Cat Training is the Hardest Job on the Planet

A new cat is fun, exciting, and full of unexpected surprises. First things first, though. What about that mischievous behavior. Should your cat attend obedience classes? Actually, there truly is no need to even bother with it. With the correct training, your cat can become a well behaved addition to your loving family…and all without spending a bundle on expensive classes!

So is you want a well behaved cat, it is obvious that training will be an important part of that wish list. But let’s be clear on one thing, this cat training is not going to happen in ten minutes. Seriously, you can’t really think that you can train your cat to do tricks, be well behaved, stay off the counter, etc in just ten minutes? No, it takes consistency and patience…do you have some?

Now…get serious. Cat training in ten minutes sounds good on paper, but training is all about consistency and reinforcement. Training aids are one thing that will make cat training a lot easier on you and your cat. The following aids are great ways to improve cat behavior and that all-too-distinct curious “style”.

One of the training aids that nearly every owner purchases is a well constructed litter tray. Cats are meticulously clean and want their potty area to be clean as well. Litter boxes help to keep the kitty poo in the proper location and not all over your home. If you are really passionate about a clean house, then you might even consider tackling toilet training your cat. Seriously, it can be done!

You might also think about getting a bunch a cat grass to grow in your home. Your kitty will enjoy having something to munch on and it should keep them from devouring your favorite plants on the ledge.

Cats are known nesters and so you should create an area just for this purpose. Cat condos are lovely examples of nesting areas. Most cats like to get high above the action and look down on everything, so being able to nest in a high spot is their idea of heaven on earth. You can teach your cat to move into the new area you have created by placing a favorite toy there or rubbing the area with a favorite treat. The smell is sure to attract them to the new nest.

Obviously, this is not all of the cat training aids there are available. Treats offer a fun way of positive reinforcement, yarn and balls are good for exercise, a toy mouse on a stick…there are tons! Most importantly tolerance and consistency are still two crucial parts of cat training (even with aids). Plus remember, this is not a form of “cat training in ten minutes”.

Cats long for and desire training that is consistent, acknowledged and is incorporated into their daily lives. Remember, that if you put in the time and effort, your cat will appreciate the more well ordered world. It is worth your energy. Good cat behavior is a wonderful gem that once you have achieved it, you will never want to be without it again.