How to Train Your Cat to Fetch

While dogs are known for playing fetch, some cats also enjoy the game. Siamese heritage cats and young kittens particularly enjoy retrieving toys, though any cat can learn.

Your cat may show an instinct to retrieve by bringing you a mouse as a "gift." They may also capture a fluttering moth only to let it go or bat a toy mouse down the hall. All that's needed is for you to toss the toy and entice your cat to bring it back.

Teaching this game is an interactive way to help your cat release energy and stay mentally sharp. Fetch can also provide exercise for overweight cats. Not every cat will fetch, but it is a fun game to attempt, and there are a few simple steps you can take to encourage it.

Find a Quiet Spot

To keep your cat's attention and teach them something new, it's best to work in a distraction-free environment. Find a quiet spot at home, preferably a room with few obstacles and a small area that restricts the playing field.

Choose the Right Toy

Most cats choose their favorite items to fetch. It's easiest to follow your cat's natural preferences when introducing the game of fetch.

For example, your cat may prefer a catnip mouse, a wad of paper, a soft sparkle ball, or a specific treat. Some cats enjoy chasing kibble across a hard floor. While they might not bring it back, they may return for another toss. Discover what interests your cat most, then play with that toy.

Pick the Right Time

Timing is key, and you know your cat's habits best, so choose a time when your cat is up for a game. Even if it's convenient for you, the game won't succeed if your cat is resting during naptime. Some cat owners find their cats are most receptive to training just before a meal.

While dogs often enjoy extended fetching sessions, cats are great at short bursts of activity. Ten minutes is long in the cat world, so leave your cat wanting more. Stop the game before your cat tires five minutes works for most cats and they'll be more likely to ask for a repeat.

Play Copy Cat

Does your cat like the ball to bounce, or do they prefer to paw-wack paper across the room? Mimic your cat's favorite play activities. This will show your pet you understand the game and want to join in the fun.

Give the Game a Name

Cats communicate with fluffed fur, eye and tail positions, and meows, but they also understand many human words. Associate the action with a word to help your cat know when it's time to play.

Use a phrase like, "Fetch, kitty-kitty-kitty!" in a high-pitched, cheerful tone after tossing the toy to encourage your cat to bring it back. If your cat has been clicker trained to come when called, combine the "come" command with the "fetch" word.

Reward the Action

For cats that fetch naturally, picking up the toy and tossing it again is often enough reward. If your cat enjoys chasing kibble or treats across the floor, then eating it is the reward. Other cats may be more inclined to play fetch if given a treat. Follow your cat's lead and provide their preferred reward to encourage good behavior.

Problems and Proofing Behavior

As your cat becomes accustomed to the game, transition to a larger room or an area with more distractions. You can also involve another person: Sit on opposite sides of the room and take turns throwing the toy. This helps your cat learn that playing with others is fun, too.

It may be best to keep the fetch toy out of your cat's reach when not playing. This can add value to the toy and make playtime something your cat anticipates.

Once your cat consistently fetches one object, try tossing another toy using the same verbal cue. Encouraging your cat to retrieve various objects promotes exercise, even if their favorite toy is lost or damaged and needs replacing.

If your cat isn't interested in fetching, don't worry. You can still enjoy other games and interactive toys. Plus, some cats may simply expect humans to pick up after themselves, rather than bringing the toy back. They're quirky like that.