Cats are intelligent, resourceful, and fun to have as companions in our lives. Cats are always learning; they observe their environment and the behaviors of living beings around them. These observations allow them to develop as individuals. Since cats are predators, interactive play that stimulates this natural behavior is essential for their wellbeing.
When cats engage in a desirable behavior that is positively reinforced, chances are high they will continue this behavior in order to receive their positive reward. For example, if a cat gets praised and petted appropriately after using a new scratching post, they will learn it is “good” and will continue to do use it. This is Positive Reinforcement, and it is the best way for caregivers to interact with cats to develop a healthy relationship and a happy life for their cats.
When a cat’s behavior results in a negative interaction, they will try to avoid all stimuli associated with this interaction. A good example is a cat’s negative reactions to being placed into a carrier. If a cat is chased around the house, forced into a carrier, and is fearful during this interaction, they will hide and become even more fearful whenever they see the carrier in the future. When a cat is fearful, they will not be able to learn, and the relationship between the person and the cat will diminish. This is why punishing a cat, such as by using a loud noise when a cat is meowing, or a squirt bottle with water when a cat is on the counter, is not recommended, and it is actually counterproductive. Chasing the cat and forcing them into a carrier will lead to a fearful-anxious response, which will escalate into further avoidance behavior.
Instructions for Use
This Educational Toolkit is intended to be an implementation tool for veterinary professionals to access and gather information quickly. It is not intended as a complete review of the various techniques that help support positive reinforcement training.
To use the Toolkit, click the tabs at the top in the navigation bar to access each page and read more information about each area, including How Cats Learn, Setting Up the Environment for Success, Positive Reinforcement Techniques to Prevent Unwanted Behaviors, Training Techniques for Addressing Undesirable Behaviors, Client Education, and Client Resources. Each page also has an associated printable PDF that you can use in your practice. Additionally, a link to a printable version of the entire Toolkit, which contains information from each page, is included in the left sidebar.
Acknowledgments
The FelineVMA would like to thank our Task Force for their hard work in developing this Educational Toolkit.