Mary Allen
Raising cats successfully is not always easy, but it is the best basis for harmonious and stress-free coexistence. A few important rules can help you to make the upbringing as meaningful and cat-friendly as possible.
If you want to train your cat, you should first set rules that all family members will follow from now on. Don’t ask too much of your cat. Although she has to abide by the rules, she needs enough space and opportunities to let off steam and be busy.
An indoor cat whose small territory consists only of taboo zones will probably no longer stick to any rules out of sheer frustration. Be fair and also consider your cat’s freedom when setting up the rules.
Raising Cats Successfully: Consistency & Patience
Once you’ve established the rules, it’s important that your cat gets used to them from the start, without exception. Be consistent! A cat that isn’t allowed to jump on the kitchen table should never be allowed to, even when it’s home alone.
In case of doubt, this means that you have to close the kitchen door during this time. A cat remembers every exception and doesn’t understand why it can sometimes scratch the wallpaper and sometimes not. So every time you catch your cat in the act, say “No!” out loud. and put them away. The best thing is to offer her a more attractive alternative.
Praise vs Punish
Scaring a cat is not a good training practice. All the more you can achieve with her with praise. If your cat scratches the wallpaper, get her a nice, sturdy scratching post where she can sharpen her claws as she pleases. Every time she uses it, praise her in a soft voice, a pet, or a treat.
It will quickly realize that scratching the wallpaper is much less worthwhile than scratching at a designated spot. Same thing with the litter box: if your cat isn’t using it, say “No!” and place them in the designated place. There, praise them as usual.
Aids for Cat Training
If you want to support your cat training with a tool, many of them make perfect sense. These include consistent verbal commands that the cat can understand (“No!”), a squirt gun, loud noises (clapping your hands), consequences, and catnip for positive reinforcement.
Cats should never be hit, yelled at, or caged. Such behavior could forever affect not only your house cat’s behavior but also his relationship and trust with you. You can achieve the most with cats with calmness, patience, consistency, and fairness.