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I spent the afternoon clicker-training cats at the shelter. This is the fourth week (fifth time) I've done this, and the cats are loving it. Sadly, there are four cats still at the shelter who were in the original group; they are the most responsive and enthusiastic. Shaq (who is now "Shayla" under the Kitty Witness Protection Program- it's amazing how a name change alone can spur adoption) was offering high fives, sitting, and jumping up to her perch with little coaxing. Pharaoh, Ed, and Midnight responded admirably as well.
Brie was interested, and came to the front of her cage. Since she has just been spayed, I left it at that. Also, a dog came through the lobby (where her cage is) whilst I was working with her, and she got extremely pissed and distracted.
Shelly (who came to us with her claws grown into her toepads because her person didn't know how to clip her nails), came to the front of her cage, and jumped up to her perch several times.
For the first time, I encountered cats who had no interest in tuna treats: Dharma, who only wanted petting; Olivia, who is still very shut down and nervous (but loves attention), and poor old Mittens, a 14-year-old cat who is disinclined to eat much of anything; she has a constant purr and snuggles right into your neck. She needs an "angel" adopter, one who's willing to provide loving care for an elder cat.
So, I gave up on training- we just cuddled.
Next week, I'll try again.
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