How To Train A Cat To Behave

How to Train a Cat to Stop Doing Almost Anything: 9 Steps

You may like your cat more than anything in the world, but there are some habits that are plain undesirable, such as ripping up furniture, clawing people, and entering into areas that you do not want her to be in. For your cat’s negative behavior to be stopped, you will need to exercise patience and perseverance on your part. Making specific alterations to her daily routine and employing corrective approaches should enable you to prevent your cat from engaging in inappropriate conduct in the future.

1. 1 Gain an understanding of the most frequent behavioral difficulties that cats have. However, while every cat is different and may have distinct concerns or undesirable habits, the majority of cats behave in one of seven ways:

• Avoiding or refusing to use the litter box
• Avoiding the litter box Furniture and other things are marked with their urine, and so forth. In your house, scratching furniture and other things may be really irritating. When your cat is playing with you or others, he or she may scratch you or them. Behaving aggressively towards other people or towards their owner
• Behaving aggressively towards other cats in the house
• Showing signs of tension or anxiety
• Behaving scared of items or people

• 2 Take your cat to the veterinarian for a checkup to rule out any potential medical concerns with him. When a cat is dealing with a medical condition, it is not uncommon for him to act out or develop behavioral disorders as a result. In certain cases, your cat may refuse to use his litter box owing to a urinary tract infection, while in others, he may act violently towards you due to physical pain that is not immediately evident to you. Some cats become scared of people or things as a result of visual problems, while some cats groom themselves excessively as a result of hyperthyroidism.

• If you take your cat to the veterinarian for a checkup, the veterinarian will be able to discover any medical problems that may be causing your cat’s poor behavior and treat them before the situation becomes worse. If your veterinarian determines that your cat is in good health, you may concentrate on issues in your cat’s surroundings that may be contributing to his negative behavior.

• 3 Identify any environmental factors that may be contributing to your cat’s undesirable behavior. Once you have determined that your cat does not have any medical difficulties, you may explore why your cat may be exhibiting one or more of these undesirable habits. Examine his surroundings for any factors that could be causing him to act inappropriately, such as:

• Third, determine whether there are any environmental factors that are contributing to your cat’s poor behavior. Once you’ve ruled out any medical concerns with your cat, you may think about why your cat could be exhibiting one or more of these undesirable habits in the first instance. Examine his surroundings for any factors that could be causing him to act inappropriately, such as

1. 1 Do not discipline your cat in any way, whether physically or verbally. Using physical or verbal reprimands to rectify your cat’s poor conduct is one of the least effective methods of correcting your cat’s bad behavior. To the contrary, striking or screaming at your cat may cause your cat to become more scared of you, less inclined to play with other people, and more aggressive in his clawing and biting behavior. Since your cat understands he may conduct the behavior without being punished if you are not around, it is possible that your cat will continue to act out while you are not present.

• When it comes to short-term remedies to your cat’s difficulties, physical or verbal punishment is often ineffectual, and it will not prevent your cat from behaving out in the future. Instead, it will create a more stressful situation for both you and your cat, which will make matters worse. When your cat does something wrong, such as peeing marking your furniture or going to the toilet on the carpet instead of the litter box, it’s necessary to take a deep breath as an owner and attempt to employ a more effective corrective strategy
• However, this can be difficult at times.

• Punishment, whether physical or verbal, is often unsuccessful as a short-term solution to your cat’s problems and will not prevent your cat from behaving out. As a result, both you and your cat will be subjected to a more stressful atmosphere. When your cat does something wrong, such as urine marking your furniture or going to the bathroom on the carpet instead of the litter box, it’s important to take a deep breath as an owner and try to use a more effective correcting technique
• Otherwise, your cat may become agitated and become aggressive.

• The reason your cat scratches the back of your favorite couch or the side of your bed is likely because these objects smell strongly of their favorite owner, and they are attempting to blend their fragrance with yours by scratching. Place a scratching post near to the spot where they prefer to scratch to deter them from doing so. Scratching posts should be positioned in’social’ areas of your home, such as living rooms and kitchens, where you spend the majority of your time. Scatter some catnip on the scratching post if they need a little more encouragement. Cats require at least one litter box per cat in the home. Litter boxes must be cleaned on a regular basis. Doing so will result in cats going to the potty outside the litter box, or fighting with one another as a consequence of heightened tensions surrounding privacy – in a similar fashion to siblings or couples who fight over bathroom time. DO NOT de-claw your cat unless absolutely necessary. This is harsh and unnatural, and it will cause them pain and sensitivity in their paws for the rest of their lives. Sticky paper, aluminum foil, or heavy plastic carpet runners can be used in place of carpet runners in places where you don’t want your cat to wander. It is true that cats do not like walking on any of these textures, but it is also true that they do not like the smells associated with them. DO NOT attempt to deter your cat with smells, such as placing cloths or cotton balls soaked in citronella, perfume, air freshener, citrus, aloe, eucalyptus oil, or oil of wintergreen on objects or surfaces – this is irresponsible and can be extremely toxic to your cat. Please contact your veterinarian immediately if you believe that your cat has consumed or inhaled such chemicals. DO NOT try to dissuade a cat with tastes, such as placing particular foods on surfaces your cat enjoys chewing on or scratching, since this will just make the situation worse. It is possible that your cat will be poisoned if they inhale or consume one of these ways (such as bitter apple, citrus items, spicy sauces, cayenne pepper, or aloe gel). Sound: Using startling noises to stop your cat from engaging in a habit or climbing onto a surface can be effective. Noises that are too loud while they are near to one other, such as blowing a whistle, might cause harm to their hearing. Try to shock them with clickers or a hand clap just before he is ready to engage in what you deem inappropriate behavior, and he will learn to link the conduct with a negative sound in the future.

