Dream Job Cat Trainer
Not without reason is the cat the most popular pet in German households. Cats are gentle and people-oriented, yet confident and independent. However, alongside their fascinating character, their behavior raises many question marks. When a furry friend sneaks around your legs meowing, everyone knows that more food is desired. But if your darling suddenly starts marking, scratching the wallpaper, or hiding, many are at a loss.
With training as a cat trainer, you will learn more about cat behavior as well as therapeutic measures. This way, you can not only understand your darling better, but also help others with their furry friends. Whether it's behavioral issues or introducing a dog to a cat - as a cat trainer, you are there to provide advice and assistance.
How do I become a cat trainer?
Cat trainer, cat psychologist, or cat behavior consultant - regardless of the title, they all cover similar content and areas of application. Even though the job titles are not protected, the path through training is recommended.
To work as a cat trainer, you have two different training paths:
1. Directly learn cat psychology/cat behavior therapy: There are training institutions that offer direct training to become a certified cat trainer. Typically, these are privately funded and can also be completed online.
2. The study of animal psychology/animal health practice: In a study of animal psychology or animal health practice, you will also learn all the content of cat psychology. This study is usually privately funded, but can be completed as a distance or part-time study at a state-recognized private institution with a certificate.
Content of the training
The fact is, cats can do more than just purr, cuddle, and eat. They communicate in various ways and have individual characters. Just like with dogs, it is possible to study cat behavior and, if necessary, improve behavioral disorders through therapeutic measures. In training as a cat trainer, you will learn to understand the animals holistically and provide advice to cat lovers.
In training to become a cat trainer, the following content is conveyed:
- Behavioral physiology
- Behavioral ecology
- Learning behavior/capacity
- Communication
- Biological development
- Species-specific social and expressive behavior
- Cat keeping
- Human-animal relationship
- Housing-related behavioral problems
- Behavioral therapy
What tasks will I have?
As a cat trainer, you have various fields of responsibility. Depending on what interests you and where you want to focus, you have the opportunity to help pet owners with the following:
- Behavioral issues such as uncleanliness, marking behavior, aggressive behavior, fear behavior
- Cat training & clicker training
- Introduction of multiple cats
- Introduction of cats with dogs
- Advice on acquiring one or more cats
- Assistance in recognizing organic problems and their causes
Often, pet owners are at a loss when their pet's behavior suddenly changes. The →nutrition should not be neglected in a holistic consultation. Just like with us humans, a species-appropriate, balanced diet is important to feel good all around and stay healthy.
Saftig, cremig oder eher gröber - für jede Samtpfote was dabei
Clicker training and great tricks
Often, the so-called →clicker training is an integral part of working with cats. It is a form of assistance in communication between you and your furry friend. Thanks to the clicker, you can teach your darling great tricks. The positive reinforcement of clicker training is also wonderfully suited to reduce fears, reinforce desired behavior, and practice things like relaxed travel in the transport box.
