The questionnaires are an essential part of the consultation process.

I ask everyone to complete a general history questionnaire. Depending on your specific concerns, you may also be directed to complete additional questionnaires. This keeps the general form concise while still gathering the detailed information needed for a thorough assessment.

Reviewing this information in advance allows me to evaluate your cat’s background, environment, medical history, and behavioral patterns before we meet. It ensures that our time together is focused, thoughtful, and productive.

By preparing in this way, I can identify areas that may need clarification and come ready with targeted questions — allowing us to use our consultation time efficiently and begin developing individualized strategies right away.

Yes — I always recommend consulting your veterinarian first.

As a former healthcare professional, I strongly believe in ruling out medical causes before addressing behavior. This may be especially important when you notice a sudden onset of litterbox use issues, increased vocalization, irritability and aggression, or excessive grooming. Medical issues, such as pain, arthritis, urinary tract disease, and other health conditions can significantly impact behavior.

If needed, I am happy to collaborate with your veterinarian to ensure your cat receives comprehensive care.

As a Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist (C.F.T.B.S.) and Certified Advanced Feline Training Professional (C.A.F.T.P.) I am trained and qualified to address a variety of feline concerns and issues, including:

• Wellness and Prevention

• Introductions: cat(s) to new home, new cat(s), or new people (including babies)

• Kitten Socialization and Care

• Senior Cat Care

• Litter Box Issues / House Soiling

• Spraying / Marking

• Destructive Behavior: scratching furniture, household items

• Nuisance Behaviors: excessive vocalization, counter-surfing, undesirable nighttime activities

• Aggressive Behavior: cat-on-cat, cat-on-human

• Fear / Anxiety

• Compulsive Behaviors: overgrooming, wool sucking/chewing, ingestion of non-food items
  

If you are worried about a behavior that you do not recognize on this list, please e-mail me.

I address cat behavior concerns using science-backed behavior modification methods and techniques that utilize reward-based positive reinforcement only. Every cat is an individual, and every household is unique. That’s why I provide individualized behavior plans tailored specifically to you and your cat.

My treatment plans focus on:

• Resolving your specific behavior concerns

• Supporting your cat’s emotional and physical well-being

• Strengthening the relationship between you and your feline companion

Ultimately, my goal is to help your cat live with confidence, security, and fulfillment - allowing them, as much as possible, to be a lion in a jungle of small bushes.

No, I never use punishment or aversive corrective measures. All training and behavior modification at FelineFluent is grounded in science-based, reward-driven positive reinforcement methods. Punishment and aversive techniques can increase fear, anxiety, and aggression — often worsening the very behaviors guardians are trying to resolve.

Cats thrive when they feel safe and understood.

Some clients notice improvements within a few weeks after implementing changes from a single comprehensive consultation. In other cases - particularly when concerns are more complex or long-standing - additional time and follow-up sessions may be beneficial.

Behavior change is a gradual process. Sustainable improvement happens when we address root causes rather than simply managing symptoms. We will move at a pace that supports both you and your cat.

While I can assure you that I will use my specialized knowledge and experience to provide science-based, individualized support and interventions tailored to you and your cat(s), I cannot promise a specific outcome or a timeframe for resolution.

 Each cat is unique, and their behavior is influenced by multiple factors, such as genetics, their individual temperament, past experiences and their current environment. Success of the behavior plan depends also on the guardian’s ability to follow through with the recommendations. Unresolved, underlying health issues can affect the outcome as well.

Absolutely. Cats of all ages are capable of learning. While it may take a longer, with patience and positive reinforcement, adult and senior cats often respond well to training and behavior modification when their physical comfort and environmental needs are thoughtfully addressed.

If you live in NYC or one of the boroughs, I recommend an in-person consultation in your home, especially for more complex behavior issues.

Virtual consultations can also be highly effective if you live further away and/or if your cat is easily startled or frightened by strangers. With shy cats a virtual consultation is preferable as your cat will be more relaxed and therefore more likely to display their natural behaviors when they are not worried about someone unfamiliar in their space. A virtual visit will still allow me to tour your home remotely, assess the environment, and observe your cat.

For more details, please see the various consulting packages.

Bach Flower Remedies are a gentle, plant-based system traditionally used to support emotional well-being. While research on their effectiveness is limited, some cats may benefit from them as part of a comprehensive approach to behavior. In some cases, I may recommend Bach Flower Remedies as an optional, complementary wellness support alongside your cat's behavior modification plan.

Bach Flower Remedies are not medications, are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure illness or disease, and are not a substitute for veterinary care. I do not recommend remedies for medical conditions, and any cat showing signs of illness, pain, or other health concerns should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.

When I recommend Bach Flower Remedies, they are offered solely as an adjunct to behavior modification, never as a replacement for it or for veterinary care.