15 Amazing Cat Tricks That Will Make Your Friends Jealous of Your Cat

Cats with their mysterious, independent nature and aloof behavior do not seem to qualify as prime candidates for training and there is a strong misconception that it is impossible to train a cat due to the reasons stated above. However, in our experience and opinion, this is simply not true. Cats can be just as trainable as dogs when it comes to learning tricks.

There was a study conducted by the University of Tokyo and it found that not only cats can recognize human gestures but can even recognize their names which make them way more perceptive than we give them credit for. If you are one of those people who are amazed at other cats performing adorable and amazing tricks with their owners and wonder if your cat would ever be able to do such wonder. Worry not, we have gathered 15 easy-to-teach tricks and have provided step by step guide on how to train your cat to learn those tricks. Let’s take a look at them.

15 Easy Tricks To Teach Your Cat

Teaching your cat tricks can be a delightful and rewarding experience for both you and your feline friend. Here are 15 fun and fairly easy tricks to get you started:

Sit Pretty:

Teaching your cat to “Sit Pretty” is not only adorable but also a fairly easy trick that strengthens your bond. Here’s how to do it:

• • Begin in a quiet and comfortable space. Make sure your cat is calm and relaxed before starting the training.

• • Hold a treat close to your cat’s nose to grab their attention. Use a treat they really like to make it more enticing.

• • As your cat reaches upward, gently guide them into a sitting position on their hind legs. It’s like they’re sitting pretty!

• • The moment your cat achieves the “Sit Pretty” pose, reward them with the treat and offer lots of praise. Positive reinforcement is key!

• • Practice the trick in short sessions, gradually extending the time your cat holds the pose. Be patient and encouraging throughout.

High Five:

Teaching your cat to give you a “High Five” is not only fun but also a great way to strengthen your bond. Let’s break it down into simple steps:

• • Start in a quiet and cozy spot where your cat feels comfortable. Use a tasty treat to grab their attention.

• • Extend your hand towards your cat’s paw. You can gently tap their paw to encourage them to lift it.

• • When your cat raises their paw, even a tiny bit, celebrate it as a high-five moment. Positive reinforcement is the key here!

• • As soon as your cat offers their paw for a high-five, reward them with a treat. This helps them associate the action with something positive.

• • Shower your cat with praise each time they do a high-five. Repeat the process in short, joyful sessions to reinforce the trick.

Spin Around:

Teaching your cat to spin around is a delightful trick that adds a touch of flair to their repertoire. Let’s keep it simple:

• • Hold a treat close to your cat’s nose to pique their interest. Use a treat they love to make it enticing.

• • Slowly move the treat in a circular motion, guiding your cat to follow it. This encourages them to spin around.

• • When your cat completes the spin, celebrate the moment and offer them the treat. Positive reinforcement is the magic here, too!

• • As your cat gets the hang of it, try reducing your guidance. Let them spin with less assistance, building their confidence.

• • Practice the spin in short sessions, allowing your cat to enjoy the process. It’s about fun and positive experiences.

Shake Hands:

Teaching your cat to “Shake Hands” is a delightful trick that adds a touch of charm to your cat’s repertoire. Let’s break it down into simple steps:

• • Start the training in a cozy and quiet space where your cat feels at ease. A relaxed setting makes learning more enjoyable.

• • Use a tasty treat to grab your cat’s attention. Choose a treat they really like to make it enticing for them.

• • Extend your hand toward your cat’s paw. You can gently lift their paw to encourage them to shake hands.

• • When your cat offers its paw, even if it’s a small movement, celebrate it as a shaking hands moment. Positive reinforcement is the secret here!

• • As soon as your cat shakes hands, reward them with a treat. This helps them associate the action with something positive and tasty.

Fetch:

Teaching your cat to play fetch is not just for dogs—it’s a fun game your cat can enjoy, too! Let’s keep it simple:

• • Pick a small, lightweight toy that your cat enjoys. It could be a softball or a small plush toy.

• • Get your cat interested in the toy by gently rolling it in front of them. Let them bat at it and explore.

