When new pet parents bring a puppy home, training is almost always on their agenda – but this is only sometimes the case with cats.
Most people only consider training a cat if they expect it to be independent and aloof. This, however, is different! This article will discuss why cat training should be on your new cat checklist, some expert training tips, and a few standard instructions to benefit you and your feline friend.
Introduction: Cat Training In Today’s Time
Cat training educates your cat to correlate a desired behavior with a reward. You can urge them to cease undesirable conduct and start desired behavior this way, allowing you both to have a better, healthier life.
Although cats do not naturally collaborate with humans, they can learn to obey commands and perform tricks like dogs. Cat training can also give beneficial mental and physical stimulation for cats, which can aid in the reduction of anxiety, aggression, and other destructive feline habits.
Consistent cat training can also help you pick up on their body language and learn what they’re trying to express (including how they show affection to you!). If you’re on the fence about getting a cat because of the possibility of undesirable behavior, consider the effectiveness of cat training in your choice.
How To Get Your Cat To Like Being Held?
Some cats grow nervous when handled and constrained, whether for stroking, grooming, nail trimming, or veterinary exams. Your cat may try to wiggle or squirm out of your arms if he dislikes the physical interaction. He may meow or snarl when you hold him, and the most evident symptom that your cat is unhappy is his tail flicking back and forth as you handle him.
Your cat may not appreciate being handled or having his teeth cleaned, but it is vital to being a cat. Our responsibility is to train him to endure, if not enjoy, these experiences.
Cats will not learn from what some owners regard as “discipline.” Worse, “punishing” your cat can cause stress, leading to behavioral and cat health issues—not something you want to deal with during cat training. Remember that patience and positive reinforcement are vital if you’re learning to train a cat.
A clicker, commonly used as a training tool for a wide variety of animals, will only cost you a couple of dollars and will assist you in providing positive reinforcement when learning to teach a cat. (You can also use a conventional pen with a clicky button—the crucial thing is to generate a distinct noise quickly.)
Most cat training involves rewarding your cat with a favorite treat after they perform a desired behavior. These methods also work when feeding your pet medication. With the clicker, your cat can understand why it is being rewarded: It is more likely to learn if it obeys an order, hears the click, and receives a treat.
How To Teach A Cat To: Come When Called
Cats can learn to run in response to a verbal command. (The ASPCA suggests using this technique to bring your cat in if it runs out unexpectedly.) This step in cat training begins with making a distinct noise before feeding—before you open a bag or can—such as vocally calling your cat or clicking your tongue.
Your pet will soon link that noise with something good (healthy cat food) and come running to you when it hears it. Then, outside of regular feeding times, encourage this behavior. Begin with small distances. Make the noise, use your clicker to attract your cat, and reward your kitty with a treat. Call the cat from greater distances over time.
How To Teach Your Cat To Use The Toilet?
Training a cat to use the potty requires some effort, but consider the benefits: You’ll save on litter and have a cleaner home. To begin, place a litter box near your toilet. Then gradually bring it closer to the top of the seat—you may need a stool to make the process easier on the cat.
Once your pet is used to using a litter box on top of the toilet, switch to a special litter box that fits inside the toilet. (If you buy flushable litter, expect spillage.) Gradually use less litter to train your cat to do its business without it, and ultimately remove the litter box entirely.
How To Teach Your Cat To Shake Hands?
This cat training is easier than you might think: Prepare a treat, then align yourself with your cat on the same level. Tap your cat’s paw while saying “shake,” When it moves its paw, use your clicker. Repeat training until your cat gives its paw without tapping in response to the “shake” command. This, like the “come on command” trick, may require a few training sessions over a few days.