Solution:

cats
Typical internet cats. Videos, pics, memes, and discussion welcome!
Rule 1) Be kind
Rule 2) Follow the lemmy.world rules
other cat communities
birds, some cats
Cats can also handle a harness and a leash a lot better than you think, especially the friendly, outgoing cats. Just don't expect them to be able to keep up with you like a dog. Cats move at their own pace and will protest if you try to force them to go with you. Let them lead the way, and expect to spend a lot of time standing around in one spot.
Basically what I'm saying is that leashes work best if you're not in a hurry to go anywhere in particular. Backpack if you are.
My cat guilt tripped me this morning as I was leaving with this look:

Your cat is bewitching 😍
Then there is me and my wife, who are still interacting with our cats at home from the underground metro, using Ebo, a small bot with cat toys and laser pointer attached, that can be controlled with our phone, and has camera and mic/speakers.
At least they're probably thinking you're just out hunting.
Exactly why I bought a camera. Now I can say hi to him through out the day