How to take your cat on a day hike (Yes, you read right)

Yes, a cat can go day hiking, too. Photo courtesy of Photoree.

Okay, you’re a cat lover. And you’re tired of always reading tips for taking dogs on the trail. It’s long past due for some equal time, isn’t it?

Though some may laugh, the reality is a leashed cat can go day hiking with you. Cats can be trained to do many of the things that dogs are capable of, such as play fetch. Because of a cat’s size, though, we usually don’t do that (Ever see a cat try to catch a Frisbee? Doesn’t work. But a crumpled scrap of paper? She’ll love the game.).

To get your cat to be a great day hiking companion, follow these basic guidelines:
g Start young – A friendly kitten that travels a lot will be more willing to go on a hike. Not so with an older cat that finds new situations uncomfortable.
g Train ‘em like a dog – Use the same principles of reward and association to get a cat to stay in a leash and to follow you commands.
g Keep Max and Chloe safe – Your cat should remain on a leash and in sight at all times. Eagles and coyotes will have no problem making lunch out of your cat should it scamper off.
g Slow down – Unlike a dog, a cat can’t make the long steps to keep up with a human. That means a slower pace and shorter distances. If you want to get quickly to a specific point, you’ll need to get a cat carrier that you place atop your backpack.
g Don’t forget the kitty treats – Just like a dog, your cat will need water and a snack for the trail. Be sure to bring some. Just don’t mix up the treats with your trail mix.

Learn about trail guidebooks available in the Hittin’ the Trail series.

Ensure family dog knows trail etiquette

For most of us with dogs, Rover and Queenie are family members. So why leave them behind on a day hike with kids? They appreciate and enjoy the run in the wilds just as much as you and your children.

Still, dogs – like children – can misbehave. Just as we should teach our kids to act properly on the trail and model that behavior, so we should teach our dog as well.

Some basic trail etiquette rules for dog include:
g Trained dogs only, please – Your dog should know how to sit, stay and heel. This will ensure it behaves safely when crossing roads or coming upon other people.
g Don’t allow wildlife chasing – Domestic dogs are an unnatural introduction into a wild animal’s habitat; chasing will cause great stress to the wild animal and potentially injury to your pet. You’re fighting instinct, but your dog should come back within two commands if called.
g Familiarize your dog with other dogs – Dogs meeting on a trail sometimes will fight, which can lead to injury. Be friendly to other hikers with dogs to let you pet know that there’s no threat.
g Keep on leash if all else fails – This is especially necessary if your dog has a habit of jumping on others, which can be a frightening experience for children unfamiliar with dogs, if it continually chases wildlife, or if it regularly wanders off.
g Pick up your dog’s waste on trail – Sure, it’s natural, but it’s also smelly and offensive. Kids (and even adults) easily can step in it, making it a health hazard.

Read more about day hiking with children in my Hikes with Tykes guidebooks.