Is it possible to train a cat to do tricks?

Answer 1

If you were to consider the time and trouble cats spend on training humans, you'd realise that yours is an objectionably presumptuous question.

Answer 2

Hi there...certainly. I train both domestic and exotic cats only with positive reinforcement. I have taught many behaviours such as sit, sit up, lay down, roll over, fetch, jump through a hoop and so a whole bunch more. My own two house cats can do these and a lot more and they are toilet trained as well.

By the way, most exotic animal species in sanctuaries and zoos (cats, otters, dolphins, whales, elephants, raptors, primates, etc) are taught behaviours in order to manage them better for husbandry training purposes. This is so we don't need to sedate with drugs, but rather get them to easily cooperate. For example, we can teach a primate to pee on demand to collect a urine sample rather than sedate them and poke the needle into the lower abdominal region to the bladder. This is more humane and easier for everyone including the primate involved.

Finally, for trivial purposes...animals don't do tricks (they can't do magic, which is a trick) they learn behaviours. ;-) This is something that all animal trainers had to relearn to educate other people.

Answer 3

Yes cats can be trained to do simple trick for treats. Probably not to the extent of dogs or dolphins and will depend on the individual cat.

Answer 4

Yes , It is in fact most Animals can be taught to perform tricks, some more than others, Tricks are "Memory and Reward" related , plus patience and willingness on part of the Owner/Trainer . Animals have a massive ability to understand and co-operate with Humans , it really depends on how you go about it as to the results you get.

Answer 5

I think you'd have to start with a very young kitten. Perhaps 10 to twelve weeks. Get one just away from it's mother and let it know you are not going to hurt it by giving it lots of love and attention. Once it has your trust, you can start your training in short amounts of time increasing as you go. Just remember cats usually have a mind of their own. Unlike dogs that will answer when called, cats take a message and get back to you.

Answer 6

it is possible to train cats to do tricks but beware - if the cat/cats attack you or starts hissing, this is the first sign that its unhappy with what you are doing. you should not really try to train any sort of animal to do tricks because its cruel. i mean, how would you feel if someone was trying to train you to do tricks???

Answer 7

It is hard as cats are naturally independant animals. You can try, but u will need to be patient and have loads of time, and be able to enforce the training daily. Dont loose heart or it will be hard. You could try using food or toys to teach it, but if u use food, try not to give it too much and do not use it as a replacment for a proper meal.

Answer 8

You should watch Sabiina teenage witch. The cat on there did lots of stuff, food is the key.
Tin of sardines gets next doors cat to pretend to like me!
Nick.

Answer 9

Yup my cat (Cabbage) can cook tea while singing Queen 'Dont Stop Me Know!'. Also she keeps the other 3 cats clean while finding me a boyfriend. NOOO!! Cats HATE tricks. You are simply a rather dim human to them who cannot jump other fences. Its the cats house;you just pay the morgage. Give up now!

Answer 10

Yes, they can be taught to do all sorts of things. I've trained my cat to close the cupboard door after I put his cat food away and to wait while I'm pouring it into his dish until I say "Go".