Potty training your cat has several advantages, both to your cat’s health, and the overall cleanliness of your home. If a cat is not properly potty trained, they may try to relieve themselves in appropriate areas, such as in household plants. Cats have an instinctual urge to bury their waste, and may try to use the soil surrounding potted plants as a way to cover up their stools. This obviously creates a fair amount of tension between you and your cat, as you may feel frustrated that your cat is “violating” your household environment.

Once your cat is properly potty trained, this will also help to promote good hygiene in your household. If your cat is going to the bathroom in the proper areas, you will be able to maintain a clean and healthy environment in your house. The smell of cat urine is very distinct, and can be detected even in small amounts. Most cat urine smells similar to strong ammonia, and is extremely unsavory to the senses. If you purchase a kitty litter product that contains an odor-absorbing ingredient (such as baking soda) you will notice that you are not able to easily detect the smell of your cat’s urine.

However, potty training your cat is only one part of keeping your house clean and odor-free. As a responsible pet owner, it is your duty to maintain a clean environment where your cat can comfortably go to the bathroom. Even though cleaning your cat’s litter box can often be an undesirable process, it is very important that you clean your cat’s litter on a regular basis. Some cats will refuse to relieve themselves in a dirty litter box, and may stop using the litter box altogether.

If you potty train your cat, you may also save a significant amount on your veterinary bill. Your cat’s stool and urine condition can help you to easily identify if they are experiencing a medical problem, especially if it involves gastrointestinal symptoms. Any changes in the texture, smell and quality of your cat’s stool are always cause for concern, and may actually be indicative of a potentially serious medical condition. If you notice that your cat begins to have constant diarrhea, for example, this could be caused by any number of factors. Certain parasite infections may cause diarrhea, as can viral or bacterial infections. In any case, changes in your cat’s stool should be reason enough for you to schedule your cat to have an appointment with a veterinarian.

However, training your cat can be a difficult task, requiring a large amount of patience. Here are a few simple tips that you can follow when training your cat.

1. Do not scold a kitten! Cats are a highly emotional animals, and will not usually respond well to verbal punishment. If your kitten becomes afraid of you at an early age, this will cause them to have behavioral problems once they grow into adulthood. Fear is never a good emotion to use when training your cat, as it destroys the bond between you and your cat. Try to use positive reinforcement on a regular basis, as it is much more constructive towards a successful training program. Cats may become destructive if they do not receive enough attention,
2. Don’t forget to play with your cat on a regular basis. Playing games will help your cat to follow their instinctual behavior, and teach them that social interaction can be fun as well.
3. Try to always keep your cat on a regular schedule. Just like humans, cats eventually develop a routine for their daily lifestyle. As your cat’s owner, you are in complete control of your cat’s routine. You should use this power carefully, in order to establish the best possible schedule for your cat. Most cats will do much better if they are fed at regularly scheduled times each day, so that they do not become hungry in between mealtimes. In addition to this, it is very important to praise your cat on a regular basis. Your cat thrives off of attention, and is always looking to please you through their behavior.
4. Try to set your cat up in a comfortable environment. Make sure that your house is “cat friendly”, and try to keep any indoor smoking to a minimum. Smoking can irritate a cat’s respiratory system, and may produce asthma-like symptoms.
5. Cats are sensitve to abrasive surfaces, and may try to use your furniture as a scratching post. To help train your cat to not scratch your furniture, try adhering double-sided sticky tape to the outside of your furniture. When your cat tries to scratch, they will get their paws caught on the sticky tape. Cats do not like sticky surfaces, and eventually your cat will learn to avoid scratching your furniture. It is best to purchase a designated scratching post for your cat, to help discourage destructive behavior.

First, choose the right type of litter box for your cat. Most cat owners choose to purchase an enclosed litter box, as this is the best way to prevent the smell of the litter box from becoming too noticeable. However, your cat may take some time to be comfortable with the idea of going inside an enclosed litter box. A common mistake that many cat owners make is to push or force their cat into an enclosed litter box. In reality, this only causes a cat to become claustrophobic, and may cause them to avoid the litter box altogether. It is best to be patient, and coax your cat to come near the box with treats and gentle words. If you wish, you can also place a small amount of catnip in and around the litter box, so that your cat becomes interested in the area. It is suitable to bring your cat into the general area of the litter box, but don’t force them to explore it. Most cats will discover the litter box on their own. However, if your cat seems to be uncomfortable with the box, try moving it to a different location. Cats prefer to go to the bathroom in private, and may avoid a litter box that is placed too close to loud noises or family activity.

Once your cat is comfortable with the litter box, it’s time for the next step. When potty training, it is best if you feed your cat on a set schedule that remains unchanged each day. This way, you can have a better estimation on when your cat may have to go to the bathroom. After your cat eats, try to closely observe their behavior. If you see your cat pacing, or beginning to sniff at the floor, immediately bring them to the room where their litter box is. If your cat seems uninterested in the box, try placing some catnip inside the box, just as you did when you were socializing them with the litter box. If your cat does not have to go to the bathroom, they may simply leave the area. However, it is important to keep a close watch on them, as they may be searching for an area in which they can go to the bathroom.

