Research overview: training and cognitive enrichment for cats

Cats can be trained using positive reinforcement, and this overview surveys research and practice in feline training and cognitive enrichment. It examines the use of clicker and reward-based methods to teach cats behaviours, facilitate husbandry and veterinary handling, and provide mental stimulation, as well as studies of feline learning and cognition that underpin training. The survey discusses how training can reduce stress, build confidence in fearful cats, and enrich the lives of indoor cats by giving them problem-solving opportunities, and it addresses the common misconception that cats are untrainable. It also covers cognitive tasks and puzzles as enrichment. By compiling this work, the survey presents training not only as a means to manage behaviour but as a welfare-enhancing form of mental enrichment that engages cats' learning abilities and strengthens the human-cat relationship.