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Even though they may be cat-lovers, many people think that it’s just not worth the trouble to train a cat. Notoriously
independent, cats certainly do have a mind of their own.
Some cat owners feel that their cat is too moody to listen while others feel their cats are simply too arrogant
to be trained. However, when a pet seems to be untrainable more than likely the reason they don’t obey you is that they just
don’t understand what you want from them. Can you really teach a cat new tricks? If you do it right, the answer is yes.
Good Kitty
Although it takes a lot more patience to train a cat than a dog, one surefire
way to get results is by using positive reinforcement. Always praise your pet’s good behavior and don’t scold your cat because,
just like a small child, he’s likely to misbehave when you aren’t looking.
Although pets have the capability of learning at any age, it’s wise to first
start when they are young, about 8 to 10 weeks old.
To Get Started
The first thing you need to teach your cat is to come when called. Make sure he’s in a good mood, then hold your
cat’s favorite treat and call his name. Since outside distractions will either slow him down or confuse him, make sure there
isn’t a lot of noise. Decide on one command -- short and easy to say -- and use it solely. For instance, “Here kitty” or “Come
kitty” both work well.
Before you give the command, get down to their level by either kneeling or sitting on the floor. Make sure your
voice is exciting and happy then when he comes to you, reward him with the treat. Praise the cat, move away, then do the same
thing again making sure you use the same command and the same tone of voice. Limit the training to no more than 10 minutes --
less if the cat becomes bored or frustrated. Do this 2 or 3 times a day for about a week before moving onto another command.
Using A Leash And Harness
A couple of things that are important for all cats to learn for their own well-being are learning to use a crate
and how to tolerate a harness and a leash in case you need to travel with him. Start by putting the harness on him. Once it is in
place do not restrain him and be sure you praise him and give him a treat for behaving so well. After he becomes used to wearing
the harness, attach the leash to it and let him lead you throughout the area. Again, using praise and treats, coax him into
following you. Although some cats will learn to heel on the leash, most of them won’t. But hopefully they will learn to not panic
or struggle when wearing the leash.
The Crate
Ah, the dreaded crate -- at least some cats think so! Since cats like dark, warm places put a comfortable blanket
and even a favorite toy inside. Give him lots of praise while placing him in the crate then leave him there for a few minutes,
letting him out within 3 to 5 minutes. However, don’t praise him when he’s coming out as he’ll then think this is a good thing.
Only praise him and reward him whenever he goes in. By leaving the cat in the crate a little longer each time, he’ll eventually
be trained well enough to stay in there.
So you see, by using these simple tips, it really can be quite easy to train your cat and give him a little
discipline.
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