Cats are fiercely independent creatures. Although they make great companions, felines are notoriously difficult to train. Unlike dogs that pay close attention to their owners and learn commands without difficulty, cats are easily bored and only respond to select cues and instructions. While your cat may never jump or fetch on command, the veterinarians from Crescent Springs Animal Hospital in Crescent Springs, KY, note that it is possible to teach your cat tricks.

Continue reading below for a few tricks that you can teach your cat using just a clicker, target stick, your cat’s favorite treat, and some patience:

• Touch the Stick: This trick is the easiest for your cat to learn and will serve as the basis for other tricks. Begin by placing the target stick near your cat. As your cat looks toward the stick or moves towards it, press the clicker and give them a treat. Repeat this a few times a day, every day. Eventually, your cat will begin to move toward the stick on their for their click and treat. As they master this, say the word “touch” whenever they approach the stick. Eventually, your cat will touch the stick on command.
• High-Five: Building on the success of the touch command, you can also teach your cat to high-five. Hold the stick slightly above your cat’s nose. As your cat reaches their head or paw up to the stick, press the clicker and give them a treat. This command should be repeated a few times a day, every day until your cat begins to reach up for the stick with their paw on sight. After they have this instinct, introduce the phrase “high-five.”
• Twist: Like high-five, “twist” can be taught using the same principles as touch. Begin my having your cat turn slightly to follow the stick. Move in small increments each day until they turn around completely to follow the stick. Follow each movement with a click and treat and use the terms “twist/turn left” and “twist/turn right” to teach more specific instructions.

While using these techniques to train your cat, it is important to exercise patience. Only introduce a little at a time to avoid boring or overwhelming your cat. If you are having trouble teaching these tricks, speak to your veterinarian for other tips and strategies.

If you need a veterinarian for your pet, contact Crescent Springs Animal Hospital by calling (859) 331-6608. For a full list of services offered by this animal clinic including spay and neuter procedures and microchipping, visit the Crescent Springs Animal Hospital website.