The debate of whether cats or dogs make better pets has never been fully settled. The world remains stubbornly divided on this issue. One argument in favor of dogs is that you can take them for walks, whereas cats tend to stay indoors.
But perhaps there is still a way to explore your surroundings with your feline friend. Pet strollers have been around for ages, and many people opt to take their dogs in them, especially if the dog is smaller or has a physical disability. Are they right for your cat, too?
What are Cat Strollers?
As the name suggests, a cat stroller or a pet stroler is simply a stroller for your pet. It usually resembles a baby stroller, but with mesh covering what would otherwise be open.
Sometimes, pet strollers can look like baby prams as well, or even those bicycle trailers meant for carrying children behind you as you ride. There are multiple sizes and styles in order to accommodate pets of varying sizes.
Pros of Cat Strollers
Cat strollers have numerous advantages that may make them a good option for your cat. Cat strollers allow your cat to explore a new world previously unknown to them. If your living space doesn’t provide enough stimulation or interest for your kitty, Cat strollers will let them see the wide world!
Since they are completely enclosed, your cat will be protected from harsh weather, dirt, and pests such as ticks or fleas. It can also protect your cat from getting lost or hurt by other animals. If your cat is primarily an indoor cat, they may not be used to these hazards. It is also advantageous for you as the cat owner, since you won’t have to worry about addressing the consequences of these issues.
Another advantage of cat strollers is that they offer more space than a traditional cat carrier. Your kitty will be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If you don’t want to go on walks with your kitty, a pet stroller may still come in handy for transporting the cat to the vet. Many strollers allow you to remove the carrier portion from the wheels, in case you need to put the carrier in a car.
Finally, pet strollers may be a good way to gradually introduce your indoor cat to the outside world. If your intention is to let your cat go outside freely or leash-train them eventually, the pet stroller may be a good first step.
Cons of Cat Strollers
However, there are also cons to consider. Your cat may not like being confined to a small space. Though the stroller will allow them to look at and smell a whole new world, they won’t be able to interact with it. This may be frustrating for them. Does your cat respond well to its usual carrier? If the answer is no, this means your cat may not like the pet stroller, even with the extra space it provides.
Cat strollers may also be bulky and awkward to handle. Some cat strollers may fold up for easy storage, but others may not. You may have to consider whether you have space to store a big item like this. Consider, too, whether it may be awkward to handle while you’re actually on a walk with your pet.
Another thing to consider is how the movement might make your cat feel. They will not have any control over the way the stroller moves, which may be stressful for some cats. Your cat may not like the feeling of the stroller moving, bumping, or turning.
Finally, cat strollers are not infallible. If your cat is truly unhappy and desperate to get out, they may be able to find a way through the mesh. They could also damage the stroller by scratching or biting it. You should monitor your cat’s behavior before this becomes an issue. Please make sure your cat is not stressed out!
Alternatives to Pet Strollers
Some cats prefer to feel enclosed, whereas others prefer to have space to roam. Ultimately, the choice of whether to get a pet stroller for your cat depends on their personality and preferences. If your cat does not like the pet stroller, but you want to take them outside, there are a few alternatives.
If your cat likes confined spaces, you could try wearing a cat backpack. In addition to being useful and easy to wear, it’s also a tremendous fashion statement! However, depending on how heavy your cat is, it may get tiresome to wear.
If your cat prefers to be able to explore on their own, you could try a harness and leash. This will allow your cat to walk on its own and interact with their environment. However, some cats hate the feeling of the harness around them, and they will be less protected from the environment.
Conclusion
The best and most important thing to do is consider your cat’s personality before investing in a cat stroller. It may be tempting to take them for a walk because that’s what you want to do. However, you have to consider your cat’s wants and needs. You may have to accept that your cat wants to stay indoors, where they have free reign over their own mobility.
Happy strolling!