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Most cats will easily be trained to use the litter box, but you need to establish that this is where they are to go to eliminate. Start by placing a litter box that is clean and has two to three inches of clean litter in the bottom. Place the litter box in a place that is accessible but offers privacy and is not too close to food and water dishes.
Tap on the box to encourage the cat to get into it, especially right after eating, playing or walking. Scratch the litter to encourage it to do the same. When you see the cat use the litter box, praise it and give it a treat. This will indicate to the cat that the behavior is desired, and it will continue to do it to receive a reward. Keep the litter box clean and in the same place to encourage continued use. - To avoid having your cat scratch furnishing, provide it with a scratching post. Position the scratching post in the area that your cat sleeps and eats in, as this is where he will likely sharpen his claws. Get the attention of your cat by scratching your nails on the scratching post. Do this several times a day as a demonstration. Sit around the scratching post to encourage your cat to come near it or even rub cat nip on the surface. When the cat begins to scratch on the post, praise him or her to encourage the continued use of the post.
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Despite what you may have been told or what your cat would like you to think, cats can be leash trained. As is the case with a dog, leash training will take some time, but it is possible as long as you are willing to move slowly. First, buy a harness that is meant for your cat, and leave it in his or her areas so it begins to smell familiar.
Next, put the harness on the cat as calmly as possible and praise it when complete. After praising your cat, provide it with its favorite treat or dinner. Allow the cat to walk around the house with the harness on, allowing it to get out or attempt to get out of the harness, if necessary. After the cat has calmed, attach the leash to the harness and allow the cat to walk around the house with the leash dragging behind it.
When the leash is accepted, pick it up leaving some slack and call your cat to you. Do not pull on the leash, as this will instill fear in the cat. Instead, encourage the cat to follow you around without pulling the leash. Next, bring the cat outdoors and allow for it to lead the way. Taking a walk with a happy cat might take days, weeks or even months. Patience is key.
