[boatbums]

We enjoyed the "Cat" show on Mallory Square in Key West. That guy was able to get his kitties to jump through hoops (various sizes), balance on tightropes and stands, stay in one place and do certain tricks repeatedly, etc. He was GREAT! When we asked him how he was able to do this, he told us that he starts them young and can tell right away if they would work out for the show. The only rewards he needed to use were regular dry kibble cat food and lots of affection and respect. I don't know if he is still there, but it changed my mind about what cats can learn.

Our two respond and know their names and that of the other, sometimes come when called (if they're in the mood) and are overall the sweetest additions to our lives. We love them very much.

[justiceseeker93]

Our two respond and know their names and that of the other, sometimes come when called (if they're in the mood).

My intuitive guess is that they don't really "know" their names (they don't have (human) linguistic skills), but they respond rather to the inflection of your voice, to which they are accustomed. You use different inflections when you call each of them by name, and they can tell the difference.

Yes, cats can be trained to do things that dogs do, and maybe in some instances, more.

There are also stories of cats who are lost having the directional sense to return home to their owners from many miles away. Wouldn't experiment with that, though.