It’s a common misconception that cats cannot be trained. However, cats are highly intelligent creatures capable of learning various behaviors with patience and the right techniques. Clicker training, in particular, has proven to be a highly effective method for teaching cats new tricks, strengthening the bond between pet and owner. This guide will explore how to get started with clicker training and present a range of tricks, from foundational skills to more advanced maneuvers, that you can teach your feline companion.
Clicker training is a positive reinforcement method that uses a distinct sound (the click) to mark desired behaviors, followed by a reward. This clear communication system helps cats understand precisely what action earns them a treat or praise. If you’re new to this training style, understanding the basics of clicker training is a recommended first step before diving into trick training.
The following are some of the most effective and engaging tricks you can teach your cat, categorized to help you progress from simple to more complex behaviors.
Foundational Tricks for Cat Training
These initial tricks are crucial as they build a base for more advanced learning and enhance communication between you and your cat.
1. Come When Called
Teaching your cat to respond to their name or a specific call is incredibly useful, especially for outdoor cats. It helps ensure they can be easily located and kept safe from potential dangers. Practicing indoors first, where distractions are minimal, makes this process more manageable.
2. Finger Targeting
Finger targeting is an excellent introductory trick. By teaching your cat to touch a finger with their nose, you gain a tool to guide them. This can be used to direct your cat away from counters, into their carrier, or simply to follow you around the house.
The Easiest Trick to Master: Sit
Once your cat grasms the foundational tricks, teaching them to sit is often the next logical step due to its simplicity and utility. This trick is not only a great starting point for other behaviors but also proves handy in various situations, such as administering medication, placing a harness, or during examinations.
To teach your cat to sit, hold a treat slightly above their head. As they naturally lower themselves to get a better view of the treat, their rear will eventually touch the ground. The moment they sit, click your clicker and immediately offer the treat and praise. Consistent practice will help your cat associate the action with the reward.
Five Easy Tricks to Impress
With the basics mastered, these five tricks are relatively simple to teach and are sure to delight both you and your cat.
3. Shake Hands
This charming trick involves teaching your cat to place their paw in your outstretched hand. Simply extend your hand, and when your cat places a paw on it, click and reward.
4. High Five
Similar to shaking hands, a high five involves your cat tapping your hand with their paw. Hold your hand up, and when your cat makes contact with their paw, click and offer a treat.
5. Spin
For this trick, you’ll use a treat to guide your cat in a circular motion. Hold a treat near your cat’s nose and slowly move it in a circle around them. As they follow the treat, they will begin to spin. Click and reward as they complete the rotation.
6. Jump Through a Hoop
Start by holding a hoop at a height your cat can easily see. Place a treat on the other side of the hoop to entice them to jump through. Once they are comfortable, you can gradually increase the height or move the hoop to different locations.
7. Stand on Two Feet
To teach your cat to stand on their hind legs, hold a treat in front of their nose and slowly raise it. As they rise to reach the treat, click and reward them for standing.
Advancing Your Cat’s Training Repertoire
Once your cat is proficient with the easier tricks, you can introduce more complex behaviors that showcase their intelligence and agility.
8. Play Dead
Begin by teaching your cat to lie down on their side. Then, encourage them to roll onto their back. When they achieve this position, click and provide a reward. This trick requires a bit more patience and understanding of your cat’s natural movements.
9. Walk on a Leash
Some cats exhibit a strong curiosity about the outdoors. Before attempting leash training, consider an “Adventure Cat Test” to gauge your cat’s potential enjoyment of outdoor excursions. If your cat shows interest, a proper cat harness is essential, as collars can put dangerous pressure on their neck. Introduce the harness and leash gradually indoors, using treats and play to build positive associations. Once comfortable, you can begin practicing walks in a safe outdoor environment.
10. Ring a Bell
This trick is ideal for cats who enjoy interacting with toys. You can start by attaching a bell to your cat’s collar and rewarding them when they accidentally make it ring. Over time, you can teach them to ring the bell intentionally on command, which can even be used as a way for them to signal their desire to go outside.
11. Roll Over
This trick builds upon the “play dead” behavior. After your cat is lying on their side, encourage them to roll completely over. Use a treat to guide their movement, clicking and rewarding them as they complete the roll.
Uniquely Feline Tricks
Certain tricks are particularly well-suited for cats, showcasing their unique physical abilities and charming personalities.
12. Sit on the Shoulder
A favorite among many cat owners, teaching your cat to jump onto your shoulder and stay there offers a magical, almost Pokémon-like experience. This trick requires a confident cat and careful training to ensure both your comfort and safety. Videos demonstrating this specific trick can provide detailed, step-by-step guidance.
With consistent effort and positive reinforcement, you can successfully teach your cat a wide array of tricks. Remember to keep training sessions short, fun, and always end on a positive note to maintain your cat’s enthusiasm.
Taking Cat Training to the Next Level
The journey of training your cat doesn’t have to end with these 12 tricks. Numerous resources are available to further enhance your cat’s skills and strengthen your bond, including books, games, and even agility training. Consider exploring resources like “The Click Crusade,” a card game designed to make clicker training fun and educational, offering tips for up to 30 different tricks.
For cats that excel with physical challenges, agility training offers a stimulating outlet. Cats are naturally acrobatic, and with the right guidance, they can learn to navigate agility courses quickly. Numerous online guides and resources can help you set up and train your cat for agility challenges.
Happy training!
