07/05/2024
Public service announcement: please DO NOT toilet-train your cat!
Two experts describe why potty training your cat is a bad idea.
Feline Behavior Solutions
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- Feline Behavior Solutions
Do you want to prevent or resolve behavior issues with your cat? I help cats and their people enjoy happy and healthy lives through practical education.
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Feline Behavior Solutions (FBS) provides services that result in happy, healthy relationships between cats and their people. I consult with clients via in-home visits (generally SW Washington and the Portland area) or scheduled phone/Skype conversations (available nation-wide), if appropriate. I have a number of types of consultations including 1) resolving cat behavior issues, 2) a "paws-on" trai
ning session with cats and their people, and 3) a home evaluation to ensure that your cat is happy and healthy, and to prevent behavior issues from starting as the result of common mistakes. These consultations come with customized plans and follow-up support. Additionally, I offer educational services to new and existing cat guardians in an effort to both reduce the likelihood of behavioral issues from developing, and to better address the needs of domestic cats. I offer classes for new cat guardians (i.e., "Cats 101"), creating the optimal litterbox setup to prevent problems, caring for senior cats, and other topics. Classes are in-person in a variety of settings. Finally, FBS supports local cat rescue organizations through partnerships that mutually benefit all parties involved.
30/01/2024
Do you know why cats like going to high places? Dr. Marci chatted with The Washington Post about why our kitties are drawn to high spots, and how you can indulge this behavior:
Indulge your pet’s natural climbing instinct — no unsightly (and expensive) cat tower required — with DIY shelves, steps and other ideas.
20/12/2023
Looking for some last-minute holiday gifts for your cat or dog? I had the pleasure of talking with AARP about gifting tips for cats! Check out their article - there are some good gift ideas found within! - marci :)
Spoil the fur babies in your life with expert-recommended toys, bedding, treats and more
25/09/2023
Thank you so much to for having me as the keynote speaker at the clicker training event yesterday! I had a great time and was thrilled that 250+ people attended the event! I hope everyone had a great time, learned a lot, and was inspired to open a new line of communication with their cats! - marci 😻😻😻
19/09/2023
Yup, cats do like boxes. Turns out that they also like imaginary boxes as well! Check out more about this study: https://www.discovermagazine.com/planet-earth/why-do-cats-love-boxes-so-much Follow-up question: are there any potential issues with the study that you might be able to point out?
Why do cats like boxes? Pretty much for the reasons you’d expect — except they seem to like fake boxes just as much as real ones.
19/09/2023
Guess who's going to be giving a talk about clicker-training cats? Join Your Cat Backpack by Travel Cat on Sunday, September 24, from 2 pm to 3:30 pm US ET for an exciting event! Dr. Marci Koski, a Certified Feline Behavior and Training Consultant, will share her expertise in clicker-training, followed by our special guest . But that's not all. The event will close with cat backpack & harness training tips from Travel Cat Co-Hosts in small breakout groups.
RSVP now for your chance to win fantastic prizes, and stay tuned in because we'll be unveiling new products during the event. It's going to be a purr-fectly informative and fun afternoon of hanging with other cat people! 🐾
Register here - it's FREE to attend! https://travelcatshop.com/training-event
16/08/2023
Look how much Ghost loves the new rat toy I brought him! Ghost has been urinating outside of his litterboxes for about 10 years now, but I’m confident that we’ll be able to improve his litterbox use consistency. What a handsome boy! 😻
01/08/2023
Ever wonder why cats always land on their feet? Scientific American explains why: it's all about physics, baby!
As it turns out, felines can survive a fall from any height—at least in theory
27/07/2023
Register now! The Inter-cat Relationships Kitty Course will be Tuesday, August 8th at 3:30pm Pacific time. The cost is $40. We’re limiting the course to 10 participants so everyone has a chance to ask questions specific to their situation. Register using the link below. If you aren’t able to get into this session, don’t worry. We hope to offer more of these in the future.
Be sure to check the email account you use to register. That’s where you’ll receive confirmation and instructions on how to join the sessions.
https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=21937085&appointmentType=50751989
Can’t wait to work with you!!
