It’s a commonly held myth that cats are aloof creatures, utterly impervious to training. Yet, ask any Kiwi who has taught their feline friend a trick or two, and they’ll quickly dispel this misconception. The truth is, cats can learn manners, come when called, and even perform basic tricks—provided you approach training with patience, positive reinforcement, and a sense of fun. Whether you live in a cosy Dunedin flat or a sprawling Northland farm, these pointers can help you foster a deeper bond with your cat as they pick up new skills.
Debunking the “Untrainable” Myth
Many people assume cats can’t be trained because they’re more independent than dogs. Yet independence doesn’t mean a lack of intelligence—in fact, cats respond well to consistent cues and motivations, just like their canine counterparts. It simply takes a tailored approach that respects a cat’s unique nature:
- Focus on Choice, Not Force: Cats dislike feeling cornered or coerced. By using rewards and gentle guidance, you’ll build trust instead of resistance.
- Individual Personalities Count: Some cats are naturally more sociable and eager to please, while others are cautious and slower to engage. Tailor your methods to your cat’s comfort level.
Teaching Cats to Come When Called
1. Use a Consistent Cue
Decide on a simple verbal cue, such as your cat’s name or “Here, kitty!” Keep it brief and consistent. If you live in a busy household, make sure everyone uses the same phrase to avoid confusion.
2. Offer High-Value Rewards
Cats appreciate immediate gratification. Start by calling your cat from a short distance and, when they appear, reward them with:
- Tasty Treats: Small bites of real fish or chicken often work wonders.
- Gentle Praise: A warm, reassuring voice can go a long way.
- Familiar Scent Toys: Some cats are more toy-motivated than treat-motivated.
3. Increase Distance Gradually
Once they reliably come when called from the next room, try calling them from upstairs or outside on the deck. This incremental approach helps your cat understand the command in different environments—ideal for Kiwi cats who split their time between indoors and the backyard.
Using Clicker Training for Cats
Clicker training is a popular method among dog trainers, but it’s equally effective for cats. The premise is straightforward: each time your cat does something you’d like to encourage—like sitting quietly or touching their nose to your hand—you produce a quick, consistent “click” and follow it with a treat.
How to Get Started
- Associate the Click with Rewards: Sit with your cat, click the clicker, and immediately offer a small treat. Repeat several times until your cat perks up or moves towards you as soon as they hear the click.
- Link It to Specific Behaviours: For instance, if you want your cat to sit on command, wait for them to naturally sit, then click and reward. Over time, you can add a verbal cue like “Sit!” just before they settle down.
- Keep Sessions Brief: Two or three minutes of clicker training per day is ample, especially at the beginning. Cats are easily bored and may wander off if the session drags on too long.
Why It Works
- Instant Feedback: The click marks the exact moment your cat does something correct, reducing confusion.
- Reinforces Positive Behaviours: By clicking and rewarding beneficial actions (like calm sitting), you shape the cat’s habits over time.
Keeping Sessions Short and Fun
Know Your Cat’s Attention Span
Unlike dogs who might be eager for a prolonged training session, cats typically prefer short bursts of interaction. Aim for:
- Two or Three Mini-Sessions a Day: Each lasting just a few minutes.
- End on a Positive Note: If your cat accomplishes a small task—like responding to a click or coming to you—give a treat and wrap it up. Finishing successfully keeps them curious for the next session.
Observe Body Language
A flicking tail, flattened ears, or wandering off can signal that your cat is losing interest—or becoming overstimulated. If you notice these signs, pause and try again later. Forcing the issue can lead to frustration on both ends.
Incorporate Play
Training doesn’t have to be purely about commands. Encourage your cat to chase a wand toy or pounce on a ball as a reward for a job well done. This not only keeps them mentally stimulated but also helps expend pent-up energy—especially useful if you have a youthful or high-spirited cat.
Making It Work in a Kiwi Household
- Quiet Space: If possible, choose a calm spot away from the hustle and bustle. This might be the lounge when the rest of the family is out, or a quiet corner of the garden when the neighbourhood is less lively.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Be patient if progress seems slow. Cats can be wilful, and each step forward is worth celebrating. Remind yourself of how far you’ve come—maybe your cat once ignored you entirely, but now they appear after a single call.
- Consult Local Experts: If you run into challenges, consider talking to a New Zealand-based cat behaviourist or your vet for extra support. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can spot a minor tweak that supercharges your progress.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you really can train a cat—and it can be one of the most rewarding ways to strengthen your bond. By using consistent cues, offering immediate and appealing rewards, and respecting your cat’s individual tempo, you’ll break through the “untrainable cat” stereotype. Whether you’re teaching them to come running when called or performing a simple trick, the secret ingredient remains the same: positive reinforcement wrapped in patience. So grab a handful of your cat’s favourite treats, have that clicker ready, and see just how much your clever feline can learn.
Are you taking the first steps in cat training or have a pro tip that works wonders? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments—your story might just inspire another Kiwi cat owner to embark on this playful journey!
