06/16/2026
As a Dog Trainer with cats, have I trained them?
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Yes and no! I havenāt trained them any tricksā¦yet, I want to one day but for now we usually just play and cuddle when we spend time together.
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However I have trained them some important life skills!
ā¢Kennel Training- All three of my cats are kennel trained. They have 24/7 accessās to their kennel so itās a familiar, safe and comfortable space for them. I also feed them in their kennel to create a positive association with the kennel. This makes car rides and vet visits less stressful!
ā¢Handling- From the day I got Reba and the day the kittens were born I taught them they could not scratch and fight to get out of my arms. While I always do my best to respect them and I donāt pick them up if they donāt want to be held/let them down when they are ready to get down- I didnāt want them to a scratch and freak out when they donāt want to be held so I never allowed that behavior.
ā¢Grooming- with similar methods used above, I taught them all to be polite for nail trims and dander wipes. These arenāt their favorite things in the world but they know to be patient and not fight it and that they are rewards with treats throughout the process.
ā¢Coming when called - they arenāt PERFECT with this but for the most part they come when called. This is important for safety and the logistics of my household. I need them to go into their room when called so I can work client dogs and teach lessons.
ā¢Threshold manners at the door- admittedly Iāve slacked on this one a bit.ā¦but weāll tidy it up. I had taught them not to exit their room without a release word. Again just for safety with client dogs in the house.
ā¢Finally, they know (and usually listen) to a āno thank youā cue which is used for when they are getting into things they shouldnāt be or chasing trouble!
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So while one day I do hope to teach them some fun tricks, Iād say they are pretty well ātrainedā for the most part!