Do you want to prevent or resolve behavior issues with your cat? I help cats and their people enjoy
27/07/2023
Register now! The House-Soiling Kitty Course will be Thursday, August 3rd at 4:30pm Pacific time. The cost is $40. We’re limiting the course to 10 participants so everyone has a chance to ask questions specific to their situation. Register using the link below. If you aren’t able to get into this session, don’t worry. We hope to offer more of these in the future.
Be sure to check the email account you use to register. That’s where you’ll receive confirmation and instructions on how to join the sessions.
https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=21937085&appointmentType=50751321
Can’t wait to work with you!!
27/07/2023
Just a little teaser. Kitty Courses are back! Be on the lookout for registration info. We'll have one course on house-soiling and one course on inter-cat relationships. $40 registration for a 90-minute course including a Q&A where we can talk about your individual issues. Registration will be limited to 10 participants. More info to come...
25/06/2023
Sharing an article I wrote about the dreaded S word. Feel free to pass it along if you know someone dealing with cat spraying - LeeAnna
Cats communicate using their scent. It's understandable to be frustrated when a cat sprays urine. Here's why a cat might be doing it and how to help them.
22/06/2023
Guess who was featured in The Columbian for her work with Feline Behavior Solutions? Our own Dr. Marci! Read the interview here! 😻🐾 https://www.columbian.com/news/2023/jun/22/vancouver-cat-behaviorist-helps-guardians-get-purr-fectly-in-tune-with-kitties/
22/05/2023
How do cats smile? Dr. Marci Koski talked with USA TODAY about how cats express their emotions and how you can help keep your cat happy. Check it out right meow! (PS - that's Marci's cat, Samantha, curled up in that cozy cat bed with a little "smile" on her face 😻)
Our furry friends have their own ways of showing us love and happiness. We know dogs smile, but what about cats? They do, but not how you'd expect.
06/05/2023
Shoutout to Dr. Burhenn and the amazing at Feline Medical Clinic for treating Abbey like the princess she is! Abbey has been vomiting and her ear infection is back but we’re on the case. 😻👑🐾
25/04/2023
Does your cat want a cardboard box? YES, SHE DOES! Ingrid of Fundamentally Feline purrfectly explains why cats generally love cardboard boxes. So easy, and free! Give your kitty a cardboard box right meow! - marci 😻📦📦📦
Cat videos often show felines squeezing their way into boxes, but why do cats love to do that so much? Ingrid Johnson, a cat expert and behavior consultant, has the answer. And she reveals why dogs don't love boxes nearly as much.
06/04/2023
Does your cat "bite you out of nowhere" when you're petting her? Take a look at this great article from Modern Cat magazine that goes over signs to look for that indicate your cat is either enjoying (or not) her interaction with you. Getting consent from your cat is key! - marci 😻
Is your cat just putting up with being pet? Rethink your approach and learn how to stroke your cat the right way.
30/03/2023
Have you heard about the Travel Cat Virtual Summit? It’s totally free, and there are some aMEOWzing speakers scheduled for the event, including me! I’ll chatting with Emily, the co-founder of Your Cat Backpack by Travel Cat, about general cat training and things to consider should you and your cat decide to travel together. You can also WIN PRIZES and purchase cool stuff from Travel Cat and the summit’s partners! The summit is THIS SUNDAY, April 2nd, from 1-4 pm (Eastern). RSVP at www.travelcatshop.com/summit! Hope to see you there - marci 😻🎒😻
10/02/2023
Our own Dr. Marci spoke with Mental Floss about why cats scratch, and how you can encourage your cat to scratch furniture made just for them instead of your expensive sofa! Check it out:
You may not be able to stop your cat from scratching, but you can try to prevent them from shredding your couch to bits.
02/11/2022
Love to have you join me--LeeAnna
Don't miss this fun free event! Join cat behavior expert LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, for a night of conversation with The Bridge Club Pets to talk about all things pounce, scratch, and climb! Register for this FREE event here: https://www.tbcpets.com/events/lets-talk-cat-behaviors
The Bridge Club
04/10/2022
I know this a dog. But the process she uses getting him comfortable with the toothbrush is a fantastic example of systematic desensitization. You can see how she accidentally turns the brush on and startles him. So she goes back and adjusts the plan to avoid pushing past his comfort zone. I don't recommend electric toothbrushes for cats. But you can use this same approach for all kinds of things that make your kitties nervous. (And also I'm in love with Tucker Budzyn 🥰) --LeeAnna
https://fb.watch/fXgWsROF38/
03/09/2022
Toe beans...murder mitts...toe beans...murder mitts --LeeAnna
22/08/2022
It's Take Your Cat to the Vet Day! Most cats don't get regular medical care because we worry about the stress it causes them. A big piece of that puzzle is the carrier. But it doesn't have to be! Check out this Facebook Live Dr. Marci and I did recently on getting your cat comfortable in their carrier.
