How to Put on a Kitty Holster Cat Harness - Step-by-Step Video Guide

Putting on a Kitty Holster cat harness is easier than you think! Once you know the proper technique, you can have your cat securely harnessed in under 30 seconds. Watch our complete video tutorial below, then follow our detailed written instructions for the best results.

 

 

The Kitty Holster cat harness is designed for security and comfort - but only when applied correctly. A properly fitted harness prevents escape while allowing your cat to breathe comfortably, move naturally, and enjoy outdoor adventures safely.

 

**Common mistakes we'll help you avoid:**

 

- Harness too loose (cat can escape)

 

- Harness upside down or backwards

 

- Velcro not secured properly

 

- Leaving gaps around the chest

 

- Not checking fit before going outside

 

## What You'll Need

 

- **Your Kitty Holster harness** (correct size - measure first!)

 

- **Your cat** (calm and cooperative)

 

- **Treats** (to reward cooperation)

 

- **Patience** (first-time application takes practice!)

 

- **Helper** (optional but helpful for wiggly cats)

 

**⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY REMINDER:** The Kitty Holster must fit **very snugly** around your cat's chest. You should **NOT** be able to slip even one finger between the harness and your cat. This snug fit prevents escape and ensures your cat's safety during walks.

 

## Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Put on a Kitty Holster

 

### **Step 1: Prepare the Harness**

 

1. **Lay the harness flat** with the Velcro closures facing up

 

2. **Identify the front and back:**

   - **Front:** Smaller opening for the neck

   - **Back:** Larger opening for the body

 

3. **Open all Velcro closures** completely

 

4. **Check orientation:** The harness should look like a vest with an opening at the front

 

**Pro tip:** Practice laying out the harness a few times before attempting to put it on your cat. Familiarity with the harness makes application faster and less stressful for both of you!

 

### **Step 2: Position Your Cat**

 

1. **Place your cat on a secure surface** (table, counter, or your lap)

 

2. **Keep your cat calm** with gentle petting and soothing voice

 

3. **Position your cat facing away from you** for easiest application

 

4. **Have treats ready** to reward cooperation

 

**For nervous cats:** Let your cat sniff and investigate the harness first. Place treats on the harness to create positive associations.

 

### **Step 3: Slide the Harness On**

 

1. **Hold the harness like a vest** with the front opening facing your cat's head

 

2. **Gently slide your cat's head through the front opening** (neck hole)

 

3. **Pull the harness down over your cat's shoulders**

 

4. **Position the harness so it sits just behind the front legs** on the chest

 

**Important:** The harness should wrap around your cat's chest like a vest, not hang loosely. If your cat pulls their head back through, the opening is too large - you may need a smaller size.

 

### **Step 4: Secure the Velcro Closures**

 

1. **Pull the first Velcro closure across your cat's chest** and press firmly

 

2. **Pull the second Velcro closure** and overlap it with the first for maximum security

 

3. **Press down firmly** on all Velcro to ensure strong adhesion

 

4. **Check for gaps:** There should be NO space between harness and cat

 

**⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY CHECK:** You should **NOT** be able to slip your finger between the harness and your cat's body. If you can, **tighten the Velcro** or **size down**. A loose harness = escape risk!

 

### **Step 5: Adjust for Proper Fit**

 

1. **Check the chest coverage:** The harness should cover the widest part of the chest

 

2. **Ensure free leg movement:** Your cat should be able to move all four legs comfortably

 

3. **Check breathing:** Your cat should breathe normally with no restriction

 

4. **Test the fit:** Gently try to pull the harness over your cat's head - it should NOT budge

 

**Perfect fit checklist:**

 

- ✅ Snug around chest with NO finger room

 

- ✅ Positioned just behind front legs

 

- ✅ Velcro completely secured with no gaps

 

- ✅ Cat can move legs freely

 

- ✅ Cat breathing comfortably

 

- ✅ Cannot pull harness over cat's head

 

### **Step 6: Attach the Leash**

 

1. **Locate the D-ring** on the back of the harness (between shoulder blades)

 

2. **Attach your leash** to the D-ring with a secure clip

 

3. **Test the connection** by gently tugging the leash

 

4. **Hold the leash loosely** - never pull tight on your cat

 

**Leash recommendations:** Use a lightweight 4-6 foot leash. We recommend the Holster Leash - designed to match your Kitty Holster and made with the same quality materials!

 

## Common Problems & Solutions

 

**Problem: Cat backs out of the harness**

**Solution:** The harness is too loose. Tighten the Velcro closures or size down. Remember - you should NOT be able to slip a finger underneath.

 

**Problem: Cat freezes and won't move**

**Solution:** Normal behavior for first-time harness wearers! Let your cat wear the harness indoors for 5-10 minutes daily to acclimate. Use treats and play to encourage movement.

 

**Problem: Harness twists or rides up**

**Solution:** The harness may be too large or positioned incorrectly. Make sure it sits just behind the front legs on the chest, not on the belly.

 

**Problem: Cat seems uncomfortable or restricted**

**Solution:** Check that the harness isn't twisted and that all four legs move freely. The snug fit should be around the chest only - not the throat or belly.

 

**Problem: Velcro won't stay closed**

**Solution:** The Velcro may be dirty or worn. Clean with a soft brush or replace the harness if Velcro is permanently degraded. Also ensure you're overlapping the closures for maximum hold.

 

## Training Tips for First-Time Harness Users

 

**Week 1: Indoor Introduction**

 

- Let your cat wear the harness for 5-10 minutes daily indoors

 

- Reward with treats and playtime while wearing harness

 

- Practice walking indoors with leash attached

 

**Week 2: Doorway Practice**

 

- Stand in an open doorway with your cat in harness

 

- Let them observe the outdoors without leaving

 

- Reward calm behavior with treats

 

**Week 3: First Outdoor Adventures**

 

- Start with 5-10 minute outdoor sessions in a quiet, enclosed area

 

- Stay close to home (your porch or backyard)

 

- Gradually increase outdoor time as cat becomes comfortable

 

**Pro tips for successful cat walking:**

 

- Choose quiet times (early morning or evening)

 

- Avoid loud noises, dogs, and busy areas initially

 

- Let your cat set the pace - don't drag or pull

 

- Bring treats and a carrier for quick escapes if needed

 

- Always supervise - never leave your cat unattended on leash

 

## After Your Walk: Harness Removal

 

**To remove the Kitty Holster:**

 

1. **Unfasten all Velcro closures**

 

2. **Gently lift the harness up and over your cat's head**

 

3. **Reward your cat with treats** for good behavior!

 

4. **Store the harness flat** in a clean, dry place

 

**Maintenance tips:**

 

- **Machine wash** your Kitty Holster regularly (lay flat to dry)

 

- **Inspect Velcro** for wear and debris before each use

 

- **Replace harness** if Velcro loses adhesion or fabric shows significant wear

 

Ready to Start Your Cat Walking Adventures?

 

**Shop the 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

 

 

    🔗 Holster Leash (Matching Leash)

 

 

Lightweight, durable leash designed for the Kitty Holster

 

 

 

**Need more help?**

 

- How to Measure Your Cat for a Kitty Holster - Sizing guide

 

- The Cat Harness Revolutionizing Outdoor Adventures - Complete 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 

✅ **Escape-proof when properly fitted** - snug wraparound design 

✅ **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.

 

 

 

    🛒 SHOP KITTY HOLSTER NOW →

 

 

 

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**Need help?** Contact us at support@crazykfarm.com or visit our FAQ page for personalized assistance!