How to Train Your Cat to Come When Called

How to Train Your Cat to Come When Called: Cats often get labeled as independent or untrainable, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. While they might not be as eager to please as dogs, cats are highly intelligent and capable of learning commands including coming when called.

Teaching your cat this command isn’t just a party trick; it can improve your bond and, more importantly, help keep your cat safe in emergencies.

This guide will walk you through the psychology behind cat training, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to train your cat to come when called with patience, consistency, and plenty of rewards.

Why Train Your Cat to Come When Called?

Teaching your cat to come on command is not just convenient—it can be life-saving.

Benefits include:

• Safety: Helps you bring your cat indoors before dark or during emergencies.
• Bonding: Reinforces positive interactions between you and your cat.
• Convenience: Makes routine tasks like grooming, vet visits, or feeding more manageable.
• Mental stimulation: Keeps your cat’s brain engaged and happy.

And yes, any cat whether kitten or senior, shy or bold can learn with the right approach.

Understanding Feline Behavior

Before you start training, it’s helpful to understand how cats think.

• Cats respond to motivation, not commands. You need to make the reward worth their effort.
• Timing is everything. Reinforce behavior within seconds to build an association.
• Cats prefer short sessions. Unlike dogs, they’ll lose interest fast—so keep it brief and upbeat.

With this in mind, you’ll be better prepared to shape behavior in a way that feels natural to your cat.

Step-by-Step Guide: Training Your Cat to Come When Called

Step 1: Choose a Cue

Pick a consistent cue that your cat will associate with coming to you. This could be:

• Their name
• A unique word or sound (e.g., “here kitty!”)
• A whistle or clicker
• A specific sound like shaking a treat bag

Pro Tip: Avoid using the cue in negative situations (e.g., vet trips) at first, so it always has a positive meaning.

Step 2: Pick a High-Value Reward

Cats don’t work for praise—they work for food, toys, or activities they enjoy. Choose a high-value treat that your cat doesn’t get often, like:

• Freeze-dried chicken
• Tuna flakes
• Special crunchy treats
• Churu lickable treats

Keep portions small—you want repetition without filling them up.

Step 3: Start in a Quiet, Controlled Space

Begin in a calm, distraction-free room. Let your cat roam naturally, then:

1. Say your chosen cue (e.g., “Milo, come!”).
2. Immediately offer a treat or shake the treat bag.
3. When your cat approaches, reward instantly.
4. Add gentle praise or affection if your cat enjoys it.

Repeat 5–10 times per session.

Step 4: Repeat and Reinforce

Practice once or twice a day in short bursts. Once your cat consistently responds in one room:

• Try from farther distances.
• Move to new rooms or levels of the home.
• Introduce low-level distractions.

Consistency matters. Always use the same cue and always reward when they come—at least during the learning phase.

Step 5: Fade the Treats Slowly

Once your cat is responding reliably:

• Begin rewarding every other time, then randomly.
• Replace treats with praise, play, or petting—if they value it.

But don’t phase out rewards too quickly. A strong behavior takes time to become reliable.

Step 6: Train in Real-Life Scenarios

Once the behavior is strong indoors, use it in practical settings:

• Call them at feeding time.
• Call them from another room when you get home.
• Use it before outings or bedtime.

Gradual exposure to real-life cues helps solidify the behavior as a habit.

READ ALSO: Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Coat Shiny and Healthy

Tips for Success

1. Use Your Cat’s Name Positively

Say their name in a warm, upbeat tone. Don’t use it when you’re upset—your cat will start to associate it with negativity.

2. Keep Sessions Short and Sweet

Cats have limited attention spans. Keep training to 5–10 minutes max.

3. Don’t Chase or Punish

Never chase your cat to force them to come. It creates fear and erodes trust. Instead, walk away or wait patiently until they respond.

4. Use Body Language

Kneel down, extend your hand, or sit at their level. Cats respond better to relaxed, non-threatening gestures.

5. Make Yourself Appealing

If your cat doesn’t come, use enticing sounds like kissing noises, clicks, or soft coos. You can also wiggle a toy or shake a treat jar.

Troubleshooting: Why Isn’t My Cat Responding?

They’re Not Hungry

Cats respond better when they’re slightly hungry. Train before meals rather than after.

The Reward Isn’t High Enough

Try a more tempting treat. Every cat has preferences—some love tuna, others go crazy for freeze-dried liver.

Too Many Distractions

Move to a quieter environment and gradually add distractions as your cat improves.

They’re Stressed or Overstimulated

Training won’t work when your cat is agitated, scared, or tired. Always train when your cat is relaxed and alert.

Bonus: Using a Clicker

Clicker training can accelerate progress. The click sound marks the exact moment your cat performs the desired behavior.

How to use it:

• Click the device the moment your cat begins to walk toward you.
• Immediately follow with a treat.
• Repeat consistently.

Eventually, the click itself becomes a positive reinforcement cue, boosting learning speed.

Special Note: Outdoor Cats or Cats with Hearing Loss

If your cat goes outside (though indoor life is safest), training them to come can be even more crucial.

• Use louder sounds like bells or a special whistle.
• For deaf cats, use visual cues like flashing porch lights or hand signals.
• For outdoor training, practice in a secure enclosed space first.

FAQs

Can all cats learn this command?

Yes, most cats can learn to come when called, regardless of age or breed. Some may take longer depending on personality or past experiences.

How long does it take to train a cat to come when called?

With daily practice, many cats learn within a few weeks. Some may take longer if they’re shy, stubborn, or easily distracted.

What if my cat ignores me completely?

Try training when your cat is hungry, use higher-value treats, or test a new cue sound. You may need to go back a few steps and simplify the training environment.

Should I use their name as the cue?

You can but make sure the name is always used positively. Alternatively, use a unique word or sound for more clarity.

Can I train multiple cats at once?

Yes, but start individually so each cat understands the command. Once each cat responds reliably, try group sessions with separate cues or names.

Can kittens be trained?

Definitely. Kittens often learn faster than adult cats because they’re more curious and eager to engage with their humans.

What if my cat only comes for food and then ignores me?

That’s a good start! Gradually introduce other rewards like petting or play to make the interaction more versatile and meaningful.