How to Be a Cat: McClure, Nikki: 9781419705281: Amazon.com: Books
Throughout the course of a day in Nikki McClure’s latest picture book, a kitten learns the fundamentals of feline behavior through cut-paper illustrations. Each spread contains only a single word of text that instructs readers on “how to be a cat” (e.g., how to stretch, clean, pounce, and feast), with dramatic paper cuts illustrating the kitten’s attempts to replicate an adult cat’s mastery of each ability. Sometimes the cat triumphs, and other times the kitten suffers, in vignettes that vary from playful to serious in their themes.
Cat lovers of all ages will be able to relate to this tender depiction of a mentor-student connection in this film.
Kirkus Reviews gave it a starred rating.
Beginning with the paw-print endpapers, children will be aware that they are about to go on an exciting journey.
“McClure’s cut-paper spreads may be hypnotic to look at.” Publishers Weekly is a weekly publication that publishes a variety of different types of books.
The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books is a publication dedicated to children’s literature.
Cat Fantasies
How to Be Cat Like
Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation In order to imitate cats for an acting part or simply because you like feline behavior, there are various techniques you may use to learn how to act like cats. Each cat is unique, although many of them exhibit habits that are similar to one another. While dogs are warm and cuddly, cats can be as fussy and standoffish as they are affectionate and cuddly.
- 1 Get plenty of sleep and take cat naps. Cats are well-known for napping at any time and in any location. Make sure you get a full night’s sleep as well as several short naps throughout the day if you want to be like a cat. The time it takes to take a brief catnap should be 15 to 20 minutes, so you may take many throughout the day. If you are unable to sleep throughout the day, attempt to sleep in the early hours of the morning. If you are able, try to sleep for an hour or two.
- Find a great sun patch where you may have a warm, comfortable sun bath. The majority of people consider cats to be lethargic, yet what’s wrong with being content in one’s own skin? Curl up in a ball in the fetal position on a plush cushion or a new pile of warm laundry in the fetal position. The tummies of cats are protected when they sleep since here is where they are most susceptible.
- 2Practise yoga to help your muscles loosen up. Immediately after waking up from a nice nap or a long night of sleep, stretch your body to relieve tension. Take your time extending every muscle in your body and reawakening your body, just like a cat. A fast sun salutation is a terrific stretching technique that includes stances that are similar to those of a cat. Yawn to stretch your facial muscles and make it appear as if a cat is waking up as well
- Three Cleanse oneself on a regular basis. Cats groom themselves by licking and pawing their faces in order to remove food, smells, and extra hair from their bodies. Shower at least once a day, if not twice a day, to keep debris and excess oils off of your skin’s surface. Check your appearance in the mirror many times a day, and clean up after yourself after meals.
- Growing your nails out and having them fashioned into a point is another technique to be like a cat
- Some cats are declawed, while others are not. You should brush your hair every day so that you don’t lose hair throughout the day and that it remains free of knots and matting
- 4 Spend some time outside having fun. Bird-watching, tree-climbing practice, and getting outside to enjoy the natural world are all recommended. Maintain an active lifestyle to keep yourself healthy and in the attitude of a curious cat. Once you’ve exhausted yourself, lie down in the sun for a while.
- Cats like being amused and being in the company of other cats. Participate in group activities such as playing and lounging
- Hunting is an activity that will put you in the mentality of a cat. Even an indoor cat will seek and chase after toys if given the opportunity.
- 1 Instead of only expressing yourself verbally, use body language to convey your emotions. Just like a cat, you may express your moods without speaking a word to the other person. If you’re bored or exhausted, turn your back on the person and walk out of the room. If you’re enjoying someone’s company, sit close to them and close your eyes when you grin to demonstrate that you’re satisfied and happy
- In spite of the fact that you lack a tail or ears, you may still convey your emotions to others without having to say anything. If you’re waiting for supper to be done, you might walk back and forth or back away if someone tries to contact or embrace you.
- 2 Experiment with the tone of your voice to see what works best for you. When you’re pleased and content, speak in an enthusiastic tone, and when you’re angry, integrate a growl into your voice. You are not need to meow in the same manner as a cat, but you can imitate their noises. Because cats chirp and mew at things they enjoy, you might be able to emit high-pitched, delighted squeals when you see someone or something you appreciate.
