Cats

How to teach the cat to sleep in the bed?

admin • 22 Jun 2023

How to teach the cat to sleep in the bed? They are animals that are more active at night so you must be consistent, rigorous and above all patient with your kitten.

Where do cats sleep?

When it comes to sleeping, cats are professionals. They spend between 18 and 22 hours a day resting. Due to their natural curiosity, they like to investigate the house. And, as in nature they seek high and safe places to rest, it is likely that they will do the same in our home.

Unfortunately this means climbing on top of furniture and tables, making it inconvenient for the owner. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent this behavior by training the cat to sleep in its bed.

How to make the cat sleep in its bed?

This training is based on establishing positive reinforcement when you are in an ideal area for your rest . So he starts using that area and stops using the inconvenient ones.

Training begins by observing the cat. What areas do you select for home? Some cats prefer windows with a view, others high places, and others sofas and chairs.

If the cat's bed is placed near one of these locations, it has a greater chance of success. Another important factor is the material inside, which should be comfortable for the cat. In the winter and summer, it should be warm.

1. Reward the cat when using the bed

When the bed is put in place, the cat should be placed inside and given a treat. Reinforcement continues by giving treats when the cat approaches the bed and a favorite treat when it jumps and crawls onto the bed.

2. Place the bed near the cat's favorite spot

Through observation you will discover your cat's favorite places. Place the bed close to and according to the altitude at which the cat likes to sleep. Other factors to evaluate are the dark, sunbathing, comfortable temperature for the season and proximity to the family. Providing resting places similar to the cat's favorite will lead to the highest success rate.

3. The bed for cats should be comfortable and to the cat's taste.

The bed should be soft and fluffy. If the bed is uncomfortable, the cat will never use it. Its material may vary with the seasons, providing more or less heat. Some cats feel more comfortable with the presence of an owner's clothing item. Don't forget to keep the bedding clean and free of parasites, as the cat will reject dirty bedding.

4. Provide multiple resting places

Do not limit the cat to one location. Spread several beds around the house that mimic the cat's favorite places. He may prefer them depending on his mood or even the climate, looking for warmth in the colder months.

5. Make unwanted places unpleasant for the cat

Punishing the animal should always be avoided as it can generate phobias. So, to prevent the cat from going up and sleeping in places it doesn't want, you can follow other strategies. One of them is to close the door of the room and not give in to the incessant meowing. Another way is to make these surfaces unsightly by applying double-sided tape, motion-activated sprays and aluminum foil. Thus, the cat will more quickly accept its place of rest.

6. And when I find the cat sleeping in another place?

Occasionally the cat may fall asleep in other places, such as your bed. In these cases , gently pick up the cat and calmly place it in its bed . Pet and give a treat.

By following these tips and being consistent and strict in training, you will get the cat to use its bed. If the location and surface of the bed are attractive, the cat will start using it. On the other hand, if the cat does not use it, the owner can always look for another more attractive place.