Cat Training Tips And Strategies
Cats are typically self-sufficient and thus do not need a lot of training. It is unfortunate, though, that some kittens can form bad habits as they mature. Such bad habits are common in cats that have been adopted, neglected, abused, taken in as a stray, or even purchased from a breeder. Even then, though, it seems that cats have a natural instinct guiding them to the litter box and thus a majority of them do not require "potty training."
The most important aspect in cat training is to reward your pet for behaving the way that you want them to. Most owners are just focused on punishing their pet when they do something wrong, such as scratch on the furniture. But, the problem with this is that cats don't understand the point you're trying to prove to them by yelling at them or punishing them.
Felines both need and enjoy to sharpen their claws. This activity decreases buildup of old nails in the paws. This makes it necessary to purchase a pedestal explicitly for scratching. However, the animals must be trained to use the post instead of a previously favored spot. You will be glad to hear it is quite possible to train a cat to use a scratching post. A commonly used method is to isolate a kitten in a small space with the pillar. If this is the only outlet for scratching and climbing, the animal will relent.
If the cat still does not wish to use the posts you can adapt the post to its living. Add such things as well placed treats on the platforms climbing posts, or put catnip on the scratching post. You should never try to force the cat to do anything it does not like. Several people make this mistake of forcing the cat to claw on the post to teach them. If your cat feels as if its forced to do something it will definitely end up disliking you. This is very important to remember while kitten training.
Having the right reward in cat training can allow you to teach them to answer certain commands. Some examples of this are telling your kitten to meow, sit up, or even to fetch like a dog. You have to be certain to give them their treat immediately following the desired behavior that they have achieved. You can also use a clicker, which is most commonly used for dog training. Each time your cat follows your command make it click and give it a treat, this will help it to learn.
It is also important during your cat training routine that the treat you are giving your animal is healthy for them. Remember not to try to punish them or be negative toward them in any way. This will only result in your cat being afraid of you and this will really harm the pet and owner relationship. Teaching your cat good behavior will greatly benefit its happiness (as well as yours) and overall life.
Cats don't generally need a lot of training, as they are independent by nature. Most cats even know to use a litter box. The most important part of cat training is to reward cats for good behavior. Cats need to scratch to remove old layers of nails, so definitely buy your cat a scratching post. Don't force a cat to use it, though; that is a common kitten training mistake. Make sure to give treats your cat will enjoy, and give the treats to the cat as soon as it does something good. It is important to train a cat positively to enjoy life with your cat.
Published August 18th, 2007
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