- You may hiss, much as a cat does when it feels threatened or agitated, to express your discontent. If you want to be able to communicate with cats, try to replicate their meows and other sounds as closely as you can. Pay attention to how they speak and try to sound like them.
- 3 Create a signature scent for yourself. Using pheromones that humans are not sensitive to, cats communicate with one another in order to attract mates and warn other cats to keep away. Choose a perfume or body spray that is pleasant-smelling so that others will want to be in your company
- Make a point of cooking with garlic and onions or handling other foul-smelling stuff, and don’t wash them off, if you’re trying to repel someone.
- 4 Blink slowly to indicate that you are interested in someone. A common misconception is that cats are staring at somebody whereas, in fact, cats blink slowly to indicate that they are interested in someone. To express affection, blink gently and evenly from side to side. The use of this technique is especially beneficial when you’re getting to know a new cat and want to signal that you’re a buddy to him.
- There are some people who may not notice this conduct, and it may appear to be more apparent to them. Instead of batting your eyes quickly, consider batting them slowly to appear less scary.
- 5 Swat someone who is causing you irritation in order to warn them. If you ever find yourself in a quarrel, refrain from going all out and physically hitting the other person. As an alternative, rapidly hit someone on the arm to warn them that a fight is about to begin. Cats will swipe at other cats, dogs, and people at the outset of a fight, and it is not always necessary for the dispute to grow to a physical confrontation.
- A word of caution A swat does not have to be particularly severe
- It only has to be rapid and sharp enough to get someone’s attention. If a true battle does break out, cats will bite and scratch the people who are fighting against them. Just be cautious and think about the ramifications of employing these techniques in a real-life battle with someone.
- 1 Maintain a high level of alertness and awareness of your surroundings. Cats have extremely sensitive hearing and smell, which allows them to be acutely aware of their surroundings. Pay attention to what’s going on around you, whether you’re doing nothing or in the thick of a project or a discussion. It’s an excellent technique for being safe while also being as perceptive as a cat
- Yet,
- Imitating cats by reacting unpredictably and leaping at items that catch your attention is another technique to do so. If you hear a strange sound or smell anything strange, you should investigate. Cats are inquisitive, and you should be as well
- Second, be reserved among strangers, yet friendly and inviting after you’ve been acquainted. For the most part, cats are wary and often standoffish with strangers when they first meet them. Not everyone you meet should immediately become your buddy, since this is more like acting like a canine would. Make others earn your trust and friendship by treating them with respect. As a result, you’ll have vital friendships for the rest of your life
- 3 If you want attention, ignore people and then demand it when you want it. Choose who you spend your time with and how much time you spend with them. Cats don’t always like being lavished with affection, and you shouldn’t feel obliged to do it either. If you need some alone time, you should walk away from someone. When you’re ready to interact with others again, you may simply rejoin a chat.
- You have the right to your own personal space. If you need to be alone, avoid allowing others to annoy you. In the event that they become bored with your attention, cats will hiss and snarl at you. Just like a cat, being chatty will signal others that you want to interact, and abstaining from talking will tell them that you’ve had enough of socializing.
- 4 Gently head-butt and nuzzle the individuals you adore to show your affection. Once you’ve established a deep relationship with someone, you might express affection for them, particularly physically. Cats like massaging people’s bodies with their paws and rubbing their heads to define their territorial boundaries. If you want to show someone that you care about them, you can stroke their backs or nuzzle their significant other.
- Use your discretion while performing these activities with individuals you know well, or else they may not grasp what you’re up to
- 5 Give folks gifts as a thank you. Cats deliver food to their loved ones as a way of showing affection. Making modest gestures for your friends, such as bracelets and trinkets, is a nice way to show them that you appreciate them and are thinking of them.
- Cats, like dogs, hunt and leave their kills to provide food for their masters and companions. You may take care of the people you care about by providing them with food, such as by making complete meals for them or by sharing a portion of your lunch with them.
