Teaching a cat to come when called is a fun and useful skill that strengthens your bond with your pet. Unlike dogs, cats are independent, but they can learn commands with patience and the right approach. Start by choosing a short, clear word like “come” or their name. Always reward your cat with treats, praise, or playtime when they respond.
Training works best in short sessions (5-10 minutes) to keep your cat interested. Avoid forcing them—training should feel like a game, not a chore. If your cat ignores you, don’t scold them; try again later. Consistency is key—use the same command every time. Over weeks of practice, your cat will start associating the word with positive rewards and come running when called.
10 Easy Tips to Train Your Cat to Come
- Use tasty treats as rewards.
- Keep training sessions short.
- Say their name or “come” clearly.
- Reward immediately when they respond.
- Train in a quiet room first.
- Be patient and stay positive.
- Use a happy, excited tone.
- Avoid punishment—stay gentle.
- Practice daily for best results.
- Gradually increase distance over time.
1. Why Training a Cat to Come is Helpful
Training your cat to come when called keeps them safe and builds trust. If they ever slip outside, this skill can bring them back quickly. It also makes daily routines easier, like calling them for meals or vet visits. Cats enjoy mental stimulation, and training keeps their minds active. A well-trained cat is happier and more confident around you.
2. Choosing the Right Command Word
Pick a simple word like “come” or their name. Avoid long phrases—cats respond better to short, clear sounds. Always use the same word so they learn faster. Say it in a cheerful tone to make it inviting. Never use the command for negative things (like baths) or they’ll ignore it.
3. Using Treats as Motivation
Cats love food rewards! Use small, smelly treats like tuna or chicken bits. Show the treat while saying the command. When they come, give it immediately. Over time, they’ll link the word with getting a treat. Slowly reduce treats, replacing them with praise or pets.
4. Keeping Training Sessions Short
Cats lose interest fast. Train for just 5-10 minutes at a time. Stop if they walk away—forcing them ruins the fun. Multiple short sessions daily work better than one long one. End each session on a positive note with a reward.
5. Starting in a Quiet Space
Begin training in a calm room with no distractions. Once your cat masters the command there, move to busier areas. This helps them focus first before dealing with noises or other pets.
6. Using a Happy, Exciting Voice
Cats respond to tone, not just words. Use a high-pitched, playful voice to grab their attention. Sounding angry or stern will make them avoid you. Make coming to you feel like the best part of their day!
7. Avoiding Punishment
Never yell or punish your cat if they don’t come. It makes them scared of training. If they ignore you, just try again later. Positive reinforcement (treats, praise) works much better.
8. Being Patient and Consistent
Some cats learn fast; others take weeks. Stick to the same command and reward system. If you change words or skip training, they’ll get confused. Stay calm and keep practicing.
9. Gradually Increasing Distance
Start training close to your cat. As they improve, call them from farther away. Eventually, they should come from another room. This builds their confidence and reliability.
10. Making It a Daily Habit
Practice the command every day, even after they learn it. This keeps the skill fresh in their mind. Use it during fun activities, like playtime or meals, so they stay eager to respond.
FAQs About Teaching a Cat to Come
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does it take to train a cat? | It can take days to weeks, depending on the cat’s personality. |
| What if my cat ignores me? | Stay patient, use better treats, and try in a quieter space. |
| Can older cats learn this trick? | Yes, but they may need more time and patience. |
| Should I use a clicker for training? | Clickers can help but aren’t necessary—treats and praise work too. |
| What’s the best treat for training? | Small, smelly treats like tuna or chicken work best. |
By following these steps, your cat will learn to come when called, making life easier and more fun for both of you!
