Can You Really Train a Cat?
Think cats can’t be trained? You’re not alone. Cats have earned a reputation for being independent, stubborn and — let’s face it — a little unpredictable. While they may not follow commands with the same enthusiasm as their canine counterparts, that doesn’t mean your cat can’t learn new skills or improve their behavior.
Training isn’t just about teaching “tricks.” It helps create a healthier, happier environment for your cat and can help address common challenges, such as furniture scratching or litter box avoidance. Training provides valuable mental stimulation, helping your cat stay relaxed and engaged, all while strengthening the bond you share.
Feline Training Basics
When it comes to training your cat, starting small is key. Focus on simple behaviors and be sure to reward success. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in shaping your cat’s behavior. Whether it’s food, play or attention, the key is understanding what motivates them and using those rewards consistently.
Unlike dogs, cats respond best to short, positive sessions that respect their natural instincts. Keep sessions short, around five minutes a day, since cats learn best in small bursts. Most importantly, respect their limits. If your cat seems frustrated, wrap up on a positive note and try again later.
Choosing the Right Reward
Training your cat successfully often comes down to motivation, and the right reward makes all the difference. While some cats respond to praise or play, food rewards tend to be the most effective for reinforcing new behaviors. That’s where training treats come in, they provide a tasty incentive that keeps your cat engaged and eager to learn.
Made with high quality meat as the first ingredient, Dr. Elsey’s cleanprotein Protein Bites are a treat you can feel good about feeding. These protein-packed treats offer a bite-sized shape, making them perfect for training sessions to satisfy without overfeeding.
Litter Box Training Tips
While most cats instinctively know how to use the litter box, issues like house soiling can still occur. The first step to addressing this often misunderstood problem is making sure the basics are covered. Keep the litter box clean and scoop daily for a refreshed space. Place the litter box in a quiet and low-traffic area where your cat feels safe, and avoid moving it around once they’re comfortable.
Cats are highly texture-driven, so choosing the right litter can make all the difference. A litter like Dr. Elsey’s best-selling Ultra provides the right paw feel to encourage consistent use. Ultra contains a unique formulation that combines the heavy non-tracking granules with medium grain clay. The result is an excellent clumping litter that prevents moisture from reaching the bottom of the litter box, while providing a clump that will not break apart.
If your cat is avoiding the litter box, treat it like a training opportunity. Gently redirect them to the litter box when you notice signs they need to go, and reward them with praise or a small treat when they use it correctly. For stubborn cases, it’s important to first rule out any underlying medical causes with a trip to the vet. Once health concerns are addressed, products like Dr. Elsey’s Cat Attract can provide extra help. Blended with a natural herbal attractant, it encourages cats to come back to the litter box.
If anxiety is contributing to house soiling, play sessions and enrichment can help reduce stress and improve litter box habits. For additional guidance, Dr. Elsey’s Litter Box Solutions is available online with more detailed tips and troubleshooting advice if your cat is not using the litter box.
Fun Tricks and Enrichment
Once you’ve built trust with basic training, you can explore more playful behaviors like teaching your cat to give a high five or play fetch with their favorite toy. These skills don’t just show off your cat’s smarts, but they add enrichment to their daily life — all while deepening your connection.
Training your cat takes patience, but the rewards are worth it. With the right mindset (and a few treats), you’ll be surprised at just how much your cat can learn. Want more insights into feline behavior? Check out our Instagram page!