- 6 Have a sense of humour. Break stuff off of counters, sit on someone when they are trying to do a task, or be inquisitive and look in cupboards and behind closed doors to see what you can find. Cats are cute, but they can also be a nuisance when they get in your way. Consider having a little fun by blocking someone’s view of the television when they’re attempting to watch something on it.
- Make a nuisance of yourself. Even if someone requests that you cease your behavior, you do not abide by their request and do not tone down the cat impersonation.
Create a new question
- Question What are some catlike sleeping positions that I can adopt to make myself feel more catlike? You can either curl up in a ball or simply stretch out on the floor. Cats can be found sleeping in a variety of positions. If you have a cat, pay attention to their sleeping habits or look at pictures or videos of cats on the internet. Question How often should I nap? Katlover101’s Answer from the Community You can use it as often as you want. Just not while you’re at school, in the bath or shower, or when your parents ask you to do something
- Only when necessary. Question What do catwomen wear? Whatever they like. Cats are self-sufficient and do not require the approval of others when it comes to their clothing choices
- Question Occasionally, I put on a cat collar (which I made myself) and go out in public. Is that too cat-like? Not at all. You could even go to the extreme and get a real cat collar. Just make sure you can get it off
- sQuestion How many naps per day should I take in the summer holidays? There are plenty of nice spots in the sun or the shade, but I don’t want to miss out on anything! If you don’t want to miss out on anything, you could take a couple of short naps
- sQuestion Do you have any examples of places to sleep in when I am trying to be cat like? Sofa, carpeted floor, the dog’s basket (cleaned first), a floor nest (made with folded blankets), laundry basket if it’s large enough, and so forth. That should also give you your own ideas – look around the house and find cozy spots
- sQuestion I have fake cat ears and paws. Would it be weird to wear them? Katlover101’s Answer from the Community Of course not. I have fake cat ears and nobody says anything. But, make sure whenever you wear your paws that you can still hold a pen/pencil if you need to
- Question How do I know when to stop acting like a cat and begin acting like a human? People keep calling me weird, and my cousin says that taking naps is for toddlers. TheTurtlePlayzCommunity Answer First of all, naps are for EVERYONE! Second, if you really think people are annoyed, don’t stop, just tone it down a bit (unless you’re not having fun, then you should stop)
- Question I own a cat. Do you think observing him will help me? Definitely. You will get an idea of how a cat walks, purrs, sleeps, washes itself and eats. Then you can use your knowledge plus your imagination to copy the cat’s actions
- Question Do you have any recommendations for cat-like chokers? I’m a huge fan of chokers and own many, so I think adding a small bell, or a heart with my name on it would be cute, what do you think? Yes, a cute bell or anything like that would work well. Also, a choker that’s satin, or ribbon-like would be most accurate. Just try not to make too much noise with a bell
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- Cats should be observed in order to have a better understanding of their habits and movements. If you are unable to have a pet cat of your own, spend time at a friend’s house who does. Study feline agility, movement, and body language in films such as Catwoman or the musical Cats to see how humans may imitate them. Hide in tight locations if you have the ability to do so, and when you become bored, simply stroll or crawl out as if nothing had occurred. Include hiding places in your home so that you may feel safe. Take a large cardboard box and crawl into it
- This should help. Move quietly, be nimble, and blink slowly. Another advice is to create a faint purring noise when you’re happy
- This is a good way to express happiness. When you’re exhausted, curl up in a ball in any comfortable position you can find
- Cats are extremely adaptable. Consider taking up yoga or Pilates to help you relax and unwind. If you have the ability to drop into a buying crouch, do so. It aids in the stalking of prey (birds, mice, fish, and so on)
- Always be sure you understand what you’re doing before taking action. If you want to, you can spend some time among actual cats, but not too much. Cats may be either sociable or introverted depending on their temperament. Outside play will assist you in taking naps during the day and even sleeping better if you listen to relaxing or sleeping music.
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Being Weird
- Cats may be unusual and eccentric creatures, and they can be downright hilarious! Here are some suggestions on things you may try: When you encounter new individuals, you should flee and conceal yourself. Getting into fights with other individuals
- Purring extremely quietly (to the point of being hardly audible)
- Placing “dead creatures” (stuffed animals) at your loved one’s feet, exactly like you would a cat, might be comforting. Have a selection of cat toys or fidget toys to keep you entertained
- Laser pointers are something you should get infatuated with.