• • When your cat shows interest in the toy, gently toss it a short distance. Encourage them to bring it back to you using positive reinforcement.

• • Enjoy the game of fetch in short, playful sessions. Cats might not always bring the toy back immediately, so be patient and have fun.

Roll Over:

Teaching your cat to “Roll Over” is not only cute but also a fun trick that showcases their agility. Let’s make it simple and enjoyable:

• • Begin the training in a calm and comfortable environment. Choose a time when your cat is relaxed and ready for some fun.

• • Use a treat to capture your cat’s attention. Opt for a treat that they find irresistible to make the training enticing.

• • Gently guide your cat to roll over by moving the treat in a circular motion. The idea is to encourage them to roll onto their side.

• • When your cat successfully rolls over, celebrate the moment with praise and offer them the treat. Positive reinforcement is the key to their success.

• • Practice the roll-over trick in short sessions, gradually extending the time your cat holds the position. Consistency and patience are crucial.

Hide and Seek:

Playing “Hide and Seek” with your cat is not only entertaining but also a great way to bond. Let’s keep it light and fun:

• • Select a time when your cat is in a playful mood. This could be after a nap or during their active hours.

• • Pick a hiding spot behind furniture or a door. Make sure it’s a spot where your cat can easily discover you.

• • Once you’re hidden, encourage your cat to find you by calling their name or making playful sounds. Cats love a good mystery!

• • When your cat discovers you, celebrate the moment with joy and maybe a treat. Positive experiences make the game more enjoyable for them.

• • Play hide and seek in short sessions, allowing your cat to enjoy the excitement of the game. Keep it lighthearted and full of positive energy.

Speak on Command:

Teaching your cat to “Speak on Command” is a fun way to interact with them. Let’s make it simple and enjoyable for both of you:

• • Start in a quiet space where your cat feels at ease. A calm setting makes it easier for them to focus on the training.

• • Pick a command like “speak” and use it consistently during training. Your cat will associate this command with making a sound.

• • Use a sound or action that typically triggers your cat to meow. It could be their favorite toy or a familiar noise.

• • When your cat makes a sound in response to the “speak” command, celebrate the moment and reward them with a treat. Positive reinforcement is key!

• • Practice the command in short sessions, ensuring consistency. Over time, your cat will associate the command with vocalization.

Kiss:

Encouraging your cat to give you a “Kiss” is an adorable trick that enhances your bond. Let’s keep it sweet and simple:

• • Choose a time when your cat is calm and relaxed. Bonding moments like these are perfect for training.

• • Hold a treat close to your face, near your cheek or lips. Make sure it’s a treat your cat loves.

• • Your cat may naturally investigate the treat, giving you a gentle “kiss” in the process. Celebrate this interaction.

• • When your cat makes contact with the treat, reward them with praise and an extra treat. Positive reinforcement strengthens the bond.

• • Repeat the process during short, affectionate sessions. This trick is about fostering a loving connection between you and your furry friend.

Play Dead:

Teaching your cat to “Play Dead” is not only amusing but also a cute trick that showcases their agility. Let’s make it simple and enjoyable:

• • Begin the training in a calm and comfortable space. Your cat will respond better when they feel at ease.

• • Begin by commanding your cat to lie down. Use a familiar cue or gesture to encourage them to rest on their side.

• • Gently guide your cat into a position where they are lying on their side. It’s about creating a playful “play dead” pose.

• • When your cat successfully holds the pose, celebrate the moment with praise and offer them a tasty treat. Positive reinforcement is key!

• • Practice the “play dead” trick in short, joyful sessions. Consistency and positive experiences make the training enjoyable for your cat.

Balance on Hind Legs:

Encouraging your cat to “Balance on Hind Legs” is a charming trick that adds a touch of flair to their repertoire. Let’s keep it simple and fun:

• • Choose a comfortable and safe environment for the training. A space where your cat feels secure is ideal.

• • Introduce a command like “stand” or “balance” to associate with the action. Consistency helps your cat understand what you’re asking.

• • Gently encourage your cat to lift their front paws and balance on their hind legs. Reward them for their effort and progress.

