The Cat Counsellor

15/12/2024

Christmas trees and cats don't always go well together, but alas if you are so inclined, a tree is a staple for the holiday season.

Here are some of my top tips to keep your cat safe and entertained, whilst keeping your tree in one piece!

- Use plastic ornaments over glass, just in case they fall to the ground.

- Hide any electrical cords, and opt for battery operated over lights connected to mains power.

- Make sure the tree is stable, the last thing we want is a leaning tower situation.

- Provide hiding places under the tree, your cat is going to want to investigate under the tree, so why not provide some boxes or nest beds for them to hang out in.

- Spray the tree with or .petcare Catcomfort spray, this will help to reduce any stress associated with the introduction of the tree to the home.

- Reward your cat when they ignore the tree, this will help reinforce that leaving the tree alone is more beneficial for the cat.

- Avoid using tinsel or angel hair for decorating, this material can be very dangerous if ingested.

- Provide cat-friendly climbing opportunities nearby, especially if your cat is inclined to climb up the tree.

- Choose a fake tree or one that doesn’t drop needles. Fir trees can be toxic, so we want to reduce the risk of our cats ingesting any part of them.

- Make sure ornaments are properly secured to the tree, especially those with small parts.

Have you had experience with a Christmas tree-obsessed kitty? Let me know in the comments below!

18/11/2024

Hey folks,

December is just around the corner (yikes) and I just took a quick look at my planner to see I only have six slots left before I close my books for the holiday break on Thursday 19th of December.

If you have been thinking about getting in touch with me to help you understand your cat and address your cat's concerning behaviours, now would be a wonderful time to do so.

Head to my website thecatcounsellor.com/contact, complete the contact form and I will be in touch shortly!

Molly x

04/11/2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Kind words from Claire who reached out to me back in August due to some concerning behaviours which were negatively affecting the household.

Inter-cat conflict is not uncommon in multi-cat homes, in fact in most cases I see where there is more than one cat in the house, inter-cat conflict will be a large piece of the behaviour puzzle. In Claire’s case her cats Charlie and Poppy were no exception.

If your cats are fighting one another, struggling to coexist, or your new cat has not been met with a warm welcome, know that you aren’t alone. Get in touch today and come away from a 1:1 behaviour consultation with a plan of action, a better understanding of your cats and their unique needs, and someone in your corner (me 🤓).

Find out more at thecounsellor.co.nz or email [email protected] 🐱✨

21/10/2024

It's the time of year that many cat owners dread - Guy Fawkes marks the start of the 'silly season' when it comes to backyard pyrotechnics that can cause our cats significant distress.

While I don't have all the answers, I've compiled my top tips to help you and your cats get through fireworks season as safe and low-stress as possible.

- Prepare ahead. You never know when people will start letting off fireworks in your neighbourhood.

- If your cat is allowed outside, make sure you get them inside before sundown. Keep windows, doors, and cat flaps locked.

- Use Feliway or Catcomfort pheromone products to promote a sense of security and calm. If your house is large, additional diffusers may be needed.

- Keep curtains and blinds closed. In a pinch, you can hang up towels or sheets.

- Play some music made for cats to cover some of the noise.

- If your cat is on a standard adult cat food talk to your local vet clinic about transitioning your cat onto Royal Canin Calm. This food helps support cats during times of heightened stress.

- If space allows allocate a quiet room of the house as the ‘cat room’ with plenty of places to hide, rest, and perch.

- Over-the-counter supplements such as Calmex can be added to food. In certain cases, your vet may prescribe calming medication.

- Keep them occupied using toys, training sessions, food puzzles, brushing or other activities your cat finds enjoyable.

- Get your cat used to using a litter tray inside the house so they have a safe place to toilet. Stick to the ‘one tray per cat plus one’ rule.

NOTE: Cats affected by fireworks feel unsafe and are often chronically stressed. In severe cases that are left unmanaged problem behaviours such as furniture damage, house soiling, and aggression can occur.

If your cat is struggling this firework season, reach out for help from yours truly! - Molly

05/10/2024

This may ruffle a few feathers but it needs to be said

Positive punishments like spraying water, clapping hands, or hitting are not only ineffective as a training tool, but they are known to cause a lot of unnecessary fear, anxiety, and stress in our feline friends. Their trust in the person responsible will diminish, and could be difficult to rebuild. The unwanted behaviour may even escalate, or new ones can develop as a result.

