Can you train a cat?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Debra – is it possible to train a cat? Or is it impossible? I have a friend that says she taught her cat to “sit” and I don’t believe her.

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J.M.

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. You wrote asking if it is possible to train a cat. The answer is yes – absolutely. The most effective way to train cats is to use positive reinforcement – not punishment.

One very effective method – recommended by Dr. Nick Dodman – a well-known behaviorist is “clicker training”. In fact, he wrote an articled on this for Petplace. It takes you through all the steps.

An article that might be helpful to you is Clicker Training Your Cat.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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