Cats have a unique way of making their humans feel special, whether through gentle purrs on a lap or intense stares across a room. For some fortunate owners, their feline companions take this bond to new heights – quite literally – by perching contentedly on their shoulders. This behavior, known as being a “shoulder cat,” can be a natural inclination for some felines, while for others, it’s a skill that can be cultivated through training. Beyond the emotional connection, having a cat on your shoulder offers practical benefits, allowing for hands-free companionship during daily tasks or providing a secure viewpoint for adventurous cats exploring the world. This elevated perch can offer a sense of security and allow them to observe their surroundings with a broader perspective, much like their wild ancestors used height to survey for prey and avoid predators. Learn more about enriching your cat’s environment through “catification”.
Why Do Cats Prefer Perching on Shoulders?
The innate feline desire for elevated vantage points is a primary driver behind shoulder-sitting behavior. From a higher position, cats can survey their territory more effectively, spotting potential threats or opportunities for play. This instinct, rooted in their ancestral need to detect prey and evade predators, remains even in domesticated cats who may not face such dangers indoors. Providing ample vertical spaces, such as shelves or cat trees, can satisfy this need for height and make your cat feel more secure and at ease.
Beyond the primal instinct for elevation, some cats choose to rest on your shoulder simply because it grants them your undivided attention. This close proximity fosters a strong bond and allows them to feel an intimate connection with their human.
The Benefits of a Shoulder Cat
Training your cat to be comfortable on your shoulder offers several practical advantages:
- Hands-Free Companionship: It allows you to keep your cat close while freeing up your hands for tasks around the house.
- Outdoor Adventures: For adventure cats, a shoulder perch provides a secure way to experience hikes or navigate crowded areas like airports.
- Safety in Numbers: It offers a quick escape route and a sense of security when encountering unfamiliar dogs or other potentially stressful situations.
- Freedom and Control: For the cat, it provides the freedom to dismount easily and on their own terms, avoiding the feeling of being trapped.
Training Your Cat to Be a Shoulder Cat
Not all cats are naturally inclined to sit on shoulders, but with patience and the right training methods, you can teach them. Clicker training is a highly effective technique for this purpose. You’ll need two essential tools: a clicker and high-value treats.
The clicker is simply a device that makes a distinct sound, signaling to your cat that a reward is coming. If you don’t have a clicker, a consistent verbal cue like “good” or “yes” can also work. For more in-depth information on clicker training, consult this comprehensive guide on what clicker training is.
- Clicker Training Starter Kit: This kit often includes a quiet clicker, a target stick, and a guide to get you started.
- High-Value Treats: Choose treats that your cat finds particularly enticing. Freeze-dried raw treats are often a hit and are also a healthy option. Learn more about the best cat treats to keep your training sessions motivating.
It’s crucial to remember that rewards should only be given when the cat performs the desired action on command, not for spontaneous jumps. This prevents your cat from developing a habit of jumping on people indiscriminately for food.
Step 1: Acclimatize Your Cat to Your Shoulder
The initial phase focuses on making your cat comfortable with being on your shoulder. This involves two key elements:
- Physical Comfort: Ensure your cat can support themselves securely. Wearing a thick sweater or sweatshirt can provide a better grip. Training on a soft surface like a bed or while sitting on the floor can also reduce anxiety. Keeping your cat’s nails trimmed can also help them feel more secure.
- Positive Association: Create positive associations by placing your cat on your shoulder and offering them meals or treats during this time. This helps them associate your shoulder with pleasant experiences.
Step 2: Introduce the Two-Paw Perch
Once your cat is comfortable, you can begin encouraging them to place their front paws on your shoulder. This can be done during meal times:
- Sit on a sofa with your cat.
- Hold their food bowl near your shoulder so that they must place their front paws on your shoulder to reach their food.
- Allow them to eat their meal in this position. If your cat is trained to finger target, you can use your finger to guide them.
Continue this practice until your cat consistently places their paws on your shoulder to access food.
Step 3: Encourage a Full Perch
With your cat accustomed to having their front paws on your shoulder, you can now encourage them to perch fully. Continue feeding them as before, but gradually lean forward and begin to stand up. Your cat will likely grip your shoulder with their paws to maintain their position while eating and come along for the ride. Congratulations, you’re well on your way!
Step 4: Transition to a Command-Based Jump
The final stage involves teaching your cat to jump onto your shoulder on command. This is a more gradual process:
- Using a Chair: Start by having your cat jump onto a chair, then to your knee, and finally to your shoulder. Use treats or finger targeting to lure them through each step.
- Using a Target Stick:
- Place a target stick on the floor. Reward your cat when they interact with it.
- Raise the target stick to a chair. Reward them for jumping onto the chair and interacting with the stick.
- Elevate the stick further, perhaps to a dresser or other furniture, encouraging a higher jump.
- Position yourself near the elevated surface with the target stick on your shoulder. Encourage your cat to jump from the dresser onto your shoulder.
- As they become more confident, gradually increase the distance and encourage them to jump from the floor onto your shoulder.
- Finally, practice this from a seated position in a chair, and then from standing on the floor.
Albert Cat Trainer with Mia on his shoulder.
Carrying Your Cat on Your Shoulder During Hikes
For outdoor excursions, ensure your cat is comfortable on your shoulder or in a backpack beforehand. Indoor practice sessions will help them feel more secure and prepare them for potential landings. Some cats may prefer to rest their paws on your shoulders while you carry them, while others might be more comfortable in a specialized cat backpack. The key is their comfort.
To enhance safety, especially when encountering dogs or busy environments, consider using a harness and leash. This provides an extra layer of security, preventing accidental jumps. Additionally, a collar with an ID tag is essential in case of an unexpected escape. Remember the importance of preparation and safety for a successful outdoor adventure with your feline friend. Explore tips for camping with your cat.
Sharing photos of your cat on your shoulder can be a joyous way to celebrate your bond. You can find inspiring images on Albert and Mia’s Instagram. Stay adventurous and safe outdoors!
