Are House Cats Trainable?

According to the American Pet Products Association 2011-2012 National Pet Owners Survey, 33 percent of households in America host a pet cat. Cats have the natural instinct and reputation of being independent animals. This is why many consider them easier to care for than dogs. Their minimally social personality has caused people to think that they cannot be trained in the home. On the contrary, cats are highly intelligent and easily trainable. Just like any other animal, a cat will need consistent training, reinforcement, rewards and understanding from its owner.

  1. Rewards

    • You can train your cat by using rewards. Show your cat what you want it to do with the reward in your hand. Cats can't see well up close, so hold the treat out in front of it, not right in front of its face. After it has preformed the move correctly, give it a reward. This can be a favorite edible treat specifically designed for cats, or a new toy. Praise is good, however cats don't need praise like dogs. Don't overfeed your cat fattening treats that can jeopardize its health.

    Clicker

    • Get a utensil or pen that makes a clicking sound. When the cat does the correct move that you desire, click the pen or utensil once. Cats have great hearing and will recognize this sound easily. After making a click, reward the cat with a treat. Repeat this routinely until the cat understands the click is associated with a treat.

    Repetition

    • Practice these methods for a short time everyday. Cats like to be stimulated, but can become bored easily. Without your cat's full attention, it will not learn the tricks. Alternate the training with fun games and toys that excite your cat. Allow your cat to run around and burn some energy before training. Continue to practice and reward long after your cat has mastered the training.

    Don't Punish Your Cat

    • Punishing your cat can cause it to fear you. It will also make it run away, be afraid of the clicker, or fear the trick you were trying to teach it. Punishment may also cause anxiety and stress on your feline, damaging the cat's immune system that protects against disease and illness. Cat behaviorists are available for cats who need professional assistance being trained.