This durable vest is meant to be worn over the cat’s shoulders and under her arms. There is also a band that encircles her back and belly. You will notice that there is an emergency handle on the center of the spine for lifting—avoid grabbing your cat by the arms. The harness has been designed for comfort and adjustability with buckles and extra webbing at all 4 corners.. you can adjust the straps by flexing the buckles toward you or away from you. It will be possible to trim some of the excess length from the straps, but wait until you have tried the vest on and off a few times. NOTE: You’re pet will need to acclimate to her harness. Her first reaction will be fear. Fear is fight, flight, or freeze, right? Her natural instinct is telling her that she is caught in the jaws of a predator. Talk softly and soothe her, treats are a good plan. Once she accepts the harness, then you are ready for the next training step. There are lots of instructional tapes on U-Tube.