665: How to Work With (Not Against) Cats with Laura Cassiday

Get 1 CEU for PSI and/or NAPPS: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdw4WzNXJnrBs3sAscn5onF-lU_Lw6-5ZwAsz6H9yGjUDkkUA/viewform?usp=header

What makes cats do what they do—and how can pet sitters respond? In this episode, Collin talks with certified cat behavior consultant Laura Cassiday of Positive Vibes Cat Behavior and Training about decoding feline body language, aggression, and litter box issues. Laura shares her process for understanding the "why" behind cat behavior and offers practical steps for sitters in fearful or aggressive cat situations. Together, they discuss the importance of setting client expectations, documenting visits, and advocating for enrichment. You'll walk away with actionable insight to keep both you and your feline clients safe, happy, and understood.

Main topics:

• Understanding cat body language and signals
• Managing aggression and fearful cats
• Litter box problems and environment setup
• Communicating with clients about cat behavior
• Enrichment for shy or stressed cats

Main takeaway: "Working with animals comes with a whole lot of people."

Most of us got into pet care because we love animals—the quiet moments, the connection, the work itself. But every visit, every behavior concern, and every hard day comes with a human on the other end who's worried, overwhelmed, or unsure what to do next. The job isn't just reading body language or scooping litter; it's translating what we're seeing into clear, compassionate communication. When we do that well, we don't just care for pets—we build trust, set expectations, and help families feel supported. Professional pet care is as much about people skills as it is animal skills.

About our guest: Laura Cassiday is a certified cat behavior consultant (IAABC) and founder of Positive Vibes Cat Behavior and Training, based in Baltimore, Maryland. She specializes in solving complex feline behavior challenges, from litter box avoidance to multi-cat aggression. With a background in shelter behavior and a master's degree in professional writing, Laura combines science-based methods with compassionate communication to help cats and their people live harmoniously. She's also pursuing a graduate degree in Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare and works part-time with Forever Friends Cat Sitting.

Links:

Get 1 CEU for PSI and/or NAPPS: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdw4WzNXJnrBs3sAscn5onF-lU_Lw6-5ZwAsz6H9yGjUDkkUA/viewform?usp=header

🌐 Pawsitive Vibes Cat Behavior and Training

🐾 IAABC – International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants

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Full show notes and transcript

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest.

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