Is it possible to teach a cat tricks? – Sentinel and Enterprise

Vinnie, 3 years old (Courtesy of Sally Cragin)

Dear Pets: Is it possible to teach your cat tricks? How do I start? — Cat Fans

Dear Cat Fans: Cats are the original tricksters! Think of Lewis Carroll's Cheshire Cat living in Wonderland. He appears to give Alice hints, but he always disappears before her eyes. For a moment, all that remains is a smile.

Carol knew that cats could learn tricks. My family used to have (at least) six cats. These kittens were fed Kalo, a cheap wet food in large cans. To call the cat, we banged a clean spoon against the can, and when the cats gathered, her mother took them. She sang “Three Blind –” and waited for the kittens to sing or meow “mouse.” We had a champion vocalist who was always on the pitch, on cue and on time.

Patrick Cleary of Wakefield reports that he has taught his two cats “a few commands and phrases.” “'Are you hungry?' They were running to get a plate. 'Come on, come up.' And they'll come with me on the couch or in a chair or anywhere.” And then Patrick said, “Treat.” !'' and they rush to the kitchen. His advice: “I always say these things with the same intonation, and there is always the same reward (sitting on the furniture or food).”

Spencer, one of our therapy cats, was a genius at the following tricks. We placed a treat in one hand and he tapped the hand with his paw. Another trick he does is to hold the treat over the cat's nose and slowly lift it so that the cat stands up on its hind legs (for a short time). Cats are very interested in treats, so a simple trick is to hold the treat over your cat's nose and slowly lift it up so that the cat stands up on its hind legs (for a short time). Cat treats are 2-4 calories each, so split them in half to reduce calorie intake.

Sally Craigin is the director of Be PAWSitive: Therapy Pets and Community Education. Visit us on Facebook, text us at 978-320-1335 or email us at sallycragin@gmail.com.