How to Train Your Cat to Sit

Does your cat have a much-enjoyed soft treat? Save that tasty morsel for training sessions and watch how your cat attempts to learn as a way to get the reward.

Take the treat and spread it on a stick, such as a smooth tongue depressor (make sure there are no splinters in the item you use). Since this treat is saved for training sessions, extra special, very once-in-a-while treats can be used. Think meat-flavored baby food or cream cheese.

This method is often used to train dogs as well. Raise the treat-covered stick like a lure. Show your cat the lure, raise it up, and watch their eyes follow the lure.

Once your cat’s head is fully raised, their hind end should automatically sit. If it does not, gently guide it down. Say “sit” and let your cat lick the lure.

It’s fun to add a hand signal along with the verbal cue to “sit”. Eventually, you can impress your friends with a cat that sits when the hand signal is given!

When your cat attempts to give you a high five, it will be most comfortable for them to sit at the same time. Combine both training tasks to make for an impressive sit. In this case, though, you’ll want to differentiate the command with a verbal “sit for high five”.

Hold your palm in front of your hand. Being curious, your cat will most likely sit before they sniff your hand. You may have to work at this and verbalize what you are hoping to achieve.

Touch a high-value treat to your palm and wait for them to sniff. As you see your cat making a move to sit and sniff, give the verbal cue “sit for high five”, tapping your hand again.

Keep your palm facing the cat and encourage them to touch your hand. You can help your cat lift their paw if necessary. When your cat’s paw touches your palm, reward with the treat. Practice will make perfect!

This method involves being ready to train when your cat is likely to sit on their own. When they do, you mark the action with the clicker.

The idea is to give a treat and marking the sit with the clicker. Look for your cat’s favorite places to sit. They could be a secure window ledge or on the floor in front of a screened door.

When your cat is about to sit, give the verbal cue “sit”. This will take some practice and observation on your part to be aware of the signals your cat gives that they are about to sit. Keep practicing and giving your cat the cue as they move to sit.

Once you think that your cat is learning, give the command to “sit” when your cat is standing. When your clever kitty responds, reward them right away. Remember your cat is an independent creature and will do best with consistent practice. And, of course, reward training sessions with playtime afterward!