How to Help Your Dog or Cat Cope with Separation Anxiety This Fall. As families gear up for the back-to-school season, pets are often left behind to adjust to quiet homes and changed routines. For many dogs and cats, this abrupt transition can lead to stress, confusion, and separation anxiety. As creatures of habit, our pets thrive on consistency, and when schedules shift, like when children head back to school. It can leave them emotionally overwhelmed. (more…)
Category: Cat Behavior
A cat behaviorist is a professional who specializes in understanding and addressing feline behavior issues. These experts possess deep knowledge of cat psychology, communication, and environmental needs, allowing them to identify the root causes of problematic behaviors such as aggression, litter box issues, excessive meowing, and destructive scratching.
When hired, a cat behaviorist typically conducts an in-depth consultation with the cat’s owner to gather information about the cat’s history, daily routines, and specific behaviors. They may also observe the cat in its home environment to assess its interactions and stress triggers. Based on their findings, the behaviorist creates a customized behavior modification plan, which may include changes to the cat’s environment, adjustments to the owner’s interactions with the cat, and specific training techniques designed to modify unwanted behaviors.
The behaviorist works closely with the cat’s owner, providing guidance, support, and follow-up sessions to ensure the effectiveness of the plan. They may also collaborate with veterinarians to rule out or address any medical conditions that could be contributing to the cat’s behavior.
Hiring a pro can generally run between $100 and $300 per session, depending on factors like the behaviorist’s experience, location, and the complexity of the cat’s issues. Initial consultations, which often include a thorough assessment of the cat’s behavior and environment, tend to be on the higher end of the scale, ranging from $150 to $300. Follow-up sessions are usually less expensive, averaging around $100 to $200. Some behaviorists also offer package deals or remote consultations, which can reduce the overall cost. It’s important to invest in a qualified behaviorist to ensure effective results. The ultimate goal of a cat behaviorist is to improve the cat’s well-being and foster a harmonious relationship between the cat and its owner, ensuring a peaceful and happy household.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and Petworks
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Advancing Animal Health and Feline Wellness. The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is a world-renowned institution located in Ithaca, New York, dedicated to advancing the science of veterinary medicine. Consistently ranked among the top veterinary schools in the world, Cornell CVM is known for its groundbreaking research, excellence in animal healthcare, and commitment to veterinary education. Among its most celebrated programs is the Cornell Feline Health Center, which has played a pivotal role in promoting the health and well-being of cats through research, education, and outreach. (more…)
Why Is My Cat Suddenly Aggressive? Causes and What to Do
Cats are known for their independence, but sudden changes in their behavior, especially aggression, can be alarming for pet parents. If your once-affectionate cat is now hissing, growling, biting, or swatting, it’s natural to be concerned. Sudden aggression in cats is not just frustrating; it’s often a sign that something deeper is going on. Understanding the root causes of feline aggression can help you respond effectively and get your cat the support they need. Below are the most common reasons your cat may be acting aggressively, along with expert-backed tips for addressing the behavior. (more…)
Bombay Cat Personality Traits: What Makes This Black Beauty So Beloved
Bombay Cat Personality Traits: What Makes This Black Beauty Such a Beloved Feline Companion. If you’re looking for a sleek, affectionate, and intelligent feline companion, the Bombay cat may be the perfect match. Known for its shiny black coat, muscular build, and golden eyes, this breed is more than just a stunning showpiece. It’s a delightful bundle of personality. In this article, we’ll explore the most distinctive Bombay cat personality traits, helping you understand whether this breed is the right fit for your home. (more…)
Seeking Solutions: My Senior Cat’s Ongoing Litter Box Issues!
Dear Kevin,
My male cat Remy pees and/or poops outside the litter box persistently. I adopted him from a shelter where he was housed for only 1 day. He was 10 months old and apparently had been in a home in a bad neighborhood, had been tuned out, and had slightly burned fur in spots. The first night in my home, at 2:00 am he peed in the middle of my bed. He continued this for 3 or 4 nights until the vet helped me stop this. It started again about a year later on the tunnel toy I got for both him and a female playmate I adopted for him who love each other. I had to get rid of the tunnel toy, but he continued to pee on the hall rug where it had been. He stopped for a few years but in the past two years has started again…now on my bed. I live in fear and dread never knowing when it will happen. Sometimes I ignored it and just cleaned up. Sometimes I would pick him up, rub his nose in it and then in the litter box, but nothing stops him. He seems to be unaware of doing anything wrong. The litter box is extremely clean, very large and in the bathroom in my small apartment quite close to everywhere.
I love him so much…
It breaks my heart to give him away, knowing someone else might turn him out and eventually he would be euthanized. And his sister Cherie loves him much. I cuddle him, caress him, feed him well and give him much affection. It will happen sometimes even after much loving too. But mostly it just happens! Long ago I realized his motto seems to be: “I want what I want when I want it.” He will be 11 years in August. I will be 90 in September. I don’t want to live with this situation much longer and know I have to do something soon. And I don’t want to live with ‘cat boarders’ as I love to show them love and treat them like my children. I have had 4 previous cats who were angels, whom I loved very much with never a problem. I am writing because I am hoping that your organization will screen someone and put me in touch with a cat communicator who is aware of the situation and will have a handle on it. I do not want to waste time and money. I live in an apartment in New York City. My cats are indoors. Looking forward to hearing from you! Sincerely, Ruth
Hi Ruth –
Thank you for writing to us and sharing your heartfelt story about Remy. It’s clear you have given this cat your whole heart, and you’ve gone above and beyond to care for him despite the challenges. Your patience, love, and devotion – are deeply admirable. You’re not alone, and the fact that you’re still seeking solutions instead of giving up says so much about your compassion.
From what you’ve described, it sounds like Remy’s behavior may be rooted in unresolved trauma or emotional stress, potentially dating back to his early experiences before adoption. Cats can carry emotional wounds just like people, and those early burns, instability, and fear could still be affecting his sense of security. Even now.
You’ve done everything right: a clean, accessible litter box, affection, attention, a companion cat. The intermittent nature of Remy’s peeing and the stress it causes you both point to emotional rather than physical causes (assuming his vet has ruled out medical issues like a urinary tract infection or arthritis). This is precisely the kind of situation where an experienced animal communicator may be able to help bridge the gap between Remy’s inner world and yours.
At Petworks, we work with highly regarded animal communicators and cat behavior experts who specialize in helping pet parents like you understand what might be going on in their pet’s mind and heart. These sessions, often conducted virtually, can uncover emotional triggers, help your cat feel heard, and provide you with guidance on how to shift behaviors with empathy.
Ruth, you’ve given Remy a loving, safe home for 11 years. It’s not your fault this behavior persists, and you deserve peace of mind in your golden years. An animal communicator or behaviorist may offer insight into what’s driving Remy’s actions, and potentially bring relief for both of you.
With warmth and respect from everyone here at Petworks,
Kevin
Petworks Co-Founder Kevin Kinyon is a life-long animal lover who works tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their parents. Human and animal qualities he values most are integrity, humor, and empathy.