If you follow these steps on a regular basis, your cat will eventually become accustomed to using the litter box for their bathroom needs. Remember, it is important to be patient. Potty training does not have to be a difficult process, as long as you are observant of your cat’s behavior.

ELECTRIC COLLAR

Most training collars available for cats are meant as a means of control for your cat, without the use of a leash. These collars contain an electric device, which is able to give your cat a low-level electric shock as soon as they misbehave. These collars are often used for cat owners who wish to take their cats outdoors, since it gives them maximum control over their cat’s actions. Most electric cat training collars are available in the pet training section of most pet supply stores.

AROMATHERAPY COLLAR

As a modification to the electric collar, some cat training collars are developed to use a different means of persuasion. These collars are designed to release a sudden burst of a specific scent. Most of these scents are modified so that they induce a calming effect on a cat, and lower their activity level. Over time, cats that use this type of collar become more obedient, since they have learned that hyperactive behavior induces a strong olfactory response from their collar.

POTENTIAL NEGATIVE FACTORS

It has been suggested by many different pet behavioral experts that training collars can actually be very harmful to your cat. The electric shock provided by most training collars is very low, though it does have the potential to cause serious harm. For example, if the training collar becomes wet, it may emit a high-level electric shock, causing potential injury to your cat.

Also, cats are very independent animals, and may not respond well to the use of training collars. Some cats will associate the pain response that an electric collar produces with their owner, and may begin to become depressed. Electric collars are a type of fear-based training, which is usually not very effectively used on cats.

In addition to this, the use of a collar also presents a choking hazard to your cat. Cats are natural explorers, with a tendency to love hiding in tight places. However, it is possible that a collar may become caught on a fence, branch, or other object, which presents the danger of strangulation to a cat.

If you are concerned about using a training collar on your cat, it is best to use common sense. Try training your cat without the use of an electric collar, utilizing positive reinforcement instead. Motivate your cat to practice good behavior by the use of treats, special food, or catnip rewards. This type of training is much gentler, and may be much more successful in training your cat.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LITTER BOX

The first step in litter box training your cat is to choose which type of litter box is best for your cat. There are many different litter boxes available, which come in various shapes, colors and designs. Depending on your cat, you may want to choose either an open or closed litter box. Closed litter boxes are composed of two separate pieces, which form a “cave” in which your cat can go to the bathroom. Closed litter boxes are usually a bit more expensive than open litter boxes, though they are much more effective at containing the odor from your cat’s bathroom activities. Closed litter boxes also usually include an air filter, which is fitted over air vents at the top of the box. This filter usually needs to be replaced every few months, to effectively continue to help contain the odor of the litter box. Open litter boxes are usually less expensive, but tend to be significantly more noticeable in their odor. However, if your cat’s designated area for using the litter box is in a room where smell is not an issue, you may choose to purchase this type of litter box.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LITTER

There are hundreds of different kitty litter products available, and choosing the right type of litter for your cat can seem to be a confusing task. However, it is best to choose what you think will best suit your needs, and the needs of your cat. It’s usually best to choose a kitty litter product that is relatively dust-free, since excess dust can be harmful to both you and your cat. Depending on the method that you choose to use to clean your cat’s litter box, you may choose either a clumping or non-clumping kitty litter. Some kitty litter products also contain baking soda, which helps to absorb some of the odor from your cat’s bathroom activities.

TRAINING YOUR CAT

Training your cat to use the litter box is usually accomplished through patience. Repeatedly familiarize your cat with the box, placing them inside the litter area when you suspect they may be ready to use the bathroom. If you wish, you can also place a small amount of catnip in your cat’s litter, as this will entice your cat to investigate the box. Most cats will easily understand that the litter box is the proper area in which they can relieve themselves, since cats naturally want to defecate in an area where they are able to cover their waste.

Cats are very responsible to sounds, especially sounds that are relatively high in pitch. Clicker training utilizes this sensitivity in order to maintain your cat’s attention through a training program. The goal of clicker training is to teach your cat to associate the behavioral methods you are teaching with the sound of the clicker. If done correctly, clicker training can be used to teach your cat a significant number of tricks, actions and reinforced good behavior.

Before you begin clicker training, you will need to purchase a clicker training device. These devices are usually small, and may be made of plastic or metal. They are relatively inexpensive and are usually available in the pet training section of most pet care supply stores.

Here are some simple steps that you can follow in order to properly clicker train your cat.

First, choose a quiet room in your house for your training session. The lack of ambient noise will help your cat to focus on the sound of the clicker. Catching your cat’s attention can be slightly difficult, so you may need to utilize food items, catnip or cat treats to help your training to be successful.

