How can you effectively exercise your cat. What are the best ways to keep indoor cats active. Which cat exercises are most enjoyable for felines. Why is regular physical activity crucial for cat health.

The Importance of Regular Exercise for Cats

While many pet owners understand the necessity of exercising dogs, cat exercise often gets overlooked. However, veterinarians strongly recommend regular physical activity for cats to maintain their health and longevity. Engaging your feline friend in daily exercise can prevent obesity, improve cardiovascular health, and provide mental stimulation.

Cats are natural hunters and explorers, but indoor life can limit their opportunities for physical activity. This is where cat owners play a crucial role in ensuring their pets stay active and healthy. By incorporating a variety of exercises into your cat’s routine, you can help them maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and prevent behavior problems associated with boredom.

Interactive Play: The Key to Cat Exercise

One of the most effective ways to exercise your cat is through interactive play. This not only provides physical activity but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Interactive play mimics a cat’s natural hunting instincts, making it both enjoyable and beneficial for their overall well-being.

Wand Toys: A Feline Favorite

Wand toys, also known as fishing-pole toys, are excellent tools for interactive play. These toys typically feature a long, flexible rod with a string attached to a feather, mouse, or other enticing object. When you move the wand, it simulates prey movement, encouraging your cat to chase, pounce, and leap.

• Vary the movement of the wand to keep your cat engaged
• Use different attachments to maintain interest
• Incorporate obstacles like furniture to increase exercise intensity

Do cats tire quickly during play sessions? While individual cats may vary, most can engage in short bursts of intense activity followed by rest periods. Aim for several 5-10 minute play sessions throughout the day to match your cat’s natural activity patterns.

Harnessing Technology for Feline Fitness

In today’s digital age, technology can play a significant role in keeping your cat active and entertained. From laser pointers to interactive cat apps, there are numerous high-tech options to engage your feline friend.

Laser Pointers: A Double-Edged Sword

Laser pointers can be an excellent tool for cat exercise, as they tap into a cat’s natural instinct to chase moving objects. The quick, unpredictable movements of the laser dot can provide intense bursts of activity for your cat. However, it’s crucial to use laser pointers responsibly.

• Never shine the laser directly into your cat’s eyes
• Follow up laser play with a physical toy to avoid frustration
• Use laser play in moderation as part of a varied exercise routine

Can laser pointer play be detrimental to cats? While laser pointers can provide excellent exercise, relying on them exclusively may lead to frustration as cats can never “catch” the light. It’s essential to balance laser play with physical toys that your cat can grab and feel a sense of accomplishment.

Cat Exercise Wheels: The Feline Treadmill

Cat exercise wheels, similar to hamster wheels but larger, are gaining popularity as a way to provide indoor cats with intense physical activity. These wheels allow cats to run at their own pace, satisfying their need for speed and endurance exercise.

1. Introduce the wheel gradually, using treats or toys as encouragement
2. Supervise your cat during initial use to ensure safety
3. Place the wheel in a spacious area where your cat feels comfortable

Are cat exercise wheels suitable for all cats? While many cats enjoy exercise wheels, they may not be appropriate for senior cats or those with mobility issues. Consult with your veterinarian before introducing an exercise wheel to ensure it’s suitable for your cat’s age and health condition.

Creating an Enriching Environment for Cat Exercise

An environment that encourages natural feline behaviors can significantly contribute to your cat’s daily exercise. By transforming your living space into a cat-friendly playground, you can promote physical activity and mental stimulation.

Cat Trees and Climbing Structures

Cat trees and other vertical structures satisfy a cat’s natural instinct to climb and perch at high vantage points. These structures not only provide exercise but also create safe spaces for your cat to retreat and observe their surroundings.

• Choose sturdy, multi-level cat trees with various textures
• Place cat trees near windows for added environmental enrichment
• Incorporate scratching posts to promote stretching and claw maintenance

How high should a cat tree be? The ideal height depends on your living space and your cat’s preferences. Generally, cat trees should be at least 5-6 feet tall to provide ample climbing opportunities and a sense of security for your cat.

DIY Cat Exercise Solutions

Creating homemade cat toys and exercise equipment can be a cost-effective way to keep your feline friend active. Many household items can be repurposed into engaging cat toys that encourage physical activity.

