How to Teach Your Cat to Sit

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   Step 1: Find a motivating reward

   Choose a small, soft treat or a lick of a favourite paste. Train before meals when your cat is a little hungry and interested.

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   Step 2: Use a lure

   Hold the treat just above your cat's nose and slowly move it back over their head. Many cats sit naturally as they look up. The moment their bottom touches down, mark and reward.

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   Step 3: Use a marker

   A clicker or short word such as yes helps your cat know exactly what earned the reward. Use the same marker every time.

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   Step 4: Fade the lure

   After several successes, use the same hand movement without a treat in it, then reward from your other hand. Gradually make the gesture smaller.

   Good to know: Keep sessions to two or three minutes and end on a success.

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   Step 5: Add a cue word

   Say sit just before the hand signal. Over time your cat will respond to the word alone.

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   Step 6: Practise in different places

   Ask for sit in different rooms and before meals. Training is mental exercise and builds your bond.

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