How to Train a Cat: A Beginner’s Guide

You may think your cat is a natural expert at all feline activities, but a well-mannered and confidant cat requires training. Some skills are intuitive, but for the rest, here is a quick beginner's guide on how to train a cat.

Cat training often gets overshadowed by its canine counterpart - let's face it, everyone has heard about dog training, but very few know anything about cat training.

Teaching your cat is just as important for a harmonious, happy, and fulfilling life with your feline friend as it is for life with a canine companion.

Contrary to popular belief, kitty training doesn’t mean turning your cat into an obedient robot; it’s more about establishing mutual understanding, friendship, and encouraging better behaviour through gentle, positive methods.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

• • The importance of teaching good cat behaviours
  • How to train your cat using safe and reliable practices
  • Different types of kitten training and cat training
  • How to handle common behavioral issues without punishment or fear tactics.

With these tips, you and your cat can feel confident knowing that they are safer, more comfortable, and have a stronger bond with you.

The Importance of Cat Training

You might be thinking—A cat is independent by nature. Why invest time in cat training at all? The answer is more simple than you might think.

Confidence and safety are key to a long happy cat life. Plus, training your kitty is just flat-out fun and a great way for the two of you to bond! 

Here are the 4 big benefits of training a cat:

Strengthen the Human-Feline Bond

The right cat training techniques actually teach you how to teach cats in a way that fosters mutual respect and trust. It’s a chance for you to understand your furry friend’s personality, needs, and cues, ultimately bringing you closer together and strengthening the bond that you both share.

The information and observations you'll discover while training a cat can help you provide them with the tools to create a uniquely tailored environment and routine for your cat that contributes to their quality of life.

Promote Good Behaviour

Cats are creatures of habit. They like routine and rarely deviate during a day from their scheduled meal and nap times. 

When your cat learns what’s acceptable—like using a scratcher instead of your couch—they’re less likely to engage in damaging or annoying behaviours. A well-trained cat will improve your household peace, not to mention it helps spare your upholstery and rugs from feline claws.

Ensure Safety

A trained cat is easier to handle in emergencies or unexpected situations. When your kitty listens to you and trusts you, everything becomes easier, from vet visits to traveling. Your cat will also be less likely to bolt out the door or cause accidents indoors once they have undergone a bit of training.

Additionally, many of the activities that cats might find fun aren't always going to be safe. Eating house plants, climbing tall shelves, and chewing cords may all seem like innocent curiosity, but you know what they say about curiosity and cats, right? Training safer ways to express their curiosity can be a life saver.

Reduce Stress

Cats thrive on routines and predictable interactions. Training gives structure to daily life, so your furry friend knows how to behave and what to expect, which lowers their anxiety—and yours!

So, if you’re sitting there wondering—How do I discipline a cat without hurting our relationship?—the key is a steady routine of positive training and consistency in almost everything that you do with your furry friend.

Cat Training Best Practices

When you’re learning how to train your cat, patience is your best friend. Honestly, cats learn at their own speeds and it might not be an overly fast process, so you must remain patient. 

Cats aren’t typically as eager to please as dogs, so kitty training can take time. Here are some best practices to keep you focused on the end goal:

Start Slowly

Training your cat isn’t a race - in fact, it's better to train slowly. Take things nice and slow.  If you’ve got a new kitten, begin kitten training early (like day 1 early). Older cats can still learn too—just keep your sessions short (5–10 minutes at a time) so they don’t lose interest.

Create a Calm Environment

Find a quiet spot in your home where there aren’t many distractions. Turn off the TV, move away from high traffic areas, and have your training treats handy.

Be Consistent

Cats respond best to routine. If you want them to do something (like use a certain scratching post), always direct them to that same spot. Mixed messages cause confusion with your furry friend, so try not to rearrange the house too much while your cat is still learning. 

Stay Positive

Cats are sensitive creatures. Yelling or punishing them only instills fear, which can break trust. Instead, reward good behavior and redirect unwanted actions. Use a calm but firm tone, and try not to let your frustrations amplify your reactions to their behaviour.

Use Timing Strategically

Cats learn best when the reward or correction is immediate. Wait too long, and they won’t connect their action with the result. Have small treats on hand during training, and make sure the rooms your cat may be the most tempted towards chaos in are also the rooms where appropriate redirection tools are kept.

Think of these best practices as the universal “rules of engagement” whenever you’re deciding how to train a cat or sorting out how to discipline a cat in a constructive way.

Positive Reinforcement Training

Kitties need praise, too!  One of the cornerstones of cat training success is positive reinforcement. This cat training approach means you reward your feline bestie for doing something right instead of scolding them for doing something “wrong.” ‘’

Cat positive reinforcement training is an effective method for even the most stubborn kitty.  It also fosters a loving bond between you and your feline. 

Here are some classic tools to use to making each training session a success.  

