How to Measure Your Cat for a Kitty Holster Cat Harness - Complete Sizing Guide
Getting the right size Kitty Holster for your cat is crucial for safety, comfort, and your cat's willingness to wear it. A properly fitted harness prevents escapes while ensuring your cat can move, breathe, and explore comfortably. Watch our complete video guide below, then follow our step-by-step instructions!
## Why Proper Sizing Matters
The Kitty Holster cat harness uses a unique wraparound vest design that distributes pressure evenly across your cat's chest and shoulders - but only when properly sized. Unlike traditional H-style harnesses that can slip off or cause discomfort, the Kitty Holster's secure fit depends on accurate measurements.
**What happens with wrong sizing:**
- **Too small:** Restricts breathing, causes discomfort, creates pressure points
- **Too large:** Cat can slip out, defeats safety purpose, leads to escape risks
## What You'll Need
- **Soft measuring tape** (fabric measuring tape works best)
- **Your cat** (calm and cooperative if possible!)
- **Treats** (to reward cooperation)
- **Helper** (optional but recommended for wiggly cats)
**⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE:** When measuring your cat's neck/chest area, remember that the Kitty Holster must fit **very snugly**. You should **NOT** be able to slip a finger between the harness and your cat, or your cat may escape. This is different from traditional collars - the snug fit is what makes the Kitty Holster escape-proof and safe!
## Step-by-Step Measuring Instructions
### **Measurement 1: Chest/Girth (Most Important)**
This is the PRIMARY measurement for Kitty Holster sizing.
1. **Position your cat:** Standing or sitting on all four paws
2. **Find the measurement spot:** Right behind your cat's front legs (the widest part of the ribcage)
3. **Wrap the tape:** Snugly around the chest - **MUCH TIGHTER than you'd expect**
4. **Critical fit check:** Unlike traditional harnesses, the Kitty Holster must be VERY snug - you should **NOT** be able to slip even one finger underneath. This snug fit prevents escape and ensures safety.
5. **Record the number:** Write it down in inches
**⚠️ Safety Warning:** If the harness is too loose, cats can wiggle out and escape. The Kitty Holster's wraparound design relies on a snug fit to distribute pressure evenly while preventing escapes. Don't measure with the "two-finger rule" used for traditional collars - measure snugly!
**Pro tip:** Measure your cat when they're relaxed after playtime or feeding - they'll be more cooperative!
### **Measurement 2: Length (Secondary Check)**
While chest girth determines size, length helps confirm the right fit.
1. **Measure from:** Base of the neck (where collar sits)
2. **Measure to:** Base of the tail
3. **Keep tape along spine:** Follow the natural curve of your cat's back
4. **Record the number:** Write it down in inches
## Kitty Holster Size Chart
Once you have your measurements, use this chart to find your cat's size:
| **Size** | **Chest/Girth** | **Typical Cat Weight** |
|----------|-----------------|------------------------|
| **XS** | 11-13 inches | 6-8 lbs |
| **S/M** | 13-16 inches | 8-12 lbs |
| **M/L** | 16-19 inches | 12-16 lbs |
| **XL** | 19-23 inches | 16-20+ lbs |
**Between sizes?** Order the LARGER size. The Kitty Holster's Velcro closures allow for adjustment, and cats grow (or gain winter weight!).
**Special body types:**
- **Long-haired cats:** Compress fur slightly when measuring
- **Barrel-chested breeds:** May need to size up
- **Slender breeds:** May prefer smaller size even if girth suggests larger
## Common Sizing Questions
**Q: My cat is between sizes. Which should I choose?**
A: Always size UP. The Velcro closures provide 2-3 inches of adjustability, and a slightly larger harness is safer than one that's too tight.
**Q: Can I exchange if the size doesn't fit?**
A: Yes! We offer FREE exchanges (not available on Amazon). We want your cat to have the perfect fit.
**Q: My cat gained/lost weight. Do I need a new harness?**
A: The adjustable Velcro closures accommodate 2-3 lbs of weight change. Significant weight changes may require resizing.
**Q: Does the Reflective Safety Harness fit the same as the Classic Kitty Holster?**
A: Yes! All Kitty Holster styles use the same sizing chart.
**Q: The sizing seems tighter than other harnesses. Is this normal?**
A: Yes! The Kitty Holster must fit very snugly - you should NOT be able to slip a finger between the harness and your cat. This is what makes it escape-proof. Traditional H-style harnesses use the "two-finger rule," but the Kitty Holster's unique wraparound design requires a much snugger fit to prevent escapes while distributing pressure evenly across the chest and shoulders. If you can slip a finger underneath, size DOWN or tighten the Velcro closures.
## After You Measure: What's Next?
**Ready to order?** Choose from our complete Kitty Holster collection:
🐾 Classic Kitty Holster Cat Harness
Original design in 60+ colors and patterns
✨ Kitty Holster Reflective Safety Harness
High-visibility for evening walks
🌬️ Kitty Holster KoolNit Mesh Harness
Ultra-breathable mesh for hot weather & active cats
🎨 Custom Boutique Kitty Holster
Personalized designs
**Need more help?**
- How to Put on the Kitty Holster - Step-by-step guide
- FAQ Page - Common questions answered
- Video Guides - Complete tutorial library
## Why Cat Owners Trust the Kitty Holster
✅ **Trusted by 50,000+ cat owners** worldwide
✅ **Veterinarian-recommended** for safe cat walking
✅ **Award-winning design** with 20+ patents
✅ **Handmade in USA** with premium materials
✅ **Machine washable** for easy care
✅ **Every purchase supports** 200+ rescued animals at our Texas sanctuary
**Shop with confidence:** We stand behind our products with hassle-free exchanges and responsive customer support.
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**Need sizing help?**
Contact us at support@crazykfarm.com or visit our FAQ page for personalized assistance!
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