Cats are beloved for their independence and quirky charm, but did you know they’re also trainable with the right approach? Whether you have a playful Persian, an agile Bengal, or an opinionated domestic short-hair, training a cat can be both fun and rewarding.
In this guide, we’ll explore some simple and effective training tips, with examples relevant to cat parents in India and across the globe. Let’s dive in!
When do you start?
While kittens are generally easier to train due to their natural curiosity, adult cats are also capable of learning simple tricks and behaviours. If you’ve adopted an adult cat from a shelter or have a stray that you've recently brought into your home, don’t worry—training is still very much possible! The important thing to remember is to stay patient and train with compassion. Just remember that the training process should be fun for both of you.
What motivates a cat to train?
Cats, like most pets, respond best to positive reinforcement. This is their motivation to follow your lead during training — whether it's a treat, extra playtime, or affection, these are the responses a cat looks for when training with their parents. Let’s take an example: Imagine you want your cat to learn to use the scratching post instead of your favorite armchair. Every time your cat scratches the post, offer a treat or praise them enthusiastically. This encourages them to associate the scratching post with positive outcomes.
It is important to note that negative reactions from you as their parent, can cause the cat to shut down, develop a sense of fear, and retreat into themselves.
What can I train my cat to do?
One of the first things every new cat owner must teach is proper litter box training habits. Luckily, most cats instinctively know what to do when they are introduced to a litter box. This is usually because, as kittens, they like to dig into soft things. This makes litterbox training easier. If you're raising a kitten, place them in the litter box after meals, naps, and playtime—these are the times when cats usually need to relieve themselves. If your cat uses a place outside the box often consider moving the box there, if this is possible. Your cat might be trying to tell you that they are more comfortable using that particular spot.
Keep in mind that if your cat refuses to use the litter box, it could also indicate discomfort or medical issues. There are various types of litter sand that can be used, make sure you’re using a type that your cat is comfortable with. Keep the litter box clean and place it in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home to give your cat some privacy. This will encourage your cat to continue using the box even after the training is complete.
Believe it or not, you can teach your cat simple commands such as “sit,” “come,” and even “high-five.” The key is using small, tasty treats and being consistent.
There are a few ways to stimulate your cat to understand the positive reinforcement you are providing:
Using the bond between pet parent and cat: The simplest method to train your cat is through petting your cat and providing verbal encouragement. This is a good way to build and maintain the bond you have with your cat as a pet parent.
Treats and dry cat food: The next best method is through small treats that are given as rewards. Carniwel’s dry cat food is a good option for you to offer your cat tasty motivation.
Clicker Training: The third and most common method to train your cat is by using a clicker. This is an effective way to move from treats being a way to entice your cat to follow the commands. Look out for more about this method from us!
Once you have picked your preferred way to train your furry friend, you can begin training them to do simple things. Here’s how you can train your cat to “sit”:
- Step 1: Hold a treat near your cat’s nose to get their attention.
- Step 2: Slowly move the treat upwards, which should naturally cause your cat to sit down.
- Step 3: As soon as your cat’s bottom touches the ground, say “sit” and give them the treat.
- Step 4: Repeat the process a few times. With consistency, your cat will start to associate the word “sit” with the action.
Try this a few times before moving on to using your finger to teach them to sit. Then reward them with a treat for good behaviour. Keep in mind that every cat is different and each takes a different amount of time to understand and learn. Always train with compassion.
If your cat has developed undesirable behaviors, like knocking things off counters or excessive meowing, it’s important to address these issues in a positive and gentle way. Use training techniques to redirect their energy into positive actions. For example, if your cat loves to climb onto counters, provide a climbing post or shelves specifically for them. Reward them for using these alternatives. Address the underlying issue so that training any unwanted behavior out of the cat becomes easier. Again – remember to train with compassion.
The importance of Patience
Training a cat requires time and patience, so don’t be discouraged if things don’t happen overnight. Celebrate the small wins—whether it’s a successful litter box training experience or a trick learned. Every step forward counts! Remember, no two cats are alike. Some may take a little longer to pick up on commands, while others may surprise you with their quick learning skills. Embrace your cat’s unique personality and enjoy the process of building a stronger bond.
Training your cat is an ongoing journey, and it’s a wonderful way to deepen your relationship with your pet. It is this bond that we at Carniwel value. We endevour to make the pet parenting journey full of joy and health, through our premium cat food.