• 3 Don’t pay attention to your cat when he misbehaves during a play session. It is possible to rectify rough or violent play in your cat during a play session by pulling your attention from them or by providing them with a large plush toy on which they may vent their displeasure. Catnip can be sprinkled on the toy to help calm them down.

• This may be accomplished simply strolling into another room and closing the door. Wait until he has regained his composure before you touch or speak him. This will demonstrate to him that his inappropriate conduct is distressing during playing and will deter him from behaving out in the future.

1. ADVICE FROM AN EXPERT The owner of Boston Veterinary Clinic, Brian Bourquin, also known as “Dr. B” to his clientele, is a veterinarian and the owner of the South End/Bay Village facility as well as three other locations in Massachusetts: the Seaport in Boston and Brookline. The Boston Veterinarian Clinic specializes on basic veterinary care, which includes wellness and preventative care, ill and emergency treatment, soft-tissue surgery, and dentistry for pets and livestock. Specialty services are also available, including behavioral and nutritional counseling, as well as alternative pain management techniques, such as acupuncture and therapeutic laser treatments A member of the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association), the Boston Veterinary Clinic is also the city’s first Fear Free Certified Clinic. The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Brian has obtained from Cornell University is the culmination of nearly 19 years of veterinary expertise. Mr. Brian Bourquin, Director of DVMCat Behavior Training Keep in mind to praise and thank your cat for positive conduct as well. Cats can be trained to perform practically anything if they are provided with enough positive reinforcement. Punishing your cat is something you almost never want to do. Instead, praise them when they perform an action that you find pleasing. That reward might be something as extravagant as a gift, or it could be something as simple as a gentle scratch behind the ears

1. One should maintain proper litter box hygiene. If your cat is exhibiting litter box avoidance, it is critical that you maintain proper litter box hygiene in order to encourage him to use the litter box on a regular basis. In addition to scooping and replacing the litter every day, properly cleaning the litter box once a week, and ensuring that the litter box is visually appealing to your cat, In order to prevent making your cat feel uncomfortable, avoid using litter boxes that have hoods or liners
2. Instead, use a litter box that does not have these features.

• If you have more than one cat in your home, there should be a litter box for each cat as well as an extra litter box available. Make an effort to space out the litter boxes so that each cat has ample space and solitude to relieve themselves. Try to find an area of the house that is peaceful but where your cat can still look around and check if somebody is approaching from behind her. Make sure your cat’s litter box is large enough for him to sit comfortably in it and that there is one to two inches of litter in the box at all times. It is undesirable for cats to use litter boxes that are excessively full with litter.

• 2 Provide scratching posts and regular play sessions for the children to enjoy. Cats typically act out due to boredom or a lack of excitement, thus it is critical that you engage in regular play sessions with your cat to avoid this. When you’re playing with your cat, use a toy, or multiple toys, to keep him from playing rough with your hands or arms. Concentrate his focus on the toys throughout the play periods, and swap up the toys on a weekly basis to ensure that he does not become bored

• Clawing posts are also useful for discouraging your cat from scratching furniture or other items made of soft materials like fabrics. Organize scratching posts in common sections of your home or in locations where your cat likes to hang out.

• 3 Make use of cat pheromones to alleviate tension in the household. If your cat is peeing marking or spraying, it may be beneficial to put a synthetic cat pheromone in the home to distract him. If your cat is worried or afraid, it might help to alleviate his tension and prevent him from marking his territory with pee.

• In most cases, this pheromone is administered by the use of a diffuser or a spray, which may be purchased at your local pet store.

If you’re looking for this pheromone, it’s available at your local pet store in the form of a diffuser or a spray;

• In most cases, this pheromone is administered by the use of a diffuser or a spray, which may be purchased at your local pet store.

More information on the replies Inquire about something There are 200 characters remaining. Include your email address so that you may be notified when this question has been resolved. Submit

Video

To learn a cat to quit doing practically anything, place a substance with an unpleasant texture in the region where you don’t want your cat to go, such as aluminum foil or double-sided tape, and leave it there for several days. Additionally, you may spray the area with citronella, aloe, or citrus to dissuade your cat because it will not appreciate the fragrance of these plants. In the event that your cat misbehaves when it’s agitated or hyperactive, consider giving it a cat pheromone diffuser or spray, which can calm it down and make it less likely to misbehave again.

Did you find this overview to be helpful?

Did this article help you?

Your expectations regarding yourcat’s conduct are most likely reasonable. If it is occasionally found to be doing something it is not meant to be doing, you are unlikely to be startled. You may, on the other hand, be questioning whether it is appropriate to chastise a cat for regularly terrible conduct. The following are all examples of undesired cat behaviors: jumping on countertops, chewing on cables, peeing outside of the litter box, and clawing objects in the home that are not intended to be scratched.

