Massive Maine Coon Cat Gives Mom High Fives Like a True Pro

Before becoming a cat mom, I was told all kinds of lies about cats. I was told that they are contrary and not affectionate “like dogs” and that they would be impossible to train. It was, I assure you, all anti-cat propaganda. My darling kitties love on us constantly, come when called and—when in the mood—will do any number of tricks in return for treats or even just chin scritches.

And after watching this video, I’m inclined to try to get them to “gimme paw.”

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In this clip, an absolutely massive black Main Coon cat named Zeus eagerly gives his mother a high five. It’s a cute trick, and one that many dog owners are familiar with. For cat owners, however, the idea that you can teach a cat such things might come as a bit of a surprise.

Related: Maine Coon Cat Clearly Says 'How Are You?' in Video That Has People Stunned

How did they pull it off?

The same way you teach any animal to do anything. With patience, good humor, repitition, and positive reinforcement.

How to Train a Cat to High Five

First, remember to be patient. Training a cat, even a supposedly “dog-like” Maine Coon cat, how to do a trick takes some time. Cats like schedules, so keep your training to the same part of every day. Pick a moment when your cat is alert and ready to play with you. Don’t do it during one of their many nap times.

Then, put the cat on a raised surface, like a table, platform, chair or the back of a couch. Someplace it’s easy for them to reach you.

Do the gesture and speak the command that is they’re cute to do the trick, such as raising your hand and saying “Give me five.” They may not understand you at first, so lift their paw and do it for them, pressing their paw against your outstretched hand. Then, immediately give them a treat. Repeat several times, but don’t be worried if your cat doesn’t pick it up on the first day, or even the first few. Keep the training sessions short—a few minutes at a time.

Once your cat is fulfilling the command with ease, switch from treating every time to praise, pets, and other rewards.

Pros and Cons of Maine Coon Cats

Maine Coons are the largest non-hybrid Bree of cat (the Savannah cat being a cross between domestic cats and hybrids) and can reach up to twenty-two pounds. Hey are a natural cat breed growing in popularity due to their reputation as a “gentle giant.” Maine Coons are supposed to be intelligent, affectionate, “dog like” in nature, like to swim and to do tricks. They are known for their size, strong facial structure, tufted ears and paws, and huge, bushy tail.

They come in every color, and have thick, shaggy coats well adjusted for harsh winters, with strong ruffs and a wild or lionlike appearance. They are known to trill and to play fetch, and unlike most cats, do not reach their full size until they are about four years of age.

Excuse me, I’m off to grab a bag of treats and to teach my kitties how to give me a high five.

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