Araki’s cat Chiro was the subject of hundreds of photos by the Japanese photographer – the significance of their relationship and the resulting work was explain by Araki himself when questioned about why he continued to take photos after Chiro’s death of her absense – “Chiro and I had been together ever since my wife, Yoko, passed away. Chiro used to come into my bedroom every morning to wake me up here (points at a photo of his bedroom door), and she used to drink water here while I was in the bath (points at a photo of the bathroom), but that’s all gone now. I wouldn’t call this a requiem for me or my work, but for Chiro, it might be. Perhaps it’s a requiem for Chiro and for analog photography.”
One of the most popular tattoos of the criminal world during the 1950s and 1960s. Dozens of variants of the cat, the symbol of thieves, existed. Copied from the stomach of an ‘authoritative’ thief nicknamed ‘Sasha Studeny’.
So by now you should have chosen your desired colour and make of harness and broached the task of introducing your cat to the fitting of said harness. Now for the great outdoors.
I would recommend identifying a nearby area of suitable tranquility – for those lucky enough to have a garden then this is perfect, for urban flat based dwellers even a quiet patch of pavement or even a corridor will do. Some cats will take to this new experience better than others – welcome distractions in the shape of pigeons, trees and natural foliage of surrounding hedges or walls will provide much needed reassurance to your feline companion.
Initially let your cat walk you – don’t give them too much freedom on the leash – especially if busy streets are in close proximity. Be aware of your surroundings – loud noises, dogs and all kinds of abstract interferences may startle and scare even though most streetwise and bold cat. Speak to your cat – any level of chatter is positively encouraged for beginner and seasoned pro alike. Talking is comforting and helps to build a rapport with your pet – don’t be fooled – they can understand even the subtlest forms of communication and will be increasingly looking to you, their owner for encouragement and direction on your walks together.
Patience is a virtue – remember this at all times on your first voyages together – your cat may demonstrate a total apathy at your carefully purchased harness in all its finery and splendor, dont harbour ill feelings over this slight, accept that they will gradually grow to admire your foresight of such pursuits. Patience is also key in the inevitable sniffing and glancing around that may take up a large amount of these early excursions. Learn to use this time for inner reflection, channel your inclination to tug that leash into a mediation on Tulip Mania in the Dutch Golden Age or something equally stimulating.
To some the idea of walking your cat on a leash is preposterous but to the curious and engaged it is a pastime of kings! The key is to start when they are of the age where resistance is futile – the younger the kitten the easier the pupil to this fine art. If the cat in question is of advanced years then this is not the reason to despair – a battle of wills may scupper early attempts but persevere.
Begin with selecting a harness of suitable size – with room to grow. Don’t be seduced by the ease of just using a collar and lead – this will fail you at first road test. I have found the Puppia (dog) harness the best in breed for the job and they come in a variety of colours. Camouflage adds a certain urban chic I’m sure you will agree?
Most cats will struggle on first introduction to a harness, but be strong, this is to be expected. Ensure the leash is firmly held without too much slack, beckon your cat by any means at your disposal and being to walk. If they follow then you have a natural.
