I have done my due diligence on harness training, but I was specifically wondering if anyone uses a second harness? My cat is very strong and flexible so I was scared he might slip out of his harness, which is this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FQNFNDSD
He tolerates it well but I’m worried that it’s too easy to get out of.
I was wondering if a second harness that was more strappy could act as a failsafe and if anyone here has done that.


From experience, I can say that if your cat is really determined to slip out, he absolutely will (cats are liquid, after all), so it’s more about risk management: ensuring that the harness fits well, that he’s used to it and feels comfortable in it, that the harness has positive associations for him (“harness = I get to go fun places! no harness = I’m stuck inside”), and that he’s properly supervised while wearing it. The last one is especially important, because it includes doing your best so that your cat won’t have reason to want to slip out. Once used to the harness, the main reason a cat will try to slip out is sudden fear that prompts their flight impulse, so you have to be aware of your surroundings and proactive at either removing him from fear-inducing situations before they arise (this means monitoring both your cat’s vibes and the environment around you), or being ready to pick him up and put him somewhere secure or hold him tightly in the case of something sudden and unexpected (like a loud truck passing by). Not all cats have the temperament for going much farther than the backyard or around the block, and so knowing your cat’s limits is also important.
As far as double-harnessing, I’d be worried that it would make the experience uncomfortable for him (and thus make him more prone to wanting to slip out). Generally if you can pick your cat up by the back of his harness and he doesn’t fall out, it’s probably as secure as you’re going to get. I haven’t used your brand of harness before, but it looks more secure than the strappy kind.
tl;dr: to prevent break-outs, as long as the harness is properly-fitted, the most important thing is to ensure your cat is comfortable and very used to the harness.
I’ve had him in a harness for a few days at home and he’s tolerating it really well! I just know that since he was used to free roaming he will bolt. It’s not out of dislike for me or the house. He has followed me on so many walks and been so loyal and sweet. He’s been in a donut for the last week and a half-ish and I think he’s gotten used to having something on him. I just know that he will be able to slip out and run amok.
He’s a very nice and gentle cat and I bet he’d acclimate well to harnessed walks but still be prone to slipping out, if that makes sense. Like he wouldn’t hate it but he is athletic enough that if he’s determined to go he can just go. I can’t lose him again.
Going from free-roaming to leashed is going to be a challenge for you and your cat. Additional reinforcement (treats?) may be warranted. I wish you both the best!
Addendum: after years of use, I have been very satisfied with the security of this harness: https://www.kittyholster.com/About-Us.html
The only downside is that because it’s basically a vest, it makes cats more prone to overheating on hot days (but on the flip side, it probably helps keep them warmer on cold days). Also you may need to occasionally clean accumulated fur out of the Velcro, but that’s easy enough to do.
Again, if very determined, cats will slip out of any harness, so acclimation to the harness is key.
I used one like this for initial training in the back yard. Cat still turned liquid and got out easily. I truly don’t think any harness is 100% with a cat.