Training your Siamese: three ideas to keep in mind

Siamese cat owners understand that their cats have a strong will. Stubborn is too soft a word for these cats. Although Siamese twins love people and are usually easy to be around them, they sometimes have habits that people may not want to live with.

Siamese are curious and active cats. They have long athletic lines, as well as the ability to jump well. They can easily navigate countertops or kitchen spaces that might be off limits. Because they tend to get aroused easily, they can also scratch inappropriate surfaces, like the formal sofa in the living room.

When you try to train your stubborn Siamese to give up these habits, you may be feeling frustrated. Pet owners often make certain mistakes when trying to train their pets. Siamese cats can be particularly frustrating. It helps to remember these three things

First, remember that your cat learns in the moment of action. After the cat has scratched the furniture or got off the counter, this is not the time to punish him. This is a problem with the squirt gun focus. The cat is almost done with the behavior before you, as the owner, can get there with the squirt gun. If you say no to a cat, they may listen and then do exactly what they want a moment later: the time for “no” has passed.

Second, be consistent. This can be difficult if your cat loves to be on the counters while you are at work or in another room. You may hear them and come running. However, the cat has learned that it just needs to not be caught. Remember the first thing, you need to train during the event.

Third, let your environment do the work. This is probably the most effective training method. Spray something the cat doesn’t like on the pretty couch to prevent scratching and make the scratching post highly available. Citrus scents work well as cats do not like this smell. Another idea is to place double-sided tape where the cat scratches itself. It can also be placed on countertops. Low water-filled gelatin trays along the counter can be helpful for a short retraining. This is actually more effective than the ratchets that are sold. Siamese twins are lightweight and can thwart their sensors.

The environment can be consistent in the application of punishment. It is always there when the cat performs the action. The environment is the perfect teacher. You can sit back and reward your cat with treats when he does the things you want him to do. You can enjoy the house the way you want your house, while enjoying the love of your Siamese cat.