Are You Able To Train A Cat?

Cats are known for their independent streak and knowing their own mind. Is it possible to teach your cat new tricks?

Mant cat owners think that there cat is simply too moody and sullen to listen. Some owners feel that their Kitty is untrainable simply because they are so independent. The truth is that pets fail to obey their owners simply because they do not undestand what is expected from them. If you have attempted to teach your cat, you may not be doing it correctly.

A Good Cat:

Training your cat takes time and patience. It takes more of that then it does with a dog. A sure fire way to get results is to use positive reinforcement. Please do not scold your cat because your cat is more than likely to misbehave when you are not paying attention. Instead, praise good behavior. Any cat can learn. It is wise to commence when your cat is young approximately eight to ten weeks is ideal. However, the pet will do well at any age.

How do you get started?

When in the process of training your cat the first thing to start with is for your cat to come when called. Have your cat’s favourite treat and simply call his name. You’ll want to ensure that your cat is in a postive frame of mind. Try to ensure that there isn’t a great deal of noise. Distractions will only slow down tha cat or befuddle him. Decide on a single command. The direction should be short and easy to say. For example, come kitty works well or here kitty will work too. Where possible get down on their level by sitting, kneeling or lying on the floor next to them. Give the command. Make sure your voice is exciting and happy. When your cat responds to you, reward him with praise and a treat. Insure that you praise and reward your cat. Move way and repeat the same thing again. The aim is to use the same tone of voice and the same command each time. Work on it for no more than ten minutes. If the cat is bored or frustrated, stop for the time. Repeat this two to three times a day for approximately a week. Only when your cat has mastered a command is it possible to move onto another.

There are several things that your cat has to learn for his own well being these are also necessary to taech all cats. For example, he needs to learn to tolerate a harness and a leash in case you need to travel with him. Your cat should learn to use a carry crate.

What about a harness and leash?:

To do this, you’ll want to start by putting the harness on him. Do not restrain him once it is in place. Praise him for it. Give him a treat for behaving so well. Once he is accustomed to weraing it, simply attach the leash and allow him to lead you. Coax your cat into following you by using praise and treats. Some cats may even learn to heel on a lead. However, most will not. They should learn not to panic or struggle whilst wearing the leash.

The Crate:

When it comes to the crate, it can be done a little simpler. Cats love warm dark spaces and so placing a comfortable blanket or even a favourite toy inside the cat’s crate. Give him praise when you place him in it. Then, leave him there for a few minutes. Let him out within three to five minutes. Try not to offer him praise when he leaves the crate because you do not want him to think this is the good behaviour. Make sure to reward him, though whenever he goes in. Leave the cat in the crate slightly longer each time. Eventually your cat will be trained well enough to keep him in there.

I hope these simple tips will show you how useful it can be to give your cat a little discipline.

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