Whatever negative or undesirable behavior your cat is exhibiting, you will almost certainly wish to put a stop to it.

Train Your Cat

Cats are more intelligent than most people believe, and they have an excellent memory. Cats, according to experts, have both long-term and short-term memories, making them easily trainable. It also implies that they are well aware of what they can get away with on a consistent basis. Pets, like people, respond well to positive reinforcement, which means that cats will recall when they receive something they find appealing. The majority of cats enjoy being petted, being fed, being entertained, or having all three.

If at all possible, only use this unique gift to reward your cat when it is being trained for a particular behavior.

If you are having difficulty finding an item that will stimulate your cat, consider items like as tuna, canned spray cheese, prawns, and catnip toys as possibilities.

These may be objects that your cat has never encountered before, and as a result, they may be more effective in attracting your cat’s interest. Catherine Song’s “The Spruce” is a musical comedy.

Discourage Bad Behavior

Punishment does not work on cats since they are far more open to incentives and gifts. However, you may deter poor conduct by employing the following strategies:

• In the event that you notice your cat jumping on the countertops or in an inappropriate location, shake a container with some pennies in it to scare your cat. Make use of deterrents: Some cats are put off by citrus scents, red pepper flakes, and commercially available sprays that are intended to keep cats away from specific sections of the house. Additionally, there are specific sprays available that have a terrible taste to stop pets from chewing on objects. Use a water spray bottle to do the following: Getting sprayed with water is something that no one enjoys, especially cats. If your cat is somewhere or doing something they shouldn’t be, give them a brief spray to get them to go. It’s possible that after a few instances, simply reaching for the spray bottle is enough to prevent the undesirable behavior. Double-sided tape or aluminum foil can be used to secure the item: These simple items can be placed on surfaces that you don’t want your cat to scratch or on which you don’t want him to scratch. The textures are not appealing to cats. Make a statement: In order to put an end to any harsh behavior, startle your cat with a loud “ouch” or similar phrase. For cats who are aggressive toward people and may bite or cling onto your arm or leg, this is an excellent method. Give yourself a timeout: If your cat is misbehaving, gently confine it to a restroom or another area with no one else there for 20 minutes at a time. Quite frequently, it may emerge from the room with a completely new mindset

In the event that you notice your cat jumping on the countertops or in an inappropriate location, shake a container with some pennies in it to scare the cat. Discouragement measures should be taken: Orange and red pepper flakes, as well as commercially available sprays intended to keep cats away from certain regions, can be irritating to some cats. Additionally, there are specific sprays available that have a terrible taste to discourage pets from chewing on objects. The following are some examples of how to use a water spray bottle.

1. If your cat is somewhere or doing something they shouldn’t be, give them a brief spray of water to distract them.
2. Double-sided tape or aluminum foil can be used to hold things together:.
3. Cats do not care for the textures; they are uncomfortable with them.
4. For cats who are aggressive toward people and may bite or cling onto your arm or leg, this is a good strategy to use.
5. Many times it will emerge from the room with a new outlook on things.

Encourage Good Behavior

If your cat is doing well, offer it food, praise, and lots of attention whenever you get the opportunity. Whenever you see it resting near to something it used to chew on, give it a treat. If you see that it is scratching the scratching pole rather than your sofa, give it a treat. Your cat will rapidly learn to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Ana Cadena’s Spruce / The Spruce

Problems and Proofing Behavior

It is critical that you do not physically harm your cat in any way. This includes purposely injuring your cat by spanking, beating, kicking, or otherwise harming him. In the long run, using physical force to teach a cat a lesson would only result in more disruptive, and even violent, behavior from the cat. Please do not suffocate your cat. In mature cats, this form of confinement and transportation is no longer advised. Cats are uncomfortable when they scratch, and causing discomfort to a misbehaving cat can only worsen the situation.

An option to taking a cat by the scruff is to place a blanket over the animal and scoop the cat up within the blanket, as seen below. This will ensure the safety of both you and the cat, as well as the ability to transfer the cat without stressing it even more.

How to Discipline a Cat

Maintaining your cat’s physical well-being is really essential. Included in this are purposeful acts such as spanking, kicking, or otherwise inflicting harm to your cat. In the long run, using physical force to teach a cat a lesson is ineffective and can possibly result in more disruptive, if not violent behavior. Keep your cat from being scratched. This is no longer suggested as a technique of restraint or transportation for adults cats. Cats are uncomfortable when they scratch, and causing discomfort to a misbehaving cat can only aggravate the situation.

If you don’t want to grasp a cat by the scruff of the neck, you may wrap it in a blanket and stuff it with the cat inside.

• Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet? Becker, M., and Spadafori, G. Do Cats Always Land on Their Feet? Brunner D. The Cat Owner’s Manual (Brunner D. The Cat Owner’s Manual, 2006: 118–20)
• In 2004, the scores were 90–2 and 212–6. Shojai A., ed., The Purina Encyclopedia of Cat Care, 1998: 391
• Siegal M., ed., The Cornell Book of Cats, 1989: 62–7
• Shojai A., ed., The Purina Encyclopedia of Cat Care, 1998: 391
• Shojai A., ed., The Purin

How To Train Your Cat For Better Behaviour (Tips and Tricks)

Does your cat behave in a rebellious manner? You may have wished that there was a more effective approach to train and control it. Newsflash! Cats are capable of being trained! However, contrary to common opinion, even the most obstinate and insubordinate feline furballs may be trained using a range of straightforward (and not so straightforward) teaching techniques. The services of a renowned cat behaviorist or pet trainer are not need to be extremely expensive for you to benefit from their expertise.

