Do you want to have a cute cat that will always be there for you when you need it? Then the thought of training your kitten to be a lap cat may have entered your mind! It may take a little time and patience, but with these tips, you’ll easily learn how to train a cat. In a matter of days, your kitten will be sitting in your lap comfortably!
So, what are you waiting for? Get started today!
1. Create a Secure Environment
A safe and secure environment helps a cat to guard down and relax. On the contrary, if your environment is stressful or chaotic, your cat won’t feel safe and can become vulnerable.
If yours is a multi-cat household, your kitten may not feel safe coming out of hiding and being visible on your lap. Evaluate the living conditions to ensure consistency, security, and comfort. A cat body language is pretty clear so you’ll notice when they’re not comfortable.
It is highly advised to install cat toys such as a cat perch, cat tree, or a few hiding places in the room, so your cat feels comfortable enough to stay in the same area as you.
2. Provide a Calm, Trustworthy Presence for Your Cat
If you want to know how to train a cat to sit on your lap, there are some pre-lap preparations to do. You can start by making sure that your phone is not on vibrate and is not wedged in your pocket. You don’t want your cat to be in discomfort when you wiggle around in your chair.
If you talk on your phone or talk to other people in the room, keep your voice soft and comforting. A sudden loud shout or laugh will surely send your cat flying off your lap or show cat body language signs such as scratching or loud hissing.
3. Make it Rewarding for Your Cat
You may need a little bribe to entice your cute cat to come close to your lap. If you are working with a very reluctant kitten, choose to sit on a sofa instead of a chair. Your cat will feel more in control as they inch closer.
Keep a good supply of cat food and treats in hand and gently toss them, one at a time, on the floor in front of you. If your cat responds positively, toss a treat on the couch. Work up to inching closer until you can put a bit of cat food on your lap.
4. Interpret Your Cat’s Body Language
It is very important to understand cat body language. If your cat is vocalizing or pacing back and forth in front of you, they may be requesting cat food, playtime, or some other form of attention. Your cat may be in play mode and not in affection mode.
If your cat tries to settle on your lap but becomes restless and shows behaviors such as tail flicking, skin twitching, or meowing, they may be getting irritated.
Related: 10 Amazing Cat Tips Every Cat Lover Needs to Know
5. Petting Your Cat the Right Way
Pay attention to what your cat likes. If they like petting and affection, provide them with that so that they enjoy your company. Pet to relax your cat and not stimulate it.
Moreover, some cats prefer long, gentle strokes, and others like shorter strokes that don’t go down with the entire body. Observe where your cat likes to be stroked.
See if your cat does not feel uncomfortable when you stroke it near the base of the tail because this can be a sensitive spot for many cats. Cats generally prefer to have their paws left alone.
6. Never Trick Your Cat
It is very important to gain your cat’s trust, so never use the lap time to administer medication or trim nails. Otherwise, they will avoid your lap at all costs.
7. Always Give Your Cat the Freedom to Move Away
Never stop your cat from doing anything. If your cat starts to get wiggly or attempts to move away or jump down, don’t try to prevent them from doing so. If they have the freedom to come and go as they please, they’ll be more likely to return to your lap next time.
If you hold your cat against their will, they may no longer feel comfortable around you. Even if your cat comes onto your lap for a few seconds, keep the experience positive and add some cat toys to the equation, and they may stay a few more seconds before leaving.
8. Maintain a Positive Body Language
If you want to know how to train a cat to be a lap cat, you have to maintain positive body language. It will send a solid signal to your cat that you are a non-threatening, positive force and wants to be around.
Don’t interact with your cat when angry or unhappy. Try not to stand in a threatening manner like crossing your arms, hunching over, or in a tense posture. Ensure that you hold an open stance.
Related: 8 Tips to Cheer up Depressed Pets
9. Avoid Harsh Discipline
The best way to alienate your cat from you is to deal with harsh discipline. By disciplining your cat harshly, your cat will get a signal that you are a threat. As a result of this, your cat won’t even come close to you no matter how many cat toys and treats you provide.
Remember to refrain from these acts.
- Never hit your cat.
- Don’t yell or scold your cat.
- Embrace behavior modification. Reward your cat with treats for their good behavior.
So, if you’re looking to have a cute cat that loves to curl up in your lap, follow these simple tips to get started. Be consistent with your rewards and punishments, create a positive association with being around people, and start early! With patience and time, you’ll have a cuddly kitty by your side in no time.