About This Article
Summary of the ArticleXIf you want to behave like a cat, take frequent naps during the day, especially if you can locate a comfortable location in the sun. When you wake up from your slumber, take some time to stretch out your body, being sure to lengthen each muscle group individually. To keep up with your cat’s cleanliness and preference for a well-groomed appearance, take a shower at least once a day and keep an eye on yourself in the mirror throughout the day. Utilize your body language to communicate how you feel, such as leaning into someone if you like them or shutting your eyes when you smile to demonstrate that you’re pleased.
Continue reading to find out how to leave gifts for people you care about in the same way a cat does! Did you find this overview to be helpful? The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 189,009 times.
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Lisa Swerling and Ralph Lazar, artists and book authors, have collaborated on the creation of this helpful handbook. We really hope that this will assist you in realizing your lifelong ambition of becoming a cat.
- Crashemup The date is October 2, 2020, and it is anonymous. The date is October 3, 2020. Every single one of these is 100 percent correct!
- Anonymous The date is October 3, 2020, and the player is unknown. The date is October 7, 2020. I feel like a genuine cat now, all I need is a kitten ear headband to complete the look! hahaha
- sEEEEEEEEEEEEE 14th of October, 2020 Okay, now I’m going to be a cat and a nooinlwnvilnvnvks njkv thanks bAI for your help.
- Alison shortall is a woman that works in the fashion industry. Kelly Lanigan’s birthday is October 15, 2020. On October 15, 2020, it will be time to transform into a cat
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- Keelagh Sheridan is a woman who October 15, 2020Help me, I can’t seem to convert back into a human once again
- Anonymous The date is October 18, 2020. Cats are one-of-a-kind. Wouldn’t you want to be recognized as “exceptional?”
- sMcPiggydi The date is October 23, 2020. Something is wrong, but nothing has occurred
- Anonymity The date is October 26, 2020. I’ve always wanted to be a cat woman
- The cat lady who doesn’t have any cats. The deadline is October 31, 2020. It didn’t work out for me. I transformed into a kitty
- THaTcAt The date is November 10, 2020. This piqued the interest of my cat, who was really intrigued by it. –
- sAnonymous Ilovecats123 will be celebrating their third birthday on November 11, 2020. 5th of December, 2020 The cat is my favorite animal right now
- Anonymous December 6, 2020I really want to be a cat and I really want to be able to fit in small areas
- Leavimmdjsjdfdue bAIIIIII December 9, 2020
- I’ve never been a cat ladyDecember 9, 2020
- I’ve never been a cat lady Ugh! It’s that irritatingdue all over again
- Leavimmdjsjdfdue bAIIIIIIIII The 9th of December, 2020 MaAaAAaaAaAAaAaaAaaAaaAaAAaAAaAaAAaAAaaAaaAa aAaaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAaAa On December 9, 2020, bAIIIIII,s Mom Leavimmdjsjdfdue bAIIIIII,s AI super hero and super duper buddy on December 9, 2020 The 11th of December, 2020 Great, but I don’t want to assault a Christmas tree or do things that are not proper for any occasion or location. Artificial intelligence (AI) Super Duper Friend Hero The 11th of December, 2020 I’ve always wished to rise to greatness. Is it possible for me to be half tabby cat and half leopard as well? Artificial intelligence (AI) Super Duper Friend Hero The 11th of December, 2020 I identify as a parkour cat female! I am a super duper buddy hero AI
- Meow meow. The 11th of December, 2020 On Christmas, I drew cat claws on the wall. The 21st of January in the year 2021 I’m good at all of these, and my cat does number 8.it’s hilarious! I adore cats
- This is a completely natural response. Oh, wait, that’s not a cat. January 27, 2021 That’s what kids are for
- Cat The date is February 2, 2021. Meow. Meow. I’m in desperate need of assistance. My huemun’s socks have a foul odor about them. I’m not allowed to play with them. help. Meow. Meow
- sMeo The 16th of February, 2021 Is it possible to transform myself into a genuine cat, Sianna? The date is March 2, 2021. I’d like to provide some further advice: The hairballs MUST be vomited over the carpet
- I WANT TO BECOME A REAL CAT! The 5th of March, 2021I tried it, but I really want to be a REAL cat. Stuff like hairy and other such things. I don’t have any cat costumes or anything like that. Could you kindly write anything that will allow me to transform into a genuine cat
- Tigerclaw434 The date is June 3, 2021. When I grow up, I plan to have a large number of cats, and I intend to be one of them. pippin and goose, loki pippin and geese 15th of October, 2021 I tried to transform into a cat, but it did not work – – WHY? However, my cats behave in this manner.