In addition, you are not need to have a certain degree to accomplish it!

Why Train A Cat, And What Can You Train Them To Do?

Cats are well-known for being inquisitive, temperamental, and willful creatures. In the wrong hands, they may be quite destructive without you realizing it, and they can be a real pain in the neck if you don’t handle them correctly when it comes to training. Cats may be taught to execute a variety of feats, including pumping their fists, sitting down, rolling over, jumping through hoops, and handing their paws, among others. However, there are several other valuable things that you can teach your cat to perform as well.

Litter Box Training (And Toilet Training?)

One of the most essential things you can do for your cat is to ensure that she is going about her business in the manner in which you want her to do it. Cleaning up cat feces and urine isn’t much fun when you’re constantly on the go. It doesn’t matter if it’s on a carpet, a sofa, or your clothes. It’s a nightmare. We recommend that you read our post on what to do if your cat isn’t using the litter box before continuing with this process. The advice and methods contained inside have assisted me in ensuring that my two dogs have a positive connection with their litter box.

1. When working with such little items, be careful not to utilize brittle materials…
2. Immediately following each meal, carefully place your kitten in the litter box to check whether she will pee or poo.
3. She may still be able to consume it!
4. Some individuals even spray their litter box with catnip or other enticing aromas to keep their feline companions interested and entertained.
5. Please make sure she can stand up and turn around comfortably inside the container.
6. Finally, if she just isn’t using the litter box, make sure you take her to the veterinarian to rule out the possibility that there is something else wrong with her health.
7. Cats have a natural need to bury their faeces, and being unable to do so can have a severe psychological impact on the cat.

Because this cat parent was unable to bend down to clean the litter box, having the cat use the toilet was the difference between giving her up and keeping her. As a result, she instructed it on how to use the toilet. There are some cases where it is really required, therefore definitely.

Leash Training

Consider purchasing a harness or a leash if you want to take your feline companion out into the big outdoors but are concerned that she may flee or become injured or terrified while outside. A harness or a leash will make things much simpler for you and your cat. In this piece, we’ll go over how to train themin, which is rather straightforward. Here’s a truncated version of what I said: Introduce your cat to the leash and harness in the house one step at a time. At begin, simply demonstrate your point.

1. Allow her to wear it inside so that she learns that it does not impair movement and is not unsafe to be around with.
2. Please be patient!
3. Gradually increase the amount of time she spends on a leash in your own home until she is comfortable with it.
4. But be careful not to go too far.
5. ), until she is comfortable with it.

• When she hears her name, she will come. Put an end to scratching your furniture or the door. Stop chewing your nails when you’re having fun

Putting in some committed work, you can educate your cat how to cease engaging in harmful behavior and how to begin performing tricks and reacting to verbal orders.

The Basic Rules For Training Your Cat

There are a plethora of techniques and tactics for teaching your cat, but the most effective method of achieving any level of success entails following four fundamental rules:

• Avoid using punishment
• Instead, emphasize positive reinforcement
• And discourage any infractions.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these behaviors individually.

Stop Using Any Form Of Punishment

Punishing your cat for his/her misdeeds will not result in him/her learning a valuable lesson. Any sort of angry or punitive action you take towards your cat will have no good impact. This includes slapping, yelling, removing your cat from the house, pointing, making gestures, or any other form of punishment. In the event that you haven’t caught your cat in the act, your cat will be unable to comprehend why you are penalizing it at a later time. And if you do manage to catch your feline companion red-pawed, you will only serve to encourage it to continue doing what it has been doing each time you turned your gaze away from it.

Instead, when they perceive that their good activities are being recognized and rewarded, they will alter their destructive and evil behavior.

Start Applying The Positive Reinforcement Practice Every Single Day

Reward your kitten whenever it does anything well, like as purring, responding to its name, using the litter box in the proper manner, or any other behavior. If you want to keep your cat from scratching the furniture, focus on making the scratching post a pleasurable experience for it – make it smell nicer, give your kitten treats, start playing with it, speak softly to it – and it will stop clawing the furniture. Maintain consistent communication with your cat to ensure that each nice deed is recognized and appreciated in some way.

This means that your cat will begin to focus on pleasant experiences and will eventually cease misbehaving as a result of this behavior modification.

Discourage Your Feline Pet’s Misdemeanors

If your cat enjoys smashing things, scratching the sofa, going to the bathroom where it isn’t allowed to, biting your fingers during playing, waking you up in the middle of the night to beg food, and so on, you need to put a stop to this behavior as quickly as possible. The right method to handle this situation is to dissuade her from engaging in inappropriate behavior. Your kitty’s demands, such as giving in to her wish when she interrupts your work time because she wants to play, will be interpreted as an encouragement to continue in that behavior.

1. And when they are given the attention they deserve, they perceive their misdeeds as something for which they will be rewarded.
2. If your cat begins to bite you while you are playing, simply step away.
3. If your pet is scratching the arm of your favorite chair, make the scratching post more enticing while making the chair less appealing for your pet.
4. The cat’s brain operates in a straightforward manner.
5. So, to correctly teach your cat, keep these three fundamental techniques in mind at all times.
6. If you want to take your cat’s training to the next level, clicker training is an option.
7. There will be a plethora of goodies!

