Are you under the impression that cats can’t be trained? This common misconception couldn’t be further from the truth! Cats are remarkably intelligent, and with a bit of patience and the right techniques, you can teach your feline friend a variety of amusing behaviors. The most effective method for training cats is clicker training, a rewarding process that strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
Clicker training utilizes positive reinforcement, where a distinct click sound is paired with a treat or praise. This helps your cat understand exactly which behavior earned them a reward. Before diving into specific tricks, it’s beneficial to understand the fundamentals of clicker training to ensure a consistent and effective learning environment for your cat.
Foundation Tricks for Cat Training
The initial tricks you teach your cat should build a strong foundation for more complex behaviors. These essential skills not only make training easier but also enhance your cat’s safety and your ability to manage them.
1. Come When Called
Teaching your cat to respond to their name or a specific call is incredibly useful, particularly for cats that spend time outdoors. This command can help prevent them from getting lost or wandering into dangerous situations. While training indoors with fewer distractions is generally easier, consistency is key to success.
2. Finger Targeting
Finger targeting is an excellent first trick as it provides a basis for many other behaviors. By teaching your cat to touch your finger with their nose, you gain the ability to guide them, whether it’s off a counter, into a carrier, or towards a specific location. This targeted movement is a stepping stone for more advanced tricks.
The Easiest Trick to Teach Your Cat: Sit
Once your cat has grasped the foundational commands, you might want to introduce tricks that are not only practical but also endearing. The sit command is often considered the easiest trick to teach and serves as a great starting point for other behaviors.
Teaching your cat to sit is particularly useful during routine care, such as examinations or when putting on a harness. To achieve this, gently hover a treat above your cat’s head. As they look up and naturally lower their hindquarters to sit, click your clicker and immediately offer the treat and praise.
Five Easy Tricks for an Engaged Cat
With the basics mastered, you can move on to tricks that are both fun and engaging, further strengthening your cat’s trust and responsiveness.
3. Shake Hands
This charming trick is sure to impress. To teach your cat to “shake hands,” extend your hand towards them and wait for them to place their paw on it. The moment they do, click and offer a reward.
4. High Five
Similar to shaking hands, the high five involves your cat touching your outstretched hand with their paw. As soon as they make contact, click and reward them for their cooperation.
5. Spin
A slightly more advanced but highly enjoyable trick, teaching your cat to spin involves guiding them with a treat. Hold a treat near their nose and slowly move it in a circular motion, encouraging them to follow. As they turn, use your clicker to mark the behavior and provide the treat and praise.
6. Jump Through a Hoop
This visually appealing trick involves teaching your cat to jump through a hoop. Start by holding the hoop at a low level. Place a treat on the other side to entice them to jump through. As they become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the hoop’s height and vary its position.
7. Stand on Two Feet
A delightful trick that showcases your cat’s agility, teaching them to stand on their hind legs can be achieved by holding a treat just above their reach. Slowly raise the treat, encouraging them to stand tall. Reward them once they achieve the position.
Advanced Tricks for the Discerning Cat Owner
For those whose cats have mastered the intermediate tricks, a new world of advanced behaviors awaits.
8. Play Dead
This theatrical trick is guaranteed to entertain. Encourage your cat to lie on their side, and then gently guide them to roll onto their back. Reward this playful submission with a click and a treat.
9. Walk on a Leash
For adventurous cats, leash walking can open up a world of exploration. Before starting, consider an “Adventure Cat Test” to gauge your cat’s interest in the outdoors. If your cat is receptive, a properly fitted cat harness is essential, as collars are not suitable for leash walking due to potential neck strain and escape risks. Gradually introduce the harness and leash indoors, using positive reinforcement, before venturing outside.
10. Ring a Bell
Cats who enjoy interactive toys can learn to ring a bell. Attaching a bell to their collar and rewarding them when they accidentally or intentionally ring it can lead to them learning to do so on command.
11. Roll Over
This impressive trick builds upon the “play dead” behavior. Once your cat is comfortable lying on their side, guide them to roll completely over. Celebrate their success with a click and a reward.
Uniquely Feline Tricks
Some tricks are best suited for cats, showcasing their unique abilities that differ from those of dogs.
12. Sit on the Shoulder
A truly magical trick is teaching your cat to jump onto your shoulder and stay there. This behavior, reminiscent of beloved fictional characters, creates a unique bond and allows your cat to accompany you in a special way.
With consistent practice and positive reinforcement, you can teach your cat a wide array of tricks. Remember to keep training sessions brief and enjoyable, always ending on a positive note to maintain your cat’s enthusiasm.
Ready to Elevate Your Cat Training Journey?
The journey of training your cat doesn’t end with mastering these tricks. Numerous resources, from books to interactive games like “The Click Crusade,” can help you expand your training repertoire and deepen your connection with your feline companion.
For those seeking an even greater challenge, agility training offers a dynamic way to engage your cat’s natural athleticism. Cats are superb acrobats and can quickly learn to navigate agility courses, providing both physical and mental stimulation. Consider exploring free guides on cat agility training to get started.
Happy training!
References
OutdoorBengal. “Are Cats hard to Train?” outdoorbengal.com. Accessed January 12, 2026.
OutdoorBengal. “How to Teach Clicker Training to Your Cat.” outdoorbengal.com. Accessed January 12, 2026.
