Norwegian Forest Cat

We all know that cats are not as easily obedient as dogs. Cats have their own independent consciousness and may not be so obedient, but isn’t that part of their charm? Let's explore the reasons why cats are difficult to train.

Everyone knows that unlike dogs, cats do not accept strict obedience training. Cats are naturally aloof, clever, and practical. Historically, their ancestors lived a solitary life and knew well how to protect themselves. Moreover, cats have a strong sense of pride and it is hard to demand them to obey human will. Usually, cats only agree to be controlled when they find it beneficial to themselves. For example, when they are hungry or feel cold, they will make demands and obey certain commands. But you should understand that many times when a cat curls up in its owner's arms, it is a voluntary behavior, not obedience. When it rubs its head and body against the owner and emits gentle meows, it is simply because it is hungry, wants food, or has some demands that people cannot understand.

Of course, it is not that cats cannot be trained at all. Cats are very smart and can learn many actions and behaviors. If training starts from the kitten age of five to six months, some results can be achieved. For example, cats can be trained to open doors, stretch their paws, roll over, carry objects, and use a fixed place to relieve themselves. Kittens during this period are more dependent and have stronger plasticity, so training needs to be intensified to form habits. Otherwise, once cats mature at one year old and their personalities strengthen, they will no longer be willing to obey human training. (Source：PetsZone)