Can You Train a Cat?

Whenrnfolks think about training a pet, dogs typically come to mind first. Rarelyrnis cat obedience training discussed, leavingrnmany cat owners wondering, “Can you train a cat?”

Althoughrncats are less instinctively driven to do what their humans tell them, they arernstill trainable. From helpful behaviors to entertaining tricks, cats can berntaught to do a variety of activities if you invest the necessary time to trainrnthem.

Most Obedient CatrnBreeds

Althoughrnmost cats are trainable, some breeds are easier to teach than others. If you’rernwondering how easy it will be to train your cat or are interested in adopting arnteachable feline, the following breeds are the quickest learners.

• Abyssinian. Many consider Abyssinians thern oldest cat breed. Athletic, playful, and intelligent, these cats are easyrn to train and love human attention.

• American Short Hair. Bred for pest control,rn American Short Hairs are smart and eager to learn. Some American Shorthairrn owners can even train their cats to walk on a leash!

• Bengal. Considered the most doglike catrn breed, Bengals are quick learners and naturally affectionate. Since thisrn kitty is inquisitive, it needs lots of cat toys to keep it entertained.

• Siamese. Considered one of the mostrn loyal cat breeds, Siamese cats are excited to learn. These mischievousrn creatures are even known to open doors and turn on facets!

Althoughrnthese breeds are the easiest to train, each cat is unique and has the abilityrnto learn commands with time and patience. Below are a few skills to teach yourrnfurry friend.

Litter Box Training

Onernof the first behaviors kitten owners teach their new pet is how to use thernlitter box. With the proper encouragement, kittens are naturally drawn to theirrnlitter box, making it easy to learn. As soon as you get home with your new cat,rnshow them where the litter box is so they know where to go when naturerncalls.

Placernyour kitten in the box after meals and naps since those are the most commonrntimes it will need to use the restroom. Lastly, when your kitten uses the litterrnbox, reward them with a treat or a toy to encourage the behavior.

Crate Training

Manyrndog owners are familiar with crate training, but can you crate train arncat? Yes! Whether you’re traveling with your cat or need a safe way tornbring it to vet visits, crate training can be a useful skill.

Startrnby slowly introducing your cat to the crate, placing it near its food bowl orrnscratching post. Once the newness of the crate has worn off, begin feeding yourrncat in the crate and rewarding it with treats when it ventures inside. Overrntime, your cat will learn to enjoy its carrier, making it easier to bring themrnwith you when you leave the house.

Leash Walking

Catsrnneed exercise to be happy and healthy. Typically, this looks like climbing uprnyour fridge and running around your house, but with patience, you can teachrnthem to walk on a leash.

Beforernyou start leash training your kitty, it’s a good idea to get them familiar withrnthe harness. Once they are comfortable wearing the harness, introduce them tornthe leash. Finally, take your furry friend outside and let them explore! Whenrnyou first begin your outdoor adventures, start slow and in a quiet dog-freernarea.

Tricks

Likerndogs, cats can also learn fun tricks like “sit” andrn”shake.” These tricks can help your feline friend stay mentally andrnphysically active. An easy trick to start with is “come.”

Tornteach your cat to come when they’re called, fill a small container with catrntreats. Shake the container while saying “come,” then give your cat a treat.rnAfter a little training, your cat will associate the word with a treat and comernon command.

Althoughrntraining a cat requires a little perseverance, it’s also a whole lot of fun.rnWith a little work each day, you’ll be shocked at how much they canrnlearn! Schedule anrnappointment todayrnto learn more about caring for your cat.