How to Teach a Cat to Sit

Cats are very intelligent animals, although they are not normally taught any kind of tricks or commands like dogs. Dogs are thought to be the smarter of the two animals, but cats actually have a bigger brain compared to their body size than dogs. Cats are capable of learning commands and tricks. If you want to teach your cat to sit, follow these easy steps and begin teaching your cat tricks today.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cat treats

1. Wait until your cat is hungry before trying to teach him anything using a treat. If he has just eaten he will be less interested in working for a treat.

2. Get your cat's attention using the treat. Show him the treat, but don't let him taste it yet.

3. Give your cat a signal of some kind to ask him to sit. Say “sit,” or do a hand gesture.

4. Push his rear end gently while doing this gesture or saying “sit.” He may sit on the first try, or you may have to repeat this a few times.

5. Reward your cat with the treat when he finally sits down. Let him sit for a minute before trying again.

6. Repeat these steps as often as necessary. Your cat will eventually be able to sit when you ask him with your voice or gesture.

Tips & Warnings

• When asking your cat to sit, hold the treat a little above his head so that he has to look up. This will usually get him to sit more easily.
• Don't give your cat any treats without asking him to sit. If you give him treats freely he will not try to follow your commands when offered a treat.

Resources

• Find great cat treats at petsmart.com.

[debbthebee]

on 1/28/2008 I can't wait to try this, I just trained my cat how to "high five" using similar positive reinforcement techniques. See my Ehow article "How to teach your cat to high five you"
Debbie