Kitten Training
A Quick Guide To Kitten Training
The first step of kitten training for most people will have to do with the litter box, and this needs not be a very stressful lesson for either of you. Cats instinctually want to defecate in private places, and they want to bury their waste. Litter is a perfect element for the cat to learn by, and you will often find that your kitten will paw excessively at the grain, or even play in it. This is ok, as long as he takes care of business as well. To begin kitten training for the litter box, you will want to carry him to it after each meal, drink, nap, or any time that you see him creeping slowly around corners. These are his most likely times for relieving himself, so pay close attention to these signs.
Place him gently into the clean box and then step away a bit, as some cats are extremely private. If he leaves the box without doing any business, you may place him back in it to reiterate what it’s for. Watch him closely if he exits again, as you will want to make a quick save if he tries to relieve himself anywhere else. Scoop him up quickly and gently, placing him back into the box. Getting him use the box the first time may be your most difficult kitten training experience, but once he has managed this obstacle he will more than likely insist on the box. Scratching and burying is fun business for a kitten.
The play of a kitten is designed to teach and exercise his natural predatory skills. This is made evident by the way that he chases, stalks, pounces, bites, and just plain has a ball at being a kitten. Training is important during this stage, however, as he should never be permitted to sink his claws or teeth into a human. Let’s face it, we can be his very favorite play prey, and he loves for us to get right down with him and wiggle things. He is, after all, a cat, and moving things drive him wild with delight. Rather than using your hands, feet, or clothing as a target for his agility paces, begin kitten training with a designated toy or two. Dangle things on strings from doorknobs if you haven’t the money for fancy feline fun things, as this will bring him hours of sheer amusement and exercise.
There are many amongst us who feel that kitten training is either impossible or unimportant, but please believe that cats are not nearly as detached during their youth stages as they can be during adulthood. Positive reinforcement for every good action, and quick redirection for each undesirable act will be of great benefit to both you and your darling feline friend.