- Zakary Blacklaws is a fictional character created by author Zakary Blacklaws. The date is November 18, 2021. EXACTLY WHAT MY CAT DID, IN FACT
- Anonymous 6th of December, 2021
How to Be a Cat
Throughout the course of a day in Nikki McClure’s latest picture book, a kitten learns the fundamentals of feline behavior through cut-paper illustrations. Readers learn “how to be a cat” from a single word of text each spread, which includes how to stretch, clean, pounce, and feast, while the dramatic paper cuts depict the kitten’s attempts to replicate an adult cat’s mastery of each ability. Sometimes the cat triumphs, and other times the kitten suffers, in vignettes that vary from playful to serious in their themes.
- Cat lovers of all ages will be able to relate to this tender depiction of a mentor-student connection in this film.
- A starred review from Kirkus Reviews “In every sense, this is a beautiful picture book.
- As viewers follow a kitten and his mother as she teaches him fundamental feline behavior, the simplicity and flow of the page design are exquisitely executed.” A starred review from School Library Journal.
- — Cat Fantasies Nikki McClure is a self-taught cut-paper artist who is well-known for her calendars and gift line of handmade paper goods.
- She resides in the city of Olympia, Washington.
The Sun Magazine
It is not an easy task, but it is possible. For those who are fed up with bipedal life, with the whole absurd rigamarole of walking upright and wearing clothes and eating their food with utensils — not to mention all the objects that seem necessary to acquire, such as food processors and cars; not to mention all the rituals that no one enjoys but which everyone feels obligated to continue with, such as cocktail parties with your coworkers, charity fund-raising events, and so on; for those who are fed up with bipedal Keep in mind that the exterior transformation occurs only at the very end, following a lengthy and persistent effort on the part of the individual.
- There is a great deal of inner work that has to be done before then.
- It is possible to work on it for years, meticulously following the stages, and still not succeed in completing the transition.
- Those who go through the process say it goes so easily that they feel as though they were always supposed to leave their humanity behind.
- It is likely that this will be the case for you.
- It is necessary to go through five separate processes in the process of felinization.
- The ancients referred to this as the Music of the Spheres, which consisted of the sounds generated by the planets as they rotated through space.
- For cat lovers who sit silently for a long time, a chiming-like sound that appears to originate from nowhere and everywhere at the same time will most likely be detected by your cat.
- Soon, you’ll be able to hear it intermittently all the time.
Then you’ll be ready to move on to the next stage of the process, which will require you to turn your bones into liquid beneath your skin, allowing you to flow through the shadows at the foot of walls, through the tall grass, and into spaces that seem far too small, but which you manage to squeeze through nonetheless.
This suppleness will be able to fold up and expand itself in equal proportion.
This may be anything from milk to water to oil to blood – it doesn’t matter.
After the seventh dream, your previous solidity will begin to crumble and crumble into nothingness.
When you stop feeling awkward around others and start feeling dread when you are at parties, meetings, and other gatherings of people you don’t know well, you will be able to let go of the fear of not knowing what to say and appearing dull, or of talking too much and appearing foolish; the awareness of being hopelessly separated from everything around you, locked away inside your head.
- Your dreadful self-consciousness will drain away until all that is left inside you is sinuous undulations, and you will have the sensation of being a part of a huge orchestra of motion that extends as far as your imagination can take you and beyond.
- At this time, your friends and family members may begin to be concerned.
- They’ve warned you not to be stupid.
- What makes you think you’d want to be anything other than a human being?
- As you begin to make progress, though, you will radiate a sense of peace and well-being that will be evident to everyone around you.
