Are Siberian Cats Easy To Train? (The Best Information)


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The Siberian cat is one of the most well-known and loved domestic cat breeds. Originating in Russia, the Siberian cat is large and fluffy, with a muscular frame with excellent leaping capabilities. Popular amongst people who suffer from allergies due to less severe reactions, Siberians are extremely warm, affectionate, and loyal. Their friendly, social natures, similar to dogs, make one wonder if they are also easy to train.

Yes, Siberian cats are considered easy to train. This is because Siberians are highly intelligent, social, and like human interaction. You should consider training your Siberian to use the litter box, be comfortable in its crate, use scratching posts, and to do tricks.

Even though Siberian cats are easy to train, there are some things you should keep in mind before you start training them. First, remember that patience is critical any time you teach them anything new, and take a look at some of the tips below to figure out the best tactics and approaches to training your Siberian.

If you wonder what the best products are for your cat, check out this article that will break down all my recommendations for you: Things To Buy For A Cat Right Now!

Why Are Siberian Cats Easy to Train?

As mentioned previously, the main reason Siberian cats are easy to train is that they are highly intelligent and thrive on stimulation. However, another reason they are quick studies is because of their temperament. Siberian cats are known for their curiosity, affectionate nature, and delight in spending time with their humans, often following them around from to room as they do household chores.

They like being involved in what is going on around the house, and this amiable and curious nature means that their attention is on their humans, which is ideal for teaching them and training them.

How to Train a Siberian Cat

Siberian Cat

When it comes to training your Siberian cats, they can learn just about anything a dog can, including the commands for sit, come, shaking paws, fetch, and so forth. However, even though Siberian cats are naturally predisposed to being successfully trained, it will take some time and cannot be done in a day. There are also certain things that you should keep in mind before you start a training session with them, including the following:

Maintain the Right Frame of Mind

It is essential to take note of your kitty’s mindset before you begin a training session. For example, if they have just woken up from a nap or if they are distracted and playing with something else, it is a good idea to wait a while.

You want to have their complete attention to reduce any frustration on your part—or confusion on their part. In fact, according to one cat trainer, the ideal time is when they are a little hungry—nearing their meal time but not in the middle of it.

Use a Clicker

One of the most effective ways to train your Siberian is to use a clicker. A clicker is anything that has a distinctive sound that you can easily make when your kitty has performed the desired behavior. Say, for instance, that you are training them to shake paws. Every time they shake paws, you make the sound and then reward them. As a result, they will come to associate the clicker’s sound with a special treat and be eager to perform the behavior again.

Many pet stores have clickers you can buy. However, you can also use a clicker app on your phone or even use a pen with a clicking bottom. The main thing is to keep the sound the same so as not to confuse.

Offer Treats and Positive Reinforcement

In conjunction with using a clicker, make sure to include treats in your training. People and dogs respond best to encouragement when they learn something new, and your Siberian is no different. So when they do what you want them to do, make sure you give them lots of praise in an encouraging tone along with a treat that they enjoy.

There was a mention earlier about how one of the best times to have a training session with your kitty is when they are a little hungry. The reason is that treats can be a big incentive and reinforcement for when they have listened and done what you asked. Some things to keep in mind when using treats as a reward are to:

  1. Make the treat special. It should be something they love but do not get all the time, like a tiny bit of cooked chicken or a bit of canned tuna or salmon.
  2. Keep it small. Cats do not need many calories, so make sure you keep the treats small, so it does not ruin their appetite and so they do not gain too much weight (which may lead to other health issues).

Keep it Brief and Repeat.

When you are teaching your cat tricks, make sure to focus on one trick at a time until they have learned it and will do it on command before moving on to the next trick. Within each training session, keep repeating the trick, using your clicker and treats to help them connect their actions to the reward. Trying to teach multiple tricks at one time will only cause confusion and frustration. Keep repeating one trick over and over until it’s second nature for them.

Additionally, make sure to keep training sessions brief. It can be tempting to get excited when you see them picking up tricks and keep going. However, keep in mind that, like children, animals have a short attention span. Therefore, five minutes of constant repetition and training is an adequate amount of time.

What to Avoid When Training Siberian Cats

While teaching your Siberian cat tricks and commands can be a fun time of bonding for you both, it can go south pretty quickly if you don’t have realistic expectations and patience. With that in mind, these are things you should avoid doing if you want to be a successful trainer.

Don’t Punish Them

If you are trying to get your kitty to do something, you have tried treats and the clicker, and they still aren’t consistently doing what you want them to, do NOT:

  • Yell at them
  • Spray them with water
  • Scold them

It may seem like your Siberian cat is intentionally disobedient, but they may not understand what you are asking them to do, or they just may not be interested in doing it. Instead of taking out your frustration on them, try again when they are in a more curious mood. If that doesn’t work, they may need a different approach to their training, but punishing them can discourage them and make them avoid doing what you ask.

