How to Train a Cat: Everything you need to know about Feline Training

It may sound hard to train a cat, but it can be done right if you do it patiently and with proper methods. From how to train a cat, to how to teach your cat to sit, follow this guide to learn everything in regards to training cats. Cats are pretty smart and if you use positive reinforcement, you can teach a lot of behaviors/tricks.

Why Train Your Cat?

It’s not only about training your cat so that it does as we say – training your cat strengthens the relationship and keeps it safe/safe. Benefits of training are: 

• Better Auspiciousness: Decreases irritating behaviour such as furniture scratching
• Mental Stimulation:A cat has to work for his food.
• Making sure your cat is safe — This includes harness and leash training so that she can be outdoors.
• Bonds : Helps to boost the bond between you and your cat.

How to Train a Cat to Use a Litter Box

The first thing that new cat owners need to learn is how to litter train a cat. Thankfully, Cats are litter trained by default but you may need to show them the way. 

Steps to Litter Train a Cat

• Choose the Right Litter Box: Ensure the size is right and easily accessible.
• Get a Good Cat Litter — Typically unscented and clumping litter is preferred for cats.
• Put Box in a Quiet Location: This gives the cat some privacy while using the litter box.
• Box: Put the Box Where You Think Your Cat Lives(feeding time or after nap)
• Praise and/or Treat the Cat when they are Good: Be prompt.

How to Litter Train a Stray Cat

Stray cats may require added patience. Follow the directions above, but instead, limit them to a small area with a litter box so they get used to it.

How to Train a Cat to Use a Scratching Post

Scratching is natural behavior for the cats, otherwise they tend to do a lot of damage if you don’t redirect their scratching. How to train your cat to use a scratching post: 

• Choose the Correct Post: Make sure it is tall as well as strong.
• Position it Wisely: Place by their favourite scratching spots.
• Draw Them to it: Use catnip or toys to encourage your cat to the scratching post.
• Praise/ Reward them: Hand feed or just verbally praise your cat when they using the post.

Harness and Leash Train a Cat

How To Train a Cat You Need to Be Able To Teach Outdoor Safety (Hitchhiker´s Manual about cat leash, etc.) 

Steps to Harness Train a Cat

• Introduce the Harness: Have your cat sniff and investigate the harness.
• wear it in portions — begin with short periods of time
• Put on the Collar: When she is ready, clip on the collar and let your cat explore within your home.
• Take It Outside: Begin in gentle area, establish slow pace for your cat to explore. 

How to Train a Cat to Sit

Train Your Cat to Use The Cat Door if you want the cat to use some areas — this is useful: 

• Door Intro: Allow your cat to check out the door.
• Trick Treats: Put some treats on the other side to get them to push through.
• Direct Them: If you need to, gently walk the cat through the door.
• Recognize their success: Reward your cat with treats/praise when they use the door on their own. 

Tips for Successful Cat Training

• Take your time, Cats learn slowly.
• positive Reinforcement: Offer treats, praise or play when the cat is being good.
• Keep Sessions Short: 5–10 minutes will keep your cat from getting exhausted.
• Keep it Consistent: Always use the same commands and reward. 

Common Challenges in Cat Training

• Stubbornness: As some cats are harder to train then the other.
• Fear: Always keep a safe and comfortable place for your cat to train.
• Distractions — Train in a QUIET, distraction FREE area.

Conclusion

Training a cat is about being patient, being consistent and loving. Even if you are teaching your cat the basics of using a litter box, or harness training a cat for the first time or even learning how to sit — the important thing is to use positive reinforcement and keep things FUN for your cat. Give your cat time and together, you will be amazed at what a cat can learn!