How to Teach Your Cat to SIT - for BEGINNERS - Easy Step-by-Step

Summary

In this video, the step-by-step process of teaching your cat to sit on command is explained, from the basics of using a treat to the final result of a consistently trained cat. The video covers the importance of using clicker training, how to overcome common challenges, and tips for making training smoother, like positioning your hand properly to avoid confusion. Key mistakes are also highlighted to ensure a successful training experience. With patience and the right technique, your cat will soon associate the sit command with the action and respond consistently.

Takeaways

• 😀 Teaching your cat to sit on command is a useful and enriching trick.
• 😀 Start by showing your cat the treat and let them smell it, linking the position of your hand with the treat.
• 😀 Use a hand gesture, moving the treat over your cat's head and towards their tail to encourage them to sit.
• 😀 Once your cat sits, immediately click the clicker and reward them with the treat.
• 😀 If you're unfamiliar with clicker training, it’s recommended to watch a video explaining the basics of it first.
• 😀 After your cat starts consistently sitting, remove the treat from your hand but continue using the clicker and reward system.
• 😀 Begin introducing the verbal command 'sit' while using the hand gesture.
• 😀 Keep using the clicker to reinforce the behavior as your cat associates the word 'sit' with the action.
• 😀 If your cat turns around or resists sitting, lower your hand to make the movement easier for them.
• 😀 If your cat tries to claw at your hand to grab the treat, raise your hand higher to prevent this behavior.
• 😀 Never let the treat go if your cat claws at your hand—always reward them for sitting, not for hurting you.

Q & A

What is the first step in teaching your cat to sit on command?

The first step is to grab a treat and place it between your middle finger and thumb. This helps create a unique position while holding the treat.

Why is it important to let your cat smell the treat?

Letting your cat smell the treat helps them associate the hand position with the reward, increasing their focus and understanding of the command.

How should you move the treat to encourage your cat to sit?

Move the treat over your cat’s head and towards their tail. As your cat follows the treat, they’ll eventually have to sit down to continue following it.

What should you do when your cat's butt touches the floor?

As soon as your cat’s butt touches the floor, you should click (using a clicker) and immediately reward them with the treat.

What if your cat does not sit down and instead turns around?

If your cat turns around, they may be nervous. A good trick is to lower your hand to make it easier for your cat to follow, which may help them sit down instead.

How do you prevent your cat from clawing at your hand while trying to grab the treat?

If your cat tries to grab the treat or claw at your hand, raise your hand a little higher so that the gap between the treat and their head increases, encouraging them to sit instead of reaching out.

Why is it important to never let the treat go if your cat claws at your hand?

Letting go of the treat when your cat claws at your hand teaches them that hurting you will get them the treat. This would reinforce negative behavior, so it's crucial to only reward them when they sit.

When should you start using the word 'sit' during training?

Once your cat consistently reacts to the hand gesture, you can begin pairing the word 'sit' with the hand gesture. This helps your cat associate the verbal command with the action.

What is the role of the clicker in training?

The clicker is used to mark the moment your cat performs the desired action, such as sitting. It helps your cat understand exactly which behavior is being rewarded.

What common mistakes should people avoid when teaching a cat to sit?

Common mistakes include not using a clicker or treat effectively, not understanding the cat's body language (like when they turn around or get nervous), and letting the cat claw at your hand. It's important to be consistent and patient.