Teaching Cats to Understand 'No': Effective Training Ti

Cats tend to be rather proud and tsundere in nature, not as compliant as dogs. To understand a cat's state, we need to be more aware of their body language.

How to Train Your Cat to Obey a "No" Command

Instant Contact Method

When your cat is engaged in mischievous behavior, such as scratching, biting, urinating inappropriately, or destroying furniture, it's crucial to interrupt them immediately. Use a firm tone to say "No" to them.

It's not the word itself that matters; it's just a code you've established with your cat for communication. Any other word could work. The key is the tone. Cats haven't learned a foreign language; they can't understand English words, but they can pick up on the tone. Through repeated training over time, your cat will learn that this word signifies something they're not allowed to do.

It's essential to act quickly, ideally within two seconds of the misbehavior. Cats have different memory focus points from humans; if they leave the scene, they may not understand why you're scolding them.

Enhanced Feedback Method

After stopping your cat from misbehaving, they might still do the same thing in another place or misbehave when you're not around due to fear.

After issuing a "No" command, it's important to follow up with a punishment to reinforce the understanding of the wrong action.

Canceling Ongoing Play

If you're petting your cat and they suddenly show signs of wanting to scratch or bite, stop the petting and isolate the cat to think about their actions. Play is very important to cats, so taking away a playmate will help them remember the lesson.

When you're playing with your cat using a toy and they suddenly jump towards your leg, stop the game immediately and make it clear that climbing onto your legs or attacking you means no more playtime.

Withdrawing Food and Treats

It's best to address misbehaviors like urinating on the bed or damaging furniture immediately. However, we often discover these issues later. In such cases, take your cat to the scene of the crime to help them associate the action with the consequence. Not only will they receive scolding, but they may also go without food for a meal.

Cats' three main needs are:

1. Safety from danger

2. Food

3. Sexual needs

If your scolding doesn't cause the cat to feel threatened, it may be less effective than making them go without food for a meal.

Not only do we need to tell cats what they can and cannot do and what consequences come with their actions, but we also need to improve their living environment and conditions to encourage them to change their bad habits.

What to Do If Your Cat Ignores Your Scolding?

Cats' Distracted Eyes

When you scold your cat, they may act as if they don't hear you, looking around distractedly and not making eye contact. This is a sign of disrespect and fear.

Cats who don't look at you are showing fear and avoiding conflict. If they stare at you, growl, and even use their claws, that's when they're truly反抗ing.

Cats' Rebellious Behavior

Do not hit your cat. Avoid hitting them with your hands as much as possible. Hitting a cat can lead to them fighting back and potentially scratching you.

If you can't stop your cat from misbehaving with words, use a tool to intervene. If you use a tool, the cat will stop what they're doing, flee, or even run away as soon as you pick it up.

Avoid hitting your cat, as it can damage your relationship and cause them to run away from you when they see you.

Cats' Makeup Routine

If your cat starts grooming themselves after you've scolded them, it's a sign that they're hurt and are trying to soothe themselves or get over their embarrassment.

Cats often groom themselves after a failed leap, a scolding, or being beaten by another cat to calm themselves down.