So what can we do instead?
- If the unwanted behaviour has started all of a sudden, book in for a vet check to rule out illness or injury. Pain and discomfort can modify a cat's behaviour in an instant
- Provide suitable outlets for normal cat behaviour such as ample vertical space in favoured areas for climbing, resting, and viewing. If you don't provide it, they will make their own.
- Reinforce desired behaviours frequently, AKA let them know they are doing something right and reward it. Sitting calmly on the couch = A desired behaviour!
- Teach your cat cues to control their movements e.g. come, spin, sit. This will make it easier to direct them to an appropriate area if needed.
-Make 'not for cat areas' boring and unappealing to them. Yummy food scraps left on a bench are often too tempting for kitties.

Struggling with a behaviour concern (or three)? Get in touch today to see how The Cat Counsellor can help you and your cat understand one another, while restoring harmony to your home.

20/09/2024

My little admin assistant Barney 🫶🏻🐯

This little guy is the perfect snuggle bug once he gets to know you, he’s always up for a play, and enjoys his sleep ins. Contact for more information.

17/09/2024

Catch me this weekend at the Auckland Pet and Animal Expo 🐯☺️

📣 I’ll be giving a talk both afternoons where I’ll be sharing my best tips and tricks on low-stress vet visits for cats that you can use with your own feline friends.

Details-
🎟️ Tickets available at showground entrance
⏰ 3:30pm at the indoor performance arena
📆 Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd September
📍 Auckland Showgrounds, Greenlane

22/08/2024

🐯📦🏠 If I were moving house with a cat, here are some things I’d do...

- Introduce boxes to the house ASAP. Cats do not do well with sudden changes, so the least I can do is gradually introduce these changes.

- Resist washing bedding before the move. Cats get a lot of information from scent, so having familiar scents in a new place can help them feel safe.

- Products like Feliway and CatComfort to use before, during, and after the move.

- Update their microchip on database, and update tag details to ensure I can be contacted if they are found outside of the home.

- Cats love routine, so I’ll do my best to stick to their usual routine for food, play, and other daily care tasks.

Keen to learn more?

I’m delighted to bring you the next installment in the series!

Alllll the details -
Webinar: Purrfect Transitions: Easing Your Cat’s Move to a New Home
When: Mon 16th Sept at 7:00 pm NZST
Where: Virtual, link provided with ticket. Replay is available if you cannot make the live!
Cost: $10 per ticket from the link below.

https://events.humanitix.com/purrfect-transitions-easing-your-cat-s-move-to-a-new-home

We will be covering:
- Understanding Cat Behaviour: Insights into why cats react the way they do during a move and how to address their needs.
- Pre-Move Preparations: Tips on getting your cat accustomed to the moving process.
- Travel Tips: Best practices for safely transporting your cat to their new home.
- Settling In: How to help your cat adjust to their new environment and thrive.
Possible hiccups: - Troubleshooting complications that can arise when moving house.
- Live Q&A Session: I’ll answer as many questions as I can fit in at the end of the webinar

Limited Time Offer:
All attendees will receive a **10% discount** code to use on a 1:1 behavioural consultation package of their choice. T&Cs apply

I can’t wait to see you there!
Molly x

19/08/2024

I'm delighted to share with you the next , this time focusing on a massive undertaking that most of us cat guardians dread - Moving house.

All the details -
Webinar: Purrfect Transitions: Easing Your Cat’s Move to a New Home
When: Mon 16th Sept at 7:00 pm NZST
Where: Virtual, link provided with ticket. Replay is available if you cannot make the live!
Event link: https://events.humanitix.com/purrfect-transitions-easing-your-cat-s-move-to-a-new-home
Cost: $10 per ticket

Cats are creatures of habit, and a sudden change in environment can cause anxiety, stress, and undesired behaviours. Join me for this insightful webinar where you’ll learn how to make your move a smooth and low-stress transition for your cat.

We will be covering:
- Understanding Cat Behaviour: Insights into why cats react the way they do during a move and how to address their needs.
- Pre-Move Preparations: Tips on getting your cat accustomed to the moving process.
- Travel Tips: Best practices for safely transporting your cat to their new home.
- Settling In: How to help your cat adjust to their new environment and thrive.
Possible hiccups: - Troubleshooting complications that can arise when moving house.
- Live Q&A Session to end the session.

Who Should Attend?
This webinar is perfect for any cat owner planning a move, whether it's across town or to another country. If you’re looking to reduce your cat’s stress and ensure a smooth transition, this session is for you.

Why Attend?
Relocating is challenging enough—don’t let your cat’s anxiety add to the stress. With the right approach, you can make the move easier for you and your feline friend. Equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies to ensure your cat’s well-being during this significant life change.