1. Create a “hockey rink” using a cardboard box and a small ball
2. Make crinkly toys from empty paper bags or tissue paper
3. Construct a simple obstacle course using boxes and tunnels

What everyday items make the best cat toys? Simple objects like crumpled paper balls, empty toilet paper rolls, and cardboard boxes often become favorite cat toys. The key is to rotate toys regularly to maintain your cat’s interest and prevent boredom.

Outdoor Adventures: Supervised Exploration for Cats

While indoor living is safest for cats, supervised outdoor experiences can provide valuable exercise and enrichment. With proper precautions, you can introduce your cat to the joys of outdoor exploration.

Leash Training for Cats

Believe it or not, many cats can be trained to walk on a leash, allowing for safe outdoor adventures. Leash walking provides physical exercise, mental stimulation, and a chance to experience new sights, sounds, and smells.

• Start with a properly fitted harness designed for cats
• Introduce the harness gradually indoors before venturing outside
• Begin with short sessions in a quiet, enclosed area

How long does it take to leash train a cat? The process varies depending on the individual cat, but it typically takes several weeks of consistent training. Patience and positive reinforcement are key to successful leash training.

Catios: The Best of Both Worlds

A catio, or cat patio, is an enclosed outdoor space that allows cats to experience the outdoors safely. Catios can range from simple window boxes to elaborate structures with multiple levels and enrichment features.

1. Ensure the catio is escape-proof and predator-resistant
2. Incorporate various perches, scratching posts, and hiding spots
3. Add plants safe for cats to create a natural environment

What are the benefits of a catio for indoor cats? Catios provide a safe way for indoor cats to experience fresh air, sunlight, and outdoor stimuli. This can reduce stress, prevent boredom, and provide opportunities for exercise and exploration.

Tailoring Exercise to Your Cat’s Age and Health

As cats age or develop health conditions, their exercise needs and abilities may change. It’s crucial to adapt your cat’s exercise routine to suit their current health status and energy levels.

Exercise for Senior Cats

While older cats may not have the same energy levels as their younger counterparts, regular gentle exercise remains important for maintaining mobility and mental acuity.

• Focus on low-impact activities like gentle play with wand toys
• Encourage stretching with strategically placed treats or toys
• Provide comfortable climbing options with easy access

How can you encourage an older cat to exercise? Tailor activities to your senior cat’s abilities and interests. Short, frequent play sessions, puzzle feeders, and gentle massage can all contribute to keeping your older cat active and healthy.

Exercising Cats with Health Conditions

Cats with certain health conditions may require modified exercise routines. Always consult with your veterinarian to develop an appropriate exercise plan for cats with health issues.

1. For overweight cats, focus on frequent, short bursts of activity
2. Cats with arthritis may benefit from low-impact exercises like swimming (if tolerated)
3. Use food puzzles to combine mental stimulation with physical movement

Can cats with mobility issues still exercise effectively? Yes, with proper modifications. Water therapy, gentle stretching exercises, and specially designed mobility aids can help cats with reduced mobility stay active and maintain muscle tone.

The Role of Diet in Cat Exercise and Health

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting your cat’s exercise routine and overall health. Proper nutrition ensures your cat has the energy for physical activity and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Feeding for Optimal Energy

The type and timing of meals can significantly impact your cat’s energy levels and willingness to exercise. Understanding your cat’s nutritional needs is key to supporting an active lifestyle.

• Feed high-quality, protein-rich foods to support muscle health
• Consider multiple small meals throughout the day to mimic natural feeding patterns
• Adjust portion sizes based on activity level and body condition

Should you feed your cat before or after exercise? It’s generally best to avoid feeding large meals immediately before or after intense exercise. Small snacks or treats can be used as rewards during or after play sessions.

Using Food as Exercise Motivation

Food can be a powerful motivator for encouraging cat exercise. By incorporating food into play and exercise routines, you can make physical activity more appealing to your feline friend.

1. Use puzzle feeders to combine mealtime with mental and physical exercise
2. Hide small portions of food around the house to encourage exploration
3. Use treats sparingly as rewards during training or play sessions

How can puzzle feeders benefit cats? Puzzle feeders not only provide mental stimulation but also encourage physical activity as cats work to access their food. This can help prevent boredom, reduce stress, and provide a more natural feeding experience.

Monitoring Your Cat’s Exercise Progress

Regularly assessing your cat’s exercise routine and its impact on their overall health is crucial for maintaining an effective fitness program. By monitoring your cat’s progress, you can adjust their exercise regimen as needed to ensure optimal health benefits.

