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A smiling man in red plaid kneels on a rug and gently holds the raised paw of a silver Maine Coon. 35 / 36

Grandpa Spent All Week Teaching Tricks. The Cat Held Out Her Paw

AI imagemaine cooncat trainingliving room

Harold kneels on a patterned rug with his glasses slipping and a wide, delighted grin, gently holding one of Smoky's paws in his hand. Smoky sits upright with her silver striped chest forward and her green eyes fixed on his face, her long tail curling behind her. A couch with soft blankets, a plant on a side table, and a paper-covered shelf fill the background of the cozy living room. It looks like a very serious lesson that is going very well.

Cats can learn tricks, and a Maine Coon is a good candidate, since the breed is known for being smart, curious, and food-motivated. Training works best in short sessions with small treats and plenty of praise, and many cats take to clicker training. Start by rewarding her for sitting, then gently lift her paw, say your cue word, and reward again. Never force her paw or scold her, since cats respond best to positive rewards. If she does not like having her paws handled, take it slowly. Handling paws also helps with nail trims and checking her feet later. Keep treats tiny so they do not add up, and talk to your vet about healthy weight for a large cat like a Maine Coon.

Smoky has agreed to the handshake, at least for now. Harold has the look of a man who has just made a very important business deal.

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