Frustrated? Tried Everything?
Here’s How it Can Be Helped
What Your Consultation Involves
You may say you’ve already tried everything to alter your cat’s behavior, but the good news is there IS hope. During a consultation, your frustration can be replaced with a deeper understanding of your cat's distinctive needs and how to meet them. Plans are based on the uniqueness of your cat, but also on the science of feline cognition and their evolutionary, social, and biological instincts. This is a crucial aspect in changing the behavior of your cat. By the end of your consultation, you will have a customized plan and an understanding of the action items necessary to begin resolving the behavior problem(s).
I offer different consultations depending on your needs and the needs of your cat(s). They can include enrichment items for the specific needs of your cats. I do both In-Home and Video Consultations.
Once an appointment is set, I will send you a short questionnaire about your situation.
Consults are very informal and conversational – don’t be nervous; your cat will wonder what’s up!
All questions or cat concerns can be discussed - if you aren’t sure, please ask.
First, we will review your questionnaire and discuss your case. I will spend time with your kitty in order to gain a fuller idea of who they are and how they see their world.
Next, we will discuss the recommendations for addressing the behavior issues.
For In-Home Consultations, I will observe the cat(s) and we will practice a technique around your case. I will stay by your side to offer guidance as needed.
For Video Consultations, I will ask for videos of the issues. During the video call, we will discuss the issues, how it has affected your household, and solutions to start changing the behaviors.
Within 2 days, you will receive a full behavior report and recommendations. This will be a combination of behavior modification, environmental enrichment and positive reinforcement.
Problem Behaviors?
In-Home Behavior Consults
Like humans, cats experience fear, pleasure, hunger, anxiety, frustration, and many other states of being that may affect their behavior. Unlike humans, they cannot put words to these states of being and will “act out” if any one of these needs are met with difficulty. It is most often not obvious to us what is causing their behavior problems. Why are they peeing on the bed? Why won’t they use the nice scratching post I got them? Why does Fluffy hate poor Lemondrop?
The most effective way of working through behavioral issues is to personally meet, observe and interact with the cat(s) in their own environment, where they are most comfortable, and where the behavior is occurring. With this, I can more easily uncover possible stressors or triggers that may be contributing to undesired behaviors and to develop a more practical behavior plan; one that meets your needs as well as your cat’s.
It is important to note that you will only have success in treating your cat's behavior problem if you and others in the household are willing to implement the recommended plan and environmental changes. The more open-minded and willing to work on challenges you are, the more successful the behavior modification plan will be.
* Session costs may vary between $80-$100. Please inquire before your scheduled appointment.
Getting a New Cat?
Happy Habitat Consultations
Are you a first-time cat owner or bringing a new and potentially nervous cat into the household? I can help you create the optimal environment for your new feline family. These In-Home Consultations are designed to help ensure that you and your new cat have everything needed for a happy, healthy relationship. We will look at appropriate set-up for the litter box, environmental enrichment, playtime and all necessary resources. A Happy Habitat is the best way prevent behavior issues.
Want to Train Like a Pro?
How to Train Your Cat
One of the fastest ways to train an animal is with “clicker training.” Clicker training relies on associating a clicking noise with a treat or other reward, which is given for certain positive behaviors.
It is amazingly effective for helping your cat(s) learn that moments in their life in which they were normally fearful, aggressive, or behaving in inappropriate ways can now be a more enriching life experience. It is also important for veterinary care or emergency situations and can aid in finding your cat if they are lost or are stuck up a tree!
In no time, you can learn to use this type of Positive Reinforcement Training with your cat(s).
This 3 Lesson Course includes:
Lesson plans for training your cat(s)
In-Home, hands on teaching/training with your cat(s)
Positive reinforcement theory and how to motivate a cat
Clicker training basics and reinforcement application
Reinforcing/negating existing behaviors and linking behaviors
*3 Sessions $500 / Includes training supplies
Video Sessions are a fabulous way to provide advice and training for many behavioral issues. If you would like to know more about how I can offer you the help you and your cat needs, or you aren’t sure if these services are right for you and want to do a brief video chat, I am happy to chat further.
*In-Home Visits consists of a 1 hour behavioral modification assessment and access to me by phone, text or email for 2 weeks after your session. My desire is to help as I can when you have questions or concerns.
Any further In-Home Follow-Up visits or video conferences are offered at reduced rate to continuing clients.
Due to the complexities and extra time it may take to resolve some cat behavior problems, additional sessions might be recommended.
NOTE: Pricing is in US dollar and travel fees may apply.
