How to Train a Cat: All You Need to Know (For Real This Time)

So, you’ve decided to train your cat. Ambitious! Cats aren’t exactly known for taking orders 😉 In fact, most of them act like they’re monarchs in a kingdom you’re lucky to inhabit.

But here’s the secret: cats can absolutely be trained. It’s just that you need to play by their rules. And spoiler alert: those rules usually involve bribery.

If you’ve got a couch to save, tricks to teach, or just want to prove to your friends that cats can follow commands, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down step by step.

Why Train Your Cat?

Before you’ll learn how, let’s answer the why. Why would anyone try to train an animal whose hobbies include ignoring you, knocking things off shelves, and sleeping for 16 hours a day?

Here’s why:

1. Behavior control. Want them to stop scratching your favorite chair or jumping on the kitchen counter? Training can help.
2. Mental stimulation. Cats get bored, and boredom leads to chaos. Training keeps their brains busy.
3. Bonding. Training strengthens the relationship between you and your cat. Plus, it’s fun watching them succeed. (And let’s be honest, they love the attention.)

And let’s not forget the ultimate reason: bragging rights. Imagine casually dropping, “Oh, yeah, Fluffy can high-five” into a conversation.

Also, here’s a really good video that you should watch.

Step 1: Know Your Cat’s Personality (Or, Don’t Push Your Luck)

Not all cats are created equal. Some are eager learners, while others look at you like, “You want me to do what?” The key is understanding your cat’s vibe:

• The Foodie: Will do anything for a treat. Lucky you, this one’s trainable.
• The Independent Thinker: Needs convincing. Be patient—they’ll get there.
• The Drama Queen: Easily startled or stressed. Keep sessions short and positive.
• The Overachiever: Picks up commands quickly but gets bored just as fast. Keep them engaged with variety.

Pro tip: If your cat is one of those “I’ll do it when I feel like it” types, don’t stress. Training is about making them want to participate.

Step 2: Bribery 101 (A.K.A. Treats Are Everything)

Let’s get one thing straight: cats don’t work for free. They need a reason to follow your commands, and that reason is usually food. (Surprise!)

Choosing the Right Treats

Not all treats are created equal. Cats are picky, so you’ll need something irresistible. Think small, soft, and smelly. A few ideas:

• Tiny bits of cooked chicken or turkey.
• Store-bought cat treats (look for the good stuff, not just crunchy kibble).
• Freeze-dried meat treats.
• Churu or other lickable cat snacks.

FYI: Don’t overdo it. Cats have small stomachs, and too many treats can mess with their diet. Use tiny portions—you’re training, not feeding a feast.

You can also learn more about giving treats in the video below.

Step 3: Master the Basics

Before teaching fancy tricks, you’ll want to nail down the essentials. These are the life skills every cat (and cat owner) needs.

1. Name Recognition

Yes, your cat knows their name. No, they won’t come running unless there’s something in it for them. Here’s how to change that:

• Say their name in a happy, upbeat tone. (Channel your inner Disney princess.)
• When they look at you—even for a split second—immediately reward them with a treat or pet.
• Repeat this a few times a day. Over time, they’ll associate their name with positive things.

Pro tip: Don’t use their name for scolding. If “Mittens” always equals “bad cat,” they’re not going to respond when called.

2. Teaching “Come” (Yes, It’s Possible)

This one’s a game-changer. Imagine being able to summon your cat instead of chasing them around like a lunatic.

• Start by sitting a few feet away from your cat.
• Call their name, then say “come” while holding out a treat or toy.
• When they walk toward you, reward them immediately.
• Gradually increase the distance. Eventually, they’ll learn that “come” means good things are waiting.

Consistency is key. Don’t expect miracles overnight—cats take their sweet time.

3. Stop the Couch Scratching

We’ve all been there. You buy a fancy scratching post, and your cat still goes for the couch. Here’s how to redirect that destructive energy:

1. Provide alternatives. Scratching posts, mats, or even cardboard scratchers. Place them near the “problem area.”
2. When you catch your cat scratching the couch, redirect them to the post. Gently place their paws on it and praise them when they use it.
3. Use deterrents like double-sided tape or citrus spray on furniture. Cats hate sticky textures and strong smells.

And remember: never punish your cat for scratching. They’re not being “bad”—scratching is a natural behavior. Your job is to guide them, not shame them.

4. Litter Box Training

Most cats get the hang of litter boxes naturally, but if yours needs a little encouragement:

• Keep the box clean. Cats are fussy about hygiene (unlike some roommates we could name).
• Place the box in a quiet, accessible spot.
• If accidents happen, clean the area thoroughly to remove any lingering smell. Cats will return to marked spots if they catch a whiff.

Step 4: Fancy Tricks (Because Your Cat Is a Star)

Once your cat has mastered the basics, it’s time to show off.

First, have a look on the video below!

Here are a few more tricks to try:

High-Five

Who doesn’t want a cat that high-fives?

1. Hold a treat in your hand and let your cat sniff it.
2. Slowly move the treat upward so they have to lift a paw to reach it.
3. When their paw touches your hand, say “high-five” and reward them.

It might take a few tries, but the payoff is worth it. (And let’s be real, it’s adorable.)

