When learning to train a cat, you will begin with fundamental first actions that reward and discourage undesirable behaviour. Cats may look aloof or disinterested in obeying your directions due to their great degree of independence. That does not mean that you cannot affect their behaviour. You can quickly train your new kitten or older cat with patience and consistency.
This article will discuss why cat training should be integral to your new cat and some common commands that will help you and your feline companion.
Things you should know before you begin cat training
First and foremost, consider precisely what you want your cat to learn. Do you want to modify undesirable behaviour (such as scratching furniture) or teach your cat some fun techniques (such as the high five)? The method utilized will be decided by the behaviour that will be taught. After selecting what to work on, you and your furry companion can begin to move forward slowly. Some frequent training objectives for cats include:
- train cats to use the toilet
- No scratching or jumping on furniture
- No biting
- Complying with commands such as come, sit, remain, high five, roll over, jump, etc
- Training a cat to refrain from doing something
- Changing a cat’s behaviour
Keep cat training short
The timing and duration of a class must be adjusted based on your cat’s disposition and level of interest. Cats have a shorter attention span and prefer to accomplish things on their terms. This means you must train your pet only while they are interested and for as long as this interest lasts. The most successful training sessions are usually brief yet regular and natural. It is necessary to be calm, patient, and, above all, persistent. Don’t give up if your cat’s improvement is slower than anticipated. They are independent and strong-willed, which demands a lot of tolerance on your end.
Pay attention to one action or behaviour at a time
Cats can learn multiple things at once, but it is believed that teaching them one thing at a time is most effective. Allow your cat to master each objective before moving on to the next for maximum success.
Effective cat training reinforces positive behaviour
Positive reinforcement is an effective method of training cats. Our favourite pets enjoy engaging in activities that benefit them. Therefore, if your cat does something admirable, encourage her with a compliment, a scratch, or a treat. You may also utilize the “clicker” while rewarding them. In this manner, they will associate the objective, the reward, and the clicker sound. They will know they’ve completed the task when they hear the clicker.
Don’t punish the bad behaviour
In general, cats do not respond positively to punishment. This type of discipline is deemed ineffective and frequently induces stress and anxiety. Instead, try to distract the cat whenever you observe an undesirable behaviour. For instance, if you’re teaching them not to scratch the furniture, make a sharp sound every time you see them doing it. The cat will get distracted and halt the action. Be constant with the sound choice and avoid using common words like “hello” or “no.” This prevents confusion when these sounds are heard in different contexts.
Involve others
Other family members and frequent visitors are encouraged to participate in your training. Everyone should be aware of the ultimate objective and the strategy employed. For instance, everyone who observes the cat clawing the sofa must respond and take the same corrective action as you.
Start early
If you’re bringing a kitten into your house, you may want to teach it particular behaviors as soon as possible. For instance, it is easier to socialize kittens and accustom them to being handled and groomed when they are young. Raising kittens will make it easier to care for them as they mature.
Correction of improper conduct
Many of us would like to begin with the fundamentals before delving into advanced techniques. We want our cats to utilize their litter boxes and cease destructive behaviors such as biting, scratching furniture, and counter-climbing.
How to train cats to use toilet?
The first action in this adventure is to locate an appropriate location for the litter box. It should be conveniently accessible and positioned in a calm, secluded spot that is not too remote. Most importantly, constantly maintain a clean and fresh litter box.
After placing the litter box, you may begin training your cat. Place your feline in the litter box shortly after it has eaten, and scratch the sand lightly with its front paw until it urinates. Repetition is required. Your cat should quickly understand the function of the litter box.
In the beginning, you should praise and thank your cat soon after they complete a task. However, do not reprimand them for accidents outside of the litter box. They will not learn from it, and you risk making them anxious or frightened.
We are training the cat not to bite
In this activity, it is essential to identify when and why your cat bites. Is it a harsh player, or does it bite when their privacy is violated? You must immediately cease the game if your cat begins biting and scratching you during a play session. Disengage from the activity, stand or sit still and ignore your pet. If you are consistent, they will quickly know that you will not play with them if they are too rough. If they are assaulting you because you are handling them too much for their liking, try to respect their limits.
If a cat is not receiving enough exercise, it may also be aggressive. You can remedy this by giving them additional opportunities to exercise their predatory tendencies. Please provide plenty of toys they may throw, chase, and catch. Some toys, such as “fishing” toys, allow you to participate in hunting games with your pet.
Teaching cats not to scratch furniture
If your cat is clawing furniture, it may need scratching. Offer them a scratching post for sharpening their claws. Also, whenever you observe an undesirable habit, distract your cat with a loud, unusual sound. They will be alerted, but there will be no panic. Consistently employ the same sound. Do not declaw your cat, however. This will NOT resolve the issue and will likely exacerbate it.
Conclusion
Learning how to train your cat may be an enjoyable family activity. Remember to be patient and optimistic, and you will both succeed.
