The cat, we all know, is an animal that rarely does what it is asked to do. But that's how it is: it is his character and we have to love him for it, without forcing you to change. But at certain times he can surprise us a lot, and that's when we have to reward him in some way.
So if you don't know how to reward a catThen we will give you ideas so that your friend can feel happy for having behaved well.
Furthermore, it should be noted that the positive reinforcement It is the basis for teaching desired behaviors: when something is done well, it is rewarded. Don't punish or yellCats learn best with patience, consistency, and attractive rewards.
Hay Several ways to reward a cat, which are:
With food
You get home and your friend runs to greet you. You don't know if he did it because he did some mischief and wants to do everything he can to keep you from feeling bad, or because he really missed you, or because of both. After entering the house and taking a quick look to see that everything is in order, it's a good time to give him treats for cats, which you will find for sale in pet stores.
Of course, you should know that you will only reward for having come towards you, so it is likely that he will do it again the next day.
To make food work as a reward, choose it well: intense flavors (chicken, turkey, tuna) and textures that he likes (crunchy, soft or creamy). Respect the rule of 10% of calories: Snacks should not exceed that percentage of your daily intake and, if you give extras, reduce the portion of regular food in proportion.
When offering it, remember that cats they see worse up close. Bring the prize closer to your nose to smell it and give it to him quickly. Some prefer to take it from the fingertips and others of the palm by the hand. Avoid dangerous foods such as garlic, onion, leek and other Allium, grapes and raisins, chocolate, caffeine, gummies or bones; and dairy only if you tolerate them.
With caresses
Cuddling is fine when you don't have food, or when you're trying to keep your friend at his ideal weight. You can give it whenever you want, but are especially useful when you start learning that can't scratch or bite you, or if you are starting to get along with the new family member.
Observe his body language: if he rubs, purrs, or lifts his tail, he's receptive. Try caresses on the chin, cheeks and base of the tail, and stop if overstimulation occurs (whipped tail, ears back). Comb or brush it can be another great reward for many cats.
Squinting eyes
If you are away from your cat and he has done something that is right, can you squint. This gesture is for him a sign of friendship, trust and affection, so if he returns it to you, that is, if he also squints them, you can be sure that he loves you too.
Combine that slow blink with soft tone of voice and relaxed posture. It is a low-stress social reward that strengthens the bond and can be a meal replacement if you are looking to control your weight.
Playing with him
Playing with your cat after he has done something good is the best award that you can receive.
After you've been alone for a few hours, you will be looking forward to playing. So take his favorite toys and reward him, because you love him. Then, or before, you can kiss him  .
Games are ideal for reinforcing behaviors: wands with feathers, ball circuits, food puzzles or toys with catnip. book a special toy just for the prize and store it when you're done to maintain its value. Short (5-10 minutes), intense, daily sessions work best.
When and how to give the prize
Train the time: deliver the reward within 3 seconds after the desired action (sitting, using the scratching post). If you delay, you might reinforce another behavior. Practice in calm moments and ends before I lose interest.
Avoid reinforcing unwanted behaviors: if he meows for food, ignore him until he's calm and then feed. Never use physical punishment or yelling: increase fear and impair learning. Remember that some cats are neophobes and they take a while to accept new rewards, so try several options with patience.
Types of rewards and healthy limits
Regular prizes (small snacks) to reinforce the day to day; occasional prizes for great achievements; and non-edible prizes (play, cuddles, warm lap). Manage the total: edible rewards should be less than 10% of your daily energy and the remaining 90% a diet complete and balanced.
Choose specific options if you need them (e.g., dental care or joint), but remember that sweets They do not replace brushing with cat-friendly pasta. If your cat has any pathology or veterinary diet, consult before to introduce snacks.
Food Safety: What to Avoid
- Toxic: garlic, onion, leek (Allium), grapes and raisins, chocolate, cocoa, caffeine.
- Potential dangers: bones, thorns, gummies, non-prescription syrups, macadamia nuts, avocado.
- Dairy: only if you are lactose intolerant and always in small quantities.
If you prefer to avoid calories, turn to caresses, games and slow blinking. They are valuable rewards and strengthen the bond without the risk of becoming overweight. And you,how you reward your cat?
