Feature Article
Yes, You can Train Your Cat
By Mollie Hogan
Jun 14, 2008, 20:35

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When you move into your cat’s space you are claiming that space as your own and telling your feline in a subtle way that you are in control. This is simple to accomplish through gently scooting your cat out of the way when he’s sleeping in your chair and replacing his body with your own. Reinforce his movement with a brief pet and a “good kitty.”

My second suggestion takes a little more patience but offers the same results. Try and ignore your cat when he’s meowing out of turn, scratching at the door or exhibiting other forms of needy behavior. Reinforce acceptable behavior by petting or praising your kitty for a calm attitude or a quiet moment.

Now, let’s talk a little about how our pets might perceive the actions of their human roommates. Body language is a strong form of communication for both human and other animal species and it often helps to modify our own behavior before trying to change the behavior of our pets. Also, a cat’s senses are extremely enhanced in comparison to ours and being aware of their sensitive nature is important.

Cats as prey - You’ve probably seen your cat pounce on bugs in the house or stare longingly at birds on the other side of the window. Cats are indisputably the perfect predator. But often we humans fail to remember that an animal the size of domestic cat is also prey to larger predators. Being at the top of the predator scale, our size and demeanor can be intimidating to our pets. Developing an awareness of your body language and how your pets might perceive your movements and sounds is equally as important as learning to use a clicker and positive reinforcement techniques.

1) When approaching your cat move slowly and quietly and try not to loom over him like a giant monster. Instead, try becoming more cat-size by bending at the knees and then calling your cat to you for a quick pet.

2) Cat’s have excellent hearing so when teaching verbal cues use tone rather than volume to indicate your feelings. A sharp “No!” will get your point across while a loud “NO!” might be scary. The same goes for “Good Kitty.” Too much positive excitement may just as easily send your cat straight under the bed to safety.

Killing with kindness - In general, most cats aren’t crazy about excessive handling. In fact, quickly picking up a cat may actually feel to them like they’ve been suddenly caught by a predator. While we may enjoy holding and stroking, the following example might work better for kitty.

Sit on the couch and signal him up to your lap by patting your knee and holding a treat. When he arrives, say “Good Kitty” and gently pet him. In this way, it remains your decision to interact with your cat but the contact is more on his terms and within his comfort zone.

Mollie Hogan is the owner of Cat Business, which offers in-home cat training and behavioral consulting services for felines and their humans, and founder of The Nature of Wildworks wildlife education center. For more information please visit

www.catbusiness1.com and www.natureofwildworks.org.