Imagine a world where our cats not only respond to their names but also perform adorable tricks on command. This vision is becoming a reality with Dane County Humane Society’s (DCHS’s) new Cat Pawsitive program, a revolutionary feline clicker training initiative that began in the Spring of 2024.

Through the program, volunteers work with DCHS cats – both available and not available -- to teach them various tricks like spin, sit, and high five. Though these tricks are very cute, the real purpose of the training is to foster trust between our cats and people. We work with shy cats to help build their confidence, so they come out of their shells, and with cats who need a little extra one-on-one time, keeping them physically and mentally active while they wait for their new families.

We knew we wanted to implement a clicker training program for our feline friends but were daunted by the idea of starting from scratch. Then, we heard from Jackson Galaxy’s Cat Pawsitive program! We used their comprehensive training materials to learn how clicker training for cats works and how to train cats in a shelter environment. 

Our volunteers have become the heart of our Cat Pawsitive program. They assist with training sessions, help track progress, and ensure each cat gets the attention and care they need. Not only does it give volunteers a new and fun way to interact with the cats, but they love the impact the program has had on the cats in our care. The program not only maintains and improves the cats’ quality of life while they are in our care, it also helps shorten their length of stay and increase adoptions.

Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement that uses a distinct clicking sound to mark desired behaviors, followed by a treat. This method has been specially adapted to cater to the unique behaviors and needs of cats. The clicker training process involves first associating the “click” of the clicker with an incoming reward. When a cat exhibits a behavior we are looking for, we click the clicker and promptly reward it with something the cat really likes. Usually, this is a yummy treat, but it can also be petting or play! Clicker training cats can be challenging as they can be picky, so the key is finding a reward that is very motivating to them.

At DCHS, we are using three clicker training techniques while working with cats: capturing, targeting, and luring. Capturing is when you wait for the cat to naturally present the behavior you are looking for, then click and reward them when they do it. Targeting involves using a target stick to encourage the cat to touch an object, come towards you, or high five the target. The last technique, luring, involves the cat following food in your hand and slowly transitioning from following food to just following your hand. By utilizing all three techniques, we have the tools to work with any cat, from very shy to very excitable and energetic kitties.

Take TJ, for example. When an Animal Services Officer from Public Health Madison & Dane County brought TJ to DCHS in mid-April, the cat was described as “shy but handleable.” However, it quickly became evident that TJ was struggling to adapt to shelter life. Administering medication required him to be toweled, and he was often too stressed to take his medicine. TJ spent a significant amount of time at DCHS and was even added to our Lonely Hearts Club, through which is adoption fee was reduced. It was clear he needed more help to overcome his anxiety.

On May 20th, TJ was enrolled in the Cat Pawsitive program. Initial training sessions revealed his love for Churu wet treats, which encouraged him to come out of his hiding spot. One volunteer noted, “His love for Churu overcame the anxiety.” Gradually, TJ began to enjoy the training sessions. He even approached his trainer for pets without a reinforcer, flopping on his side and letting the trainer pet his head. Despite some difficult days, TJ eventually mastered several tricks, including his signature move, “spin” (see video below). The transformation was remarkable—TJ’s newfound confidence helped him reveal his true personality: a loving, playful, curious, and smart companion. Eight days after being enrolled in the program, TJ found his new family.

Similarly, Tigger’s transformation is a testament to the power of positive reinforcement. After Tigger’s family passed away, the adult cat was brought to DCHS in mid-April. He was frightened and highly stressed, often hiding in his litterbox. Recognizing his need for extra attention, Tigger was added to the Cat Pawsitive program.

Initially, volunteers worked with Tigger to touch a target stick, but he preferred a mouse toy, which quickly became his target. His progress was swift—within a few sessions, he was consistently touching the target and even using his paws to pull it to his nose. After mastering “touch,” we introduced “high five,” which Tigger learned with enthusiasm. One trainer commented, “High five seemed natural.” The once-crouched and terrified cat transformed into a social, friendly, curious, and confident feline. This newfound confidence led Tigger to his new home in late May, where he continues to thrive.

This is just the beginning of the Cat Pawsitive program. In the future, DCHS hopes to expand not only the group of volunteers who train cats but also what we are training the cats to do. We are excited about the future of Cat Pawsitive and are planning to expand the program to include more advanced training techniques and reach even more cats in need!

If you’re passionate about helping cats and have a few hours to spare each week, consider becoming a volunteer with DCHS. Visit our website for more information on how you can make a difference. With the support of our community, we can transform the lives of our feline friends, one click at a time!

Kameya DeHaan is the Volunteer Training Coordinator at DCHS