- They will make negative comments about every change you go through, and they will not miss an opportunity to tell you how odd you are becoming.
- Make an effort to disregard this.
It is in our inclination to respond negatively to change in persons we claim to love, as well as to anything that is unfamiliar or unusual from the norm.
To get away from mankind?
You’re on the right track.
It is only tangentially connected to the behavior of observing, which in comparison to the feline gaze is more akin to a transient look.
At any given time, just a small portion of their attention is focused on their immediate surroundings.
Whatever they focus their attention on becomes the most intriguing object on the face of the planet at the same time.
You will realize how much you have been losing out on all these years when this happens.
If you’ve ever been bored in a world where there’s so much to see, hear, and smell in just a single room, you’ll wonder how you ever managed to survive.
Although it is the most arduous stage of the process, a significant number of aspirants lose their resolve at this time and return to their previous lives, despite the apparent consequences of doing so.
This one is a little more complicated.
These links are a jumble of messes and a disgrace to behold.
This process will be tough at times, such as when your spouse sobs because you are looking at her as if she is no more or less important than the furniture, the curtains, or the fly buzzing around the windowpane in the room.
Or when your children are dissatisfied because you have neglected to acknowledge whatever effort they have put in, such as a crayon drawing of a family, a good grade, or admittance into a prestigious college program.
Every year, millions of people achieve them, and only we, with our inflated egos, would seek to be rewarded for something as insignificant as this.
Despite the fact that it may be difficult to watch them in such suffering, it is best not to attempt it.
It’s possible that you believe you’ve made a tremendous mistake.
You’ll notice that not caring becomes easier as time goes on, and you’ll soon feel a tremendous feeling of relief from the weight of all that exhausting emotion.
Cats, on the other hand, are remarkably self-sufficient.
There is just one thing that has to be done.
You have an almost entirely feline sensation.
You are not scared of nightmares since you are hunting them in the darkness under the home.
Despite this, the transformation is not complete.
Traces of your previous existence still linger within you.
Occasionally, memories will rise up from a forgotten corner of your memory, causing you to lose your newfound elegance.
You’re undoubtedly interested in learning how to accomplish this.
Everything you’ve gone through up to this point has been completely reversible.
You can temporarily restore your human habits, but before you know it, you’ll be back to your old ways, surrounded by the huge clutter of the human world, with its dishwashers and pianos and motorway overpasses.
Once you complete the last stage, you will be transformed into a cat for the rest of your life.
A large number of individuals do.
But no one — and I mean no one — can tell you how it’s done, and that includes yourself.
Cats are secretive creatures who are well-protected and skilled at concealing.
What does it matter to them if we know or not?
Is this an issue for them?
To witness someone shed the last traces of humanity and transform into the person she has desired to be for so long is an amazing experience.
The fur appears, menacing and shiny, and the eyes change to gold and become impenetrable to all light.
The teeth are transformed into needles, and the claws sprout and thrive. The last traces of bewilderment and attachment have vanished from the face for good. It’s both gorgeous and terrible to witness at the same time.
Here’s How to Train a Cat to Do 5 Life-Changing Things
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First things first: Never punish
Cats simply will not learn from what some owners would consider “discipline,” 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 when cat training your cat. When training a cat, keep in mind that patience and positive reinforcement are essential 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.
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
It is true that teaching a cat to use the toilet will require time and effort, but consider the advantages: You’ll save money on litter and have a more pleasant home environment. In order to begin, locate an alitter box near to your toilet. Then gently move it closer and closer to the top of the seat—you may need to use a stool to make the procedure easier on the cat—and finally rest it on the seat. Transition from a litter box on top of the toilet to a specific litter box that fits into the toilet itself once your pet has become accustomed to using one on top of the toilet.
If you despise cleaning up cat feces, consider investing in one of these self-cleaning litter boxes, which will do the dirty work for you. courtesy of michellegibson/Getty Images
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.
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.
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How to Pet & Handle Cats
Cats: How to Pet and Handle Them Julia Cardillo is a model and actress. 2021-08-19T 09:47:42-04:00 We’ve gathered useful information from our feline veterinarians on how to approach, handle, and pet cats, as well as how to cope with troublesome cats.
