Can Training Effectively With Positive Reinforcements
Cats are very independent creatures by nature and do not willingly follow directions given to them by humans. Their nature makes cat training difficult, but it is certainly not impossible. Though it may seem as if your cat is too independent and stubborn to change its behavior, you can accomplish training if you make a commitment to follow the right strategies and follow through with rewards and punishments.
Cats are extremely intelligent but they don’t get the idea of cause and effect like human beings do. In considering a behavioral problem with cats it is highly important to act directly or you will simply be too late. After all, cats will not see any link between your reaction and the behavior they display.
One of the best ways to enhance your cat or kitten training is to encourage a completely different behavior instead. This method works because cats are more receptive to positive reinforcements. For example, if you notice your cat playing and clawing at your brand new pair of slippers, encourage your pet to play with a toy instead.
As with almost all pets, cats will respond to cat training well if there is a reward tied to their good behavior. Purchase your cat’s favorite treats and be sure to reward your cat with one whenever good behavior is observed. It can also be helpful to reward your cat with your affection. Many times a cuddle or affectionate pat can be just as effective.
Though you may be thinking that your cat is disobeying you purposefully you must never harm them for any reason. Both your cat training and your relationship with your cat as a pet will be negatively effected by physical punishment. Make sure that you focus on training that reinforces positively, and at the same time is not cruel to your pet.
Training your cat isn’t going to be effortless, but if you try to train your cat armed with the correct methods you will succeed. Always be sensitive to a cat’s fight-or-flight instinct and try to be as non-aggressive as possible. Also give your cat plenty of positive reinforcement. Working this way will help your cat to behave better and will also help the two of you get closer.
