If you have a stay-at-home cat, you’re one of the fortunate few. However, there are some tips, garnered from many sites on the internet (yes, this is a worldwide problem) that can help you train your cat at home. This is not failsafe advice, but worth a try if you want to avoid your beloved kitty being viewed as a menace to your neighbours:

Keep your cat at home by teaching him/her to come

You can train your cat to come when you make a loud noise, such as whistling or hitting a can with a spoon. The easiest way to do this is to make the sound before every mealtime.

Keep your cat at home by Keeping him inside

It is possible for cats to be perfectly happy to be permanently kept inside. If that’s not possible in your situation, try to at least keep them inside at night, because like their ancestor, the African wildcat, domesticated cats are mostly nocturnal. If you have a cat flap, keep your cat at home by locking it at night. For ‘outside’ time, consider buying a harness and training your cat to walk on a leash. This training takes time and patience, for both you and the cat, and it’s easiest when your cat is young.

Keep your cat at home Giving him attention

The majority of cats will attach themselves to one or other human in their house; generally, the one who gives him or her the most attention. If they decide that you’re ‘their human’, they will latch onto your smell – your bed, your lap (and yes, as many a cat-owner will confirm, even your laptop). When you’re not home, your cat will often happily hang around where you normally sit, or sleep.

Keep your cat at home with playtime

Cats often wander because of boredom. Take time to play with your cat and buy a few toys for him. Try different types of toys that allow your cat to stalk, chase, pounce and kick. When you can’t be there to supervise, leave out “toys” such as paper bags or cardboard boxes. Be sure to switch the toys from time to time so that they seem “new” and more interesting to your cat. This is a great way to keep your cat at home.

Keep your cat at home by having a clean house

Cats can be neat freaks, so clean the litter box regularly, or he will end up using your – or your neighbour’s – flower beds.

Tips to avoid strange cats visiting your home:
• Don’t feed your pets outside as the food smells will attract other animals, including cats.
• Keep your outdoor grill clean to avoid food smells.
• Be sure your rubbish bins are secure.

These simple tips are sure to help you keep your cat at home.

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