The Walk Was Over, But Misha Had No Plans to Climb the Steps Herself
Home again after a long ramble around the neighborhood. Frank and Dot crouch together at the bottom of their porch steps, both in cream cable-knit sweaters and smiling broadly, each with a hand supporting Misha as they lift her up toward the door. The cat sits tall in their grip, paws dangling slightly, head turned to one side as she surveys the yard with a calm, satisfied expression. Fallen leaves are scattered across the steps, a potted plant sits by the railing, and the grey sky suggests a cool autumn afternoon. A green front door waits just behind them, ready for everyone to head in.
Walking a cat on a harness is a growing hobby, and it can be a wonderful source of enrichment for the right cat. Start indoors by letting her wear a well-fitted harness for short periods, rewarding calm behavior, before ever stepping outside. Choose quiet routes, let her set the pace, and expect plenty of sniffing and pausing rather than a brisk stroll. Cats tire more quickly than dogs and may simply sit down when they're done, which is when carrying her home comes in handy. Hold her securely with one hand under the chest and one supporting the back legs. After each walk, check her fur and paws for ticks, burrs, and debris, and keep flea and tick prevention up to date as your vet recommends.
The walk may have been Misha's idea, but the ride home is clearly the part she enjoys most. Frank and Dot don't seem to mind the extra lifting.






