FAQ
FAQ
Welcome to CatBehaviorHelp.com: A resource dedicated to understanding and improving feline behavior through evidence-based, compassionate methods.
As a certified cat behavior consultant, I provide professional guidance for cat guardians seeking solutions to challenges such as litter box problems, cat aggression, fear and anxiety, and multi-cat conflict. If your cat is shy, reactive, or simply struggling to adjust, my goal is to help you build a calm, cooperative, and enriched home environment.
This FAQ addresses the most common questions about cat behavior consultations, positive reinforcement training, and the process of supporting emotional wellness in cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a certified cat behavior consultant, I address a wide range of feline behavior concerns, including cat-on-cat aggression, litter box problems, cat-on-human aggression, fearful behavior, late night or early morning wake-up, excessive vocalization, hyperactivity, overgrooming, food obsession, kitten socialization and much more. Each case is evaluated individually to identify the emotional and environmental factors contributing to the issue.
Every cat behavior consultation begins with a comprehensive review of your cat’s history, environment, and current behavior. Using this information, I develop a customized behavior modification plan that may include positive reinforcement training, environmental enrichment, and structured behavior change exercises designed to support your cat’s long-term well-being. Consultations are done in a “safe space” where I practice a compassionate approach that focuses on the evolutionary and adaptive forces that drive cat behavior.
Yes. I frequently assist clients whose cats display fear-based or defensive aggression, such as hissing, swatting, or biting. Because of my ongoing work with the Animal Care Centers of NYC, I see a lot of cat-on-human aggression so I consider this a specialty of mine. My approach focuses on methods of stress reduction, trigger identification, and humane desensitization to rebuild trust and promote emotional stability. Safety for both people and cats is always my highest priority.
All of my recommendations are founded on evidence-based feline behavior science and the use of reward-based, positive reinforcement techniques. I never employ punishment or aversive tools, as these methods can increase fear and anxiety. My goal is to help your cat learn through gentle guidance, consistency, and trust and structure.
Yes. Many stray and semi-feral cats can successfully adapt to indoor life with structured support. I guide caregivers in creating low-stress environments, establishing safe spaces, and using gradual socialization techniques that help build confidence and trust over time.
Yes. I offer virtual cat behavior consultations via secure video conference for clients throughout the United States and beyond. I think they're as effective, and sometimes more so than an in-person visit. Between seeing videos, having you fill out my behavior questionnaire(s), and seeing a sketch of your home's floor plan I will get a really good picture of what's going on. And I don't impact your cat's behavior by being physically present. Lastly, I don't train your cat; I train you to train your cat, and that works perfectly over virtual sessions.
Yes it’s an option in some cases. Sometimes a situation is sufficiently unique that an in-person visit will be helpful and will allow me to see things I wouldn’t see virtually. In other cases, the client really wants that in-person connection. With certain limitations I do in-person consults on a case by case basis. Please contact me to inquire.
It is always a good idea to see your vet to rule out potential medical causes of the behavior. If the behavior is the result of a medical condition then we will not be treating it effectively. Behaviors relating to the litterbox, food intake, overgrooming or any sudden changes around your cat’s behavior should be of particular concern with respect to medical conditions, but this short list should not be considered all inclusive.
Improvement timelines vary depending on the behavior’s severity, the cat’s temperament, and the consistency of follow-through in the home. Many clients observe positive changes within several weeks of implementing the plan, occasionally more quickly depending on the behavior and the cause, and more complex or long-standing behaviors may require several months of structured behavior modification and follow-up support.
Cat training focuses on teaching specific cues or desired actions, such as coming when called or using a scratching post. Behavior modification addresses the emotional motivation behind unwanted behaviors—helping a cat feel safe and relaxed in challenging situations. Most behavior plans combine both approaches to achieve sustainable results.
Yes. I specialize in resolving multi-cat aggression and social tension. My plans help guardians assess compatibility, manage space and resources, and encourage healthy social behavior such as play, grooming, and peaceful cohabitation through careful environmental design and structured introductions.
