How to Train Your Cat to Come When Called (Yes, It’s Possible)

Introduction: Yes, Your Cat Can Learn This

Have you ever called your cat only to be completely ignored?

You’re not alone. I used to think it was impossible to train a cat—until I taught my cat, Cocoa, to come when called.

It’s one of the most useful and surprisingly simple things a cat can learn. From safety to bonding, recall training helps both you and your cat. The trick? Consistency, patience, and the right kind of reward.

“Cats are capable of learning a variety of behaviors through positive reinforcement, including recall commands.”
— International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)

Have you ever tried calling your cat? What happened?

Debunking the Myth: Cats Can Be Trained

Many people assume cats are too stubborn to be trained. That myth is one of the biggest reasons cat behavior problems go unaddressed. The truth is that cats are highly intelligent animals. They simply aren’t motivated the same way dogs are.

Dogs may aim to please. Cats aim to benefit. This means training your cat isn’t about commands—it’s about making each behavior worth their time.

Cocoa wasn’t ignoring me because he couldn’t learn. I just hadn’t given him a reason to care.

“Training cats using positive reinforcement is not only possible, it’s essential to building a strong human-animal bond.”
— American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP)

Do you believe your cat would respond if you gave them the right motivation?

What You Need to Start Cat Recall Training

Before you begin, gather the essentials. You don’t need expensive equipment—just a plan and a few key items.

Here’s what I used when I started training Cocoa:

• High-value treats (freeze-dried chicken worked best)
• A recall word or phrase (“Cocoa, come!”)
• A quiet, low-distraction space
• A clicker (optional, but helpful)
• 5–10 minutes a day
• Patience and a positive attitude

The key is to be consistent with both your tone and timing. Choose a cue and stick with it.

“Cats are more likely to respond to cues that are consistent, rewarding, and delivered in a calm, encouraging tone.”
— ASPCA Pet Behavior Team

Do you already have a favorite treat or phrase your cat responds to?

Step-by-Step: How I Trained Cocoa to Come When Called

Here’s the exact process I followed with Cocoa, broken into manageable steps.

Step 1: Start Close and Make It Easy
Begin by sitting just a few feet away from your cat. Say their name and recall phrase (“Cocoa, come”) in an upbeat voice, then immediately show and give them a treat when they approach. Do this several times in short sessions.

Step 2: Practice Consistently in Short Bursts
I found the sweet spot was 3–5 repetitions twice per day. Short sessions prevent boredom and frustration.

Step 3: Increase the Distance Gradually
Once Cocoa responded consistently, I started calling him from the next room. Then from down the hall. Then with soft background noise. Slowly increasing difficulty helps build the skill.

Step 4: Add Real-Life Distractions Slowly
Don’t expect your cat to respond if the vacuum is running or they’re deep in a nap. Build up to noisier or more distracting settings over time.

Step 5: Phase Out Treats (But Keep the Praise)
As the behavior becomes consistent, you can reduce treats slightly while continuing verbal praise and affection.

“Shaping a behavior like recall in cats requires timing, consistency, and reward-based methods—not punishment.”
— Petfinder Training & Behavior Resources

Which of these steps do you think will be easiest—or hardest—for your cat?

Why It Didn’t Work (Until It Did)

When I first started recall training, I got discouraged. Cocoa came once or twice, then stopped responding.

Here’s where I went wrong:

• I stopped rewarding every time
• I used the recall word casually (even when I wasn’t offering anything)
• I once called him before trimming his nails… big mistake

The moment I fixed those things, Cocoa started showing up again—and eventually, he did it with zero hesitation.

The key is trust. Your cat needs to know that coming when called will always lead to something good.

“A cat’s behavior is shaped by experience—consistent reinforcement of positive experiences builds reliable responses.”
— American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)

Have you ever accidentally taught your cat not to come by mistake?

When Not to Call Your Cat

There are a few golden rules I learned about when not to use recall:

• Never use it before something unpleasant (like a vet visit, bath, or nail trim)
• Don’t call your cat just to pick them up if they hate it
• Avoid yelling, scolding, or using a frustrated tone

The word you use should stay positive in their mind. If your cat starts to associate it with stress, you’ll lose all your progress.

“Avoiding negative reinforcement is critical in all animal training—especially with cats, who are highly sensitive to tone and context.”
— Humane Society of the United States

Have you ever used your cat’s name during a negative experience without realizing it?

Real-Life Benefits of Recall Training

Teaching your cat to come when called is more than a novelty—it can improve their safety, independence, and your relationship with them.

Here are a few benefits I noticed:

• I can call Cocoa back inside if he slips onto the balcony
• I redirect him from dangerous areas without chasing
• It creates a structured bonding moment every day
• It builds trust that goes beyond just food

What started as a trick turned into a habit that genuinely improved our communication. I feel more confident knowing I can reach Cocoa when I need to.

“Training enhances the cat-human relationship and contributes to a more enriched, predictable home life for both.”
— Cornell Feline Health Center

What practical use would recall training have in your home?

Final Thoughts: Connection Over Control

Training your cat to come when called is possible—and powerful. But it’s not about control. It’s about connection.

Cocoa now comes when I call him (well, most of the time—unless there’s a bird outside). But more importantly, I understand him better. I’ve built a habit based on respect, reward, and trust. That’s more meaningful than any trick.

“The best training outcomes occur when trust, patience, and consistency replace dominance and force.”
— Fear Free Pets

Are you ready to give it a try?

Additional Resources and References

• ASPCA – Cat Behavior
• Cornell Feline Health Center – Cat Behavior
• IAABC – Training Resources
• American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP)
• Fear Free Pets – Training Library
• Petfinder – Training & Behavior