Cat training

Even though cats are very independent animals, it is possible to persuade them to adopt good habits. The trick is to work with their natural instincts instead of against them. Many use a clicker to reinforce correct behaviour.

Cats are individuals with complex personalities, and what works on one cat might not work on another. Be attentive and adaptable, and use common sense. If a training metod isn't working or causing you or your cat frustration, maybe there's a different approach you can try. It's easier to train a kitten than a grown cat, but they're clever and able to learn. Though, they might not want to.

Fear-based or punishment-based training will not work. Neither will making your kitty "work" for his food, playtime, or your love. Use rewards instead; this will give your cat an incentive to do the right thing. Be consistent with the rewards, at least until the desired behaviour has become a habit. Rewards doesn't have to be treats; depending on your kitty's taste it can be tossing its favourite toy over the floor, catnip, a hug, or praise. Cats like to be praised, especially when it comes from their favourite human!

How Cats Learn; a website with useful tips

Cat wisdom of the day: There's no better place to sleep than on a pile of fresh laundry in a beam or sunlight.