If you’re wondering how to train a cat at home, and you’re a proud cat parent, you probably love their sass and pizzazz. Cats are well-known for their cheeky, independent personalities and their tendency to make decisions on their own, without relying on their owners. Social media is filled with memes highlighting how clever cats are and how they manage to make life a little more challenging when it comes to giving them the type of love that dogs typically crave. There are always constant comparisons about the obedience of dogs, especially when contrasted with the independence and attitude of cats. As a cat parent, you’ve likely heard endless jokes about how cats are hard to train, unfriendly, or just don’t “get” humans. Training cats is often seen as more difficult than training dogs. However, as a cat parent, I’m sure you want your pet to be happy and free, while also teaching them basic manners and good behavior. If you’re planning to train your cat at home and want to start simple, there are some tips and tricks that can help you do it faster and more effectively.
The Ultimate Guide “How to Train a Cat at Home”
Consistent training
Keep the training sessions consistent and continuous. Skipping training sessions might confuse them and make them forget the commands. Especially when they are little tasks, make sure that you teach them at least once a day. This will help them remember the tasks and also realize that the training they have been given is expected to be followed by them every day for the rest of their lives. You should also ensure that they understand the seriousness of it and do not think it is playtime.
One at a time
When you are teaching your cats, make sure you are teaching them only one task at a time. This helps in reducing confusion and cluttering of information on their part. Be patient with them and start teaching them commands/tasks one by one.
Before meals
Try to train them right before their mealtime as they have proved to be the most receptive during that time. You can give them simple tasks and make them realize that following those tasks will fetch them the reward of dinner. However, ensure that you don’t agitate them too much as it is mealtime, lest they stop trying to listen to you.
Not too much pressure
Do not put too much pressure on your cat to do the right thing or know the right commands on day one itself. It is natural for them to not understand our language at first go. The key is being extremely patient and loving with your cat; you need to keep in mind that they try their best to communicate with you on a daily basis.
Reduce distractions
While trying to train, one of your biggest enemies can be distractions. Cats mostly have sharp, sensitive senses and tend to get distracted easily. This means they might not be able to listen to you properly. So while training, try closing your blinds (so they do not get distracted from the world outside), make sure their toys are kept away and that they have their attention on you.
Short sessions
Keep your sessions short and sweet. Do not try forcing long, excruciating training sessions on your cat. You can try increasing the duration gradually, but even then, keep the overall session to less than 12 minutes.
