How To Discipline Cats (Training)

Owning a cat as a pet is one thing but training and discipline are another. If you own a cat or maybe you plan to own one then you should know why it’s important to know how to discipline cats. They can be stubborn and even naughty (dangerous) sometimes.

They are known to frequently jump on the counter, chewing on wires, knock down breakable items, and scratch things. These behaviors are natural reactions to their environment while others are bad habits. So it’s best to know how to discipline and train your cat to behave well.

Can I Train My Cat?

Cats can actually be trained and disciplined the right way. You are not punishing them but training them to do better in their environment. Cats are not like dogs and with constant reinforcement you can get them to behave properly.

Don’t use your hands to discipline your cat. Avoid every form of physical punishment as this would only make the situation worse and damage your relationship with your cat. Don’t spank, yell, hit, kick, or hurt your cat intentionally.

Do not scruff your cat because this will cause them pain and exacerbate the issue. Just like humans, cats like attention, food, and toys. Always reward your cat when they do what you want them to do. Reward them with a special treat, that way they will recognize that good behavior comes with something good.

Do Cats Understand Words?

The answer is yes! Cats will learn and recognize certain words if used repeatedly. For example, your cat will recognize his or her name when they are being called.

They will recognize words and word combinations that are being used constantly like “good kitty”, and “no”. They will as well get used to the tone of your voice.

How To Discipline Cats

Training a cat might seem difficult to some people because they tend to be naughty and stubborn. You can’t own/train a cat without adequate discipline. There are two main points to take note of when training a cat. Rewarding their good behavior and discouraging bad behavior.

Reward Good Behaviour

Just as humans respond to rewards more than punishments, the same goes for cats as well. First, you need to figure out how to reward your cat for its good behavior. Find out what they like most or what can actually motivate them.

If your cat loves food then reward him or her with their favorite treat during training. Or if they prefer a toy or a good cheek scratch then reward them with play and attention.

Reward your cat during training with what you know they love. This way your cats will gradually eliminate those bad behaviors by getting used to their special treat/toy.

Discourage Bad Behaviour

Cats sometimes act and behave badly so it’s important to discourage those behaviors and make them act right. Punishing your cat won’t make them behave well but will only make the situation worse. They do not respond well if they are being punished. You can try these several methods to discourage their bad behaviors;

1. Scent

Cats don’t like certain scents, particularly citrus scents. You can spray those scents they don’t like in areas where they are causing problems.

Your cat will naturally avoid those areas. You can purchase any scent online designed for this purpose or choose to make one by yourself. However, you can use essential oils that are toxic to cats; do your research.

2. Sudden Noise

Making a loud sudden noise can startle cats and scare them away in a hurry. You can clap your hands or use a bottle, jar, or can filled with dried beans, coins, and rocks. Shake them to startle them away when they jump on the counter or where you don’t want them to be.

3. Double-Sided Tape And Aluminium Foil

Cats do not like this texture. You can simply place this on surfaces you don’t want your cat scratching. Like your couch, dining room table, and edges of the counter.

Cats also don’t like the sticky feel of double-sided tapes just as they do not enjoy the noise of aluminum foil. They also don’t like when their paws touch something sticky, so they avoid areas with such deterrents.

4. Use Your Voice

Try saying something like a loud “ouch” or any other word to startle your cat and end their bad behavior. So do this whenever they are aggressive or bite too hard. There are products you can purchase that include a combination of sudden noise and a pheromone scent that can keep a cat calm.

Conclusion

Cats are different and not all methods will work for every cat. It’s best you find out what works for your cat and work with it. If you are planning to own a cat or if you already own a cat I believe these tips will help you and your cat.