Here’s How to Train a Cat to Do 5 Life-Changing Things

Every editorial product is chosen on its own merits, while we may be compensated or earn an affiliate commission if you purchase something after clicking on one of our affiliate links. As of the time of writing, the ratings and pricing are correct, and all goods are in stock. courtesy of Mint Images/Getty Images

First things first: Never punish

Cats just will not learn from what some owners would consider “punishment,” regardless of the circumstances. Even worse, “punishing” your cat can lead to stress, which can lead to behavioral and health problems, which is the last thing you want to deal with while cat training your cat. When training a cat, keep in mind that patience and positive reinforcement are vital components of successful training. Trying to figure out what’s going on with your cat’s behavior? Here are 17 things that your cat would love to tell you about himself.

Next: Get a clicker—and treats

A clicker, which is commonly used as a training tool for a broad range of animals, will cost you only a couple of dollars and will assist you in providing positive reinforcement while you’re learning how to teach a cat. Use a clicky pen, if you have one, or a standard pen with a clicky button—what matters is that you have a distinct noise you can produce immediately. The majority of cat training consists of rewarding your cat with a treat once it performs a desired action, which is marked by a click.

If you don’t use a clicker, your cat could be perplexed as to why it is being rewarded: A dog is more likely to understand a command if it obeys it, hears the click, and then receives a reward after.

Follow these guidelines to prevent your cat from scratching you. Nils Jacobi is a Getty Images contributor.

How to train a cat to: Come on command

Caught off guard by a voice signal, cats might learn to flee in your direction. It is possible that you will utilize this talent to bring your cat back in if it escapes suddenly, according to the ASPCA. This phase in learning how to teach a cat begins with producing an unique noise before feeding—before you open a bag or can—such as vocally calling your cat or clicking your tongue before feeding. Your pet will learn to identify that noise with something nice (such as food) and will ultimately come running to you when it hears the sound.

Begin by covering modest distances.

Gradually increase the space between you and the animal.

By the way, this is a demonstration of how intelligent your cat is.

How to train a cat to: Use a toilet

When given a voice indication, cats can learn to flee your direction. You may utilize this talent to bring your cat back in if it escapes unexpectedly, according to the ASPCA. To begin training a cat, make a unique noise before feeding him—before you open a bag or can—such as calling his name or clicking your tongue to get his attention. Your pet will learn to link that noise with something nice (such as food) and will ultimately come running to you when it hears that noise. Then, outside of typical feeding times, reinforce this behavior.

Use your clicker to signal when your cat has arrived, and then give him or her a treat in exchange for their assistance.

Cat training sessions should last no more than five minutes and should be repeated up to a total of twenty times, according to the American Society of Animal Control.

iStock/Seregraff

How to train a cat to: Shake hands

This cat training method is less complicated than you would think: Prepare a tasty treat, and then position yourself on the same level as your cat. When you say “shake,” tap your cat’s paw with your clicker, and use your clicker when your cat moves its paw. Continue to educate your cat until it gives its paw in response to the “shake” instruction without tapping on the floor. Like the “come on command” trick, it may take a few training sessions spread over a few of days to perfect this technique.

iStock/suemack

How to train a cat to: Beg

This is comparable to the “shake hands” gimmick that many people are familiar with. When you want your cat to beg, hold a treat slightly over his or her head and say “beg.” You should have your cat stand on its hind legs and reach up for the reward; click once to indicate the behavior, and then give your cat the treat. You’ll want to keep practicing until your cat will beg on demand without the need for a reward dangling overhead.

For those who are serious about learning how to train a cat properly, be sure to consistently praise and treat your pet—but never give your cat milk. Photograph by Sabina Torres/Getty Images

How to train a cat to: Walk on a leash

Purchase a harness that has a leash that attaches at the cat’s back rather than its neck. Before putting it on, the ASPCA suggests that you keep it out for a few days in locations that your cat frequents, such as its eating area or preferred napping spot, to get the animal used to the look of it. You will then go to draping the harness over the cat’s shoulders (without fully fastening it) when you are giving the cat a reward. You’ll soon be able to secure the harness around the cat without the need of a leash; start by leaving it on your cat for a couple of minutes at a time and gradually increasing the time over a few days’ time.

After a few days, you can begin to hold the leash during training sessions.

Make sure you give your cat plenty of time to explore a new place and that you begin in a peaceful location.

The original publication date was February 5, 2021.

Sign up for articles sent right to your inbox

Enjoy receiving the greatest articles, tips, and humor delivered directly to your email every day! SubscribeSAVESave up to 84 percent on your subscription!

7 Essential Commands Your Cat Really Can Learn

As an equal opportunity pet enthusiast, may I venture to add that cats are just as entertaining to train as dogs? Basic instructions for your cat will be welcomed, and most kittens will respond positively to leash training if you combine the teachings with food and entertainment. “Many cats like training if it is done properly, with patience and rewards,” says Katenna Jones, ACAAB, director of Jones Animal Behavior in Rhode Island, a behaviorist who is also an ACAAB member. You receive out of a relationship what you put into it, just as in any other.