The next step is to start by reinforcing the behavior or action that you want your cat to associate with both the sound of the clicker, and a treat reward. It may be tricky to identify this behavior in your cat’s mind, so try to be patient. For example, if you are trying to teach your cat to sit, begin by observing your cat’s behavior. As soon as they sit down, say the command “Sit!” followed by a click, and a treat reward. Repeat this as many times as possible, in order to reinforce the connection of the clicker with the action you are reinforcing.

It is best if you use this training method once or twice per day, keeping the training sessions only long enough so that you still have your cat’s attention. Using treats to reinforce your cat’s behavior is a great way to make clicker training more effective, since your cat will also associate the sound of the clicker with a treat reward.

When using clicker training to train your cat, it is best to only use positive reinforcement. Most cats will not understand punishment, which can backfire and lead to more behavioral problems. Be patient with your cat, as they may require a week (or longer) of training in order to properly learn a behavioral action.

In regards to proper cat pet care, there are many different training aids that may help you to properly train your cat. Though there are hundreds of different products available for purchase, these are the most commonly used training aids among cat owners.

LEASH
Similar to a dog leash, a cat leash is used in order to take your cat for walks outside your yard. Especially if you live in an area of high vehicle traffic, it may not be safe for your cat to roam outside on a regular basis. Most cat leashes include a full harness, since cats are much smaller and prone to slipping their leash. A leash for your cat is relatively inexpensive, and can be purchased at most pet supply stores.

SCAT MAT
This training aid is a tool you can use in order to prevent your cat from entering certain areas. Cats love to explore, and are constantly seeking out new interesting areas. In order to prevent your cat from going into potentially dangerous areas (such as near certain electrical appliances) you can place a scat mat around the area. A scat mat functions by producing a static impulse, which will zap your cat every time they step on the mat. Eventually, a cat will learn to avoid the scat mat, and any areas that are enclosed by these mats. Once your cat stops trying to explore forbidden areas, you can even use “dummy” scat mats (which are not functional) to remind your cat that a certain area is off-limits.

CATNIP
Most people can’t understand why cats react so strangely to the scent of catnip. The actual reason for a cat’s extreme interest in catnip is that the scent of this herb is actually very similar to the scent of cat urine. This is why many cats will often lick, eat, and rub their faces in catnip. Catnip can also be used when training your cat to use the litter box, if it is placed around the litter area. Giving your cat a catnip treat is also a great way to reward them for good behavior.

TOYS
If you are training your cat to help with ‘pest control’, you may want to use cat toys as a training aid. There are certain motorized play-mice that are often helpful in stimulating your cat’s predatory instincts, especially when used in conjuction with food-based treats.

However, the best aid that will help you when training your cat is patience. By being patient with your ca, and paying attention to their needs, you will be able to entjoy a wonderful life with your cat.

Training a kitten is relatively easier to accomplish than training an adult cat. Cats are very independent, and can be too stubborn to train as they grow into adulthood. Kittens, however, are much easier to train, since they have not yet matured enough to shape their behavior. If you wish to train your cat, it is always best to start when they are still relatively young.

Here are some important tips that you can follow to properly train your kitten.

1. Be sure to include playtime in your kitten’s daily activities. Playing with your kitten allows you to figure out what things interest them, and test their response to certain stimuli. If you are observant, you will be able to see how your kitten reacts to different types of toys, environmental objects, and situations. This allows you to have more leverage when deciding the best training method for your kitten.
2. Don’t be afraid to reward your kitten for good behavior! Most kittens will respond well to training methods that use positive reinforcement, often in the form of food, treats, or catnip. Using food-based rewards will allow your cat to understand that this is their reward for good behavior. When teaching your kitten to obey certain commands, treats can also be used in order to reinforce proper execution of the training command.
3. In addition to this, most kittens will thrive when given a lot of attention. At the kitten stage is when most cats will begin bonding with their owners. This process can be accelerated by being very affectionate towards your kitten.
4. Kittens usually grow very fast, and will require a significant amount of exercise. If you are trying to train your kitten to be an indoor cat, exercise is an even more important part of pet care. Indoor cats are much more prone to becoming overweight, especially if they do not learn to exercise at an early age. Most kitten toys encourage exercise, and will also cause your kitten to engage in playtime on a daily basis. However, interactive playtime is the best way to teach your kitten to exercise. To make your own kitten toy, tie a feather or a piece of scrap cloth to the end of a piece of yarn. Drag the yarn back and forth in front of your kitten, and watch them attack! Kittens have a predatorial instinct that is native in most cats, and will eagerly engage in playtime if they are able to chase a moving target.
5. Try to train your kitten to be fed at the same time each day. Regular feeding will help your kitten to stay healthy, and will help prevent them from becoming hungry in between meals. If you feed your kitten regularly, this will also help when trying to train your kitten to use the litter box.

Training a kitten involves a significant amount of responsibility, as you are shaping your kitten’s behavior for the rest of their life. However, if you are patient with your kitten, you will be able to correctly train them to be a well-behaved member of your household.