Signs of Improved Fitness in Cats

As your cat becomes more active and fit, you may notice several positive changes in their behavior and physical condition. These signs can indicate that your exercise efforts are paying off.

• Increased energy and playfulness
• Improved muscle tone and flexibility
• Better sleep patterns
• Maintenance of a healthy weight

How quickly will you see results from a cat exercise program? While individual cats may vary, most owners notice positive changes within a few weeks of implementing a consistent exercise routine. However, significant improvements in fitness and weight management may take several months.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

While regular exercise is beneficial for most cats, there are situations where professional guidance is necessary. Be aware of signs that may indicate a need to consult with your veterinarian about your cat’s exercise routine.

1. Sudden changes in energy levels or exercise tolerance
2. Signs of pain or discomfort during or after activity
3. Excessive weight loss or gain despite regular exercise
4. Respiratory issues or difficulty breathing during activity

What should you do if your cat shows disinterest in exercise? If your cat consistently avoids physical activity or shows a sudden decrease in interest, it’s important to rule out underlying health issues. A veterinary check-up can help identify any medical concerns and provide guidance on appropriate exercise strategies.

Building a Consistent Cat Exercise Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining your cat’s fitness. Establishing a regular exercise routine not only helps your cat stay physically healthy but also provides structure and mental stimulation in their daily life.

Creating a Cat Exercise Schedule

Developing a structured exercise schedule can help ensure your cat receives regular physical activity. This routine should be tailored to your cat’s preferences and energy levels, as well as your own daily schedule.

• Aim for multiple short play sessions throughout the day
• Schedule exercise times when your cat is naturally most active
• Incorporate a variety of activities to prevent boredom

How much exercise does a cat need daily? While individual needs may vary, most adult cats benefit from at least two 10-15 minute play sessions per day. Kittens and younger cats may require more frequent, shorter bursts of activity.

Adapting to Seasonal Changes

Your cat’s exercise needs and preferences may change with the seasons. Being flexible and adapting your exercise routine to seasonal variations can help maintain your cat’s interest and activity levels year-round.

1. In warmer months, focus on early morning or evening play sessions to avoid heat stress
2. During colder seasons, increase indoor activities and provide warm, comfortable exercise spaces
3. Take advantage of natural behaviors, such as increased playfulness during spring and fall

How can you keep indoor cats active during winter? Increase interactive play sessions, set up indoor obstacle courses, and use puzzle feeders to keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated during colder months when outdoor activities may be limited.

By implementing these varied and engaging exercise strategies, you can help ensure your feline friend stays healthy, happy, and active throughout their life. Remember that every cat is unique, so be patient and willing to experiment with different activities to find what works best for your pet. Regular exercise, combined with a balanced diet and routine veterinary care, forms the foundation of a long and vibrant life for your beloved cat.

10 Cat Exercises Your Pet Will Enjoy

Enticing your dog to get active with a walk around the block or a game of fetch is a no-brainer and a fairly common pet health practice. But when it comes to cats, many people don’t realize the value of exercise.

Many veterinarians recommend cat workouts to keep cats healthy well into their old age. And though a cat won’t exercise as readily as a dog will, there are a few strategies that will help you keep your cat active and mobile.

Try these 10 cat exercise tips:

1. Pair up exercise partners. Since a cat won’t respond to your requests to play as easily as a dog might, Jean Hofve, DVM, author and manager of LittleBigCat.com in Denver, has a simple solution to ensure that felines get their needed cat exercise: Start with two cats. “A pair of cats who get along well will get plenty of exercise through their own wrestling and chasing games. I’ve known older cats who still wrestle like kittens,” says Dr. Hofve, adding that it’s easier to get two cats at the same time than to introduce a second cat later on.
2. Try a cat tower. The multi-tiered “cat towers” sold online and in pet stores are another good way to ensure that your cat will have plenty of places to play and areas to climb for a good workout. Susan Nelson, DVM, an associate professor of clinical sciences at Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in Manhattan, Kansas, suggests placing small treats in different parts of the tower to encourage climbing and playing.
3. Keep plenty of toys around. Because cats tend to keep to themselves much more than dogs, the best strategy for cat workouts is to give them plenty of options in the form of toys. And these don’t have to be expensive toys from the pet store either. Dr. Nelson says you can use everyday household objects as toys to encourage cats to exercise. Think pingpong balls or balled-up pipe cleaners.
4. Create a hockey rink. To make things even more interactive and fun, Nelson recommends putting a ball in a large cardboard box or the bathtub to create an instant “hockey rink” for your cat. As the ball goes flying off the walls (and the cat goes flying after it), you’ll get some laughs and your cat will get some much-needed exercise.
5. Have fun with lasers. Speaking of laughs, few things will entertain you more — or have your cat moving faster — than a laser pointer on the end of a pen or leveling tool. “Laser toys are often good entertainment, but follow it up with a real toy the cat can catch to avoid fixation and frustration over never being able to catch the light beam,” says Hofve. “Be sure to never shine the beam directly into the cat’s eyes.”
6. Give your cat a wand. This is a great cat exercise and a good follow-up to the laser, Hofve says. Get one of the flexible wand-style toys with a feather, mouse, or other diversion on the far end. “Interactive play with a wand or fishing-pole-type toy is fabulous exercise, usually quite funny, and extremely satisfying for the big hunter in your little cat,” Hofve says. “You can make it more challenging by running the toy up and over the sofa or up and down stairs to increase the exercise intensity. ”
7. Use catnip wisely. Catnip is a useful tool for getting your cat to exercise, but Hofve says it’s best to use it only in the proper situations. “Remember that not all cats respond to catnip, and of those that do, a few will become aggressive from catnip,” she says. “Also, never give catnip before a stressful event, such as a trip to the vet. Your vet will thank you!”
8. Get your cat on a treadmill or wheel, with supervision. Believe it or not, you can actually teach your cat to run on a treadmill for exercise, Hofve says. “It’s best to start when they are young, have lots of energy to burn, and are easy to entice with a toy,” she says. “Also, you should always supervise the cat while it’s on the treadmill.” Cats can run up to 30 miles per hour, but start slow and work up because you do not know what your cat’s speed is, Hofve says.
9. Go outside. With proper training and the right equipment, you can entice your cat to walk with a leash and a harness outside, just like dogs do. “Leash-walking is great if you can get your cat to tolerate the harness and lead,” says Hofve, who favors a type of harness that is more like a soft garment for the upper part of the cat’s back, with straps built in. “Make sure the harness fits properly and can’t be wriggled out of. Young cats are easier to train, but in all cases it takes patience and perseverance.” First let them get used to the harness, then attach the leash and let them drag it, and then pick up the leash and put a little bit of pressure on it. It could take a week or two to get them really comfortable, although Hofve says they may take to it immediately.
10. Create an agility course. If your cat is extremely energetic and agile, try some cat agility exercises, Hofve suggests. You might be more familiar with these challenges for dogs or horses, but cats can also enjoy this mix of speed and challenge. These programs include a number of obstacles, such as bars to jump over or tunnels to pass through, which push your cat both physically and mentally, Hofve says. She recommends researching cat agility courses online.

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How to Get Your Cat to Exercise

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Reviewed by Vanesa Farmer, DVM on March 16, 2023

You’re not the only one who needs to work out. Exercise is important to your cat’s overall health. Movement, especially the kind that uses their hunting skills, can keep their weight down and help them work off extra energy. Playtime is crucial for their mental well-being, too — it can help stop depression and boredom, which can lead to bigger health and behavior issues.

With a little help from you, your kitty can stay healthy and active — and have a little more fun, too.

Aim to play with your cat for around 10 to 15 minutes at a time. If they don’t enjoy it, they’ll let you know. When they get bored, put the toys away and offer some praise and a few treats.

Introduce some new toys. You probably already know that cats are fond of feathers and strings. But you can watch them while they play to find out what kinds of objects they like best.  Try out a toy shaped like a bird, then one that looks like a mouse, and another that resembles a bug. The plaything she likes most can help you figure out what kind to buy in the future. 

Be prepared for the kill. Cats are especially satisfied when they can get their teeth and claws solidly into their playthings. Let them do it, and be ready to offer replacement toys and feathers when old ones get worn out.

Add some new levels to your games. Get a multi-story cat tree and put it near an open floor space where your cat can run, then jump onto it.

Get your cat a piñata. Cats love to bat things that hang overhead. Food inside will offer even more motivation. To make a piñata, use a plastic container, like an old yogurt or sour cream cup with a lid. Cut a small hole in the bottom of it. Put a treat or two inside and hang it up with a string where your cat can reach it. If they hit it the right way, the treats will fall out.

Put on a tail. If you tuck a string or a long piece of cloth into the back of your pants, your cat can chase it as you walk around the house. But don’t leave the string out if you’re not supervising. If your cat swallows the string, it can be life threatening.