• Using a litter box is instinctual for cats, and common dog behavior problems like as play biting, separation anxiety, and hostility are simple to prevent.
• If you’re teaching your cat on a leash, use a harness rather than a training collar, which might cause a furious oppositional response and even cause your cat to choke.
• The advantages of cat training are numerous.
• Take a minute to stroll around on her paws before you begin your cat training quest.

While dogs would comply in exchange for a few sweet words, cats are driven by the prospect of receiving a reward for their cooperation. Cats are uninterested in our gushy enthusiasm and will only engage in training games if the incentives are meaningful to them.

7 Tricks You Can Train Your Cat to Do

Cat training is a wonderful method to strengthen your bond with your cat while also teaching them the meaning of a few important phrases. “The most essential thing is to allow your cat to have the last say in what you teach them; not all cats are interested in learning everything,” says Ingrid Johnson, CCBC and director of Fundamentally Feline in Atlanta, Georgia. “Before attempting to train your cat to do a behavior on cue, choose actions that your cat already performs spontaneously. “Keep a good attitude,” she advises.

In a nutshell, training is just the process of attaching words to normal acts and rewarding your cat for his cooperation.

1. Gentle

Encourage your cats to regard their hands as constantly rewarding by putting them in their mouths. Make a treat paste and apply it on your knuckles or the back of your hand to avoid biting. You may make your own or buy it from a shop. As your cat or kitten licks your hand, say “gentle,” and gently remove your hand away if she begins to nip or bite.

2. Find It

Drop valuable goodies at your cat’s paws, and once your cat has learned to follow the throw, add the phrase “Find It” at the end of the toss. Yes, it really is that straightforward. After that, you may use Tupperware containers or even your own hands to play the shell game. If she claws or bites your hand, say “gentle,” and dab a dab of cat paste on your palm to promote licking. Immediately reveal the goodie once she licks or lightly touches your palm with her paw.

3. Target

You can use a target wand built by yourself or purchased from a store, or simply the tip of your finger. Introduce the target 2 inches in front of your cat’s nose to train him or her to be aware to it. As soon as she touches it, click and give her something to celebrate. As soon as your cat consistently walks toward the target, mention the word “target” to signal him to continue this behavior.

4. Sit

Click and give your cat a treat whenever she sits down on her own own. Soon, you’ll see your cat sitting on the counter, waiting for you to bring out the treats. Once you have a good sense of what she will do, add the phrase “sit.” Then, using a target wand or a pointing signal, attempt to entice her into a certain posture. This stance deserves to be recognized and rewarded. Gradually reduce the frequency with which you click every right response and just use the clicker and goodies on an as-needed basis.

5. On Your MatStay

Make a cat-mat by placing a flat mat, towel, or cloth napkin on the counter, sofa, or tabletop and letting it dry. Curiosity may not be the death of your cat, but it will certainly take the best of her! When she walks across the cat-mat, a click is heard. Then toss a treat just a little bit further from the mat, forcing your cat to return for another round of treats. Gradually introduce the cue “on your mat” by using it sparingly. Once your cat is willing to go to her mat and remains there, you may introduce the “stay” command.

When you’re eating or cooking, place a cat mat on the floor to encourage your cat to remain in a certain position, such as her cat tree. You may also take your cat-mat with you on vacation or to the veterinarian to keep your cat calm during check-ups.

6. Come

Almost as soon as they join your house, cats may learn to come when called. Positive memories, the shaking of a treat cup, and the phrase “come” should all be combined. To do this, place goodies in a cup or container and shake it repeatedly, rewarding your cat each time it recognizes the sound. When your cat comes, click and give her a treat. Increasing the time between saying “come” and shaking the rewards gradually increases the likelihood that she will come on cue. Gradually reduce the use of the clicker and just reward her on an as-needed basis.

7. In the Box (or Cat Carrier)

The majority of cats will readily leap into a box or investigate a bag. A directive for this activity is important when it comes time to get the cat carrier out of the cat carrier closet. In fact, prepare the cat carrier well in advance of the time when you will need it, putting goodies inside and even feeding your cat or kitten portions of her food while it is in there. As soon as your cat climbs into the carrier or a box, click to encourage and praise him or her. When your cat asks you to do something, add the cue “in the box.” Gradually increase the amount of time you spend transporting her in her box or carrier, rewarding her after each journey.

End each session with a bout of predatory fun using a feather flyer or a stuffed toy, which you should allow your cat to carry away in triumph.

Cat Training Don’ts

Discipline has little effect on cats, and they do not learn from it. Swatting, spraying, or startling tactics may temporarily prevent your cat from engaging in a particular behavior near you, but they will not prevent the behavior from occurring in general. You will create a cautious cat who will be wary of your closeness simply by being there in the room. “The behaviors we witness in cats, particularly the ones we don’t like, are the means through which they communicate,” Jones explains. ‘Any strategy that is punitive or is intended to reduce a behavior merely closes down dialogue.’ Put your training efforts into achieving your goals instead of focusing on overcoming obstacles.

Kitten Training – Obedience Tips for Your New Cat

Keep training sessions to a minimum. Concentrate on a single command at a time, and after it is learned, go on to the next command. Practice the instructions in a variety of various locations around the house so that she becomes accustomed to responding to you in a variety of scenarios as she grows older. If you’re having trouble with other elements of your kitten’s training, such as getting her to stay still for grooming or getting her acclimated to traveling by car, you may use the clicker approach to assist you.