https://www.facebook.com/FelineBehaviorSolutions/videos/267109332069069/
Take it to the next level with these tips for making vet visits less scary!
https://www.facebook.com/FelineBehaviorSolutions/videos/267109332069069/
Do something wonderful for your cat today. And please feel free to share these videos with others in your feline friend circle. Help us spread the word to get cats the health and wellness support they need. --LeeAnna
17/07/2022
Are you over the age of 18 and own at least one cat that lives with you permanently? Would you like to contribute towards our scientific understanding of the important bonds we share with our cats and the environments we provide for them? Then please consider taking this online survey for Holly Clements, who is interested in cats' environments and relationships with their guardians (please note, the survey closes tomorrow): https://edinburgh.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/msc-dissertation-survey-cat-behaviour-and-chronic-health
The survey has been approved by the Human Ethical Review Committee at The University of Edinburgh
30/06/2022
Pleased to have contributed to this article. If you're prepping your cat for 4th of July festivities, give it a read. It can be an incredibly scary time for pets! --LeeAnna https://www.consumerreports.org/pets/expert-tips-to-keep-your-pets-calm-during-july-4th-fireworks-a7799972004/
Consumer Reports shares expert tips to keep your dog or cat calm during July Fourth fireworks.
25/06/2022
This isn't actually about cats. But it's a wonderful example of how clicker training can do so much more than just teach behaviors. Give it a try with your cat. You won't be disappointed--LeeAnna https://www.facebook.com/2129037243779434/posts/6087344527948666/?mibextid=yVGKLd
26/05/2022
Do you walk your cat outdoors? Here are some things to pay attention to, via Fear Free Pets! - marci 😻
Reading Time: 4 minutes Koshka Hellqvist wanted a nice time at Boston’s Binford Park with her two Abyssinian cats, Jake and Angel. Jake, a certified therapy cat, was experienced at walking on his leash. Angel was shyer, but still willing to explore. But several dogs were running around free, again...
19/05/2022
Thanks to The Two Crazy Cat Ladies for mentioning our own Dr. Marci Koski in this great article. I had the same experience myself - no idea feline behavior and training consultants existed. Then I met and worked with Dr. Marci for my own cats, and I was hooked. Switched careers and got certified right away. I'm beyond fortunate and grateful to now be part of Dr. Marci's team at Feline Behavior Solutions. Marci is truly one of the best in the business! --LeeAnna
https://twocrazycatladies.com/education/consulting-a-feline-behaviorist/
Did you know that being a Feline Behaviorist is an actual profession? For the first 15 years as cat parents, we didn't know
17/05/2022
Anyone see what's wrong with this picture? Great reminder that just because it's made for cats doesn't mean it's made in the cat's best interest. Cats are highly sensitive to smell. We never want to cover up their natural scent with something artificial. But even worse...what smell do they really hate? CITRUS! Buyer beware. I didn't realize until I got it home. --LeeAnna
12/05/2022
Just a few spots left in tomorrow's House-Soiling course. If you tried to register yesterday and ran into issues, we apologize. There was a glitch that closed registration. But we have room! If you're interested in joining us, sign up here! --LeeAnna
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=PN9K6L4Q3K64N
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Videos
Toe beans...murder mitts
Toe beans...murder mitts...toe beans...murder mitts --LeeAnna
Fear Free tips for making your cat's vet visit less stressful, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. If you put off taking your kitties to the vet because it's so stressful (for them and you), we'll be providing some easy things YOU can do to make vet visits better for everyone. Getting your cat to the vet for regular check-ups is so important! Join the conversation and as us your burning questions by leaving a comment on the live stream!
We're taking a break from our regular Thursday Live Chats today, but we'll be back next week! Let us know if there's a topic you'd like us to talk about in a future discussion.