Sit

Yes, cats can learn to sit on command. Here’s how:

1. Hold a treat above their head, slightly out of reach.
2. Slowly move the treat backward. As their head follows the motion, their butt will naturally lower.
3. The moment they sit, say “sit” and give them the treat.

Repeat until they start sitting without the lure. Then you can phase out the treat and just use the command.

The “Leave It” Command

For those times when your cat is way too interested in your dinner.

1. Place a treat in front of them but cover it with your hand.
2. Say “leave it.” When they stop trying to get the treat, reward them with a different one.
3. Practice until they understand “leave it” means they’ll get a better reward if they wait.

Step 5: Patience, Grasshopper

Here’s the deal: training a cat takes time. Unlike dogs, cats aren’t wired to please you. They’re more like, “What’s in it for me?” The key is to keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) and always end on a positive note.

If your cat seems frustrated or loses interest, take a break. Training should be fun for both of you, not a chore.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

So, you’re all pumped up and ready to turn your cat into the next internet sensation. Great! But let’s talk about a few common mistakes that can sabotage your training efforts—because trust me, it happens to the best of us.

1. Being Inconsistent

Cats thrive on consistency. If you sometimes reward them for good behavior but other times forget, they’ll end up confused. Set clear rules and stick to them. If “no jumping on the counter” is the goal, make sure every member of the household enforces it. (Yes, even your soft-hearted roommate who sneaks them snacks.)

2. Losing Patience

Here’s the thing: cats aren’t dogs. Training them takes time. If you’re expecting instant results, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Stay calm, keep sessions short, and celebrate small wins. Your cat can sense your frustration, and spoiler alert—it won’t make them work harder.

3. Overloading on Treats

Sure, treats are the holy grail of cat training, but don’t go overboard. Too many can upset their stomach or lead to weight gain. Keep portions tiny, and once they’ve nailed a behavior, start phasing out treats in favor of praise or pets. (Yes, cats do appreciate affection, even if they act like they don’t.)

4. Ignoring Your Cat’s Mood

If your cat isn’t feeling it, don’t push them. Training an irritable or sleepy cat is like trying to reason with a toddler in the middle of a tantrum—pointless. Wait for a time when they’re alert and engaged.

5. Using Punishment

This one’s a biggie: punishment doesn’t work. Yelling, spraying water, or scolding your cat will only make them fear you or resent you (or both). Focus on positive reinforcement instead. Redirect bad behavior and reward the good.

6. Forgetting to Make It Fun

Training isn’t just about getting your cat to behave—it’s about bonding. If you’re too focused on “results,” you’ll miss the joy of the process. Keep it light, laugh at their quirks, and remember: they’re cats, not robots.

FAQ: Your Burning Cat-Training Questions

Got questions? I’ve got answers. Let’s tackle some of the most common concerns about cat training.

1. Can All Cats Be Trained?

Short answer: yes! Long answer: some cats are easier to train than others. It depends on their personality, age, and level of food motivation. Even the most stubborn cats can learn, but you might need extra patience.

2. How Long Does Training Take?

It depends on the trick or behavior you’re teaching. Some cats pick up commands in a few days, while others take weeks. Start with short, daily sessions (5–10 minutes) and build from there. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint.

3. What If My Cat Isn’t Interested in Treats?

Shocking, but it happens! If treats aren’t doing the trick, try using a favorite toy, catnip, or even praise as a reward. Find what motivates your cat and run with it. (Pro tip: some cats are obsessed with Churu. It’s like liquid gold for felines.)

4. Is My Cat Too Old to Train?

Nope! Cats of any age can learn new tricks. Sure, kittens might pick things up faster, but senior cats can absolutely be trained too. In fact, training can be great mental stimulation for older cats.

5. What Should I Do If My Cat Stops Responding?

If your cat suddenly loses interest in training, take a step back. Are they bored? Tired? Overfed on treats? Switch things up by trying a new trick or reward, and keep sessions short and fun. Sometimes, they just need a break.

6. Can I Train My Cat Without Treats?

Yes, but treats make life so much easier. If you want to go treat-free, try using a clicker to mark the desired behavior, followed by verbal praise or petting. Just know that food tends to speed up the process—cats aren’t big on working for free.

7. What’s the Hardest Trick to Teach a Cat?

Honestly? Anything that goes against their nature. For example, teaching a cat to stop jumping on counters is tough because they love high places. The trick is to redirect the behavior rather than fight it. Give them a designated perch or cat tree nearby, so they can satisfy their climbing instincts without driving you insane.

8. What If My Cat Just Doesn’t Care?

Some cats are extra stubborn, and that’s okay. Training should be fun for both of you, so if your cat isn’t into it, don’t force it. Focus on bonding and try again later. Sometimes, the real win is just spending time together—couch clawing and all.

Final Thoughts (And a Little Tough Love)

Training a cat isn’t about dominance or control. It’s about communication and trust. If you go into this with patience, treats, and a sense of humor, you’ll be amazed at what your cat can learn.

And hey, even if they never nail that high-five, at least you tried—and they’ll love you for the effort. (Or at least tolerate you, which is basically the same thing in cat world.)

Now go grab those treats and start training! Your couch will thank you. 😊