Think cats can’t be trained? Think again! While some cat breeds like the Abyssinian and Maine Coon actually enjoy learning tricks or walking on a leash, others—like the fiercely independent Persian—might just stare at you like you’re the one who needs training. Breeds such as the Siamese or Bengal are highly intelligent and crave mental stimulation, making them more open to direction. But try the same with a Scottish Fold or Norwegian Forest Cat, and you might end up negotiating instead of teaching. Knowing your cat’s personality is key. It’s not about forcing behavior—it’s about finding what motivates them. With the right breed, training can be fun and surprisingly rewarding!
The Clever and Willing Bengal
Bengal cats are like little jungle leopards in your living room, but don’t let their wild looks fool you—they’re smart and eager to learn. Bengals thrive on mental stimulation and actually enjoy interactive games and puzzle toys. Training a Bengal can be a real joy because they’re quick to pick up tricks, from fetching a ball to walking on a leash.
These cats crave attention and love bonding time, making them highly receptive to positive reinforcement. If you use treats, clicker training, and lots of praise, you’ll find a Bengal will often surprise you with how much they can learn. Their energetic and playful nature means you’ll need to keep switching up your training routines so they don’t get bored. But if you’re looking for a trainable cat who will keep you on your toes, the Bengal is a winner.
The Ever-Responsive Abyssinian
Abyssinians are often called the athletes of the cat world. They’re agile, alert, and always up for a challenge. What truly sets them apart, though, is their desire to interact with their humans. If you want a cat who will sit, shake paws, or even run an obstacle course, an Abyssinian is a fantastic choice.
These cats respond well to structure and repetition. Because they bond so closely with their owners, they’re often eager to please and will do almost anything for a bit of your attention. Training sessions can become a favorite part of their day, and you’ll find the Abyssinian’s curiosity means they’ll try just about anything once. For anyone dreaming of a “dog-like” cat, this breed is as close as it gets.
The Loyal and Loving Siamese
Siamese cats are famous for their talkative nature and deep loyalty. They don’t just want to be near you—they want to be the center of your universe. This devotion translates beautifully into trainability. Whether you’re teaching them to come when called or to respond to their name, Siamese cats usually catch on fast.
Their intelligence is unmistakable. Siamese cats love mental challenges, making training sessions feel like fun and games rather than chores. They’re especially receptive to clicker training and voice commands. If you’re patient and consistent, you’ll be amazed at how much a Siamese can learn. Just be warned: if you leave them out of the action, their vocal protests will let you know!
The Outgoing Maine Coon
Maine Coons are the gentle giants of the cat world. Their size might seem intimidating, but their personalities are pure gold. These cats are often described as dog-like because they enjoy following their owners around and are generally up for learning new tricks.
Maine Coons are quick studies when it comes to commands like “sit” or “high five.” They respond well to positive reinforcement and are usually food-motivated, making treats a powerful training tool. Their laid-back nature means they’re patient during training, and their affectionate side makes them eager to please. With a Maine Coon, you’ll have a furry friend who’s not just trainable but also endlessly loving.
The Inquisitive American Shorthair
American Shorthairs may not be as flashy as some breeds, but their friendly, adaptable nature makes them excellent candidates for training. These cats are easygoing and love spending time with their humans, which is half the battle when it comes to teaching new behaviors.
They aren’t easily stressed by change or new experiences, so they’re more willing to try out new commands or tricks. If you start training when they’re kittens, you’ll find that American Shorthairs can pick up everything from basic commands to more complex tricks. Their intelligence and patience make them a delight for owners looking to engage and bond with their pets through training.
The Wildly Independent Persian
Persians are the glamour queens (and kings) of the cat world, known for their luxurious coats and serene personalities. But when it comes to training, their laid-back attitude can quickly morph into stubbornness. Persians are not motivated by games or challenges in the same way other breeds are.
You’ll likely find that a Persian will only do what they want, when they want, and on their own terms. Training sessions can be frustratingly slow, and their attention spans are short. If you try to push too hard, you’ll be met with a blank stare that says, “Why would I do that?” For those dreaming of a cat who fetches or comes on command, Persians will probably drive you absolutely crazy.
The Mischievous Scottish Fold
With their adorable folded ears and big, round eyes, Scottish Folds look like living teddy bears. But don’t let their cuteness fool you—they have a strong streak of independence. Scottish Folds are known for doing things their own way, and that includes training.
They can be stubborn and easily get bored with repetitive tasks. While they’re affectionate and enjoy human company, they’re not usually motivated to learn tricks or follow commands. Getting a Scottish Fold to reliably respond to basic tricks can feel like trying to herd cats—literally. They’re better suited to a life of cozy naps and gentle play, rather than structured training.
The Willful Sphynx
The Sphynx may be hairless, but they’re brimming with personality. These cats are outgoing and love being the center of attention. However, their confidence often translates into a fierce sense of independence, making them a challenge to train.
Sphynx cats tend to get distracted easily and will often ignore commands if something more interesting catches their eye. While they’re affectionate and love social interaction, they’re also known for their mischief. Training a Sphynx requires infinite patience—and a sense of humor. They’ll keep you guessing and, at times, drive you up the wall with their antics.
The Free-Spirited Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats are majestic, with long, flowing coats and a wild, fairy-tale look. Their personalities match their appearance—they’re nature lovers at heart. These cats are highly independent and often prefer exploring on their own terms.
Training a Norwegian Forest Cat can feel like negotiating with a tiny lion. They’re smart enough to understand what you want but will only do it if it suits them. They’re not easily bribed with treats and may lose interest in training quickly. If you crave a compliant, trainable cat, this breed might test your patience—and maybe teach you a lesson in humility.
The Aloof Russian Blue
Russian Blues are the introverts of the feline world—elegant, reserved, and sometimes a little mysterious. While they’re loyal to their chosen humans, they aren’t typically motivated by training. They prefer quiet, predictable environments and don’t take kindly to being coaxed into tricks or commands.
Their independent streak means they’ll often ignore training attempts, especially if they sense you’re trying to control them. Russian Blues can learn basic routines, but anything beyond that might be asking too much. If you value peace and tranquility over obedience, you’ll appreciate their calm presence—but if you want a cat who jumps through hoops, the Russian Blue might just drive you crazy.
At the end of the day, training a cat really comes down to understanding their unique personality and working with it—not against it. Some breeds are natural learners, while others prefer to do their own thing (on their own time). If you’re hoping to teach tricks or commands, choosing a more trainable breed can save you a lot of frustration. But even the most stubborn cats can surprise you with patience, consistency, and the right treats!
Jen is a passionate nature lover and ocean conservationist. She has dedicated her life to protecting the environment and preserving the beauty of the natural world. Growing up in a small coastal town, Jen sincerely appreciated the ocean and its inhabitants. She has spent countless hours exploring the shoreline, learning about the creatures that inhabit the waters, and advocating for their protection. Jen is an active member of ocean conservation organizations, and she is committed to educating the public about the importance of conserving wildlife and the natural environment.
