by PK Hawk

Created on: August 22, 2010   Last Updated: December 14, 2010

Contrary to what many people believe, cats can and often are trained, or taught to observe certain instructions, as well as most dogs.

This writer has had cats and dogs for her whole life.  Many people do not consider cats very different than dogs in many ways.  A cat's e personality is more dependent on how they are treated as they grow up than many persons realize.  If a cat is treated somewhat more like dog, calling them by name, and telling them, "NO" as you would a dog,  they also learn to listen to your commands and even enjoy you talking to them.

If you have never called your cat, "kitty, kitty," calling him or herby  their own personal name, they will respond to your calling them by name.  They will be more inclined to be less aloof, and more people friends, as well.  Your cat will listen for your voice, words, and praises, and learn what your limits are, such as a "NO" command if "Buddy" should think about jumping on your table, for example.  As you cat matures, it learn it has been given certain limits, such as not scratching on the furniture, coming when called by name, and never biting when being petted or scratched. A cat easily learns the meaning of the word,"NO!"

Many people have trained, or conditioned their cats to know they are not allowed on counters, or tables.  A cat can learn not to get rough in play, by the same means you teach your puppy not to bite. As soon as a kitten, or even a young adult cat begins to bite or scratch, stop, and don't move, while telling no, in no uncertain terms.  You will soon realize they do get the idea, and they learn quickly not to do that  when playing or while you or someone else is petting, brushing, or scratching it's under-belly.

The writer of this article has a previously feral kitten, named "Buddy."  Buddy was about four months old when he was introduced into the home with four dogs.   Now, Buddy fits in with the four four dogs, and loves spending time playing with Pugsly, a rescued Chihuahua puppy that is now ten months old, as is Buddy.  They rough an tumble together, and no one gets hurt. Actually, at this point in time, Buddy is actually larger than is Puglsy.  Buddy and the larger, nine year-old Australian Shepherd mix also gets along with Buddy.  The Australian Shepherd, even plays the cat, Buddy, as well as the five pound Chihuahua.

Buddy follows his mistress around like a dog, and comes when she calls, "Buddy,

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