How to train your cat to fetch a toy mouse

Fetch isn't just for dogs! It's a little bit tricky, but with persistence you can train your cat to fetch too.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toy mouse
• Cat treats

1. Hide some cat treats in your pocket or under you where the cat is not likely to notice them.

2. Sit right in front of your cat.

3. Hold the toy mouse over your cat's head and shake it around. The cat should start to paw it and, eventually bite it.

4. Once the cat has the mouse, take out a treat.

5. Take the mouse from the cat and give him the treat. He should willingly relinquish the toy for a tasty snack.

6. Repeat the above steps several times.

7. Move a bit further from the cat and sit down with the mouse. The cat should be at least arms length away.

8. Lean forward and dangle the mouse over the cat's head.

9. Lean back and put your hand out for the mouse. If necessary, move back. The cat should be far enough away so that it has to walk to you to hand you the mouse. If the cat gives you the mouse, give her a treat.

10. If the cat comes for a treat and does not give you the mouse, point to the mouse and tell the cat to fetch it. This can take a few tries, but your cat should eventually get it.

11. Repeat the trick from further and further away until the cat will fetch the mouse from across the room.

Tips & Warnings

• Start when your cat is young. Younger cats love to play hunting games, and learn much more quickly than older ones.
• Teach your cat this trick when she is in a playful mood. Otherwise, all you will succeed in doing is annoying her.
• If the cat will not fetch the mouse, try rubbing it in catnip.
• You can use the word "fetch" when you dangle or throw the mouse to give the cat an added verbal cue.