We all know that dogs can be trained to follow simple orders, but what about your cat?

Given that cats are more self-sufficient and less gregarious than dogs, they are less likely to seek praise in the same manner that dogs do. However, as you are already aware, cats are extremely bright creatures who are capable of learning a wide range of behaviors and tricks.

Training a Kitten

Cat obedience training may be used to address a variety of typical feline habits. This can save you hours (or even days) of headaches while also keeping you more connected to your cat’s needs.

• Aggression toward humans or other animals
• Stress
• Fear or worry
• Spraying and peeing on furniture
• Avoiding the litter box compulsions to engage in repetitive acts such as over-grooming or excessive scratching or biting

How to Train a Cat

Furniture scratching; spraying and peeing in inappropriate places; avoiding the litter box; aggression against people or other animals; stress; fear or anxiety Behaviors that are compulsions, such as over-grooming or scratching and biting excessively;

How to Address Bad Behavior in Your Cat

There might be a variety of reasons why your cat is behaving out: she could be stressed out due to a recent change in your household, she could be suffering from a medical problem, or she could just be unaware that her conduct is inappropriate. It is common for people to believe that their cat is misbehaving because she is unhappy or spiteful toward them; however, this is not always the case. Redirecting her conduct rather than penalizing her for it is more likely to result in her getting back on the right track.

1. If she is afraid of you, this will also have a negative impact on your relationship with one another.
2. One method of accomplishing this is by associating negative actions with something unpleasant.
3. If you want to keep your cat away from places you don’t want her to go, soak cotton balls in these smells and scatter them throughout the house.
4. As a reward for a job well done, give her a treat, and she will learn to correlate her behaviors with her rewards.

How to Train Your Cat to Listen

Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation The idea that you can train a cat to obey your directions is widely held by many individuals. This isn’t the case at all. Even while cats might be more difficult to train than dogs, with time and patience, you can teach a cat to be more attentive to your commands. Create a system of awards to get things started. Find a means to communicate with your cat so that it understands when it is acting appropriately. You should train your cat on a regular basis in brief sessions to ensure that it knows acceptable behavior.

Punishing your cat will simply result in it being more stressed, and it may even promote negative behavior in the future.

1. 1 Determine what sort of food your cat enjoys eating. Treats may be a wonderful method to encourage your cat to behave in a positive manner. The type of treatment, on the other hand, is important. Your cat is unlikely to behave in the presence of regular feeding. Determine what treats it enjoys and use those as a reward.

• 1 Determine which kind of food your cat enjoys. Using treats to encourage your cat for good behavior might be an excellent strategy. The type of treatment, on the other hand, is significant. When it comes to ordinary meals, your cat is unlikely to behave well. It will appreciate a treat, so give it one for being good!

2Experiment with different incentives. Not every cat is amenable to food stimulation. Perhaps another form of treat might be more appealing to your feline companion. Perhaps your cat has a special favorite toy. After it has behaved well, you may reward it by allowing it to play with that toy. If your cat is extremely sociable, consider rewarding him or her with a petting session.

3 Using a clicker, establish a relationship that will result in rewards. A little clicker may be purchased at a pet store. This can be used to communicate with a cat when it is acting appropriately. Teach your cat to link the clicker with pleasant events by using a clicker.

• Select a small, quiet workspace that is devoid of distractions for your job. Using this method will help you to keep your cat engaged
• At initially, all you need to do is establish that a click indicates a treat is on the way. Place the clicker next to your cat and hit the button. Then immediately reward your cat for his efforts. You may reward it with a treat, a toy, or your attention
• Repeat this process every day until your cat learns to perk up when the clicker is activated. Keeping training sessions brief is important since cats are quickly distracted. It is recommended that sessions last no more than 5 minutes.

4 Start clicking as soon as your cat pays attention to you. This will serve to stress the fact that listening is beneficial. Because your cat learns that the clicker indicates a reward, you should carry the clicker about the home. When your cat begins to listen, press the button on the clicker.

• Take, for example, the observation that your cat is devouring one of the plants in your home. You say something along the lines of “Get down.” If your cat comes to a crouch in response, press the button on the clicker. If it does not come down in response to your clicker, do not press the button.

1. 1 Reward your cat as soon as you can after it does anything good. Animals are creatures of the present. If you give your cat prizes later in the day, it will not grasp what it is being rewarded for. Give your cat a treat as soon as it begins to listen.

• Suppose your cat is pawing at another cat in your house. “No,” you tell it, and it promptly leaves the cat alone
• Do not reward it after a few minutes have passed. Instantaneously click and present a reward
• If you’re using treats as a reward, it’s a good idea to keep a few goodies on hand for when you need them. Thus, should your cat pay attention, you will be able to provide an immediate incentive.

2 Put in some practice time with your cat every day. This will aid in the consolidation of behaviour. It will encourage your cat to pay closer attention to you in everyday situations. You might try teaching your cat modest orders that will encourage him to listen, such as arriving when he hears his name called.

