Resources for Cat Guardians - Companion Veterinary Clinic

Resources for
Cat Guardians

The Companion Veterinary Clinic Training Team is passionate about animal behaviour education. We’re excited to offer this new resource library to address your most frequently asked questions! Our Fear Free Certified Trainers offer professional, positive, and science-based methods of training and behaviour modification. Click here for more information about our virtual and in-person training options.

Free Handouts

Environmental Enrichment for Cats

Enrichment for cats means setting up their environment in a manner that allows them to display natural behaviours such as hunting, climbing, playing, scratching, and many more. Cats living in environments that lack enrichment are more prone to stress and anxiety, which can lead to a plethora of behaviour and medical problems. In this handout, you’ll find 10 ways to add environmental enrichment to your cat’s day.

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Carrier Training Your Cat

Being comfortable in a carrier is invaluable for your cat. Having a negative association with the carrier is often the first stressful event that occurs prior to veterinary visits, and it can set the tone for your cat's experiences at the vet. There are so many benefits to carrier training your cat. Happy car rides, pleasant vet clinic visits, and a safe place for them to find comfort and safety within your home are all excellent examples. Check out our new handout on tips to make carrier training successful! If you have any concerns with your cat’s veterinary visits or carrier training, do not hesitate to contact us for help.

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Prevention and Management for Destructive Scratching

Cats scratch in order to maintain nail health and remove dead cells from their nails, stretch their body, and mark territory, both visually and by leaving a chemical scent. Nails are also important for maintaining balance, climbing, and self-defence. Keeping your cat’s nails short is recommended, but there is much more you can do! Here you will find some tips to help you set your cats environment up for appropriate scratching rather than destructive scratching.

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Teaching Your Cat to Love Being Handled

Do you have a cat who doesn’t like being handled? This can be a very challenging situation! Veterinary examinations, administering medications, doing nail trims, and brushing teeth can turn into a battle. And, a surprise tail pull, paw grab, or well-meaning hug from a child could potentially result in a bite or scratch. This is why it is worthwhile to teach your cat to be comfortable with veterinary handling. This process can build trust, resilience and cooperation.

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Publications, Media Coverage, & Guest Appearances

Jessica shares her passion for animal behaviour through educational presentations, public speaking, and mentorship that supports the next generation of professionals. Continue reading below to learn more.