Reinforcements in Cats

February 28, 2010 at 10:00 AM
Posted by Diva Princess

macska-hintanI think we all agree that our home is more complete if we have a four legged pet there to greet us after a hard day at work or snuggle up to us while we sleep.  Cats are fickle as well as sweet, lovable creatures.  Most cats recognize their owners by the sound of their voice, the car they drive, and who spoils them the most.  Like dogs, cats can be trained too.  A cat can be trained to come to your call, to bring their toys when they want to play, to go for a walk on a leash or in a cat stroller, as well as more domestic issues such as using a litter box.  The key to training a cat or kitten is reinforcement.

It is typically wise to start out reinforcement with a kitten, but it can be introduced any time in a cat’s life.  Cats are very good in distinguishing tones of your voice, not the words though.  They will know they have done something right/wrong just by the tone of voice you use.  Reinforcement is either positive (hugs, petting, treats, play) or negative (water, raised voice).  Positive reinforcement will make them do things by their own.  If you make them used to something they like, they will keep coming back and “demanding” it from you.   And the way they show appreciation is something that soon you will be aiming for.

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