Kittens learn what is acceptable or unacceptable behavior through trial and error. If a particular behavioral action receives encouragement and/or a reward then it will be repeated. A learned behavior is very difficult to reverse once acquired by your feline companion. Thus we, as caregivers, should be sure that all acquired behaviors are acceptable ones. One thing to remember: never use physical or verbal abuse when attempting to train your cat. Redirect your cat’s attention as you would a child who was doing something inappropriate. Give them something else to play with or something else to watch.
A kitten’s critical time for learning acceptable behavior is from seven to fourteen weeks of age. This is an important time for kitten socialization and a perfect time for the caregiver to allow a kitten to learn in a safe environment. It is not the time to intentionally frighten, tease or in anyway mistreat a kitten. Thus a very young kitten is not an appropriate companion for a very young child. Both “children” are still learning what is acceptable and could accidentally cause long-term physical or emotional harm to the other. A kitten having a “bad experience” at this early age may grow up to be an adult that exhibits fear, aggression or other negative behaviors around children or adults.
Directing your kitten’s actions toward specific behaviors will also teach him or her how to appropriately behave around people. Learning how to play or how not to play will prevent play biting of fingers that will later turn into not so playful biting as your kitten becomes a cat. Safe, interactive toys, chasing games, hide and go seek in cardboard boxes or empty paper bags will teach acceptable social behaviors. Safe toys that allow a cat to push a ball through a circular path or move a play mouse into a hole teach dexterity skills as well as alleviate boredom. Cats are naturally inquisitive and if there is nothing to do, they will find something to do.
Cats are very intelligent and learn quickly and can be taught to do tricks. However, like the “old dog,” the earlier you start the better. Perhaps the most important thing you can do is to take time to interact with your cat. Sitting on your lap is a pleasurable experience for both of you, but teaching him or her to fetch can be equally rewarding as well as give both of you a little exercise. Try teaching your cat to sit, by holding a treat in front of the nose. As the nose goes up, gently push the hindquarters down and say, “sit.” If your pet sits, then a treat will be given each time as a reward along with words of encouragement. The same reward method may be used to teach your cat to come, shake hands or play fetch. Of course, just as with any training, the lessons… must be repeated to be learned.