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The Vacuum Monster

One of the absolute worst things many cats know. Totally understandable – a loud, roaring monster rolling right into their territory… and it eats toy mice, no less!

We knew very well that Jonatan wasn’t a fan. So we started small – just leaving the vacuum lying around on the floor in different rooms. Suddenly it was in the kitchen. The next day, in the hallway. Not making a sound – just… existing. Creepy houseguest style.

One day, we played with it. Another day, there were treats on top of it. Or at least the smell of treats, since there happen to be three other treat thieves in the house with lightning-fast paws…

After a few weeks, we started turning the vacuum on very briefly while playing near it. We always turned it off before Jonatan had a chance to react, or before the lights and sound got too intense.

His favorite toys are feather wands and laser pointers, so we used those. He got so into the game that he barely noticed the vacuum noise in the background.

The trick is to slowly increase the duration of the sound, as he gets more confident and less bothered. But it’s crucial to turn it off before he gets scared or uncertain. It’s a fine balance – better to stop too early than too late. Push it too far, and you might have to take a few steps back in training. But if you get it right, you’re giving your cat a great sense of achievement – ideally with a treat or two as a reward.

And if you’re unsure? Don’t push it. Let the cat lead the way.

Once we reached the point where the vacuum was actually on during training, we did lots of short sessions – several times a day.

The goal? For the vacuum to be fun. A game. Something to enjoy.

And in the end, it actually worked. One day I started the vacuum out on the terrace to clean up some loose fur, and Jonatan came bouncing over, tail high, eager to join in the fun. He finished the last stage of vacuum training all by himself – no feather wand, no laser, no treats. Just pure, brave paw power.

Somewhere along the line, I must’ve gone wrong with the kids… because the cat thinks the vacuum is awesome.

PS: Remember to keep the vacuum hose’s air intake a safe distance away – just in case the cat’s tail decides to explore it when you turn it on. 🐾

🎥 See Jonatan in action