Although clicker coaching is broadly related to canines, it can be used with cats to show them enjoyable methods, work on obedience expertise, or prepare out undesirable behaviors. Coaching a cat is attainable with a little bit of persistence. Whether or not you need to prepare your cat to come back when known as, stroll on a leash, or just curb scratching, clicker coaching provides a delicate, rewarding method that may work wonders.
Clicker coaching is a type of optimistic reinforcement coaching that makes use of a small, handheld clicking gadget that makes a definite and constant click on sound when pressed. Throughout clicker coaching, your cat will be taught that the click sound equals a deal with. The clicker is used to mark a desired conduct out of your cat and might be particularly helpful to coach behaviors that may be tough to mark with a deal with.
What sort of clicker do I want for cat clicker coaching?
The excellent news is that you just don’t want something fancy. Any gadget that makes a constant sound will do, however you may also efficiently prepare your cat with this technique with none gadget in any respect. As a substitute of a clicker, you may also make a clicking noise along with your mouth or say the phrase “sure” every time your cat performs the specified conduct.
“Cost” your clicker
To start clicker coaching, you will need to first affiliate the sound of your clicker (or verbal “sure”) with a reward, similar to a deal with. You could have extra success in case your cat hasn’t simply eaten a meal so that they’ll be extra motivated to get treats.
- Get your clicker, your cat, and 10-15 small, pea-sized treats – ideally one thing very fascinating or “high value” in your cat.
- Be sure to have your cat’s consideration – the treats ought to assist!
- Click on (or say “sure”) as soon as, after which supply a deal with. Repeat this 10-15 instances.
Word: Some clickers might be loud and probably scary to your cat. You’ll be able to muffle the sound with a towel if that’s the case.
Practice your cat to come back when known as
As soon as your cat understands that clicking means a deal with, you’ll be able to start coaching behaviors, similar to coming when known as.
Begin coaching your cat to come back when known as whereas they don’t seem to be too removed from you. As they develop the ability, you’ll be able to apply recalling them from an additional distance.
- Sit on the ground along with your clicker and treats prepared. Name your cat’s identify. Once they come, click on and supply a deal with instantly after the clicking.
- Observe this a number of instances a day till your cat comes constantly.
Cat clicker coaching suggestions
- You can begin coaching at any age: Your elder kitty isn’t too previous to be taught one thing new.
- Similar to individuals, cats are people that be taught at totally different charges. Persistence is vital when coaching a pet.
- Begin with easy behaviors, like “sit” or coming when known as, and steadily work up in complexity.
- Hold coaching classes brief and enjoyable, stopping earlier than you lose your kitty’s consideration.
- You should use the clicker to “catch” cute behaviors. Hold the clicker in your pocket always, and when your cat does one thing lovely, click on to mark the conduct.
