Vet Tips 2025: Teaching “Go to Mat” Behavior for Cats 🧘‍♂️🐱

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Imagine your cat calmly running to their mat when asked—whether to avoid counter surfing, prepare for a carrier trip, or enjoy a treat in peace. Sounds magical? It's not. It's "go to mat" training—and it's simple, effective, and based on positive reinforcement. 🧠🐾

Why “Go to Mat” Training Works 💡🐱

This behavior is more than a cute trick. It offers practical solutions for everyday issues:

• 🖥️ Stops climbing on laptops and counters
• 🚪 Prevents door dashing
• 🧳 Builds a foundation for stress-free carrier training
• 🧘‍♂️ Encourages calm, predictable behavior

By giving your cat a specific place to be, you create structure, reduce chaos, and promote confidence. 🧺😻

What You’ll Need 🧰🎯

• ✔️ A clicker or verbal marker like “yes”
• ✔️ Small, high-value treats
• ✔️ A 12"–18" mat, towel, or small fleece square

Choose a mat that’s cozy, washable, and easy to move. Keep sessions short (10–15 reps) and fun. 🎉

Step 1: Get the Cat on the Mat 🧺🎯

1. Place the mat between you and your cat.
2. Drop a treat on the mat and mark (“click” or “yes”) as your cat steps on.
3. After eating the treat, toss one a few feet away to reset.
4. Repeat—drop, click, toss, repeat.

Practice until your cat eagerly runs to the mat and stands on it with all four feet at least 8 out of 10 times. 🐾✅

Step 2: Mix Up Your Tosses 🔀🎾

Now start tossing treats in different directions. This confirms your cat is targeting the mat, not just walking toward you.

• ✔️ Toss to the left, then right, then behind the cat
• ✔️ Click and treat only when your cat returns fully onto the mat

Once your cat succeeds in 4 of 5 diverse repetitions, move on to step three. 🧗‍♂️

Step 3: Add the Cue 🗣️🧠

Now that the behavior is solid, introduce a verbal cue. Use a happy tone of voice:

• 💬 Say “mat” or “place” as your cat steps onto the mat
• 🔁 Repeat over several sessions to link the cue with the action
• 🐱 Always use an upbeat voice—happy cues = happy cats

Once the cue consistently produces the action, move to step four. 🎉

Step 4: Use the Cue to Trigger the Behavior 📢🐾

• ✔️ Place the mat a few feet away while your cat watches
• 💬 Say “mat” and wait
• 🎯 Click and reward when your cat steps onto the mat

Start close, then gradually increase distance—but only one challenge at a time. If your cat hesitates or misses more than 5 times, return to step three. 🔄

Step 5: Generalize the Behavior Around the House 🏠🐾

Try placing the mat in different areas of the home:

• 🛋️ Sofa corner
• 🪟 Sunny window ledge
• 🧳 Next to your cat’s carrier or vet bag

Use secure, stable locations and reinforce consistently. You can also name multiple “go to” locations: “go to mat,” “go to tree,” “go to carrier.” 🔖🐱

When to Use “Go to Mat” in Real Life 🌟🐾

• 💻 During work sessions to keep your laptop clear
• 🚪 When guests arrive—avoid dashing or overstimulation
• 🧳 Carrier loading practice or grooming prep
• 🍽️ Dinnertime to keep paws off the counter

It’s a versatile behavior that reduces stress, prevents mischief, and supports calm confidence. 😻🧘‍♀️

Training Tips for Success 🎓🧠

• ✅ Click or mark the moment all four feet hit the mat
• 🍗 Use irresistible treats (chicken, tuna, freeze-dried meats)
• 📈 Mix easy and hard reps to keep your cat engaged
• 🔁 End sessions on a high note with a big reward

If your cat walks away, reset with short, fun sessions later. Consistency beats intensity. 🐾✨

Need Help Getting Started? Ask A Vet 📱🐱

Want to teach this skill but not sure where to begin? Chat with a certified vet professional via Ask A Vet for real-time help with behavior training, clicker cues, or finding the right mat. 📲

Download the Ask A Vet app for 24/7 support from feline-friendly experts ready to guide you through every training step. 🧠🐾

Final Thoughts: Training That Transforms 🎉🐾

“Go to mat” isn’t just a party trick—it’s a powerful tool for structure, calm, and connection. With a few minutes a day, you can turn chaos into calm and strengthen your bond with your cat. 🧘‍♂️💛

Need help fine-tuning your training routine? Visit Ask A Vet to speak with a training-savvy vet today. Let’s make “go to mat” your cat’s new favorite game. 🧺😻