Have you ever seen a cat being walked on a leash? It is one of the most perplexing but delightful sights.

As it turns out, walking a cat on a leash isn't some senseless gimmick. Many felines find great pleasure in time spent outside, enjoying the sounds of birds chirping and the scent of freshly cut grass, just like humans do. Even more, that activity can help strengthen the bond between a cat and his owner, giving the pair something to experience together. Sherry Woodard, a longtime animal behavior consultant at Best Friends Animal Society , spoke with The Huffington Post to explain why every cat should be given the chance to step its paw out into nature.

So, folks, the cat's out of the bag: Leashes are not just for dogs anymore. Here's what you need to know: