You can't train a cat, can you?

Cats actually respond really well to clicker training. In fact, they come to love their training sessions!

So then how do you train a cat? With positive reinforcement techniques. At its core, clicker training is catching the cat doing something good, and then rewarding it. Be patient, and your cat will be able to learn to do amazing things.

How do I train my cat to shake a paw?

Step 1: Download the Cat Training Clicker app to your phone.

Step 2: Get a bowl and fill it with your cat's favorite treat. My cat loves freeze dried salmon.

Step 3: Make your cat associate the clicker with food by clicking, then giving it a treat. Repeat this enough times until the cat expects a treat whenever you click. Always give a treat whenever you click. Always!

Step 4: Put a treat in your hand, make a fist, and hold your fist up to your cat. Click as soon as your cat moves to touch or sniff your hand, and of course, give a treat.

Step 5: Shape the cat's actions by slowly adding what you expect of the cat before clicking. Before long, your cat will be giving you a high-five!

Just remember:

ALWAYS GIVE A TREAT WHENEVER YOU CLICK!

*ALWAYS!*

Happy training sessions!

Tip: Do a training session every day. It doesn't need to be long, but the consistency will really help your cat learn.

Recent changes:
Added Harvey's Helpful Hints.