I can get my non-lap cat, Sid, to sit on my lap. The best way to do this is if he's just woken up from a nap and is still kind of groggy. I can then get him on my lap where I give him the head scratches that he likes so much. Once he's more awake he wants off - but for those couple of minutes it is wonderful.

I've been trying to condition him by doing this at least a few times a week and it seems to be working - he is content to stay on my lap for even longer (maybe three minutes ) and seems more relaxed.

I've learned that if a cat is wide awake and in a playful mood - there's no way they'll sit on a lap, so timing is important.