Take a hike. Just like dogs, cats can learn to walk on a leash, though it’s best if you can teach them how while they are young. Strolls outside are best suited to cats who aren’t shy. Use a harness instead of just a collar and the leash. Before you go outside together, make sure there aren’t any loose neighborhood dogs that might spook them.

Don’t forget the lasers. A laser pointer can provide endless entertainment and, yes, exercise, as your cat chases it. Take care not to shine the laser directly into the cat’s or anyone else’s eyes.

Put playtime on the calendar. Carve out a spot in your schedule for you and kitty to have some fun every day. Cats are most active at dawn and dusk, so the evening or early morning would be ideal. You might also work in a play session before their meals to give them the thrill of the hunt as the cat “catches” their food.

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how, when and how to play with a cat

TRAINING

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Although domestic cats love to rest and nap, they also need to play and move. Find out why being active is important, how to play with your cat the right way, and how to find her favorite activity.

Not surprisingly, domestic cats move much less than outdoor cats. But play and exercise for cats are critical to their overall well-being. It’s important to find ways to tap into your pet’s natural animal instincts, and five minutes of intense play three times a day is recommended.

Why are exercises and games important?

Playing with your cat is not just an opportunity to bond with her, it’s a way to keep her healthy so you can spend more time together. Worldwide, rates of obesity in pets are on the rise, so by incorporating exercise into your cat’s daily routine, you can help your cat maintain healthy weight, tone muscles, and avoid diseases that come with obesity, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

In addition to being healthy, games and exercise also help your cat develop good habits. The game stimulates the cat in a positive way, preventing her from spoiling household items such as furniture or plants. They also teach good and bad times to play, and help keep you alert and active.

How much activity does a cat need?

Although your cat’s need for movement may vary depending on age, weight and current activity level, it is generally recommended to have at least three five-minute intense play sessions each day.

When you play with your cat, remember that they are predators by nature and these short, five-minute bursts of activity are comparable to how they hunt in the wild. Even domestic cats were born to climb, jump, hunt and chase. Don’t be afraid to tap into these animal instincts and mimic their natural behavior while playing.

How to train a cat correctly?

To find out whether your cat likes to climb or chase, try different toys and activities in turn. This will help you see which ones she likes the most. It’s also good to change toys every couple of days so your cat doesn’t get bored.

And speaking of toys, here are some of our favorites:

• Cat Trees: The perfect cat tree is a floor-to-ceiling structure made from a variety of materials that your cat can use for both climbing and combing. claws. Also, this tree is a great answer to how to train cats, as it provides an opportunity for effective training.
• Catnip Mice: Your cat is good at running, hunting the toy like prey.
• Feather Stick: These toys imitate birds and cats love to hunt them. This kind of hunting is better than the real one, so you have a good way to take care of the wildlife! During the game, carry your cat, flutter and flutter with feathers of the toy, as if it were a bird.
• Cardboard boxes: Cats love to hide and jump into boxes. The advantage of such a toy is that, most likely, you already have it at home.
• Flashlights or Lasers: Cats love to hunt, and a laser or flashlight is an easy way to make them run by moving the beam around the room and up the walls. Just make sure your game ends with your cat catching its “prey” so there’s no frustration. (Remember not to shine a beam, especially a laser, directly into a cat’s eyes.)
• Cat Wheel: If your pet has a surplus of energy and you have room for a cat wheel, this is a good accessory that will allow your pet to run and chase more.

Although cats love to relax, regular exercise and play have a big impact on their health. Whether you are already exercising with your cat or just thinking about it, remember that your games should engage her natural instincts. There are so many ways to play with your pet and find what she likes the most. Exercise for your cat will help her stay active and happy for years to come.

Read about why it’s important for kittens to have time to play too.

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7 commands you can teach your mustachioed pet

– Mood is no joke, cat breeders say. – When your pet is in the mood to play, at such moments you can teach him to bring a ball, a bow, some other small toys, or learn the “jump through the hoop” trick. But you must understand that it will take much more time to train a cat than to teach the same commands to dogs. And not because some are smarter, while others are not. Cats are wayward, and if at some point your pussy becomes lethargic, sleepy, or just not in the mood, then you will not force any commands to follow (or learn them).

7 simple cat commands

There is a standard set of commands that almost any cat can learn.

