How to Teach a Cat to Stand Up

Cats are by nature leisurely, independent creatures. They enjoy reclining 18 hours a day or more, rising at their whims and not in response to their owner's demands. However, at times it's convenient to require a cat to stand when we need to groom her or when it's time for the veterinarian to examine her. Train your cat to stand up and make these tasks easier.

Instructions

    • 1

      Understand a cat's mindset so you can select effective training methods. Cats engage in behaviors that are pleasurable and avoid behaviors that produce unpleasant results.

    • 2

      Refrain from punishing or reprimanding your cat while training. He won't associate your discipline with his refusal to stand; instead, he'll learn that interacting with you is an unhappy experience.

    • 3

      Use treats in the early phases of training. You can offer diced chicken, commercial cat treats, or whatever gets your cat's attention.

    • 4

      Squat a few feet from the cat, holding out the treat, and say, "Up." When the cat rises to receive the treat, move toward her and give her the reward while offering praise.

    • 5

      Wait until the cat loses interest and returns to a sitting or reclining position. Move closer to the cat, while offering the treat and repeating the command, "Up." Reward the cat as soon as he rises to his feet.

    • 6

      Offer the treat every other time the cat rises to her feet after 3 days of successful training. Then, offer the treat sporadically when she stands. This training method is operant conditioning, and reinforces the learning process.