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Kitty Kindergarten
Limited to kittens 8-16 weeks
Classes beginning in the Fall of 2007
Summary of Cat Behavior Services
This is a summary. For additional information or a services packet, call me at 717.671.4800
All behavioral services are provided in your home.
My methods rely heavily on building relationships. My approach is reward-based and includes treats, toys, and games. I do not use harsh physical or psychological corrections as part of a training program.
Because my focus is on companion animals, I usually do not work with cats over the age of 8 months who have not been spayed/neutered. Depending on the nature of the problem, exceptions may be made for 1.) show animals, 2.) because of health reasons, 3.) when your veterinarian has an older minimum age for spaying or neutering, or 4.) because you have not yet had your adult cat long enough schedule the spay/neuter surgery.
Behavioral work is often as much art and detective work as it is science. No ethical behavioral therapist can guarantee results. There are no quick fixes or magic wands. Serious behavioral problems can take months or longer to resolve and require a tremendous commitment of time, energy, and patience from all members of the family. In some situations, medications may be needed to support the behavioral program. Aggression is not curable, but is often treatable or controllable.
Results can vary greatly and depend in large measure on how long the problem has existed, the age of the cat when the problem first began, and on the willingness of all family members to participate fully in the program. Therefore, the family should be involved in the behavioral evaluation session and, to the degree possible, in the follow up sessions.
You must be willing to manage your cat and his environment so he can no longer practice the behaviors you don’t like while you help him learn alternative behaviors and develop a more cooperative relationship. This will require a serious commitment to the behavioral program and adaptations and accommodations on your part.
Under some circumstances, your veterinarian should evaluate your cat to determine if there are any medical causes for serious behavior problems such as aggression or fear. We will discuss this after I have met with your to evaluate your cat’s situation.
The number of sessions and the length of the sessions needed depends on your specific situation and how receptive your cat is to strangers.
Payment (check or cash) is due at the time of service. Travel time charges may apply.
Please call me at 717.671.4800 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Last Updated 8/1/07