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When to Give a Cat a Treat: Not Just During Training
11.04.2024 11:09
As a rule, when most people hear the phrase “pet treats,” they associate it with domestication and training.
It's true - positive reinforcement like this can be used to gain an animal's trust or to praise it for successfully completing a command.
But in most cases, cat owners don't plan to train their pets - does that mean they don't need treats?
In fact, there are plenty of reasons to give your pet a treat.
Neutralization of stress factors
Stress has a negative impact not only on the behavior and psyche of the pet, but also on its health, so the owner should offer the cat a treat in order to avoid unnecessary emotional shock.
Stress factors include moving, contact with new animals or people, visiting a veterinary clinic, hygiene procedures, loud noises, separation from the owner, etc.
Positive reinforcement
Training does not always involve performing tricks: you should also reward your cat when you accustom it to a new territory or litter box, introduce it to a scratching post or new food.
No reason
Finally, the third reason to offer your pet a treat is the desire to please her and demonstrate your love. Does this need a reason?
Earlier we talked about how long you can leave a cat alone at home.
