Build the movement first. Reduce the lure before adding a word.
Check readiness
The FVMA training toolkit recommends individual, willing participation. Postpone training when a cat is ill, painful or showing protective behaviour.
Begin with a cat already able to sit on cue, as Cats Protection's lie-down guide requires.
Guide the movement
Move a lure down from the nose to near the floor, then towards you. Say yes and reward once the cat lies down.
Wait for the animal to make the movement. Moving your hand is an invitation; physically lowering the cat is not part of this exercise.
Fade and cue
Once reliable, guide with an empty hand: first pretend to collect a treat, then omit collection. Gradually shrink the gesture. Still reward.
Later, say an unused cue word one second before the familiar hand signal.
Removing food from the guiding hand does not remove the reward. Change the lure, gesture and word at separate stages.
Pause or finish
Follow Battersea's individual pace. Return to an easier familiar response or stop when interest fades; avoid punishment.
