure and place it on your Maine Coon cat’s shoulder blades, then wrap it around from their shoulder blades to behind your cat’s front legs and back again.
Ensure the tape measure fits securely against the cat’s body and does not chafe your cat’s elbow area.
Remember to compress the tape measure against your cat’s body so that the harness fits snuggly, and is not loose.
How Often Should You Walk Your Cat?
Taking your cat for a walk on a harness can be a great way to provide mental and physical stimulation, but how often you do it depends on your cat’s personality, health, and comfort with the activity.
Here are some general guidelines:
1. Start Slow And Gauge Comfort
If your cat is new to walking on a harness, start with short walks 1–2 times per week. Gradually increase the frequency as they become more confident and comfortable with the harness and outdoor environment.
2. Daily Walks (If They Enjoy It!)
If your cat enjoys outdoor walks, you can aim for 10–30 minutes per day. Make sure the walks are enriching and safe, avoiding noisy or overly busy areas that could stress your cat.
3. Weather And Environment
Cats are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so avoid walks during very hot, cold, or rainy conditions. Early mornings or evenings are often ideal times.
4. Indoor Cats
For indoor cats, even a short walk 2–3 times a week can provide valuable exercise and mental stimulation.
5. Respect Your Cat’s Limits
Some cats may never fully enjoy harness walking, and that’s okay. Don’t force the activity; instead, explore other ways to enrich their environment, such as interactive toys or window perches.
Key Tips
- Always supervise your cat closely during walks.
- Use a secure, well-fitted harness designed for cats.
- Stick to quiet, low-traffic areas to reduce stress.
Why Cats Fall Over Whilst Wearing A Harness
Cats may fall over while wearing a harness for several reasons, including:
1. Instinctual Freeze Response
Cats have a survival instinct that makes them freeze or flop over when they feel restricted. A harness can trigger this response.
2. Loss Of Balance
The pressure of the harness around their body can make a cat feel unbalanced, especially if it’s their first time wearing one.
3. Discomfort And Sensory Overload
The new sensation of a snug-fitting harness may overwhelm their senses, causing them to flop over in protest.
4. Restricted Movement
Some harnesses, especially those that are too tight or poorly fitted, can limit a cat’s natural range of motion, making walking difficult.
5. Fear Or Anxiety
If a cat associates the harness with something unfamiliar or stressful, they might collapse as a form of passive resistance.
6. Weight Distribution Feels Off
Cats rely on their agility, and an ill-fitting harness can make them feel heavier or off-balance, causing them to stumble.
7. Not Accustomed To Wearing One
Many cats aren’t used to wearing anything on their bodies, so they react dramatically the first few times a harness is introduced.
8. Poor Harness Fit
If the harness is too loose, it may shift around, making the cat feel unstable. If too tight, it can be restrictive and uncomfortable.
9. Tension In The Leash
If the leash is pulled too quickly or with too much force, the cat may resist by flopping over instead of walking.
10. Health Issues
While rare, underlying medical conditions like inner ear problems (affecting balance) or joint pain could make movement difficult when wearing a harness.
How to Help Your Cat Adjust
- Start by letting them wear the harness indoors for short periods.
- Reward them with treats and praise.
- Ensure the harness is properly fitted and comfortable.
- Let them move at their own pace before attempting to attach a leash.
