Feline fun – Tips to train your cat new cues

One of the fundamental puppy development stages is learning training cues from their fur parent. But dogs aren’t the only furry friends who can learn to follow cues! With a little patience, dedication and treats, many cats enjoying learning new things, too. Teaching your cat cues can serve as a valuable enrichment and bonding experience!

If you’d like to start teaching your cat training cues, you want to ensure your training sessions are consistent and you have the time to keep practicing. Stagger-feeding your cat, before putting food down at mealtime, can be a good time to capture their full attention. If your cat is very treat motivated, then any time of day may work. It may take some trial and error to determine the right times and motivating factors for your cat.

To start, here are some easier training tips to teach your cat.

Sit

Just like in dogs, “sit” is the easiest cue to teach your cat. Teaching cats and kittens to sit is easy, and it teaches them to be calm and polite, rather than to jump, claw or meow for what they want. Watch Dr. Sophia Yin’s How to Train a Cat to Sit video or read the printable version.

To start, whenever they are sitting, give them a reward and praise to associate the behaviour as a positive one. To introduce the habit, when you have your cat’s attention, bring the treat slowly above the cats head will help to naturally elicit a sitting position. When they’re in position, say “sit” and then reward with treats, praise and pets. Gradually each day start to change the routine by saying the cue more than once and not assisting them in sitting. Learn more on ShelterHealthPro.com

Shake a paw

It is important to remember to only teach one cue at a time, especially if you are using mealtime as a reward. With multiple cues, the cat may get confused and do any one they can think of to get the reward. Once your cat has learned one cue well, practice with your cat at least once a week to help them remember the action.

For more cat training tips, visit shelterhealthpro.com