Ep 6: What Actually Happens During a Cat Behaviour Consultation?

Many people consider booking a behaviour consultation but aren’t quite sure what actually happens during one.

In this episode of Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert, clinical animal behaviourist Alice Chau walks through the consultation process — from the information gathered before the appointment, to diagnosis, training plans, and follow-up support.

Alice explains why most of her consultations are conducted online, how this often works better for cats, and how understanding the full context of the household is essential when addressing behaviour problems.

In this episode

• Why many cat behaviour consultations are now done online
• What information clients provide before the consultation
• How case history and behavioural assessment work
• What behavioural diagnosis and prognosis mean
• Why client education is part of the consultation process
• How training plans are designed collaboratively
• What realistic expectations and progress milestones look like
• How follow-up support works after the consultation

Behaviour consultations are not about quick fixes. They are structured assessments that look at the cat, the environment, and the household as a whole.

If you're wondering whether a behaviour consultation might help in your situation, you can book an assessment call using this link: https://calendly.com/alicechau/free10min

Behaviour isn’t random — there’s always a reason.

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If you find this podcast helpful, please like, follow, or subscribe, and share it with other cat people who might benefit.

DO YOU NEED HELP?

1. You can send in questions to be answered on the podcast at podcast@alicecatexpert.com
2. You can also find out more about my work at https://linktr.ee/alicechaucat

DO YOU WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST?

You can buy me a cup of tea at https://ko-fi.com/alicecatexpert ☕

Episode 5: What Is a Clinical Animal Behaviourist?

The term “clinical animal behaviourist” is often misunderstood, and frequently used interchangeably with trainer, behaviour consultant, or veterinary behaviourist.

In this episode of Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert, clinical animal behaviourist Alice Chau explains what the role actually involves, how it differs from other behaviour-related professions, and why clarity matters when seeking help for cat behaviour problems.

You’ll learn:

• what “clinical” means in a behavioural context
• the level of postgraduate study involved
• how behavioural diagnosis and treatment planning work
• the difference between clinical animal behaviourists, trainers, behaviour consultants, and veterinary behaviourists
• why collaboration is often essential
• why the industry is not formally regulated in many countries
• and why the educational pathway can be complex and difficult to access

This episode provides a factual overview of the profession, including its scope, limitations, and the realities of working in a small, largely self-employed field.

Understanding who does what in animal behaviour care helps you seek the right support — at the right time.

Behaviour isn’t random — there’s always a reason.

Support the show

If you find this podcast helpful, please like, follow, or subscribe, and share it with other cat people who might benefit.

DO YOU NEED HELP?

1. You can send in questions to be answered on the podcast at podcast@alicecatexpert.com
2. You can also find out more about my work at https://linktr.ee/alicechaucat

DO YOU WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST?

You can buy me a cup of tea at https://ko-fi.com/alicecatexpert ☕

Episode 4: Why Does My Cat Attack Me for No Reason?

Sudden pouncing, ankle attacks, or rough play can look like aggression — but often it’s misplaced hunting behaviour.

In this episode of Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert, clinical animal behaviourist Alice Chau focuses on misplaced hunting behaviour and how to redirect it safely.

Before you say “but I already tried toys”, this episode goes beyond the usual “play with your cat more” advice and looks at what actually makes a difference.

You’ll learn how to recognise misplaced hunting behaviour, why punishment increases frustration, and how appropriate outlets — such as choosing toys that suit your individual cat, using toys correctly, feeding puzzles, and clicker training — can reduce unwanted attacks and improve quality of life for both cats and people.

Unlike the previous episodes that focus on situations requiring urgent professional help, this episode looks at patterns many people can start addressing at home, with realistic expectations and practical guidance. These are trial-tested approaches Alice has used with her clients over the years.

Behaviour isn’t random — there’s always a reason.

In this episode:

• What misplaced hunting behaviour looks like in everyday homes
• How to choose toys that match your cat’s prey style
• How to play with the toys that is actually engaging to your cat
• Why timing and routine matter more than play duration
• How feeding puzzles and clicker training provide healthy outlets
• When extra support may be needed

Resources mentioned

• Play With Your Cat! by Dr Mikel Maria Delgado
  https://amzn.to/4tiDaFA
  
  
• Food puzzle ideas and DIY options
  http://foodpuzzlesforcats.com/

Support the show

If you find this podcast helpful, please like, follow, or subscribe, and share it with other cat people who might benefit.

DO YOU NEED HELP?

1. You can send in questions to be answered on the podcast at podcast@alicecatexpert.com
2. You can also find out more about my work at https://linktr.ee/alicechaucat

DO YOU WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST?

You can buy me a cup of tea at https://ko-fi.com/alicecatexpert ☕