Could your cat be an adventure cat?

For cats who enjoy it, exploring offers new sights, scents and surroundings, providing valuable enrichment. But it is not something to rush into. Harness training, positive reinforcement and the ability to read feline body language all help keep these outings safe and enjoyable, with the cat deciding how quickly and how far to go.

Feline behavior specialist Bart shares outdoor adventures with his cat, Oreo, on Instagram at @oreoybart. We spoke to him about life with Oreo, the places they have discovered and how exploring together has shaped their relationship.

Can you tell us a bit about Oreo’s personality and the special bond you share?

Oreo is an extremely gentle and good-natured cat, although, like any cat, he has his own personality too. For me, the most special thing is the bond we’ve built up over the years.

We’ve spent so much time together and I’ve learnt to understand his cues, his preferences and also when he needs his space. When we’re out and about, he knows I’m right by his side and can rely on me, and I know when he likes something, when something’s bothering him or when he needs me to step in.

Of all the places you’ve explored together, which adventure stands out the most and why?

Although we’ve travelled by plane and train and visited many places, if I had to choose one adventure, I’d go for a little footpath near home. I often get up early, around six in the morning, and even if I’m tired, when I see Oreo calmly exploring, running about and discovering every nook and cranny, I forget all my tiredness. For me, an adventure isn’t so much about going to an incredible place, but about Oreo enjoying himself as much as possible.

How can you tell if your cat would enjoy exploring outdoors, and what should those first steps be?

Every cat is different, and not all of them will necessarily enjoy the experience. I’d observe their temperament and how they react to new stimuli: if they show curiosity about the outdoors, it could be a sign of interest, whilst a very fearful or insecure cat probably won’t enjoy it.

If you think it might suit them, I’d always start at home, gradually introducing the harness, lead and rucksack, so that they become familiar items before heading out.

Outdoor adventures can bring unexpected encounters. How do you deal with the presence of dogs or other animals when you’re out with Oreo, and how do you help him feel safe if something frightens him? 

When I go out with Oreo, I’m very aware that the outdoors is much more geared towards dogs than cats, so my role is to be vigilant and protect him. I try to choose quiet places and times and always keep a close watch. 

If I see a dog approaching, I don’t wait to see what happens: I pick Oreo up and, depending on the situation, either carry him in my arms or put him in the rucksack. Prevention is what ensures the experience remains enjoyable and safe.

What signs indicate that a cat is enjoying the experience, feeling unsafe, or is ready to go home?

With Oreo, when he’s enjoying himself, his tail is usually held high – often in a questionmark shape – and he goes into ‘explorer mode’: he sniffs around, changes direction, and we walk along calmly. If something worries him, his posture changes and he may crouch down and watch intently. 

That’s when it’s important to be able to tell the difference between curiosity and unease so you can anticipate his needs. And when he wants to go back, he usually lies down and meows to get me to crouch down so he can climb onto my shoulder.

Have you noticed any changes in Oreo’s behaviour since you started going for walks together?

Rather than a specific change in his behaviour, what I’ve noticed most is how our bond has grown stronger. Sharing activities together, both indoors and outdoors, has allowed us to get to know each other so much better. Oreo waits for me when I get home, comes when I call him, and we have a very close relationship. I think those shared experiences have made our mutual trust even stronger.

Adventure looks different for every cat

Not every cat will enjoy exploring new places, and adventure can mean something different to every feline. What matters is giving your cat the freedom to show you what they enjoy and taking the time to understand their signals. After all, the best part of any shared adventure is growing closer along the way.