Q&A for How to Teach Your Cat to Do Tricks

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  • Question
    How do you teach your cat to kiss you?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    A super-neat way to teach a cat to 'kiss' you is to put something tasty on your cheek. Then when the cat licks it off, add a cue word such as 'Kiss' to put the action on command.
  • Question
    How do I teach my cat to high five?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Teach the cat to tap your hand with a paw. Try holding a tasty treat inside your fist and, when the cat taps your hand to investigate, give the 'High five' cue and reward them with the treat.
  • Question
    Is it easy to teach a cat tricks?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Cats don't do anything they don't want to, so the key to teaching tricks is great motivation. Find the cat's 'must have treat' and you're halfway there.
  • Question
    Can you teach an old cat tricks?
    Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
    Veterinarian
    Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Absolutely, yes, you can. But it does take patience, and make sure you work within the cat's physical abilities. For example, don't expect an old cat to do athletic jumps.
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