4 Reasons to Train Your Siberian Cat

There are four major reasons you will want to train your Siberian cat.  These reasons are:

  • Crate training
  • Litter training
  • Scratching post-training
  • Tricks

Crate training is essential because you want your cat to be comfortable in the crate you use to transport her around.  This will make trips to the vet or traveling easier.  Litter training is super important since you will want your cat using the litter box.  Scratching post-training is essential because that is where you want your cats to scratch.  Tricks are just a bonus. 

Do Siberian Cats Like to be Held?

Yes, Siberian cats enjoy being held.  Siberian cats are social, and they like humans.  I have a friend with a couple of Siberian cats, and they frequently jump on his lap to be held and receive pets from him.

Do Siberian Cats Need Company?

Yes, Siberian cats should have company.  Siberian cats need company because they are incredibly social creatures that love company. 

To learn more about why Siberian cats need company check out my article:  Click Here.

Can Siberian Cats Go Outside?

Yes, Siberian cats can go outside; however, you need to keep a close eye on them.  There are risks to letting your cat roam freely in the outdoors, such as tainted water, other creatures (stray or feral cats, raccoons, etc.), and automobiles.

If you want to take your Siberian outside, I recommend you use a larger cat stroller to keep your cat safe (and to account for the Siberian cat’s larger size).  I recommend this cat stroller on Amazon (affiliate link):  Check Out This Awesome Cat Stroller On Amazon.

To learn more about Siberian cats going outside (and the most useful information):  Click Here.

Are Siberian Cats Hard to Take Care Of?

Siberian cats are not hard to take care of, but there are some essential things to consider in owning them.  Siberian cats are large, so they may be a bit harder to bathe.  Additionally, Siberian cats need regular grooming, so you will want to brush this cat at least once a week.  Finally, Siberians are social creatures, so they will want your attention.

Are Siberian Cats Aggressive?

Siberian cats are not aggressive, but they are social cats and will not be afraid to be around humans.  If you do have a Siberian that has behavior issues or if you have noticed aggression, you should consult your veterinarian for tips, and if necessary, a referral to a specialist for help.

Do Siberian Cats Need a Lot of Attention?

Yes, Siberians need attention.  Siberians like being near humans, and they are social creatures.  Siberians are also affectionate.  It is a good idea to have company for your Siberian cat, whether that is another feline or a cat-friendly dog.  Having another animal friend will likely help give more attention to your Siberian.

Do Siberian Cats Like to Cuddle?

Yes, Siberian cats like to cuddle.  It is not unusual for a Siberian cat to be near humans they are comfortable around and want to be held.  Siberians are social, and they need company, so don’t be surprised if you see one near you wanting to be petted.

Do Siberian Cats Scratch Furniture?

Yes, Siberian cats have been known to scratch furniture.  They are cats with claws.  Siberian cats that have been trained from a young age to use scratching posts should be less likely to scratch furniture.  It is a great idea to keep a scratching post near your furniture, so your cat will think to scratch the scratching post first. 

To learn more about if Siberian cats scratch furniture, check out my article:  Click Here.

Why are Siberian Cats So Expensive?

Purebred Siberian cats are expensive for several reasons.  Adopting a Siberian cat would be a cheaper alternative if you can find one for adoption.  Some of the reasons a Siberian cat may be expensive from breeders are:

  • Supply and Demand
  • Cost of raising a purebred cat in a pleasant atmosphere
  • Veterinary visits
  • Vaccinations
  • Certificates of health

Conclusion

Video: Siberian Cat 101

Siberian cats are brilliant, curious, loving, and thrive on quality time with their people. Combined, these traits make training them a relatively easy and simple thing to do (if you are good at it) and can be a great way to strengthen the pet and owner bond. With that in mind, there are certain things you should do to ensure it’s an enjoyable time for you both, instead of stressful and frustrating.

Incorporate treats in conjunction with clicking sounds and liberally reward your Siberian each time they do what you ask—both with special treats and praise. Keep your training sessions short and sweet, and make sure they are in the right mood for it. Most importantly, don’t punish them for not doing what you want, as that can discourage them and make training a chore instead of a time you both enjoy.

If you enjoyed this article, please check out a few others:

  • Do Cats Like Cat Strollers? (The Honest Truth):  Click Here.
  • 10 Cat Breeds That Don’t Shed A Lot (Epic List!):  Click Here.
  • Are Cat Backpacks Humane? (Answers to Comfort You):  Click Here.

Christopher Carlson

I have an Domestic Shorthair Tabby named Charlotte. She is full of energy when she isn't sleeping most of the day. I share what I learn about cats on this site.

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