You may think cats are relatively easy to train, but some feline behaviors can be hard to break, especially if you’re not consistent with your approach or let the cat get away with negative behaviors like scratching the couch, biting or refusing to use the litter box. Here are 10 tips to train your cat so you can have a well-behaved feline friend. These tips work best when implemented all at once, so pick the ones that work best in your situation and start training today!
1) Socialization
Cats need socialization, just like people do! They will get along better with other pets and humans if they’re used to being around them. It’s best to introduce them when they’re kittens, but it’s never too late for an older cat to learn new tricks. Keep in mind that some cats (like Siamese) will be more vocal than others, so try not to punish them for sounding off when there’s something they want or don’t want.
2) Positive Reinforcement
To see some positive results, the best thing you can do is use positive reinforcement techniques like giving them treats when they do something good and praising them when they mess up. Even better than just food, petting them for doing something right will make the reward even sweeter. It’s also important to establish house rules so that they know what behavior is acceptable in certain places. They’ll feel more secure and relaxed if there’s boundaries in their environment. But don’t forget to take it easy on yourself too! Cats won’t respond well if you get frustrated or give up after trying once or twice.
3) Training with Treats
Cats love their treats and will do anything for them. A good way of rewarding your cat’s behavior is to give him or her a treat every time he or she does something you would like them to repeat, such as sitting on the mat when they come in from outside or using the litter box without an accident. You can also use treats for playtime by hiding them around the house for your pet to find and hunt out.
4) Affirmations
-Your cat is not untrainable! Many people think that their cats are too old, or too wild for training. But the truth is, no matter how old or wild your kitty is, they’re capable of learning new tricks and behaviors with patience and persistence from their human companions.
-Cats learn best through positive reinforcement.
5) Setting Boundaries
Cats need boundaries in order to stay on their best behavior and make the most of their time with their humans. Their needs vary, but it is important to set up some rules for them from the start and stick with them as much as possible.
6) Consistency
Cats need consistency and routine when it comes to their daily care. A major part of training them is teaching them what they should do in different situations and rewarding them when they do what’s expected of them. For example, feeding time should happen at the same time every day, and if he or she eats all the food offered, then it’s time for some playtime or a treat! Cats also love positive reinforcement in the form of petting and treats for doing things like using their litter box.
7) Encouragement, Not Punishment
Cats will usually do what they want and not what you want them to do, but with these training techniques, it is possible to teach them to enjoy cuddles and scratches. It just takes some patience and the right approach for each individual situation.
8) Patience, Patience, Patience… This Takes Time!
Cats aren’t born knowing how to behave properly, they need training just like any other animal. Training takes time and patience, but it’s worth the effort for both you and your pet!
- Start with the basics – even if your cat seems well-mannered, there’s always room for improvement.
9) Playtime Is Important, Too!
Cats love playtime, but it is also an important part of training! Make sure that they get plenty of exercise every day, and try setting up some toys for them to chase. They might not want to be trained at first, but if you stick with it they will be happy in the long run!
10) Don’t Forget to Play With Them!
You might not realize it, but cats need their share of attention too. It’s natural for them to want to be in the same room as their humans as much as possible, and if they don’t get enough attention, they’ll find ways of getting it themselves—which may not always be pleasant for you.