30 Tricks To Teach Your Cat

The benefits of cat training are vast. "Training provides mental and physical stimulation as well as positive social contact," Jones says. "Just the act of training in and of itself is incredibly valuable for frustrated, bored, shy, and fearful cats."

Before you start your cat training endeavor, walk a minute in her paws. Unlike dogs who relate to their family like toddler-aged children, according to behaviorist Stanley Coren, PhD, DSc, FRSC, cats are more like teenagers. While dogs will cooperate for a few kind words, cats are motivated on a pay-to-play basis. Dismissive of our gushy excitement, cats will participate in training games only if the rewards are worthwhile.