One of the uniqueness of cats is their independent nature. Generally, cats prefer to be alone than to be pampered with their owners. While this independent nature can be frustrating at times, there are ways to bring a cat closer to its owner. You can train your cat to sit on your lap. However, due to its independent nature, this training process will take some time. Fortunately, by attracting his attention, letting him learn your habits, and raising him properly, your cat can be trained to sit on your lap.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Catching the Cat's Attention
Step 1. Eliminate distractions
Before establishing a healthy relationship with your cat, eliminate distractions that might startle the cat. By doing this, you and your cat can interact in a distraction-free environment.
- Enable silent mode on your phone.
- Turn off the song or TV.
- Tell a relative or friend that the house should be quiet for a few hours.
Step 2. Let the cat come to you
After creating a calming environment, sit down and let the cat come to you. This stage is very important because cats who like to be cuddled usually enjoy spending time with their owners.
- Do it in a comfortable place. A comfortable place is very important because it can help you to relax more.
- Read a book or do a relaxing activity.
- Don't chase the cat. Chasing a cat will frighten him.
- Allow the cat to go if he really wants to go.
Step 3. Encourage the cat in a positive way
One way to make your interactions with your cat more effective is to reward them. If your cat is rewarded for sitting on your lap, it will associate your lap with positive things.
- Give your cat a treat when he sits on your lap.
- Alternatively, you can also place catnip or a deliciously flavored snack in your pocket.
- Pet the cat when it sits on your lap.
- When the cat is sitting on your lap, say “smart cat” over and over again.
Part 2 of 3: Creating an Inviting Atmosphere
Step 1. Stay calm
One way to train your cat to sit on your lap is to provide a quiet environment. When you relax, the cat will realize that you are not going to hurt her. Make sure you:
- Remain calm and not tense.
- Don't breathe too fast. Inhale slowly. Breathing too fast will indicate that you are nervous, and the cat may move away from you.
- Don't move too fast. If you make sudden movements, the cat will become frightened.
Step 2. Use positive body language
To train your cat to sit on your lap, your body language must remain positive. By maintaining positive body language, you will show your cat that you are not going to hurt her. In addition, it will also show that you are a positive person and enjoy being around cats.
- Do not interact with the cat when you are angry or sad.
- Don't stand up with aggressive gestures. Do not cross your arms, bend over, or stand stiffly.
- Use inviting body language. Make sure your arms are open. Make sure your back and shoulders stay straight.
Step 3. Don't glare at the cat
The way you view your cat will affect how you interact with it. When you glare at him, the cat will think of you as a predator trying to scare him.
- Don't look into the cat's eyes for more than a few seconds.
- Depending on the cat's personality, it's best to look away when the cat approaches. Averting your eyes will show that you are not a threat to him.
Part 3 of 3: Raising Cats
Step 1. Do not discipline the cat harshly
Cats will stay away from you if they are often punished harshly. When a cat is disciplined too harshly, you become a threat to it. In the end, the cat won't want to sit on your lap or even be near you.
- Never hit a cat.
- Do not yell or scold the cat.
- Encourage positive cat behavior change. Reward the cat when he behaves well. Don't give your cat treats when it behaves badly. For example, give your cat a treat when he pees in its place instead of on a chair or carpet.
Step 2. Express your love for your cat as often as possible
If you do this often, your relationship with your cat will be closer. Eventually, the cat will be willing to sit on your lap.
- When a cat approaches and wants to be petted or pampered by you, grant her wish.
- Have a chat with the cat and say “I love you!” as often as possible.
- Invite the cat to sit on your lap or come up to you saying “Pssh pssh pssh!”
Step 3. Make sure the cat is getting enough attention
One of the most important stages when training your cat to sit on your lap is that you have to be a good protector and guard for it. When your cat is well cared for, it will become more and more dependent on you. By doing this, the cat will treat you with great affection.
- Feed the cat regularly. When feeding your cat, have a chat with him and say “smart cat” or “smart cat is hungry!”
- Give the cat a drink.
- Provide a place for the cat to scratch its paws. Also provide a place for the cat to perch and other necessities.
Step 4. Let the cat play
When you want to train your cat to sit on your lap, you need to get your cat to play as often as possible. Doing this will improve your relationship with your cat. Over time, the cat will consider you a friend.
- Invite the cat to play an interactive game. You can use toys that have strings.
- Buy a stuffed mouse and fill it with catnip.
- Provide toys that cats love.
