How to Train Your Cat

When we go to train a cat, it's not as simple as training a dog because the cat is not necessarily eager to please. In fact, most cats need a bigger motivator that dogs. While Flotty and Jewel will sometimes respond to dry treats, they really prefer their favorite foods instead and will put more effort in to earn them.

The general outline of training a cat simple:

1. Ask the cat to perform using a gesture, spoken request, or both
2. If the cat performs correctly or takes a step in the right direction, click a clicker
3. Follow up immediately with a treat

A simple clicker

A clicker is simply a button you depress to create a noise. The reason we use a clicker to signal is because it produces a consistent sound each time and is easy for you and the cat to recognize.

You can buy a clicker in the cat or dog section of your pet store (should be $5 or less).


When you press the clicker and follow-up right away with the treat, you're telling your cat that he did something good and he'll get a reward.

Dry cat treats

A treat is a food-reward that the cat enjoys. Dry treats work fine, but it is difficult for the cat to take it from your fingers. Your cat may be more enthused by wet cat food, or cooked tuna, eggs, or meat. This may be a no-brainer but do not put seasonings or sauces on the cooked food you give to your cat.














There are certain things you should avoid doing when training your cat:

• If your cat is not responding or clearly doesn't want to train (cleaning themselves or walking away are big indicators), don't force it. Just wait until another time. My cats are not as responsive in the evening hours as the morning or afternoon because we put out their food at night. 
• Do not yell at, hurt, or scare your cat in any way. If they perform incorrectly, do not berate them. They won't understand and they will simply dislike you and the training. 
• Cats can't learn not to do things. They will simply wait until you are not around to perform the actions for which you told them off. For example, if you yell at your cats and chase them off the counter, they'll wait until you've left for work to continue their exploration. 
• Don't forget that an extreme amount of patience is required when training any animal. No two animals are the same and each individual will require your undivided attention. Results will take time and not all cats are able to perform all requests. 
• Don't vary the training time too much. An older cat with respond better if you keep the training interval around the same time daily. 
• Keep the training period short. Cats can only pay attention for so long. Although their attention span should grow as the training progresses - limit your sessions to no more than 5 minutes from the onset. It will be obvious when your cat walks away in disinterest or doesn't take a treat that your training period has ended. 
• Do not attempt to train two or more cats at once. If you have more than one pet, bring your kitty to a separate room without distractions for training. You may find that your cats are responsive as a team, but I find that mine try to steal treats from one another and can't focus on the requests or gestures. 

More tips to come!

Give your cat lots of love and attention and he will reciprocate!