Why it’s important to train kittens

Cats can be trained as adults, but the most effective time to train and socialize a cat is when they’re young. That’s when cats are often more open to having new experiences and establishing new relationships, and they have a greater ability to bounce back from new situations that may cause slight upset – such as having their nails clipped or visiting the vet.

Most cats are not inherently fearful, but they can become that way due to poor socialization as kittens. By means of training, Kitten kindergarten can help put an end to undesirable behaviours, such as unsociability or aggression, and ensure a happy, well-adjusted kitten.

What you’ll learn

Toronto Humane Society’s Kitten Kindergarten class allows you and your kitten to bond and learn new skills in a group environment with other kitten lovers. The three major takeaways from this course are:

• Understanding the sensitive period of socialization – what it is, why it’s important, and how appropriate experiences during this time can help you create a friendly, interactive, and sociable cat.
• Learning how to desensitize and counter condition your kitten so that they enjoy nail trims and handling. This will make at home treatments, or visits to the vet, easier for you and them.
• Training your kitten is simple with essential tricks such as sit, come, and touch their nose to a target.

How to enroll

Kitten Kindergarten is offered as an online training class.  In addition to the class, you will receive weekly topic handouts. Click here to sign up.

Kittens may enroll between 3 and 10 weeks old to ensure all training is completed by the time your kitten is 14 weeks old. If you’re interested in this class but your kitten does not fall within this age range, please email publictraining@torontohumanesociety.com to discuss training options.