There are several things you have to know before training your feline companion:
• cats are not very enthusiastic in being trained, and;
• they are not interested in pleasing their owners.
Therefore, PATIENCE, consistency, a good reward or positive reinforcement system and an enjoyable experience for your cats are the key ingredients towards successful cat training sessions.
Training your cats for proper toilet, litter box, playing and leash manners and patterns require a good amount of time and patience. The task of your cat is to do the lesson at hand but yours is the patience.
Because of the known independent nature of cats, some owners view them as untrainable which is wrong. Besides, physical exertions and mental stimulation are good for your cat’s health. Your veterinarian may even suggest some helpful exercises and games for your cat.
Behavior and psychology are the things you have to understand before training your cat. You may want to ask your veterinarians or consult books about cat training.
Cats respond to REWARDS or bribery very well. This is how they learn basic tricks. By words of praises, affection from pats, rubs and a loving voice and of course food, they can learn what you want them to learn fast and well done. They, too, have natural instincts and behaviors that help them do the tricks. At times, you would want them to use these instincts and aide them too in their training.
There are some tips you can do to ensure success in training your cats.
• Keep in mind that cats are not dogs. Their endurance for longer activities is less compared to dogs. Be sure to keep your training sessions to at least 15 minutes maximum per day. They respond very well to trainings before mealtimes when they are hungry.
• Cats are good in doing tricks especially when they are given rewards like foods and affection. Yelling, beating and force never work for them.
• If you catch their attention by using distinct sounds and commands, be sure that it is brief and repeated not more than twice. It will lose its effects if overused.
• Make your training session not only short but an enjoyable experience.
• Always make use of your cats name when commanding them. Afterwards, praise and reward them.
• Choose the best reward for your cat training.
• Cats have this sense of performance, the best time and who to perform for. Do not force them to do a trick in front of visitors.
• Be consistent in your training. Cats have very good memory.
For all you feline lovers, learn to do the tricks and practice PATIENCE.
