Cats Respond Best to Reward-Based
Training
When cats misbehave, direct punishment from the owner is usually not effective.
Cats often associate punishment with the person who administered it or with the location
that the misdeed occurred, rather than with the behavior itself. Positive reinforcement for
correct behaviors, prevention of undesirable behaviors, and (if necessary), environmental or
remote forms of punishment are much more effective at eliminating unwanted behaviors in
cats. To establish good “house habits” in your kitten, reward desirable behaviors and set up
her environment so that she can be successful. An added benefit to reward-based training is
that it is fun for you both and enhances the positive bond that you have with your cat!
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