Cats are fascinating creatures—graceful, independent, and often delightfully mysterious. But one of the greatest mysteries for many cat owners and feline enthusiasts is how to get a cat to come to you when you want them to. While dogs typically bound over at the slightest call, cats are more discerning. They march to the beat of their own drum. But don’t worry; with the right techniques and a bit of understanding, you can successfully learn how to get a cat to come to you, even if it’s the most aloof feline.
A Tale of Patience and Purring
It all starts with understanding the cat’s perspective. Unlike dogs, who are pack animals and thrive on commands and praise, cats are solitary hunters by nature. They decide when and where they want to interact. So, if you’ve ever wondered, “How do you get a cat to come to you?” the first step is learning to work with their unique instincts rather than against them.
Start with The Power of Food
It’s no secret that cats are food-motivated. One of the simplest answers to how to get a cat to come to you is to associate your presence with something delicious. Start by calling your cat while offering them a favorite treat, like a piece of cooked chicken or a tasty cat treat. Use a consistent tone or phrase, such as “Here, kitty!” or your cat’s name, so they begin to recognize it as a cue.
When I first adopted a cat, she was wary of people and would bolt under the bed at the sound of footsteps. I started by gently tossing treats her way, sitting quietly a few feet away, and letting her come to me on her own terms. Over time, she learned that when I called her name, good things would follow.
For those wondering how to get a stray cat to come to you, food is an equally powerful tool. Leave food in a quiet area and give the stray space to eat. Gradually decrease the distance between you and the cat during feeding times, always moving at a pace that respects their comfort level.
Body Language Matters
Cats are masters of reading body language, and how you position yourself can significantly impact your success in getting a cat to approach. To make yourself more inviting, crouch down or sit at the cat’s eye level. Avoid looming over them or making sudden movements, as these can be intimidating.
Another trick is to turn slightly away from the cat. Direct eye contact or a fully square posture can feel confrontational. Instead, let your body language say, “I’m not a threat, and I respect your space.” I’ve used this technique with shy cats at animal shelters, and it’s amazing how much more willing they are to approach when I seem uninterested.
Make an Appeal to Their Curiosity
Cats are naturally curious, so engaging their inquisitive nature can work wonders. If you’re struggling with how to get your cat to come to you, try using a toy. A feather wand, a piece of string, or even a crinkly piece of paper can pique their interest and draw them closer.
When my cat was feeling particularly aloof, I’d sit on the floor and drag a ribbon in slow, tantalizing movements. It was irresistible to her, and before long, she was trotting over to bat at it. This method is also great for people wondering how to get cats to come to you, especially in multi-cat households. A playful distraction can override territorial hesitations.
Building Trust with Stray and Feral Cats
Now, let’s talk about the trickier scenarios: how to get a stray cat to come to you or, even more challenging, how to get a feral cat to come to you. Stray and feral cats require extra patience because they’ve often had limited or negative interactions with humans.
For a stray cat, start by providing food and water in a consistent location. Over days or weeks, sit quietly nearby as the cat eats, gradually reducing the distance. Speak softly to them so they associate your voice with safety. In time, many stray cats will begin to approach out of curiosity or gratitude.
When dealing with a feral cat, however, the process requires even more care. Feral cats are typically fearful of humans and may never fully warm up to interaction. Still, you can earn their trust by being a steady, non-threatening presence. Avoid attempting to touch or pick up a feral cat right away—this can undo weeks of progress.
Consistency is Key
Cats thrive on routine, and one of the most reliable ways to figure out how to get a cat to come to you is by establishing consistency. Whether it’s feeding time, playtime, or cuddles, try to do these activities at the same time every day. Over time, your cat will begin to associate your presence with predictability and comfort, making them more likely to come when called.
Respect Their Independence
Let’s not forget one of the most important rules of cat behavior: they like to feel in control. If you’ve been trying for ages and your cat still isn’t coming to you, take a step back. Forcing interaction or becoming frustrated can backfire, causing the cat to avoid you even more.
For example, when my cat was in her “queen of the castle” mood, I’d give her space and wait for her to approach me on her terms. And guess what? Nine times out of ten, she’d come over out of curiosity once I stopped pursuing her. It’s a reminder that sometimes, how to get a cat to come to you means letting them make the first move.
Bonus Tips to Success with Cats
- Use a Clicker: If you’ve ever tried clicker training with a dog, you’ll be happy to know it works with cats too. Pair a click sound with a treat every time your cat comes to you. Soon, they’ll associate the sound with rewards.
- Know Your Cat’s Preferences: Not all cats respond to the same cues. While one cat may rush over for a scratch behind the ears, another may prefer chin rubs or even a quiet lap to sit on. Pay attention to what your cat enjoys and use it to your advantage.
- Patience is Everything: Building trust takes time, especially with shy or skittish cats. Celebrate small victories and remember that progress, even if slow, is still progress.
Reflecting on Success
When I look at my own cat now—one who eagerly comes running when I call her name—I’m reminded of how far we’ve come. It wasn’t an overnight transformation, but with patience, respect, and a few tasty treats, she learned to trust me. And that trust is the foundation for any successful relationship with a cat.
Whether you’re trying to figure out how to get a cat to come to you in your living room or wondering how to get a feral cat to come to you from the wild, the principles are the same: understanding, consistency, and a whole lot of love. Every cat is different, but with time and effort, you’ll discover what works best for your feline friend.