Prior to your appointment, you’ll receive an intake questionnaire requesting details about your cat’s routine, history, and household setup. Providing videos, photos, or detailed notes on specific behaviors will help me create the most accurate and effective plan possible, and I may ask for a simple sketch of your home’s floor plan.
Because feline behavior is influenced by numerous factors—medical, environmental, and emotional—specific outcomes cannot be guaranteed. However, I guarantee that each client receives individualized, science-based, and compassionate guidance tailored to their cat’s needs and supported by proven feline behavior modification methods.
Success Stories
More Than 150 Five-Star Reviews and Counting
-
Stephen is amazing! Even if you don't think your cat needs behavioral work, I highly recommend booking a session. Our cats are pretty well-adjusted, so we were just looking to... read more understand them better—and after chatting with Stephen, I feel like we do! He gave us great insights into their moods and tips to make them feel more comfortable with us and each other. Also, I booked a private session for my boyfriend's birthday, and there was even a note that said "Happy Birthday Wesley" on the screen before our Zoom 🙂 Truly a 5 star experience all around. 
McKinley
2/19/2021 Meeting with Stephen was absolutely wonderful! He is so knowledgeable and sympathetic about cats with behavioural issues!! This experience was absolutely worth it, you get so much out of it!... read more Stephen reaches out before you even meet to understand your problem and to make sure you get the most out of the session. He works with you to make a plan for your cats and sends you follow up documentation after the session with all the info so you won't forget anything. Stephen right away let me know that my cats behaviours are some of the hardest to break but that he would absolutely try his best to help. This really relieved the stress I had been feeling and was great to manage my expectations for the session. Since the session we have exchanged follow up emails and he has been so kind to answer all my questions! Overall, Stephen is delightful and so was the experience. 
Elizabeth
4/24/2021 I can’t recommend Stephen highly enough! Since I booked a little further in advance, he even took some time prior to our private session to get to know more about... read more my cat and provided me with suggestions and materials to review ahead of the full session. He’s passionate, has tremendous insight, and left us with clear, actionable next steps on how to address some of the issues we’ve been experiencing with our cat. 
Max
3/19/2021 - We really love the experience with Stephan! Although we were not looking for this behavior help and we say it by random - we were so happy to find it.... read more
Stephan was so patient and kind, he took a lot of time to help individually. Also he knows a lot about cat behavior and had a lot of tips. We can HIGHLY recommend any cat owner to talk to Stephan!
Thank you again, it was really wonderful! We will let you know when we are in New York 🙂 
Sophia
3/13/2021 Stephen is such a thoughtful, kind, and generous person. I felt completely at ease as soon as I booked the experience. We immediately corresponded and I just knew from there... read more I made the right choice. We have a difficult situation going on between our two cats and he provided so much compassion we needed during this difficult time. If you debated on whether you should see a car behaviorist - book with Stephen - you won’t regret it! Thank you so much Stephen! 
Natalie
4/23/2021 Stephen is the best! He has the expertise and experience helping people understand and care for their cats and is also a wonderful and caring person. I met with Stephen... read more for follow-up appointments and I am so grateful for his concern, advice and presence. 
Anne
4/28/2021 - Our experience with Stephen was excellent. He listened to all our concerns and was thoughtful and thorough in his recommendations. He sent us materials before and after our experience. He... read more shared great resources and guidance. We feel confident in our next steps to improve life for our Kit.
Maria
2/23/2021 No encantó conocer a Stephen, preparó una plática especial para mi hijo de 8 años en la que le enseñó como leer las actitudes de los gatos y le contó... read more de que se trataba su trabajo (mi hijo quiere ser un entrenador de gatos también). Me encantó su disponibilidad para hacer una sesión para niños y su buena aproximación hacia mi hijo! Super profesional! 
Nadia
2/20/2021 Stephen is a real expert for cats‘ behaviour, highly experienced and oberwhelmingly friendly. Highly recommendable. Don‘t miss it!???????? 
