Can You Actually Train Your Cat?

When people hear the words “pet training,” most picture a tail-wagging dog happily sitting for a treat or learning to roll over. But what about our feline friends? Can you train your cat? The short answer: absolutely. The slightly longer answer: yes—but they’re going to make you work for it.

Cat vs. Dog Training Differences

Let’s start with the obvious—cats are not dogs, and they don’t have the same motivations. While dogs often live to please their humans, cats…well, let’s just say they’re more into self-employment. Dogs will follow your lead. Cats will follow their whims.

Training dogs usually relies on a pack mentality. They love structure, praise, and positive reinforcement. Cats? They like treats, naps in sunbeams, and doing things on their own terms. That means your training approach needs to be gentle, patient, with lots of pawsitive reinforcement (and lots and lots of bribes).

Why Train Your Cat Anyway?

Training isn’t just for tricks (though teaching your cat to high-five is a crowd pleaser). It also improves communication, builds trust, and helps prevent behavior issues. Even simple commands like “come,” “sit,” or “off” can make life smoother—and even safer—for both of you.

It’s also a great way to mentally stimulate your cat. Boredom can lead to scratching the couch, climbing the curtains, or dramatic 3am zoomies. Training gives your kitty something productive to do… like learning how to open drawers (wait, maybe not that one).

Step 1: Find the Right Motivation

This is the big one. Cats don’t usually care that you’re proud of them—sorry. They care about what’s in it for them so it’s your job to bring your best negotiating skills (and high-value rewards) to the table.

Try small, smelly treats like freeze-dried chicken, tuna flakes, or training bites made for cats. For some cats, a feather toy or click of the laser pointer works just as well as food.

Step 2: Keep It Short and Sweet

Training sessions should be short—just 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Cats have the attention span of, well… a cat. End the session before they lose interest so it stays fun and positive. You want them walking away thinking “Training = treats and praise, I like this!” instead of “I’m bored. I’m going to knock your cup off the table now.”

Step 3: Start With the Basics

Here are a few easy commands to start with:

• “Come” – Use your cat’s name followed by the word “come,” and reward when they arrive. (Shake the treat bag if you need backup.)

• “Sit” – Hold a treat just above their head and slowly move it back. Most cats will naturally sit to keep their eyes on it.

• “High-five” – Use a treat to lure their paw up and reward any paw movement at first. Eventually, they’ll catch on!
  

Use a clicker or a consistent word like “yes!” to mark the exact moment they do what you want. Consistency is key—cats are smart, but they need repetition to get the hang of it.

Be Patient—and Enjoy the Process

If your cat ignores you mid-session to go chase a bug or climb into a box, don’t take it personally. Training a cat requires patience and a laid-back attitude. Be sure to focus on the positive by treating it as a fun game to grow your bond. 

Showing frustration or impatience will only discourage your kitty from wanting to try again later.

Final Thoughts: Cats March to the Beat of Their Own Tuna Can

Training your cat isn’t about creating a perfectly obedient feline. It’s about bonding, enriching their environment, and having a little fun together. The trick is to respect their independence while sneaking in the occasional life skill.

So yes—you can train your cat. Just don’t expect them to fetch your slippers. Unless, of course, they were planning to do that anyway.

Need help with training your kitty companion? College for Pets doesn’t just train dogs, we can help guide behaviors with cats, rats, chickens, and even goldfish! And be sure to pick up your favorite rewards and premium foods from The Clever Critter Pet Shop & Bakery–we’ve got just the thing to win over your kitty’s heart (and maybe their attention span, too).