Limited Time Offer:
All attendees will receive a **10% discount** code to use on a 1:1 behavioural consultation package of their choice. T&Cs apply

I can't wait to see you there!
Molly x

Get your ticket to 'Why Won't My Cat Let Me Sleep!? Understanding and Addressing Sleep-Disrupting Behaviours in Cats'

15/08/2024

Moving house is a lot to juggle, between booking furniture transport, exit cleaning, and remembering which one of forty boxes has your phone charger, our cat's needs can sometimes become an afterthought.

Here are some key essentials to keep in mind when you have an upcoming move to help ensure a low-stress and safe shift for your cat.

Next month we will be talking all things moving house with a cat (or three), so stay tuned for more details including when and how to secure your spot.

08/08/2024

August 8th. Happy International Cat Day!

05/08/2024

Join me in an hours time (or grab a ticket to watch a replay anytime) to learn why your cat might be keeping you awake at night AND what you can do about it!

Details - Monday August 5th 7pm NZST, virtual livestream w/replay.

Tickets are on sale now at just $5, spaces are limited so get in quick.

https://events.humanitix.com/why-won-t-my-cat-let-me-sleep-understanding-and-addressing-sleep-disrupting-behaviours-in-cats/tickets

See you soon.
Molly x

04/08/2024

Hi sleepy cat lover, join me tomorrow evening to learn why your cat might be keeping you awake at night AND what you can do about it!

Details - Monday August 5th 7pm NZST, virtual livestream w/replay.

Tickets are on sale now at just $5, spaces are limited so get in quick.

https://events.humanitix.com/why-won-t-my-cat-let-me-sleep-understanding-and-addressing-sleep-disrupting-behaviours-in-cats/tickets

See you soon.
Molly x

23/07/2024

Meow!

My first solo webinar is less than two weeks away and I would love to see you there.

Many cat owners I speak to have experienced chronic sleep disruption due to their cat's nighttime behaviours.

With how important sleep is, we really can't afford to ignore this issue, unless we want to risk our physical wellbeing, mental health, work life, and personal relationships.

One of the biggest barriers to addressing this sleep disruption is the lack of understanding of why our cats are so inclined to their rambunctious nighttime activities.

When we understand the mechanisms behind their behaviours, we can address them effectively, compassionately, and without resorting to outdated training methods (no water spray bottles or yelling here).

Details - Monday August 5th 7pm NZST, virtual livestream w/replay.

Tickets are on sale now at just $5, spaces are limited so get in quick.

https://events.humanitix.com/why-won-t-my-cat-let-me-sleep-understanding-and-addressing-sleep-disrupting-behaviours-in-cats/tickets

I can't wait to see you there!
Molly x

19/07/2024

I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul. - Jean Cocteau

18/07/2024

Is your beloved kitty keeping you awake at night? There are several reasons for a cat's overactive witching hour activities:

- Boredom
- Hunting time
- Poor health (including cognitive decline)
- Attention
- Hunger
- Anxiety

Speaking of, have you ever wondered what you did in your previous life to deserve your very own cute but aggravating fluffy 'alarm clock' that goes off at really inconvenient times? Me neither.

Many cat guardians lose precious sleep when their cat is very active at night, often to the point that it affects their physical and mental health, work, and even relationships.

One of the biggest barriers to addressing this sleep disruption is the lack of understanding of why our cats are so inclined to their rambunctious nighttime activities. When we understand the mechanisms behind their behaviours, we can address them effectively, compassionately, and without the use of outdated training methods (no water spray bottles here).

Tune in to learn what your cat is thinking, and how you can make bedtime more about catching some 'Zzzzz's' and less about 'screaming the house down'.

Details - Monday August 5th 7pm NZST, virtual livestream

Tickets are on sale now at just $5, spaces are limited so get in quick.

https://events.humanitix.com/why-won-t-my-cat-let-me-sleep-understanding-and-addressing-sleep-disrupting-behaviours-in-cats/tickets

I can't wait to see you there!
Molly x

18/07/2024

It's been a long time coming!

I'm so happy to announce that now offers Zip Pay for clients.

Like with many aspects of cat care, the cost of getting professional help with feline behaviour can be a significant barrier for many people. While I can't solve the current economic crisis, 'buy now pay later' is one way to make these services more accessible.

The low down - There is no additional fee for clients to use Zip Pay, and the 4 payments come out of your elected account over 6 weeks.

To learn more about services head to thecatcounsellor.com and start your journey towards a happier and more harmonious relationship with your cat.