“You can’t train a cat” is one of the great myths. Cats learn all the time. They learned the sound of the treat bag, did they not? The trick is working with their motivation, not against it.
The secret: reward, do not punish
Cats do not respond well to scolding. They respond to rewards. Every time your cat does what you want, follow up right away with a small treat or something they love.
Try clicker training
- Click a clicker (or make a short, consistent sound) and give a treat. Repeat until your cat perks up at the click.
- Now click the moment your cat does the behavior you want, then treat.
- Keep sessions to 2 to 5 minutes. Stop before your cat gets bored.
Easy things to teach first
- Come when called: say their name, click and treat when they come.
- Sit: hold a treat just above their head so they sit naturally, then click and treat.
- High five: reward any paw lift toward your hand.
- Go to a mat or bed: handy at mealtime or when guests arrive.
- Get into the carrier: makes vet trips much less dramatic.
Fixing problem behavior
- Scratching the couch? Put a sturdy scratching post right next to it and reward its use.
- Counter surfing? Give them a legal high perch nearby, like a cat tree near the window.
- Sudden litter box problems? Talk to your vet first. It can be a sign of a health issue.
The bottom line
You can train a cat. You just have to make it worth their while.