Browse ›
An older man with a white mustache kneels on a patterned rug and shakes the raised paw of a gray Russian Blue cat. 6 / 37

Everyone Told Earl You Can't Teach a Cat Tricks. Pewter Heard Them.

AI imagerussian bluecat tricksliving room

Down on the patterned living room rug, Earl is kneeling with one hand held out, and to his delight, Pewter has lifted her paw and placed it right in his palm. His face crinkles into a proud grin beneath the white mustache, and the Russian Blue looks up at him with calm, serious green eyes, as though shaking hands is simply the polite thing to do. A wooden coffee table with a pair of glasses, a couch draped in a throw, and potted plants by the window frame the cozy scene.

Yes, cats can learn tricks. Many people assume training is only for dogs, but cats respond well to short, positive sessions built around rewards they love, such as small treats or a favorite toy. Shake, sit, high five, and coming when called are all popular beginner tricks. The keys are patience and timing: reward the exact moment the cat does what you want, keep sessions to just a few minutes, and end on a success. Some owners use a clicker to mark the moment. Russian Blues are often described as intelligent and observant, which can make them quick learners, though every cat has her own pace and mood. Training can also be a wonderful source of mental exercise, especially for indoor cats.

Earl may be the one who started the lesson, but judging by Pewter's composure, she may have been waiting for him to catch on.

More from this collection

All 37 →
An older man in a fishing vest walks down a gravel road at dusk with a gray Russian Blue cat trotting at his feet.Earl Heads Out for His Evening Walk. He Never Has to Go Alone.An older man in a fishing vest and a gray Russian Blue cat watch heavy rain from a covered wooden porch.Earl Pulled Up a Porch Seat for the Storm. Pewter Was Already Watching.
A smiling older man in a fishing vest sits on a garden bench while a gray Russian Blue cat sniffs toward his face.Earl Took a Garden Break. Pewter Had Something to Check on His Face.An older man works on a jigsaw puzzle at a kitchen table while a gray Russian Blue cat sits on a chair beside him.Earl Swore He Almost Had the Puzzle Done. Pewter Seemed to Know Better.An older man in a fishing vest sits wrapped in a patchwork quilt by a glowing fireplace with a gray cat on his lap.Earl Settled by the Fire Under a Quilt. Pewter Found the Best Spot.An older man in a plaid jacket and vest drinks coffee on porch steps at dawn while a gray cat sits gazing up at him.Earl Takes His Coffee Outside at Dawn. Pewter Never Lets Him Go Alone.