How to Train Cats to Carry Items in Their Mouths
Training your beloved cat to carry items can make it fetch things you throw like a dog, which is very fun. Start by putting a collar and leash on the cat to control its behavior. First, hold a small plush toy or other item your cat likes to play with, and say to the cat: “Bite.” If the cat doesn’t bite, gently open the cat’s mouth and forcibly put the toy inside. As long as the toy is not too large, the cat will generally carry the toy in its mouth, at which point you can immediately reward the cat with some food. At the same time, you can use this method to train the cat to understand the “release” command. Whether the cat performs the biting or releasing action correctly, reward it with food and gently stroke its back to reinforce the training. Once the cat has mastered the “bite” and “release” commands proficiently, you can start playing games with it. Throw the small toy in front of the cat, then point to the toy while calling “Bite.” If the cat doesn’t understand at first, you can lead the cat to the toy on the leash and call “Bite.” After the cat carries the toy, immediately back away a few steps and call the cat to come. When the cat comes carrying the toy, say “Release.” Since the cat already understands the “release” command, it will usually obediently drop the item it’s carrying. After achieving this, immediately reward the cat with food and stroke it. After repeating the training for 2–3 weeks, the cat will be able to fetch the item based on commands. After successful training, you can remove the collar and leash. (Source:PetsZone)