How to Train Your Cat to Actually Listen to You (Yes, It’s Possible!)

Let’s be honest: the idea of training a cat might make you chuckle. Cats have a reputation for doing whatever they please—knocking over your favorite mug, ignoring your calls, or staring at you like you’re the one who needs training. But here’s the good news: cats can listen, and with the right approach, you can teach them to respond to you in ways that feel almost miraculous. I’ve spent years with my own feline overlords (yes, plural—I’m that person), and I’ve learned a thing or two about turning their aloofness into attentiveness. Spoiler: it’s less about bending their will and more about tapping into what makes them tick.

This isn’t just my personal crusade, either. Science backs this up—studies show cats are far more trainable than their stubborn stereotype suggests. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a catnip toy, your call), and let’s dive into how you can train your cat to actually listen to you. It’s possible, it’s rewarding, and it might just deepen the bond you share with your whiskered companion.

Why Cats Can (and Want to) Learn

First, let’s bust a myth: cats aren’t untrainable—they’re just wired differently than dogs. A 2019 study from the University of Sussex found that cats form secure attachments to their owners, much like dogs do, responding to cues like tone of voice and even recognizing their names (Mills et al., 2019). You can check out the full study here, still accessible as of early 2025. Another gem from Oregon State University in 2021 showed that cats prefer human interaction over food when they’re bonded with their people—yes, you read that right (Vitale et al., 2021). That study’s still live here.

What does this mean for you? Your cat isn’t ignoring you out of spite (usually). They’re just choosy about what motivates them. The trick is figuring out their currency—treats, play, or a good chin scratch—and using it to your advantage.

Step 1: Start with the Basics—Their Name

If your cat doesn’t perk up when you call their name, don’t take it personally. They might know it but not see the point in responding. Here’s how to change that:

• Pick a clear, consistent cue. Use their name in a cheerful, upbeat tone—cats respond better to higher-pitched voices, according to a 2017 study from the University of Tokyo (Saito et al., 2017). Still available here.
• Pair it with a reward. Every time you say their name and they look at you, offer a treat or a quick pet. I use tiny bits of chicken with my cat, Luna—she’s a sucker for it.
• Keep it short. Cats have the attention span of, well, a cat. Five-minute sessions once or twice a day work wonders.

Within a week or two, you’ll likely see them turn their head when you call. It’s a small win, but it’s the foundation for everything else.

Step 2: Master the Art of Positive Reinforcement

Cats don’t respond to punishment—yelling or spraying water just makes them distrust you. Instead, lean into positive reinforcement. Here’s a simple breakdown:

A 2020 study in Animals confirmed that cats trained with rewards like food or play were more likely to repeat behaviors than those exposed to negative methods (Turner, 2020). You can still read it here. My tip? Find what your cat goes nuts for. My tabby, Milo, will do backflips for a feather wand—Luna’s all about the treats.

Step 3: Teach Commands They’ll Actually Follow

Now that you’ve got their attention, let’s teach some practical commands. Here are three to start with:

1. “Come”

• How: Say their name followed by “come” in that happy tone. Lure them with a treat or toy if needed.
• Pro tip: Start close—two feet away—then gradually increase the distance. I trained Luna to come from across the house in about a month.
• Why: Great for getting them off counters or back inside.

2. “Sit”

• How: Hold a treat above their head so they naturally sit to look up. Say “sit” as their butt hits the ground, then reward.
• Pro tip: Be patient—some cats take longer to connect the dots.
• Why: Handy for calming them down or prepping for vet visits.

3. “High Five”

• How: Tap their paw gently with a treat in your other hand. When they lift it, say “high five” and reward.
• Pro tip: This one’s just for fun—cats love showing off once they get it.
• Why: It’s a crowd-pleaser and builds confidence.

Step 4: Tackle the Tough Stuff—Ignoring Bad Behavior

Training isn’t just about teaching tricks; it’s about curbing the chaos. Cats jumping on counters or scratching furniture? Here’s the game plan:

• Redirect, don’t scold. If they’re on the counter, calmly move them to a cat tree and reward them there. Consistency is key.
• Make “no” zones unappealing. Double-sided tape on counters or citrus scents (cats hate them) can deter without drama.
• Reward the alternative. Scratching the couch? Guide them to a post and treat them when they use it.

A 2018 study from the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that redirecting unwanted behaviors with positive alternatives was more effective than punishment for long-term change (Herron et al., 2018). Still up here.

Tools to Make It Easier

You don’t need much, but a few goodies can smooth the process:

I swear by a clicker—it’s like a secret weapon. Click when they do the right thing, then reward. Cats catch on fast.

Patience Is Your Superpower

Here’s the real talk: training a cat takes time. Some days, Luna stares at me like I’m speaking Martian, and Milo only listens when he’s in the mood. But stick with it. The University of Sussex study I mentioned earlier found that cats’ responsiveness improves with consistent, positive interaction over weeks—not days. Celebrate the tiny victories—like the first time they come running when you call. It’s worth it.

The Payoff: A Cat Who Listens (and Loves You More)

Training your cat isn’t just about obedience—it’s about connection. When Milo started high-fiving me, I felt like we’d cracked some secret code. Luna’s “come” command means I can call her in from the porch without a chase. These aren’t just tricks; they’re proof that your cat wants to engage with you. Studies like Vitale’s show that trained cats often seek more human interaction, strengthening that bond.

So, yes, it’s possible to train your cat to listen. It takes patience, a few treats, and a willingness to meet them halfway. But when you see those ears perk up at your voice—or that paw lift for a high five—you’ll know it’s more than worth it. Now, go grab that feather wand and get started. Your cat’s ready to surprise you.

References

• Mills, D. S., et al. (2019). “Cats form attachments to their owners.” Current Biology. Link.
• Vitale, K. R., et al. (2021). “Cat-human social bonds and preference for interaction.” Behavioural Processes. Link.
• Saito, A., et al. (2017). “Vocal recognition of owners by domestic cats.” Scientific Reports. Link.
• Turner, D. C. (2020). “Positive reinforcement in cat training.” Animals. Link.
• Herron, M. E., et al. (2018). “Behavioral modification in cats.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior. Link.