Hold target stick to their nose, feed a treat when they follow to touch it. This captures their attention for learning.
Target Stick
Place target on mat/rug. Reward each time kitty steps on it with treat for a minute. This associates mat with rewards.
Anchor Mat
While cat's on mat, lure stick straight up slowly. Feed treats if they stay seated not chasing to condition staying.
Lure & Reward
Repeat “Stay” command everytime you lure stick up with them remaining seated for a treat payoff.
Cue Word
Ask "Stay", take one step back while cat remains on place mat then immediately reward longest durations.
Duration
Build stay duration out further over multiple sessions in quiet settings without major distractions initially.
Practice
After mastering stay for 1-5 minutes walking around room quietly, practice with added toys or dropped treats tests.
Challenge