TRAINING

Check out these articles to learn about how to train a cat.

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How to Train Your Cat

While dogs want to please their “leader,” it's important to remember that cats are different. They're more interested in pleasing themselves! So if you want your cat to stop scratching the furniture, jumping on the kitchen counters or refrain from play biting, it's going to take a lot of patience, respect, reinforcement and rewards.

cat walking

Basic Principles of Training

First and foremost, cats don’t understand punishment. Encouraging good behavior is much more effective. Sounds tricky doesn’t it? It doesn’t have to be. Just gently and firmly say ‘no’ to her if she does something you discourage. And if she does something you encourage, give her all the love and attention you can. Treats are always very motivating, too – so keep some nutritious treats on deck. (But be careful not to give her too many.)

Litter Box Training

Cats are clean creatures by nature, so there's a good chance she already knows how to use the loo. Before she comes to live with you, all you really need to do is fill the box with enough litter to cover the bottom of the tray. If you have enough room in your home, provide her with more than one box. Place them in quiet, calm locations and remember to scoop them out daily.

cat white and brown in bed

Socialising Your Kitten

Cats have a very short socialization phase. In fact, the most critical time for behavior and social development is four to 16 weeks. Before your cat comes to live with you, there's a good chance she's already been exposed to people, especially if she came from an animal shelter. Be sure to introduce her to children, too. But inform them to play nicely beforehand. Overall, you'll want to make introductions brief until she feels comfortable around new people. If you force her to socialize more than she likes, she may become more recluse or even develop health issues from feline stress.