Give a paw

Put a treat on your palm, bring it to the mustachioed pet and wait for the kitty to put its paw on your hand, as if asking for a treat. If she won’t reach for the treat, show her what needs to be done, then praise her, let her eat a treat and stroke her. The next time your mustachioed friend starts to raise his paw at the sight of a treat in his palm, say the command “give paw.” Repeat this 5-7 times, then take a break.

Sit

When the cat is circling next to you, press gently on the croup and the moment she starts to sit, give the command “sit”. After you make a request, you can snap two fingers to get the animal’s attention. Dog breeders at this moment raise their index finger. The click must be played after each command so that the cat reacts to it.

You can teach your kitty this exercise not only by pressing on the croup, but also by repeating the command along with the click when your furry friend sits next to him.

Crawl

The command must be learned when the kitty is lying down. With one hand, start stroking the fluffy, gently pressing on his back, not letting him get up. With the other hand, hold the yummy, gradually moving it away from the muzzle to the side. The cat, unable to stand up, will reach forward for the treat, pulling itself up on its claws.

Bring

You can teach this command to a cat if he is playful and likes to wear some things and toys. The next time you throw a ball, a bow or a mouse to your kitty (it can be on a string to pull it a little towards you) and she brings it to you, give her a treat for this. If it drops on the way, don’t give anything. Repeat the exercise several times in a row, accompanying the throw with the sound of the command. Do not spend more than 3 – 5 minutes on the exercise, otherwise the kitty will quickly get tired of it. Give treats only when your pet does everything right. And don’t expect quick results.

Come to me!

First, figure out how you will call the mustachioed pet to you. It can be “kiss-kiss” or some other expression. For the first time, beckon your cat to you by picking up her favorite toy or treat. Pet treats should be lured before eating, 15 minutes before feeding, when the cat is already hungry. As soon as she approaches you, reward her with a treat and pet her. As soon as the animal begins to approach you from small distances, start increasing them. Repeat the exercises in different rooms two or three times a day.

Jump

If you have an adult cat, a small hoop will work for this exercise, if you have a kitten, you can use a large hoop. Put them in front of the kitty, and on the other hand, beckon her with a treat. As soon as the animal crosses the circle, reward it. In a few days, when the fluffy understands what they want from him, and will do everything right, start little by little, literally a couple of centimeters, to raise the hoop so that the kitten makes a jump. Accompany the exercise with the “up” or “jump” command.

Voice

Practice this command before eating, teasing the kitty with treats. Take a yummy, bring it to the muzzle so that the pet can smell it, and lift it higher. Wait until the mustachioed friend starts making different sounds, demanding food. When you hear a distinct “meow”, let him gobble up a treat.

Parenting Tips

Training a kitten is easier than training an adult cat. In the second case, you just need more time.

Suitable age for training a kitten is 6-8 months.

You need to train your pet 1-3 times a day, no more. Each approach should not take more than 5 minutes.

If the cat does not respond to commands, do not force or scold. Take a break and start over after a while.

For treats, choose treats that are different from your pet’s normal diet. If feeding dry food, give wet food and vice versa. Kitty must want to eat this yummy.

When training cats, treats should be given at the moment when the kitty has completed the exercise. The treat should be ready by now. If you hesitate and treat your pet after a minute, the animal will not understand that he was given a treat for the trick he performed.

Training should be done before the main meal.

In addition to treats, do not forget to stroke the animal, scratch behind the ear and praise it.

After your cat learns to quickly execute a particular command, start weaning the animal from treats. Give treats not for every trick, but for 2-3 performed in a row. Then, instead of a treat, you can simply stroke and praise the pet.

Popular questions and answers

We talked about how to teach a cat commands from veterinarian Anastasia Kalinina and zoopsychologist, cat behavior correction specialist Nadezhda Samokhina.

Which cat breeds are best trained?

– All breeds can be trained to some extent. The main thing is to find an approach, – says Nadezhda Samokhina. – But it is believed that Bengal, Abyssinian, Somali cats, Chausie, Orientals, Maine Coons are best trained.

– And also active sociable cats, for example, Siamese, Kuril Bobtail, Rex, Sphynx, Siberian and common mongrel, – says Anastasia Kalinina.

Which cats cannot be taught commands?

– It does not depend on the breed. It’s just that some breeds are easier to train, while others are more arrogant and stubborn,” explains Anastasia Kalinina. – Persian cats are the most difficult to learn, they are not very sociable and get tired of the importunity of people.