Bettina
3/12/2021 - Wow, what an amazing experience. Stephen is obviously a qualified expert, but he is also a really warm and personable host. He went above and beyond in helping me figure... read more out how to stop my cats from fighting. He is a pro and a joy to be around. The experience was really fun, and helpful. Exceeded expectations!
Sarah
3/13/2021 What an awesome opportunity! Thank you so much, I learnt a lot about my own cats and about cats in general and felt very welcomed. A unique experience. I think... read more the cats really enjoyed it too:) 
Sarah
3/01/2021 He is a wonderful human, period. He has so much information and experience and seemed so interested in our own cats, it was as if he lived with us! Worth... read more every penny, and he said we can keep in touch with him for life to ask anything. What an incredible and interesting and kind human being dedicated to cat behavior and care. Thank you Stephen, you are so special and we could have talked for hours!! 
Constance
7/01/2021 - Helpful information
Halley
1/04/2022 Stephen gave me hope that I didn't have before. And he helped give me peace of mind that whatever direction I go I will have support along the way. Thank... read more you. 
Dionna
11/10/2021 Stephen went above and beyond to make my Mom and I️ feel welcome. He is incredibly knowledgable and eager to help in any he can. I️ learned so much in... read more our one hour session and I️ look forward to applying the tips he gave me in our session with my cat! Highly, highly recommend! Stephanie
5/06/2021 - Don’t want to make this too long and believe me, I could write pages about how much we enjoyed Stephen’s consultation. He is a down-to-earth guy, very knowledgeable, and very... read more detail oriented. If you are reading this review, you may be on the fence trying to figure out if this is worth it and believe me, IT IS!
Alexei
3/30/2021 Great experience, really helpful and knowledgeable. Lucas
3/09/2021 Stephen did a great job of listening to the issues I am having and delivered a thorough and thoughtful plan that is already starting to show results. Kelsey
7/07/2021 - Stephen was very kind and shared a lot of great information and ideas for helping my senior cat! It was a very personalized and positive experience! I would highly recommend!
Diana
7/06/2021 Whether you have cats or are thinking about adopting one and want to know more about how to prepare, this is the perfect experience. Stephen was super available from the... read more get go (and since I booked away ahead of time he even gave me some tips and exercises to try with my cat, so we could discuss the results during the experience), which I found to be amazing. During the experience itself he made sure everyone had the same amount of attention and time to address the reason why the experience was booked, and by having other people there and listening to Stephen advice to them I was able to learn even more. The time flew and before we knew it, it was over. I will certainly book again, and encourage everyone to do the same because Stephen's passion to cats and their behavior is something rare to find. 
Andreia
4/24/2021 Wow, just wow! Stephen is so professional, prepared, and knowledgeable . We learned so much that we can apply to our Lola to overcome her fears and anxiety. He not... read more only helped Lola, but he gave us confidence . We cannot thank Steven enough and highly recommend his sessions. He is the most patient and caring cat behaviorist you will ever find. Thank you! 
Carol
2/16/2021 - If you’re thinking of contacting/booking - stop thinking and do it! Stephan is fantastic - I just wish I’d found him 2-3 months ago, it would’ve reduced my stress.... read more
Gina
10/25/2022 Stephen was attentive and knowledgeable. Would recommend! 
Charlotte
4/10/2021 Exactly as advertised - Stephen is a pro. He asked great questions before our meeting and really dove into our specific situation during the session. On top of bringing experience... read more and passion to the table, he's funny, personable, and genuinely interested in how he can help improve the lives of everyone involved. If you're on the fence, what are you doing there? Schedule a session. Your feline will thank you. 
Sarah
5/03/2021
Get in Touch
Contact Me
Creating a Happier World for Cats & the Humans Who Love Them
Send a Message
"*" indicates required fields
Get in Touch
Contact Me
Creating a Happier World for Cats
& the Humans Who Love Them
Email: [email protected]
Based in New York City, and available virtually over Zoom, worldwide.
Contact
"*" indicates required fields
