Can You Train a Cat? Yes — Here’s How

Many people assume cats are too independent, aloof, or stubborn to be trained. Sure, they may not be as eager to please as dogs, but that doesn’t mean they can’t learn. The truth is, with the right techniques and patience, training a cat doesn’t need to be hard.

Many cats can master simple cues, learn fun tricks, and even break frustrating habits. After all, most cats pick up litter-box training with minimal effort, which proves they’re more than capable of learning. In this article, we’ll break down what cat training entails, the kinds of behaviors you can teach, and how to approach training in a way that motivates your feline companion.

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What to consider before starting cat training

Before you grab a clicker and treats, it’s important to understand a few fundamentals. 

Understanding feline behavior

Training a cat is a bit different than training a dog. Many dogs are bred to follow human cues (herding, retrieving, guarding), so they tend to be more eager to please. Cats, on the other hand, are independent by nature. They’re more like, “What’s in it for me?” Training a cat relies heavily on finding the right reward (usually a favorite treat or toy).

Cats also get bored quickly and need calm, familiar environments. Stress or change can easily derail a training session. 

Setting realistic training goals

“Cats can be trained to do a lot, as long as they’re physically capable of doing it,” says Joey Lusvardi, a certified cat behavior consultant and founder of Class Act Cats. 

However, not every behavior is a realistic training goal. Setting achievable expectations helps avoid frustration for you and your cat. Some common cat training goals include:

• Coming when called

• Sitting on command

• Using a scratching post instead of scratching furniture

• Using the litter box reliably

• Giving a high five 

• Entering a carrier on cue

• Going to a designated place or spot  

• Accepting grooming or nail trims

• Walking on a leash with a harness

• Responding to their name

• Leaving or dropping items 

• Waiting before eating

• Ringing a bell to go outside 

• Taking medications willingly 

• Getting along with another cat or a dog  

Common myths about cat training

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of training, let’s clear up a few myths that might be holding you back from jumping in.

• “Only kittens can learn new tricks.” Older cats are perfectly capable of learning, though it might take a little more time and patience.

• “Cats don’t care what you want.” While cats don’t aim to please like dogs, they respond well to positive reinforcement, especially when their favorite treat is involved.

• “My cat is too stubborn to train.” What seems like stubbornness is often just a lack of motivation or unclear communication. With the right rewards and timing, even the sassiest cat can pick up new behaviors.

• “Training a cat is pointless.” Teaching useful behaviors (like coming when called or using a scratching post) can make life easier for both of you.

Is it hard to train a cat?

Training a cat is typically a bit more challenging than training a dog. But, with the right techniques, it’s entirely possible to teach your cat useful behaviors and even fun tricks. Let’s take a closer look at what can make cat training tricky and how to work around those obstacles.

Challenges of cat training

Here are a few common hurdles and how to overcome them.

• Short attention spans: Most cats don’t have the patience for long training sessions, so it’s best to keep them brief. According to Lusvardi, around two minutes per session is usually just right.

• Low motivation (sometimes): Training a cat relies heavily on finding the right reward, usually food. Choose a treat your cat goes crazy for, and reserve it exclusively for training sessions to keep it extra motivating.

• Inconsistency: Cats thrive on routine. Training sessions should be consistent in timing, tone, and reward.

• Stress or fear: Cats don’t learn well when they’re anxious. Make sure your environment is calm and quiet, and never force a session if your cat seems stressed.

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How to train your cat effectively 

Now for the fun part: training. Here’s how to set your cat up for success.

Step 1: Choose your objective 

Before you begin training, decide exactly which behavior you want your cat to learn. It should be clear, realistic, and something your cat is physically capable of doing. Focus on one behavior at a time. Trying to teach too much at once can be confusing and slow progress.

Step 2: Pick the right time

Train when your cat is calm, alert, and a little hungry. Avoid trying to train when they’re overstimulated, sleepy, full, or uninterested, as it will be harder to keep their attention. 

Step 3: Guide the behavior 

Use a treat or toy to gently guide them into the desired action. For example, to teach “sit,” slowly move the treat above and slightly behind their head. By doing this, most cats will naturally lower their back end. 