Treat Training a Cat

Many cats love a tasty morsel. Small but high-value cat treats are a great way to reward good behaviours and help your cat associate those behaviours with something yummy or fun. Here are a few of our best selling cat training treats:

• • Nutrience Subzero Single Protein Cat Treat - Salmon
  • Inaba CIAO Churu Purées - Tuna with Scallop Recipe
  • Fruitables Tuna Flavor with Pumpkin Cat Treats
  • Blue Buffalo Bursts Cat Treats - Paw-Lickin' Chicken

Clickers Training a Cat

A clicker is a small training device that makes a distinctive sound. When your cat does something right, like jumping off the counter on cue, you click and then give a treat.

Though clickers are traditionally used in dog training, they work on the same principle. Clickers act as an indicator of praise and signal that a reward is coming. They also bridge the gap between the action and the treat, keeping the connection between the two.

Using Toys for Cat Training

If your cat is not food motivated, or needs to limit how many treats they can have in a day, then toys might be a good alternative to represent a reward. Cats who are obsessed with toys, or love to chase, fetch, and pounce, may benefit from using toys as a reward in some situations. 

Whether you are redirecting a behaviours or giving praise for a correct behaviours, you can offer small, fun, and exciting toys or games in lieu of treats.

Looking for a little inspiration? Here are some of our faves:

• • Yeowww! Catnip Stinkies Sardines
  • Fat Cat Cat Crazies
  • Multipet Pizza Cat Toys
  • Kong Naturals Crinkle Ball with Feathers

Another way to reward your cat is end a training session with an interactive game or puzzle. The Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit, or a PetStages Nina Ottosson Cat Game can help your cat cool down from a training session and give them a safe and fun puzzle to redirect them into solo playtime.

Rewarding with Praise and Affection

Many people don’t think that cats crave affection, but they do. Your feline actually loves sharing space with you, even if they pretend to ignore you half the time. 

A loving word or gentle head rub can also go a long way. Some cats prefer a warm lap or a quick cuddle over a treat, so heap on the praise and affection. Let your kitty know they are appreciated and loved. 

Consistency Is Key

If you decide to use a clicker, stick with it. If you prefer verbal praise, always use the same enthusiastic tone or word—like “Good kitty!”—when your cat does well.

Positive reinforcement answers the question “How can I train my cat without making them fearful?” by flipping punishment on its head, making training more of a fun game than a stressful chore.

Types of Cat Training (Quick Summaries)

There’s more than one way to handle cat training, from litter box basics to advanced leash walking. We won’t do a deep dive here, because you mentioned you have separate blogs on some topics—but let’s touch on them briefly.

1. Litter Training
   Most cats are naturals at this, but kittens or newly adopted older cats might need guidance. Show them the box, keep it clean, and use positive reinforcement when they use it properly. Check out How to Litter Train Your Cat for more info and best practices.
   
   
2. Grooming and Handling Training
   Teaching your cat to tolerate being brushed or having their nails trimmed can save major headaches later - especially if you share your home and life with a long-haired kitty. Gentle, calm cat grooming sessions with plenty of treats and breaks help them get used to grooming tools.
   
   
3. Socialization
   What if you get sick and need to be hospitalized or you decide to go on a trip? You must socialize your kitty so that if you ever need someone else to temporarily care for them, it won't be a stressful experience. Introduce your cat to new people, pets (when appropriate), and environments gradually. It teaches them confidence and helps prevent fear-based aggression. Early kitty training is especially beneficial here, so start as early as you can.
   
   
4. Behavioural Training
   Socializing your cat also means teaching safe and appropriate ways to interact with you and their daily environment. Biting, scratching, climbing and destructive chewing are all bad habits that cats can develop without appropriate ways to express their feline instincts. Save your fingers and learn How to Stop Your Kitten From Biting and other safe playtime behaviours.
   
   
5. Leash Training
   Yes, some cats do go for walks on a leash or enjoy supervised outdoor time on a leash! Choose a cat-specific harness, let them get comfortable wearing it indoors, and then gradually practice walking in a safe outdoor area. Hop over to How to Leash Train a Cat to learn how to get started.
   
   
6. Trick Training
   Though not a necessity, trick training is a fun way to entertain your cat (and yourself), and teach your cat new skills that engage them mentally and physically. They are a great way to enhance your cats daily routine and can be combined with other daily routines, like meals and playtime, to help reinforce other positive behaviours. We have some simple and Cool Cat Tricks you can try out.

These types of training show the wide range of skills that cats can learn when we apply consistent, positive approaches.

Training for Behavioral Problems

Sometimes, training isn’t just about cool tricks—it’s about handling more serious issues. In these cases, it’s normal to ask, “How to discipline a cat when they’re biting or marking territory?” The key is to address the root cause:

Biting and Scratching

• • Provide appropriate outlets like scratching posts or Cat Scratchers Canada products.
  • For furniture protection, Sticky Paws Furniture Strips can discourage your cat from using the sofa as a nail file. 
  • If your cat bites during play, switch to a toy instead of your hands. Praise them when they play gently.

For more tips to save your furniture, check out How to Stop Cats from Scratching Furniture for more tips, tools, and tricks to redirect your cat to better scratching surfaces. 