• • Gradually extend the time your cat can balance on their hind legs. Reward with treats and praise to make it a positive experience.

• • Keep the training sessions short and enjoyable. Cats respond better to playful interactions, and keeping it fun ensures they stay engaged.

Cup Game:

Playing the “Cup Game” with your cat is not only entertaining but also a great mental exercise. Let’s make it engaging and rewarding:

• • Pick a time when your cat is alert and in a playful mood. This enhances their interest in the game.

• • Place three cups in a row, with a treat hidden under one of them. Shuffle the cups to mix up the positions.

• • Encourage your cat to find the treat by sniffing and pawing at the cups. Use an excited tone to engage them.

• • When your cat discovers the treat under the correct cup, celebrate their success with praise and an extra treat. Positive reinforcement is key!

• • Play the cup game in short sessions, allowing your cat to enjoy the challenge. It’s a playful way to stimulate their mind and have fun together.

Jump Through a Hoop:

Teaching your cat to “Jump Through a Hoop” is an impressive trick that showcases their agility. Let’s keep it simple and enjoyable:

• • Begin the training in a quiet and spacious area. Make sure there’s enough room for your cat to move comfortably.

• • Show your cat the hoop and let them investigate it. Familiarizing them with the hoop builds curiosity.

• • Start with the hoop on the ground and gradually raise it a bit higher each time. Encourage your cat to step through, rewarding their effort.

• • Celebrate the successful jumps with praise and treats. Positive reinforcement creates a positive association with the hoop.

• • Keep the training sessions short and playful. Cats enjoy the challenge more when it’s a fun, engaging experience.

Chase Your Tail:

Encouraging your cat to “Chase Your Tail” is a playful trick that mimics a natural behavior. Let’s make it entertaining and interactive:

• • Use a wand toy with a tail-like attachment. Gently move it in a circular motion to mimic the movement of a tail.

• • Encourage your cat to “chase” the tail by moving the wand toy in playful patterns. Make it unpredictable and exciting.

• • When your cat engages with the toy, celebrate their playful behavior. Positive reinforcement reinforces the fun aspect of the game.

• • Experiment with different movements to keep your cat entertained. Allow them to “catch” the tail occasionally for added enjoyment.

• • Engage in short play sessions with the tail wand toy. Playful interactions strengthen your bond and provide mental stimulation.

Open/Close Door:

Teaching your cat to “Open/Close the Door” is a practical and interactive trick. Let’s make it simple and rewarding:

• • Attach a string to the door handle, making sure it’s secure. The string provides a tactile point for your cat to interact with.

• • Use the string to guide your cat to pull or push the door gently. Encourage their natural curiosity to explore the door.

• • When your cat interacts with the door using the string, reward them with treats and praise. Positive reinforcement encourages further exploration.

• • Gradually allow your cat more independence in opening and closing the door. Celebrate each successful interaction.

• • Keep the training sessions short and enjoyable. Cats respond better to brief, positive interactions.

How to Train Your Cat Girl?

Whether your cat is a girl or a boy, the training principles remain the same. Focus on building a loving and trusting relationship through positive interactions, playtime, and mutual respect.

How to Train a Cat Not to Bite

Biting can be a common behavior, especially during play. Train your cat not to bite by using gentle redirection and positive reinforcement. Offer suitable toys for biting, and praise them when they use them appropriately.

Conclusion

An important consideration that you must take into account while going through the process of training your cat is that you have to match the learning speed of your cat. Try not to rush and learning those tricks might not come easy to your cat. Take the age factor into consideration as well as older cats have already established habits.

Be prepared for the repetition so your cat understands the vocal and visual cues with time. Try not to get frustrated. There is no harm in taking a break when you feel like your cat is getting irritated by your antics. It’s subjective to each cat what tricks come easy to them and what proved a bit too difficult. You may have to keep your patience for weeks on some while some may be done within hours. If you ever feel a little frustrated, remember that this hard work will eventually make you look like a very cool cat parent and can potentially make your cat a treat to watch.