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I have almost never been without a cat.
Growing up in Oklahoma, we always had cats, but parental controls kept them outside the house. It wasn't until I was grown and on my own that I gained the luxury of having an indoor kitty.
Cats are so funny. They are not of the same disposition as dogs, and they will be the first to let us know that. They were worshiped in ancient civilizations and have never forgotten this fact. They normally do not jump to do our bidding like dogs do, but they can be trained.
Many things come naturally to a cat, like litter training. They naturally dispose of their "business" without any help from humans, thank you very much. A kitten or a cat that is new to the household will need to be shown a few times where the proper place of disposal is, but they will pick it up quite quickly. Normally, the proper place of disposing of refuse is not an issue once your cat has learned where it can be found.
What if a cat is displaying bad behavior?
There are ways through positive reinforcement and through speaking in a strong tone that will get their attention. For instance, if you see your cat scratching on your new sofa, speak a loud "No!" and pick him up; take him to a scratching post which you have provided for him. Gently put his paws on the post and let him know this is the appropriate place to scratch. There is usually a reason why cats do what they do. They scratch because their paws hurt and scratching releases the pain and makes them feel better. They are not doing it just to irritate you!
Each time you see your cat responding favorably and correctly to the training you have been giving him, give him a little kitty treat. Cats are very practical. They respond to food bribes. I was once told by a vet that when diabetic cats (yes, diabetes is common in cats) get their shot in a vein in their ear, they will tolerate it quite well because (1) the place where they get the shot has few pain sensors, and (2) they know that if they do what you want them to do and just politely sit there until you are done, they will get a tasty little treat.
Never punish your cat by beating or hitting him. Cats are delicate creatures and very sensitive. They will learn to distrust a person who harms them, and will not understand the reason they were beaten or hit. Using a stern loud voice or a spray bottle will let them know that some behaviors will not be tolerated. Kindness and positive reinforcement, not cruelty, is always the appropriate way to train a cat.
Above all, love your sweet little feline. The rewards are great.
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