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
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.
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.
My cat guilt tripped me this morning as I was leaving with this look:

Your cat is bewitching 😍
At least they're probably thinking you're just out hunting.
No but I think there are some feeding machines that can be controlled remotely.
We already have webcams, just need web pets.
Neopets
Exactly why I bought a camera. Now I can say hi to him through out the day