Many people mistakenly believe that cats are untrainable, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Cats are remarkably intelligent and, with consistent effort and the right techniques, you can teach your feline companion a variety of engaging behaviors. Clicker training stands out as the most effective method for teaching cats new tricks, fostering a stronger bond and improving communication between you and your pet. This guide will explore how to use clicker training effectively.
The Foundation of Cat Training: Essential First Tricks
Before diving into more complex behaviors, it’s crucial to establish a solid training foundation. These initial tricks not only teach your cat basic obedience but also prepare them for more advanced maneuvers and strengthen your relationship.
1. Come When Called
Teaching your cat to respond to their name and come when called is incredibly practical, especially for outdoor cats. This skill can help prevent them from getting lost or encountering dangerous situations. Indoor training is often easier due to fewer distractions.
2. Finger Targeting
Finger targeting was the first trick I taught my cat, Mia. This fundamental skill allows you to gently guide your cat to specific locations, whether it’s moving them off a counter or encouraging them into their carrier. Mastering this trick makes subsequent training much smoother.
The Easiest Trick to Master: Teaching Your Cat to Sit
Once your cat has a grasp of basic commands, teaching them to sit is a natural and highly beneficial next step. This common trick serves as a gateway to other behaviors and is useful in various practical scenarios, such as during veterinary examinations or when putting on a harness. To teach your cat to sit, hold a treat slightly above their head, luring them into the sitting position. As soon as they sit, use your clicker and offer the treat as a reward.
Five Easy Tricks to Build on Success
With foundational tricks like coming when called, sitting, and finger targeting under their belt, your cat will be ready to learn these fun and engaging behaviors.
3. Shake Hands
This charming trick is sure to delight. To teach your cat to shake hands, extend your hand and wait for your cat to place their paw on it. Reward them with a treat and praise immediately after they do.
4. High Five
Similar to shaking hands, the high five is another interactive trick. Hold your hand out and wait for your cat to tap it with their paw. A treat and positive reinforcement are key after a successful attempt.
5. Spin
This slightly more advanced trick involves your cat following a treat in a circular motion. Start by luring your cat with a treat, gradually moving your hand in a circle. As they follow, they will naturally begin to spin. Mark the behavior with your clicker and reward them.
6. Jump Through a Hoop
This impressive trick requires a bit of encouragement. Start by holding a hoop and placing a treat on the other side. Once your cat understands the goal, gradually increase the challenge by moving the hoop or changing its location.
7. Stand on Two Feet
A simple yet adorable trick, teaching your cat to stand on their hind legs involves luring them with a treat held just above their nose, gradually raising it until they stand. Reward them for maintaining the pose.
Advanced Tricks for the Accomplished Cat
For cats that have mastered the introductory tricks, a new world of advanced behaviors awaits, further strengthening your bond and providing mental stimulation.
8. Play Dead
This theatrical trick involves teaching your cat to lie on their side and eventually roll onto their back. Start by encouraging them to lie down, then reward any movement towards the desired position.
9. Walk on a Leash
For cats showing an interest in the outdoors, leash training can be a rewarding experience. It’s essential to use a cat-specific harness rather than a collar, which can be unsafe. Begin by letting your cat acclimate to the harness and leash indoors, using treats and play to create positive associations. Gradually progress to outdoor walks once they are comfortable. Exploring whether your cat is an “adventure cat” can be done with a simple test.
10. Ring a Bell
This trick is perfect for cats who enjoy interactive play. You can start by attaching a bell to their collar and rewarding them when they accidentally ring it. Eventually, you can teach them to ring the bell on command.
11. Roll Over
Similar to playing dead, teaching your cat to roll over involves a series of steps. Encourage your cat to lie on their side, then reward them for any movement towards rolling over.
Unique Cat Tricks That Dogs Can’t Master
Beyond the standard repertoire, cats possess unique abilities that lend themselves to tricks dogs typically cannot perform, showcasing their distinct agility and grace.
12. Sit on the Shoulder
One of the most endearing cat-exclusive tricks is teaching them to jump onto your shoulder and remain there. This playful behavior, reminiscent of characters from childhood stories, fosters a unique sense of companionship. There are many resources available to help you teach your cat this and up to 30 other tricks, including purchasing a cat training book or engaging with The Click Crusade, a fun card game designed for clicker training cats.
Continuing your cat’s training journey can also lead to advanced activities like agility training. Cats are natural acrobats, and with guidance, they can learn to navigate agility courses. You can find a comprehensive guide on Cat Agility Training to help you get started.
Remember, patience and positive reinforcement are key to successful cat training. Keep training sessions short, fun, and always end on a positive note. Happy training!
