Last updated: July 12, 2023 crystal with
Many people think that it is impossible to train a cat. It is true that some cats do not appreciate such efforts. Anyone who spends time with cats knows how cats like to have things go their own way.
That said, it is quite possible to train a cat. Some cat performances outperform dogs, such as Savitzky Cats.1
Here are some tips on how to train your cat with a clicker, including an explanation of what a clicker is. Step by step instructions on how to clicker train your cat.
Why train cats?
Before we get into the details of cat training, let’s consider why we try to train cats in the first place. It benefits them in several ways.
- A great way to stimulate your cat’s mind and body and prevent trouble.
- It also helps build a stronger bond with your cat.
- It gives confidence to cats with anxiety and aggression issues and makes them less likely to take action, especially if they have behavioral problems that stem from boredom.
- Useful if your cat likes to be taken outside, such as on a harness or leash for walks. You can also train your cat not to act violently when startled outside.
Here are some steps to help you successfully clicker train your cat.
1. Requires a clicker
Clickers are useful tools that are part of positive reinforcement training. It’s a small device that fits in your hand and makes an audible click when pressed. Clicker training is also known as marker training because the click sound “marks” the desired movement.
Even clickers labeled “for dogs” can be used by cats. Be careful not to make it too big as it can startle your cat. You can also download a clicker app! If your cat is deaf or hard of hearing, you can use a penlight.
2. Give them treats
You’ll want a high-value treat that your cat will do anything for. If your cat loves regular cat treats or anything you can lick, stock up on them.
If these treats aren’t enough to motivate your cat, try something you wouldn’t normally give them, like small pieces of tuna or boiled chicken. Choose one with a strong scent that attracts cats.
However, no matter what treat you use, give your cat only a small amount. You don’t want your cat to be satiated with treats.
3. Introduce a clicker to your cat
Cats don’t have very long attention spans, so training sessions should be short—a few minutes at a time.
First, prepare a clicker and treats and sit on the floor with your cat. Click the clicker to give the treat immediately or have it lick the lickable treat.
If you keep doing this while the cat is still interested, eventually she will begin to realize that good things happen when she hears the click. You’ll notice this when your cat starts looking at the treat instead of the clicker after hearing the sound.
4. Decide what you want your cat to do
Now that your cat understands the basics of clickers, you should begin gradually incorporating actual training. Start by training your cat to sit.
- Make sure they are standing and focused on you. Once the treat and clicker are ready, bring the treat up to your cat’s nose.
- When the cat begins to sniff, slowly arc from nose to ear and say the command word “sit.” The cat should chase the treat and her buttocks should automatically hit the floor as she chases it with her chin up.
- The moment they sit down, immediately click the clicker and give them a treat. With repetition, your cat will associate sitting with the clicks and command words.
Another method is to watch your cat carefully and when it sits naturally, say “sit”, click it, and give it a treat. If you keep doing this, your cat will eventually associate sitting with a reward.
5. Keep training
Once your cat has mastered sitting, you can experiment with different commands. Rather than forcing your cat to learn tricks to perform in front of others, it’s best to continue with the kind of training designed to keep your cat safe.
It’s important for cats to maintain their dignity, so teach them to walk with a harness or leash and to come when called. You can also train your cat to stop unwanted behaviors such as scratching on the couch. However, this kind of training should be done in conjunction with making the couch undesirable. Place sticky tape where your cat will scratch and click to reward each time your cat scratches the scratching post.
6. Don’t give up
Cats are not domesticated in the same way as dogs. They’ve just lived with humans without actually trying to train them, so don’t expect your cat to adjust as easily as a dog.
Most cats take time to respond to clicker training, so it’s important to be patient and persistent. Make sure you’re using motivating treats for your cat. Otherwise, find something your cat really responds to.
Last tip
- Click on the moment the cat takes the desired action.
- Please only click once. Do not click multiple times. Otherwise, it can lead to confusion.
- Limit each training session to just a few minutes.
- Some tricks may require multiple steps, so be sure to click each one to reward it. For example, when teaching a cat to enter a carrier, click and reward the cat when it approaches the carrier, sits near it, and then enters the carrier.
- All actions taken by the cat should be voluntary. Never push or move it yourself.
- Never punish a cat, even if it shows no interest in training. Punishment only stresses the cat and causes fear and anxiety.
Conclusion
It is possible to clicker train a cat of any breed or age, but some cats respond much faster than others. Each cat has different personalities and temperaments, so it’s best to be patient and take the time to train them.
Clicker training your cat is a great way to bond with your cat, and it can also help build your cat’s confidence. Remember to be consistent and use treats that your cat will do anything for, and your clicker will be successful in training.
Featured image credit: Andriy Blokhin, Shutterstock
About the author
Ivy’s mom cat is a lively little rescue kitten who is her only child. At this point! Throughout her life, she has known the special love found in the bond she has with her cat. Having owned multiple cats, she is convinced that their love is unmatched, unconditional, and unlike any other animal. With a passion for educating the public about everything from cat biology, behavior and unique personalities, Krystal encourages all cats and their owners to live and love consciously. I am dedicated to making people aware of the importance of