Never try to physically force your cat into a position or behavior, Lusvardi says. Pushing, pulling, or holding them in place can cause stress, fear, or aggression. 

Step 4: Mark the moment and reward

Use a clicker and/or a verbal cue such as “yes” or “good” to mark the exact moment your cat performs the desired behavior, then follow it up immediately with a high-value treat, Lusvardi suggests. 

For example, if you’re teaching your cat to sit, click and/or say “good” the instant their bottom touches the ground. Then, immediately reward them with a treat. This precise timing helps your cat connect the behavior with the reward. 

Step 5: Add a cue

Once your cat reliably does the behavior, you can add a cue word like “sit” or “high five,” says Lusvardi. Say the cue right as your cat begins the action. With enough repetition, your cat may respond to just the cue word — no treat or hand motion needed. 

Just avoid adding the cue too soon, Lusvardi warns, because doing so before your cat fully understands the behavior can lead to confusion.

Step 6: Avoid punishment 

Yelling, hitting, or trying to scare your cat is inhumane and can easily backfire. It may damage your bond and make your cat fearful of you, the training itself, and the behavior you’re trying to teach. 

A better approach is to gently redirect unwanted actions and reward the behavior you want to see. For instance, if your cat scratches the couch, calmly guide them to a scratching post and offer a reward when they use it.

Other factors influencing cat training success

Each cat is unique, and while consistent techniques and positive reinforcement go a long way, other factors can play a big role in how easily your cat takes to training. Understanding these can help you tailor your approach for better results.

Age and adaptability

Kittens tend to be more curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences, making them generally easier to train, Lusvardi says. That said, he notes that older cats can absolutely learn new behaviors — it may just take a little more time and patience.

Breed-specific traits

Some breeds may be more naturally inclined to engage with training. For example, Siamese, Bengal, and Abyssinian cats are known for their intelligence and energy, which can make them more responsive to learning tricks. On the other hand, more relaxed breeds might need a little extra time to catch on. 

Past experiences and their impact on behavior

A cat’s history can significantly influence how they respond to training. Cats with a history of trauma, fear, or neglect may be more cautious or easily stressed. Building trust and creating a calm, predictable environment is essential to help them feel safe enough to learn.

Commonly asked questions

How do I start training my cat?

Start training by choosing a calm, distraction-free spot, and waiting until your cat seems alert and interested. Use a treat to guide them into a basic behavior like “sit.” As soon as they engage in the behavior, immediately mark it with a click and a praise word like “good,” followed by a treat.

What are the best rewards for cat training?

Any treat that your cat loves works best for training. A favorite toy can also work well if your cat is more motivated by play than food.

Can cats really learn tricks?

Yes, cats can learn a variety of tricks, from sitting and shaking paws to high-fives and jumping through hoops. Just make sure the trick is something they can comfortably and safely do.

How long does it take to see progress?

Training progress depends on the cat and the behavior you’re teaching. Some cats respond within a few days, while others may take a few weeks. Staying patient and being consistent is key to success. 

What should I do if my cat resists training?

If your cat resists training, take a step back and reassess. Make sure your cat isn’t stressed or tired. Try a different reward, reduce distractions, shorten sessions, and work at their pace. Never force participation and always respect their boundaries.

Are there specific training methods for shy or anxious cats?

To train shy or anxious cats, use calm tones, slow movements, and start from a comfortable distance. Let them come to you. Building trust and a sense of safety is essential to help anxious cats engage in training.

How can I maintain consistency in my cat’s training routine?

Set a regular schedule for training, and use the same cues and rewards each time. Keep sessions short but frequent. If multiple people are training your cat, everyone should follow the same approach to avoid confusion. 

References

“How to Train a Cat.” https://Www.bps.org.uk/Psychologist/How-Train-Cat, 12 May 2022, www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/how-train-cat.

London, Karen B. “A Step by Step Guide on How to Clicker Train Your Cat.” 8 Aug. 2023, www.kinship.com/cat-behavior/clicker-training-for-cats.

“Training Cats with Positive Reinforcement.” Human Society of Huron Valley, www.hshv.org/training-cats-with-positive-reinforcement.