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PetariumPetarium

Updated 2026-09-21

Cat station training

Teach a cat to choose a mat or perch for weighing, household routines and cooperative care.

Cats1–3 minutes
Calm reward-based training setup for cats
Four-stage reward-based training progression: set up, mark, reward and progress
Set up an easy success, mark the wanted choice, reward promptly and add only one small challenge at a time.

Step by step

  1. Step 1

    Notice the station

    Reward looking at or approaching the station.

  2. Step 2

    Reward paws on

    Place rewards so the cat steps onto the surface without being lifted.

  3. Step 3

    Build a brief stay

    Deliver two or three rewards while the cat remains, then toss a release reward away.

  4. Step 4

    Use in routines

    Move the station gradually towards scales or a care area while preserving choice.

Troubleshooting

  • Try a warmer, higher or more stable surface.
  • End after one easy repetition if the cat walks away.