• Select a location that is devoid of distractions and keep sessions brief. In general, sessions lasting fewer than 5 minutes are recommended. Cats have limited attention spans
• Instruct your cat to participate in a certain action by using positive reinforcement. When it exhibits such behavior, give it a treat. For instance, you may call your cat’s name. In the event that it comes to you, provide it a reward
• You will most likely have to work in increments. This means that you should be content with your cat just partially performing the activity at first. For example, if you call out to your cat, it will come forward and take a few steps. Give it something to look forward to. With time, you will be able to demand more from it. It should not be rewarded until it has completed more of the desired behavior.

3 Give your pet a gentle reprimand. Cats should not be screamed at for misbehaving, but there should be some repercussions for their actions. If you want your cat to listen, make sure it understands what “No” means before you tell it to do something.

• When your cat misbehaves, you don’t need to say much more than a firm “No.” Screaming should be avoided at all costs, since it may distress your cat. When your cat participates in a bad behavior, just tell it “No.” If your cat ceases the action when you ask it to, reward it with food, a toy, or verbal praise. In the event that your cat does not respond to your “No,” try adding a little clap to the mix.

4 Reduce the amount of snacks and awards you give out over time. You want your cat to learn to behave on his or her own gradually, without the need for a reward. You don’t want to educate your cat that it should only behave properly when there’s anything in it for him or her in return. As your cat begins to pay more attention to you, reduce the amount of food you give him.

• Make use of the clicker to your advantage. The fact that this is a reward in and of itself will ultimately teach your cat to view it as a sign that it is behaving appropriately. Once your cat appears to have mastered the art of listening to you, you should only treat it every other time it acts appropriately. With time, you may wean it off of the incentives completely.

1. 1 Do not use a squirt bottle to apply the product. Many people recommend keeping a squirt bottle filled with tap water on hand at all times. As punishment for misbehaving, they will spray it with a short squirt of water. This will not educate your cat how to behave in a right manner. In fact, it has the potential to exacerbate harmful habits..

• A cat’s stress is increased when it is squirted with a water bottle. A cat’s bad behavior is frequently caused by an underlying problem
• For example, your cat may be clawing your furniture because it dislikes his scratching post. Punishing your cat for clawing furniture will not prevent your cat from doing so in the future. Using a spray bottle can just make bothersome habits worse because it will only learn to scratch when you are not around. In the event that your cat is worried in his house, he or she may become more aggressive and prone to acting out more regularly.

2 Avoid the practice of “scuffing.” In order to curb bad behaviors in cats, it is necessary to hold the loose skin around their necks. Many individuals feel that scruffing a cat will help them exert power over it. Adult cats, on the other hand, are frightened and humiliated by scruffing. It will have no effect on a cat’s behavior.

• “Scuffing” should be avoided. In order to stop negative behaviors in cats, you must grab the loose skin on their neck. Apparently, many people believe that scruffing a cat will help them establish dominance over it. Adult cats, on the other hand, are terrified and humiliated by scruffing. It will not have any effect on a cat’s behavior in any way whatsoever.

3Do not discipline your cat. Cats are incapable of understanding punishment, and it just helps to increase their stress levels. It is never necessary to use anything more than a simple “No” and a hand clap to stop inappropriate behavior. Do not shout at your cat or confine your cat to a cage as a form of discipline. Create a new question

• Question Is it feasible to train cats to do certain things? The owner of Boston Veterinary Clinic, Brian Bourquin, also known as “Dr. B” to his clientele, is a veterinarian and the owner of the South End/Bay Village facility as well as three other locations in Massachusetts: the Seaport in Boston and Brookline. The Boston Veterinarian Clinic specializes on basic veterinary care, which includes wellness and preventative care, ill and emergency treatment, soft-tissue surgery, and dentistry for pets and livestock. Specialty services are also available, including behavioral and nutritional counseling, as well as alternative pain management techniques, such as acupuncture and therapeutic laser treatments A member of the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association), the Boston Veterinary Clinic is also the city’s first Fear Free Certified Clinic. The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Brian has obtained from Cornell University is the culmination of nearly 19 years of veterinary expertise. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. Yes, cats can be trained in the same way that dogs can. The most important aspect of teaching a cat is using positive reinforcement. When your cat does something well, reward him or her with food, stroking, toys, or anything else he or she enjoys in order to reinforce the excellent behavior. You should avoid punishing your cat when it does anything wrong since cats do not respond well to punishment and it might actually make them distrustful of you.

Inquire about something There are 200 characters remaining. Include your email address so that you may be notified when this question has been resolved. Submit

• Avoid rewarding your child with milk or dairy products. Cats, on the other hand, are not fond of milk. They are unable to adequately digest dairy products. It has the potential to produce vomiting and diarrhea.

About This Article

Summary of the ArticleXTo educate your cat to obey your directions, begin by identifying a reward that it enjoys, such as a cat treat or a toy that it enjoys playing with. As soon as your cat obeys your directions, quickly treat him or her so that he or she understands which behavior you are praising. Try to do this for 5 minutes every day for a week to ensure that the command becomes second nature. Once your cat has learned to obey your directions, you may progressively reduce the amount of goodies and prizes it receives over time, until it no longer need an incentive to cooperate.

As an alternative, simply say “No” and move the object away from the area if necessary.

Please continue reading for further advice from our Veterinary co-author, including information on how to educate your cat with a clicker. Did you find this overview to be helpful? Thank you to all writers for contributing to this page, which has been viewed 84,135 times so far.

Did this article help you?