Clicker training is a method of training your cat based on reinforcing positive behaviors. According to many animal trainers, it is extremely effective. Studies done on multiple types of animals, including cats, have shown that clicker training can lead to the successful elimination of unwanted behaviors, as well as the introduction of new or desired behaviors. Are you ready to try clicker training with your cat?
How Does Cat Clicker Training Work?
With clicker training, you can train your feline using positive reinforcement. It is simple to do, and you can begin at any time.
Instructions
- Begin by associating the clicker noise with a treat. Do this by simply clicking your clicker and giving your cat a treat immediately afterward. Very soon, they will begin to hear the clicker and expect a treat.
- Next, choose a behavior that you'd like your animal to do. Immediately after they perform the behavior, reward them with a click and then a treat. Soon, they will associate the behavior with a treat.
- Add a command to the routine of behavior, click, and treat until your cat associates the command with the behavior, click, and treat.
- Once your cat is performing the behavior reliably, vary the number of times they must perform the behavior in order to get the treat. Remember to associate the command, click, and treat every time.
Once your cat reliably performs a behavior, you can use that behavior to introduce others with the same target. You can use clicker training to teach your cat how to sit, high-five, or roll over. The options are endless!
Why It Works
Why use the clicker instead of saying "Good kitty"? Your cat hears you speak all the time, sometimes in happy tones, sometimes in irritated tones, but speaking is nothing out of the ordinary to them. It's not likely to gain their attention at the precise moment of their action the way the clicker will.
The sound of the click is sharp and unique. It immediately grabs their attention, causing an instant association between the action and the sound. Follow this immediately with a tasty treat or loving stroke, and you've marked the occasion with a positive reward, something your cat will take to heart.
Repeat these actions with the same positive behavior a few times, and your cat will begin to repeat the behavior because they understand they will be rewarded for it. Now you've got your cat thinking rather than just reacting.
Eliminating Unwanted Behaviors
You can use your clicker to replace your pet's unwanted behaviors with behaviors that you do want. If your cat is misbehaving in some way, offer them a physical distraction, and watch for a behavior you do want. Click, and reward them at the exact moment they do something good.
When they don't receive a reward for their less-than-pleasant behaviors, they'll spend more time and energy on the actions that bring them a reward. The process takes some time, but it can work if you stay on top of the situation.
Tips for Success
- Find a quiet location in which to begin. This is more likely to get your cat's attention the first time.
- Reward your cat for even attempting what it is you want them to do. This is called "shaping" their behavior and can take effect over time.
- Add a verbal cue for the behavior you want that your cat can associate in the future without the clicker.
Be consistent with training and work on reinforcing the behavior every day, but keep sessions to five to 10 minutes maximum. Most cats will get the hang of clicker training within several days to a couple weeks.
Where to Buy Clickers
You can find cat clickers at these retailers:
- Clickertraining.com: Here, you can find a wide selection of different clickers and accessories, such as lanyards.
- The App Store: Download the app to your phone to train your cat anywhere.
Gain Your Cat's Trust
Physically punishing your cat for unwanted behaviors does not teach your pet anything but to fear you. Cat clicker training, however, can be a positive experience for you both. Gain your cat's trust and affection while teaching them to behave in ways you can live with. Successful clicker training can help foster a better relationship between you both.