Spraying or Marking

• • A cat that marks territory might be stressed or feeling insecure.
  • Try cleaning soiled areas thoroughly to remove the scent and use calming aids or Pet Organics No Stay!® Furniture Spray for Cats if marking happens on furniture.
  • In severe cases, consult a veterinarian to check for underlying health issues.
    
    

Aggression or Fear

• • If your cat is lashing out, they may be scared. Provide hiding spots, reduce triggers, and slowly reintroduce them to stimuli.
  • Use a gentle voice and reward calm behavior. Over time, trust can be rebuilt.
  • Don't force a bond that isn't their yet. Trust needs to be earned, and a nervous or anxious cat may need more time to adapt.

Excessive Meowing

• • Sometimes cats meow for attention or out of boredom. Make sure they have access to interactive cat toys. If they’re meowing for food too often, develop a feeding schedule.
    
  • A very loud or whiny cat can indicate an injury or health issue. If your cat's vocal inclinations seem consistent and are combined with lethargy or other behavioural changes, it's time to call your vet.

How to train your cat out of these issues? Focus on empathy. Your cat isn’t being “bad”; they’re likely stressed or seeking something. Identify triggers, redirect them, and reward better alternatives. If all else fails, consult a cat behaviorist or your vet!

Cat Training Don’ts

By learning how to train your cat without damaging your bond, you can help them build confidence, learn safer behaviours, and make the time you have together more meaningful. 

Before you start cat training, it's a good idea to get familiar with the common cat training mistakes that can derail your cat's learning experience and make the whole thing more frustrating for both of you.

Check out the top 5 cat training don'ts:

1. Don’t Physically Punish or Yell At Your Cat
   Cats don’t understand punishment the way we do. In fact, they are very tender-hearted, so negativity can harm your cat’s well-being. They learn to fear you or the object involved. Fear can lead to aggression or withdrawal, which undoes training progress.
   
   
2. Don’t Use ‘Cat Jail’
   Locking your cat away in a small room or crate as punishment might intensify stress-related behaviors. You may need them confined for safety or at nighttime, so ensure it feels comfortable and safe, rather than place for punishment.
   
   
3. Don’t Use Spray Bottles
   Spraying water to deter unwanted actions might seem harmless, but it can make your cat anxious and afraid of you. They’ll learn to avoid you, but still do bad things when you aren’t watching or just for spite because you sprayed them.
   
   
4. Don’t Expect Overnight Changes
   How do you train your cat if you’re in a rush? You don’t. Cats need time to adapt and internalize new habits. Rushing or forcing them leads to setbacks.
   
   

Sticking to gentle, positive methods is the secret sauce. How can you discipline a cat? You can do this by guiding them toward acceptable behaviors and reinforcing good actions, not by punishment. If you are dealing with extreme aggression or other behavioural issues, you may want to loop in your vet or seek out a cat behavioural specialist who can guide you towards a new and more effective training plan.

Cat Training FAQs

How do you train your cat without making them stressed?

New things can be scary, but if you can stay calm and help your cat associate good behaves with positive rewards, your cat can learn some new skills and habits. Treats, toys, and good old fashioned petting can guide your cat towards better behaviour and away from the temptation of chaos.

How do you train your cat if they’re older?

Older cats can learn new tricks or habits, but it might take a bit more patience. Start small, keep sessions short, and offer plenty of rewards. Always consider any physical limitations they may have, so you can adjust your training methods t suit them.

How can I train my cat to stop waking me up at night?

Set up a feeding and play schedule to tire them out before bedtime. Offer interactive toys or puzzle feeders. Over time, they’ll learn that nighttime is for sleeping, not yowling.

How to teach cats to stop scratching my couch?

Provide a more appealing alternative—like a tall, sturdy scratching post or cat scratcher. Use Sticky Paws on the sofa, and praise your cat when they scratch the post instead.

How to discipline a cat that’s marking its territory?

First, rule out health issues with a vet. Then, thoroughly clean marked areas and possibly use a deterrent spray. Address any stressors—such as another pet or change in routine—and consider a pheromone diffuser to reduce anxiety.

Isn’t It Time to Understand and Train Your Cat? 

When it comes to how to train a cat, success is all about understanding their mindset. Cats aren’t rebellious; they’re independent. They thrive in environments that respect their quirks, offering positive learning experiences rather than punishment. 

By focusing on why a behavior happens and redirecting it through fun, positive reinforcement, you can see real changes—whether you’re perfecting litter training, teaching your cat to walk on a leash, or dealing with scratching mishaps.

Here are a few more cat training resources:

• • British Psychology Society - How to Train a Cat
  • Cat School - Cat Training Guide
  • Feline Behaviour Solutions - Stop Spraying Cats With Water

Remember, kitty training or kitten training doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small, celebrate small wins, and never overlook the power of a well-timed treat or soothing praise. With consistency and genuine empathy, you’ll transform “How do you train your cat?” from a daunting question into a rewarding daily practice.

Give it a go—pull out some yummy feline training treats set up a comfy training corner, and watch your cat flourish.