If youve ever suggested training your cat to a friend or colleague, theres a good chance they laughed in your face. But Samantha Martin, lifelong animal trainer and the founder of The Amazing Acro-Cats , says cats are unfairly stereotyped as un-trainable.

Martins traveling circus troupe of 14 felines most of whom were rescued from shelters or the streets play musical instruments, jump through hoops and even skateboard. While your pet may not be musically inclined, Martin recommends that every cat owner train their furry companion to some degree.

Check out our podcast to hear Martin talk about feline training, her animal welfare work and what life on the road with 14 cats is really like.

In the meantime, here are some things to know to about cat training to get you started. Fluffy will be walking a tightrope in no time.

1. You can do it