Every cat has its own personality, and understanding this is the first step in addressing a cat’s stubbornness. Some cats are naturally more independent and may resist training simply because they’re not used to taking cues. Others might be reacting to stress or past negative experiences. Noticing patterns in behavior can give valuable insight into what your furry friend needs.
My Mocha resists training because he thinks he should give the orders, not me. A mule might win awards for stubbornness, but I think Mocha could compete for such an award right along with him. Mocha does well at ignoring commands and won’t come when called unless he feels it is to his benefit. He doesn’t like the word “no” and sometimes will exhibit aggression if you use that negative word. At other times, he shows his mellow and sweet side. We are patiently working on these issues.
So, how do you get a stubborn cat to follow commands? First, you have to find out what makes him tick. It’s so important to use patience with such a cat, and to try to see thing from the cat’s perspective. It requires a gentle touch and an open mind to get such an animal to respond in the way you wish. Be sure to take the time to learn your cat’s likes and dislikes. Such knowledge can make a big difference.
Effective Motivation Techniques for Cats
Finding the right motivation can make a world of difference when training a stubborn cat. Cats respond well to positive reinforcement, so rewarding good behavior with treats is a great starting point. Choose treats your cat loves; they’ll associate positive experiences with training sessions. Mocha has just discovered lickable treats, and makes it clear that for him, they represent the cat’s meow. I’m hoping that I can negate some of his stubbornness by rewarding lickables for good behavior.
Playing to a cat’s natural instincts and curiosity can also be incredibly effective. Interactive toys, such as feather wands or laser pointers, can keep their interest while teaching them new behaviors. This approach simultaneously entertains your cat and turns training into a game, making the experience enjoyable for both of you.
I’ve found that Mocha can be distracted from negative behavior by playing a favorite game. The laser pointer is one effective way to get him off my computer, as he likes to try to convince me I should be playing with him, not that machine. Another effective way to move him off my current work project is to use a wand to tickle under his toes or his tail. He will become engrossed in it and forget that he attempted to move me from my project.
I haven’t tried clicker training but have read that it is another fantastic method for creating a communication bridge with your cat. The clicker signals a reward is coming, helping your cat connect the action just performed with a positive outcome. This technique can improve not only their responsiveness but also your overall bond with your pet.
Building a Solid Training Routine
Cats do love their routine, so create a consistent training time to help win success with your stubborn cat. Consistency helps set expectations and forms a predictable pattern that your cat can adjust to. Set aside specific times each day for training to make it a routine both you and your cat can rely on. After mealtime seems to work well for us, as Mocha is relaxed and ready for mellow lounging.
One of my difficulties with Mocha involves grooming. He has semi-long fur and develops the dreaded mats. After his major meal is finished, I sometimes follow up with his favorite kibble. He will tolerate my working on his fur mats while he munches on this crunchy snack. Don’t make this grooming session or any other training period last over-long. Five to ten minutes at a time is good and can be repeated multiple times during the day if necessary.
Small, realistic goals are crucial when working with a resistant feline. Focus on one behavior at a time and celebrate the small wins. Breaking down tasks into more manageable steps allows your cat to feel more comfortable progressing at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed.
Training should occur in a calm and stress-free environment. Eliminate distractions as much as you can, turning off loud noises and reducing interruptions. A peaceful setting helps your cat focus and can make training sessions more productive.
Building trust and strengthening your relationship is part of the training process. Patience and consistency will nurture a bond where your cat associates you with positive experiences, making every effort worthwhile.
Some Basic Commands You Can Teach Your Cat
Stubborn or not, your cat can learn, if you remain patient and consistent and make the reward one he truly desires. Here are three basic lessons he might learn:
Sit
These simple steps can teach your cat this command. First, hold a treat close to the cat’s nose and then slowly move it upwards and backwards. As kitty follows the treat with his eyes, he will naturally sit down. As soon as he does, say “sit” and give him the treat. Repeat this process as often as necessary.
Come
It can prove very frustrating — you know the cat knows his name, but when you call him, he does not respond unless he thinks there sufficient reward for him. Therefore, use the reward to get the desired result. First, use a distinct call, such as a specific word, or perhaps a clicker to signal the cat to come. If the treat is desirable enough, he’ll show up. Immediately reward him with treat and/or affection. Practice until he gets it.
High Five
Use the treat for a lure. Hold it in your hand and let him see that you have it. Then, raise your hand slightly above the cat’s head. As he reaches up to get the treat, say “high five” and give him his reward. With enough repetition, he’ll associate the words with the reward.
My cat, Carlos, taught himself to give a high five. He would reach his paw up to a hand holding a treat, and it didn’t take him long to associate the words with the action.
Can You Get Your Stubborn Cat Into A Carrier?
Of course, you must first make sure the carrier is large enough for the cat to be comfortable, and you need to provide it with a cushy bed. Start slow — leave the carrier out in a favorite and comfortable place and let him get used to it.
Again, positive reinforcement is important. Offer treats or toys as a reward if the cat enters the carrier. Put them in there where he can see and smell them and encourage him to enter for his reward. It’s easier if you use a top-loading carrier, as you can place the cat in there instead of forcing him to enter through a small door.
Let him nap and relax in there, if he will. Get him used to the carrier. Practice getting him to enter, before you actually go anywhere.
Just Be Patient And Don’t Give Up
Though the cat has his own ideas about things, he can certainly learn something new. You need to keep trying to get him to see things your way. Eventually, these new “tricks” will seem like old hat to him and he will perform will when asked to do so. Have fun with him. Intersperse play with the training and be sure to offer affection along with those tasty treats. He will respond. You will both be pleased.
References I used for this post:
https://forevervets.com/blog/how-to-train-a-stubborn-cat
https://vetexplainspets.com/how-to-get-a-stubborn-cat-into-a-carrier/