Frequently Asked Questions
Don't see your question answered here? Feel free to contact me so I can help answer your question.
Cat Behavior FAQ
What is your philosophy in your work with cats?
As a cat behavior and wellbeing educator, my heart is truly with your cat. I see myself as their voice, helping you understand their world. Sometimes, what we might see as 'behavior problems' are simply your cat's way of telling us they're struggling – perhaps with boredom, stress, or fear. They're trying to communicate in the only way they know how, their unique 'cat language.'
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Instead of viewing these behaviors as 'problems to fix,' I see them as opportunities to deepen our understanding and connection. My aim is to help you truly listen to your cat, to understand their needs, and create a more harmonious and joyful life together. By learning to speak 'cat,' we can ease their discomfort and build an even stronger, more loving bond
What is your approach?
My approach is built on a deep understanding of cats, blending science with a whole lot of heart. I've dedicated myself to learning about feline domestication, how cats develop and communicate, and their social behaviors. This gives me a solid base for understanding why your cat might be acting a certain way, and helps me spot those little clues in their environment that might be triggering them.
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But it's more than just science for me. I believe in truly seeing your cat, understanding their feelings, and recognizing that emotions shape their behavior. I work with a gentle, compassionate approach, always keeping in mind that every cat, and every guardian, is unique. My biggest goal is to support the emotional wellbeing of both you and your feline friend, because a happy, connected relationship is what it's all about.
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How do you vary from traditional behavior consulting?
When it comes to understanding cat behavior, I've learned that every cat, and every human, is unique. While many cat behavior professionals focus on behavior modification and training, which are absolutely valuable, I've discovered my heart lies in a slightly different place.
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For the first four years of my practice, I worked extensively with those methods, and they're truly effective. But I realized my passion is less about being a 'consultant' or 'coach,' and more about being an educator and a guide.
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What truly excites me is helping people understand why their cat is behaving a certain way. By understanding the root cause, we can find the best ways to support their needs. I see this as the essential first step before any behavior modification or training. To me, knowing the 'why' is just as important, if not more, than the 'how.' I feel this crucial piece often gets overlooked, and I want to help fill that gap.
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In our one-on-one sessions, I might suggest some behavior modification ideas, but I won't be providing detailed, step-by-step training plans. Those types of plans often require longer, more intensive coaching, which is a different kind of support.
My focus is on helping you become a 'cat language' expert, so you can truly understand your furry friend and support their emotional well-being. If you're looking for specific behavior modification or training programs, or need more in-depth behavioral care, I'll happily connect you with a trusted colleague who specializes in those areas. My goal is to empower you to create a happier, more harmonious life with your cat.
Do you consider yourself a cat trainer, and do you offer any training services?
I focus on a different aspect of cat behavior than traditional training. My passion lies in helping guardians truly understand their cat's behavior by delving into their emotions and instincts. I believe this understanding is a vital piece of the puzzle, one that deserves more attention and is distinct from training itself.
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While I don't provide training services, I'm always looking out for the best interest of your cat. If I believe your cat could benefit from specific training, I'll gladly connect you with a trusted cat trainer or provide you with helpful training resources.
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Cat Advocate Emapthic Strain & Burnout FAQ
What is your experience and background regarding empathic strain and burnout?
I experienced significant empathic strain and burnout, starting in shelter work, due to both the emotional burden of caring for animals and the frustrations of systemic issues that often hinder effective animal welfare. This carried into my behavior business, where I recognized these challenges are often rooted in broader societal and professional norms. I'm committed to finding a healthy balance while also advocating for systemic change.
Why have you chosen to talk about this subject, particularly in cat welfare?
I've noticed a real need for more open conversations about the emotional challenges we face in cat welfare. It's a field where we pour our hearts into helping animals, but sometimes, the weight of that can feel incredibly heavy, and we can feel very alone. Sadly, this often goes unacknowledged, leading to real harm. I believe it's time to bring these experiences into the light, to create a more supportive and understanding environment. I want to help create a space where we can openly discuss these important issues, and support each other.
What do I consider your role regarding this subject?
While I'm not a licensed counselor, I've pursued additional education in empathic strain and trauma-informed care. I see my role as a peer supporter and advocate, someone who deeply understands and relates to the lived experiences of others in our community. My focus is on offering support and creating resources that provide guidance and understanding.
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It's important to remember that, while I'm here to offer peer support, the information and resources I share are not a substitute for professional mental health services. I encourage anyone who needs more in-depth support to seek out those resources.
What is your approach to talking about empathic strain and burnout?
I believe in the power of community and shared experiences. My approach is to foster open and honest conversations about the challenges of empathic strain and burnout. I want to create an environment where we can acknowledge these struggles, validate each other's experiences, and feel heard and understood.
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My aim is to cultivate an atmosphere of respect and empathy where we can connect and support each other. I believe that normalizing these conversations and fostering a sense of community can be incredibly helpful, even if we don't have all the answers. We're all in this together, and together, we can explore ways to navigate these challenges.