When one thinks about pets doing tricks, the last pet we think of is cats. However, cats can be taught some tricks. Today we’re diving into the topic of cats and tricks. This fun conversation will help you learn how to teach cats to do tricks while sharing some fun trick ideas to teach your cat.
Get Treats
Much like training a dog, cats will be food-driven when it comes to teaching them tricks. Gather up your cat’s favorite treats and put them in a jar for trick training sessions.
Get Your Cats Attention
It’s best to work with your cat when it’s not their typical nap time. Get their attention using one of the treats you have in the container. You will want to use a favorite toy to retain their attention, such as a feather on a stick or a similar fun cat toy. If your cat doesn’t show interest in playing with its favorite toy or taking the treat, try again later.
Use a Clicker
So as long as your cat isn’t skittish of loud noises, you can use the training clicker that most dog trainers use. This clicker can be purchased online or be something as simple as a metal cap for a drink that makes a clicking sound when you push on it.
So as long as your cat isn’t skittish of loud noises, you can use the training clicker that most dog trainers use. This clicker can be purchased online or be something as simple as a metal cap for a drink that makes a clicking sound when you push on it.
Keep It Short
Your cat isn’t going to pay attention to you for long so be sure to keep training sessions short and brief. If your cat isn’t up to working with you right away, then pause the training and try again later on or another day. You must work with your cat on their terms.
Repeat Tricks
As your cat develops a new trick be sure to repeat the trick a few times. They’ll start to connect the dots that when my human does this, I’m supposed to do that. This is an excellent way to help your cat learn what’s expected of them with certain cues from their human family members.
Wait on Cue Words
Eventually, you’ll morph from actionable commands such as putting your hand out for a handshake from your cat to using cue words. This can’t be done until your cat has mastered the trick. You’ll need to repeat the trick training process quite a few times before adding cue words to do the trick.
One Trick at a Time
Lastly, when it comes to teaching cats to do tricks you’ll want to focus on one new trick at a time. Get your cat to develop the skills to master the trick before moving onto another trick. Your cat will need time to have this new trick become a part of their regular life before you add something else to their bag of tricks.
What Tricks Can Cats Learn
Now that we shared how to teach cats to do tricks, you may be wondering what type of tricks your cat can learn. Some of the more popular options for cat tricks include:
- High Five
- Sit Pretty
- Come when Called
- Fetch
Now that you have the steps to train your cats to do tricks, it’s time for you to select a trick and work with your cat. Once the trick is mastered you’ll have so much fun showing your friends and family what your cat can do!