Training a Cat

Training a Cat is fun, but also takes a lot of hard work. I’m no expert, but I have trained cats in the past and I am currently training Rocky different commands and tricks. So, I thought I would share with you the basics on training a cat, based on my own experience.

When training a cat you need to be persistent, have patience and a lot of rewards.

Teaching a Cat How to Sit

I have taught Rocky since the day I adopted him that he needs to sit before he can get his food. At first he didn’t want to do it. Now he does it every time. Sometimes he sits on his own and sometimes he needs a little assistance.

First, I put my finger up and tell him to sit.

Then, I gently push down his lower back so he will sit. Once he is sitting, I praise him by saying “Good Boy” and rubbing his head.

I then give him his bowl of food.

I have done this process since day one and with a lot of persistence and patience, he’s come a long way.

Teaching a Cat How to Fetch

Recently, I started teaching Rocky how to fetch. He’s made some progress but still has a long way to go.

First, I waited to see if he was even interested in fetching. Meaning I would throw different toys and waited to see if he attempted to bring any back to me. Once he did this a couple times, I knew he was ready.

When teaching a cat to fetch, you have to get excited. If your not excited to play, they won’t be excited to bring the toy back to you.

I quickly learned that Rocky is particular when it comes to fetching. He likes to search for his toy. Meaning if I just throw a toy on the floor, he won’t get it. But if I throw a toy in a paper bag or on the couch, he’ll go find it.

First, I shake the toy.

Then, I throw it and tell him to go get it. I make sure his eyes are on me as I’m throwing it.

As he goes to find it, I’m quiet.

Once I see he’s picked it up, I say “Good Boy” and pat the ground so he’ll drop it near me.

If he does this, I give him praise by saying “Good Boy” and rubbing his head and belly. If he doesn’t do this, I don’t give him praise.

This may only occur two or three times before your cat gets bored. But over time, it should develop a habit for your cat to want to play fetch often.

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Well, there you go. Those are my few tips on training your cat. If you need additional help, check out different YouTube videos.

Thanks for Reading! ❤️