Clicker Training a Cat: A Beginner's Guide to Tricks and Good Manners

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Clicker training is a positive method used with dolphins, dogs and, yes, cats. A small box that makes a click is paired with treats, so that the sound tells the cat precisely when it has done the right thing. It is an enjoyable way to teach new skills, burn energy and bond.

Why train a cat?

• Mental enrichment. Training gives intelligent cats a job. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
• Confidence. Shy cats gain confidence from success.
• Behavior management. Teach cats to use scratching posts, go into carriers and stay off counters.
• Easier care. Cats can learn to accept nail trims, brushing and medication. See how to trim cat nails and how to give a cat a pill.
• Bonding. Shared activities build trust.

How clicker training works

The click is a marker. It tells the cat, that exact action earned a reward. A treat follows immediately. Because the click is quick and consistent, it communicates better than words, which come late and vary.

What you need

• A clicker, or a marker word such as yes
• Tiny, soft, tasty treats. See healthy cat treats.
• A quiet space
• A target stick, such as a chopstick or a pen, optional
• Short sessions

Count treats toward daily calories. See how much should I feed my cat.

Step 1: Charge the clicker

Click and give a treat immediately, ten to fifteen times. Do not ask for anything. The cat learns that click means treat. If the clicker is too loud, muffle it in a pocket, or use a soft click, or a word.

Step 2: Teach targeting

Targeting is touching a stick or finger with the nose. It is useful for moving a cat around.

1. Present the target, and wait.
2. Click when the cat sniffs it, and treat.
3. Repeat, then wait for a firmer touch.
4. Move the target a little and repeat.

Step 3: Teach sit

1. Hold a treat above the cat's head, so that it looks up and sits.
2. Click the moment the bottom touches the floor, and treat.
3. Repeat, then add a cue word, such as sit, as the cat starts to sit.
4. Fade the lure.

Step 4: Teach high five

1. Hold your hand near the cat's paw.
2. Click when it lifts or touches your hand, and treat.
3. Gradually require a firmer touch, and add a cue.

Other ideas

• Come when called. See how to train a cat to come when called.
• Spin, jump on a perch or touch a target
• Go into the carrier on cue. See carrier training a cat.
• Stay on a mat
• Accept the harness. See harness training a cat.

Tips for success

• Keep it short. Three to five minutes, a few times a day.
• Click at the right moment. Timing matters.
• Reward quickly. Treat within a second of the click.
• Raise criteria slowly. Ask for a little more each time.
• End on success.
• Stay calm. Do not scold.
• Train when hungry, but not starving.

Troubleshooting

The cat is not interested. Try tastier treats, a different time or a quieter room.

The cat is scared of the click. Muffle it, or use a verbal marker.

The cat gets frustrated. Go back a step and make it easier.

The cat loses interest. End the session, and try again later.

Safety and wellbeing

If your cat shows stress signs, such as flattened ears or tail lashing, stop. See cat tail language and cat ear positions. Avoid training cats that are ill. If your cat seems unwell, contact your vet. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

How long to train, and when to stop

Many cats are ready to learn within a few days, but progress varies. Plan on a handful of short sessions per day, and stop before the cat gets bored. If your cat walks away, let it, and try again later. Training should always be voluntary. Over several weeks, you can build chains of behaviors and teach more complex tricks.

Choosing rewards

Not all cats respond to the same treats. Try freeze-dried meat, tiny pieces of cooked chicken or a lick of wet food. Some cats prefer play with a favorite wand toy as a reward. See healthy cat treats. Keep treat pieces very small so that you can do many repetitions without overfeeding.

Training in multi-cat homes

Train each cat separately, in a quiet room, so no cat steals the rewards or feels pressure. Later, you can practice with more than one cat present, rewarding each for calm behavior.

Using training to reduce stress

Cats that are trained to touch a target or step into a carrier often cope better at the vet. See cat vet visit costs for planning, and carrier training a cat.

Kittens and seniors

Kittens learn fast and enjoy short sessions. See how to play with a kitten. Older cats can learn too, using soft treats and gentle sessions. See the senior cat care guide.