What's up with mounting and sexual aggression in neutered cats? Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be talking about why neutered male cats mount (or hump) objects, other cats, and even people. We'll also touch on sexual aggression in neutered males - why it happens, and what you can do. Join the conversation and as us your burning questions by leaving a comment on the live stream!
Three Litterbox Gimmicks we HATE! With Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be talking about three litterbox setups we really can't stand. Sure, they might make things easier for us, but are they the best thing for your cat? Pet products are marketed to humans, and often have little to do with what your cat wants or needs. We'll talk about some of those products tonight, and why you should look at other options. Don't agree with us? Join the conversation and tell us why by leaving a comment on the live stream!
Why do my cats suddenly hate each other? With Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be talking about reasons why cats - who could have been best friends for years - can all of a sudden turn on each other. What happened? What should you do if this happens in your household, and are there things you can do to help prevent it? Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below. #learncatbehavior
Beyond UTIs: Medical Reasons for House-Soiling in Cats, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be talking about why it's SOOOO important to get your cat to the veterinarian if a house-soiling issue crops up. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are only one potential reason for house-soiling, and it's not the most common, either! What other things should you ask your vet about? We've got a list! Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below. #learncatbehavior
Building the bond between cats and kids, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. If you have both cats and kids (whether they're your own or belong to other humans), teaching your kids how to interact with cats is an important step towards peace and harmony. It also helps kids understand the concept of empathy for better relationships in general! We'll be talking about trust, choice, and communication, and how to help your cat feel comfortable with younger humans. Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below. #learncatbehavior
How to train your cat to use the carrier, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. If you struggle with your cat getting into and using their carrier, you won't want to miss this. One of the reasons cats don't get routine veterinary care is because carrier use is such an obstacle, but it doesn't need to be that way! We'll talk about the type of carrier to use, the training process, and other tips. Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below. #learncatbehavior
What to know about fostering cats & kittens, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be discussing LeeAnna's experiences with fostering and sharing everything you need to know about being a valuable part of animal rescue - fostering cats and kittens who need care. Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below.
How to help cats conquer fear, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be discussing how to help your kitty overcome her fear of something she's scared of (e.g., the vacuum cleaner, visitors to the home, or the garbage truck driving by, etc.). Learn about counter-conditioning, systematic desensitization, and how to create an exposure gradient for vanquishing your cat's fear! Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below.
Cats and punishment - spray bottle: yay or nay? With Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be discussing cats and punishment. Should you use the spray bottle to discipline your cats? What are the consequences of doing so? This can be a controversial topic, so it's best to stay informed! Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below!
TONIGHT at 5:30 pm (Pacific)! Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis will be discussing cats and punishment. Should you use the spray bottle to discipline your cats? What are the consequences of doing so? This can be a controversial topic, so it's best to stay informed! Please join us and ask your questions to join the discussion. See you soon!
Talking about Cats Obsessed with Food, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be talking about cats and kittens who seem to be absolutely OBSESSED with eating everything in sight, or want to be fed all the time. Got a food-obsessed cat in your life? Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below!
Talking about Kitten Craziness, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be talking about crazy kittens! What should you expect your kitten (age 1 and under) to behave like, and how do you survive those first couple years of crazy kitten energy? Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below!
Solutions to Cats vs. Christmas Trees, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be addressing a conflict that has plagued people for ages: cats vs Christmas trees. What to do, what to do? Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below!
Do you have a cat who is EXTREMELY interested in your Christmas tree? Join us at 5:30 pm (Pacific) TODAY to learn what you can do to make your holiday a little less stressful! Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis will be talking about the Christmas tree vs. cat situation and give you some things to think about! 😺🎄
Are my cats playing or fighting? With Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. We'll be discussing a video sent in by one of our FBS private group members and talking about whether cats are playing or fighting, and what you can look out for. Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below!
Senior Cats Part 2 - Play & Enrichment, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. Today we're continuing our discussion about senior kitties, and focusing on play and enrichment activities to keep mind and body happy and healthy. If you have a cat 10 years old or older, you'll want to watch! Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment or question below!
Talking about Senior Cats, with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis
Weekly live chat with Dr. Marci Koski and LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, of Feline Behavior Solutions. Today we're talking about special considerations for senior and geriatric kitties. If you have a cat approaching age 11, you'll want to watch! Feel free to join in the conversation by leaving a comment below!
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