• What is a Feline Behavior Consultant?

A feline behavior consultant is someone who is specialized in preventing, managing and modifying challenging behaviors in cats (IAABC).  Their job is to assess the situation, provide a functional characterization of the problem behavior, and offer interventions that can help pet owners reach a satisfactory solution (AVSAB).

                       

• What kind of training or certifications do you have?

After completing an extensive year-long Advanced Feline Training program through Animal Behavior Institute, Cristin earned her CFTBS (Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist) and CAFTP (Certified Advanced Feline Training Professional).  Course work included classes in Animal Behavior, Feline Nutrition, Feline Behavior & Enrichment, Feline Training, Advanced Feline Training and over 100 field hours dedicated to both in-home and shelter behavior cases.  Cristin is also a supporting member of the IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants), Animal Behavior Society, Pet Professional Guild, AAFP (American Association of Feline Practitioners) and SVBT (Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians). Over the years, Cristin has worked with hundreds of cats in both the home and shelter environment.

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• Are you a Veterinarian?

No, The Cat Counselor is a Certified Feline Behavior Consultant, NOT a Veterinarian.  We do work closely with many veterinarians and are happy to work with yours as well.  Before seeking behavior advice, you should always see your Veterinarian to rule out any possible medical issues that could be contributing to behavior issues.  The Cat Counselor is trained specifically in cat behavior and cannot give medical advice.  

 

• What issues can you help with?

Please see the Services tab of the website or click here to be re-directed.

 

• How long does it take to get an appointment?

Due to high demand and the nature of her schedule, appointments with The Cat Counselor are generally booked out about 90-days. In addition to Feline Behavior Consulting, The Cat Counselor also works full-time in the veterinary field.  In order to ensure that all cats and clients receive the care and attention they deserve, we can only accept a certain number of new clients per month. 

 

• How does the process work?

Please see the How it Works tab on the website or click here to be re-directed.

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• How quickly can you guarantee results?

First, it is important to note that the majority of the behaviors that we deem as inappropriate or undesirable are completely normal and innate cat behaviors.  In essence, we are attempting to change their personalities, not just teach them a simple trick.  There is no set time frame and we move at the pace your cat is comfortable with.  Let’s be honest, we all know you can’t force a cat to do anything!  Our goal is always to improve the undesired behavior(s) and to reduce the number of occurrences but unfortunately, it is impossible to guarantee results.  Just like humans, no two cats or cases are the same and overall success is highly dependent on pet parent compliance and commitment to following the behavior modification plan.  The more consistent the training, the more quickly you will begin to see results. 

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• What kind of follow-up is involved?

Most consultations types include follow-up (see services/rates for details).  Follow-up is highly encouraged and is the responsibility of the client.  The Cat Counselor loves to hear about successes but is also available to help adjust behavior plans as needed, within your designated follow-up window.  If you are beyond your follow-up time line or a new situation arises in the future, a new consultation may be required.  

 

• What type of payments are accepted?

Payments Accepted include Cash, Check, Venmo, ApplePay, Zelle or Credit Card.  Invoices are sent via Square and include the link to pay by credit card.  Booking deposit is due within 72-hours of booking and remaining balance is due prior to or at the beginning of our consultation.  

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