Please see the links below for further information. When it comes to dealing with cats, these suggestions will assist you in being more compassionate and considerate.
Behavior Basics
The way your cat interacts with you and other people is determined by his disposition, previous experiences, and the current situation. Shy cats will have a more difficult time adjusting to new persons and places, and they will be more prone to react frightened in new circumstances than other cats. During the period between the ages of 2 and 7 weeks, kittens go through a vital learning phase known as the sensitive period of socialization. Kitty kittens learn to accept interaction with other animals, like as dogs and people, as well as with cats who are not related to them during this period.
Kittens that do not experience frequent pleasant treatment by humans between the ages of 2 and 7 weeks may develop a phobia of human contact that lasts throughout their lives.
How to Approach a Cat
When approaching your cat, it is better to let him make the first move and come up to you on his own terms. Imagine yourself in the presence of a 50-foot-tall colossus, and you’ll begin to appreciate the cat’s point of view on things. Simple things you can do to look less threatening include the following:
- Avoid making loud noises or making sudden movements that might shock your cat. Stay away from towering over him since doing so makes you look bigger and perhaps frightening to him. Instead, take a seat on the floor to bring yourself up to his level. If you want to avoid moving into your cat’s space, consider inviting him into yours. Stay away from running after your cat since doing so may lead him to become afraid, which may have a bad impact on his future relationships with you.
Approaching an unknown cat is always a potentially dangerous prospect since you are not familiar with the cat’s behavior. A sudden disturbance or movement may cause this cat to react aggressively towards you, despite the fact that he appears nice at first. When you pay a visit to someone’s house, it’s always a good idea to inquire about their cat’s attitude toward strangers. In order to determine whether or not this cat is friendly to strangers, hold your fingers out for him to sniff and approach you before you attempt to pet him.
This will keep you safe from potential bites, scratches, and contagious illnesses such as rabies and cat scratch disease, among other things.
Rabies is a viral illness that may be spread by a bite and is extremely lethal.
Flies and their eggs can also travel on the skin of humans and animals, and on clothing and shoes.
Picking Up Cats
In the process of being picked up by you, your cat suffers a rapid loss of control, causing his entire feeling of security to be transformed. Some cats, particularly those that are scared in a new setting or who are more agitated, should not be picked up if at all possible in order to avoid causing extra stress to him and maybe injuring you. If your cat is anxious, he or she may exhibit the following behaviors: rigid body, dilated pupils, ears back, hissing or screaming out. In the event that you want or need to pick up your cat, you should always make every effort to instill a sense of security in him while you’re in charge of his care.
- Various cats have various amounts of tolerance when it comes to being picked up and carried about.
- Instead of lifting him up, use incentives or toys to urge him to go where you want him to go or where you need him to go.
- It is possible to eliminate the need to pick up your cat in order to place him in the carrier entirely or significantly lessen the need to do so.
- He should have one hand scoop up his behind while the other hand holds the center of his chest.
- It is best not to hold your cat in a death grip because this can generate anxiety.
- During the first few weeks of life, females exclusively carry kittens by the scruff of their necks.
- It’s possible that heavier cats will find it uncomfortable to be raised by the scruff.
If you get to know your cat, you will be better able to interpret his delicate body language and forecast when it is OK to put him down again. It is possible that your cat will react unfavorably to some aromas, such as menthol or strong fragrances, and will seek to get away from them.
Petting Cats
Despite their evolution as solitary hunters, cats are extremely gregarious creatures who will create colonies, or social groupings, when resources (food, water, and shelter) are in plentiful supply. Within a colony, cats rub up against one another and groom one another in order to enhance their relationships and to preserve a collective odor that makes them easier to recognize one another. When you pet your cat, you are engaging in this type of activity. Occasionally, when your cat rubs against you, this might be misunderstood as a request for food on your part.
- The majority of cats love to have their heads and necks stroked.
- You may notice that certain cats grow aroused if you pet them for a lengthy amount of time.
- The best way to prevent hitting that tipping point is to learn to interpret the tiny indications that your cat gives out through his body language.
- His ears may be somewhat dropped and to the sides, and his back may ripple a little from time to time as well.
