Many cat owners have preconceived notions that their cats are not social, and it is a challenge to train them. The truth, however, is different. Cats are more active than what you think they are, and if appropriately instructed, they have the potential to respond to your calls and act as they are told to. But you need to train them on their merits. Most cats react to food rewards, and you can use this to your advantage. Make soft, moist food for your cat as a token of appreciation after he/she finishes the training.
Showing them their litter box
The first training for your kitty should be to identify his/her litter box. Cats can make a mess around the house with their poop. But once you train them to poop in a litter box, they may not prefer littering around. Research by Pet.Reviews shows that cats are fond of a clean litter box, and will run to it whenever they need to poop. Keep a litter box near their kennel. Whenever you notice them running around frantically, it may be a sign of nature’s call. Place them inside the box. Once they finish their dump, clean the box. Keep doing every time he/she needs to dump, and they will learn to use the litter box on their own.
Clicker training
Many veterinarians recommend clicker training because they believe cats respond to the sound of the clicker quicker. Your first job is to associate the clicker with positive action. Try attracting the attention of your cat using the device. When he/she responds, reward with a small portion of food. Once your cat is familiar with the sound, you can use it to teach him/her several commands on the beep of the clicker. The easiest training is to command her to sit down and stand up. Use the clicker along with your hand action to train. Many cat owners who send their cats to shows use a clicker to train their cats.
Teach them their name
Teaching your kitty their name is another aspect of training your cat. Suppose you name your kitty “Tinkle.” You can use the clicker or call her name to make her respond. It will be best if you call “Tinkle come.” If he/she responds, you know that she is beginning to identify her name. Don’t forget to lavishly treat him/her the first few times they respond to your call.
Training leash washing
Leash walking may seem challenging, but if you can manage to accomplish this feat, the bonding with your cat will be stronger. Try cuddling your kitty before introducing the harness. Use it playfully around him/her, and then slowly put it around her neck. If she doesn’t complain, treat her with her favorite food. Once she’s comfortable with the harness, try attaching the leash. However, don’t pull it around to control your cat immediately. Let him/her play around with it. Repeat the process. After a few days, slowly take the leash and take your cat out for a walk. Leash training may be time-consuming, but it gives you control over your cat.
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