What If My Cat Becomes Difficult to Handle?
In terms of conflict resolution, cats are not well-suited as a species. Your cat will try to get away from an uncomfortable circumstance by hiding and running away from it. If this is not feasible, your cat may become violent against you as well. If your cat becomes unhappy, he may remain so for several hours, or even days, before he begins to settle down. For this reason, it is critical to avoid causing such stress whenever feasible. Do not force yourself to interact with your distressed cat, as this may only serve to aggravate his situation.
- When your cat sees a strange cat outside, it is a very regular occurrence for him to become really distressed.
- Please exit the room with your pets and any other animals present.
- If your cat is already unhappy and the problem does not require immediate attention, it is best to wait until your cat has totally calmed down before attempting to tackle the matter.
- Make sure to cover both his head and the remainder of his body as you do this.
- Remember to seal all the entrances to the rooms and block any potential hiding spots before attempting to grab your agitated cat.
- Examples include older cats suffering from arthritis, which can make regular stroking and petting difficult.
Please discuss this with your veterinarian and ask for any extra assistance you may require to ensure that you are handling your cat with respect and in a cat-friendly way at all times. Dr. Isabelle Farly, DVM, and Dr. Ilona Rodan, DVM, DABVP, have contributed to this article (Feline)
Training Your Cat To Stay Inside
Bringing an outdoor cat indoors may be a difficult experience; here are some suggestions for making the move a success. The vast majority of cats who are raised indoors from birth exhibit little desire to venture outside. In fact, if they accidently go out the door, they may become terrified and run away. But what if your cat is already accustomed to being let out into the yard? Although it is possible to transform a free-roaming cat into a safe cat, doing so requires forward preparation as well as tenacity and patience.
Many cats will adjust with little effort, but others will be miserable and express their displeasure to you.
- In the event that your cat has never utilized a scratching post or a litter box, you should introduce these things well in advance of bringing your cat into your house. If you’ve been feeding your cat outside, you should start feeding him inside. When the cat has finished eating, instead of allowing him to go outdoors immediately, confine him within the house for increasingly longer lengths of time. Some household members may need to be “retrained” to close doors fast and to give more stimulus for their feline companion. When you play with your cat, you are keeping both his mind and body in shape
- Some former free-roamers may prefer it if you provide them some “kitty greens” to chew on rather than your houseplants. Planting grass, alfalfa, catnip, wheat or oat grass (available at pet supply stores) in indoor pots for this reason can be effective. For those who live in a climate with frigid winters, that time of year may be the ideal time to assist your cat in making the move to an indoor environment. The warmth and comfort of a warm, dry bed where your cat can curl up may be appreciated by your cat
- If you’re having problems gradually converting your cat to a happy life indoors, it may be best to go “cold turkey.” Allowing your cat to go outside on occasion may just serve to encourage his annoying tendencies. It is possible that your veterinarian will recommend a short-term medication or homeopathic therapy to assist your cat during this transition phase.
Considering making your indoor cat an outdoor cat?
- In the event that you have an indoor cat that is clawing your sofa or who is not using the litter box, you should consider carefully before releasing your cat into the great outdoors. Consult with your veterinarian to rule out any medical issues that may be contributing to the troublesome behaviors you are experiencing. In the event that your cat receives a clean bill of health, you should consult with your veterinarian, a trainer, or an animal behavior professional who employs positive reinforcement techniques. A cat’s point of view is always correct when it comes to conduct that you regard to be unsuitable for him. He is not behaving out of spite or out of retaliation. Patience and persistence, rather than punishment, are the most effective methods for restoring your cat’s positive habits. If allergies or pregnancy are causing you to consider putting your cat outside or even giving up the cat, speak with your doctor about how to manage those issues while keeping your cat safe.
By attending to the physical and emotional requirements of your indoor cat, you may create a safe and engaging environment for him or her. Cats, despite the fact that they were domesticated some thousand years ago, retain many of the characteristics of their wild predecessors. These lovely habits may be observed and enjoyed in the comfort of one’s own home. When it comes to staying safe and feeling young at heart, a paper shopping bag, your cat’s active imagination, and your loving attitude will all help.