"Thinking PAWsitively" is the idea of addressing behavioral issues by adopting a feline perspective. With five years of experience working with shelter cats, foster cats, as well as living with cats my entire life, I have learned that the key to changing feline behavior lies in understanding how cats perceive their environment—the sights, smells, and sounds that shape their world. This approach also emphasizes the individuality of each cat, recognizing that they are unique individuals and should be respected as such. What works for one cat may not work for another, which is a highlight of the diversity and adaptability that make cats such fascinating creatures.
I believe that all cats and their caregivers deserve to exist in an environment where everyone thrives together! In 2023 alone, 3.2 million cats entered shelters across the United States. The best way to help shelter cats is to prevent them from becoming shelter cats in the first place! My methods of behavior modification are based in education, enrichment and understanding of a cat's natural states and behaviors.
Soon after bringing home my first cat as an adult, I quickly realized why she had the name Mischief (pictured on the right)! Between her anxiety, inappropriate urination and overall teenage kitten chaos, she was my first deep dive into cat behavior! Soon after adopting her, I graduated with my degree in Animal Behavior from the University of New England. I then began working at a local animal shelter in Westbrook, ME. During my role as an adoption counselor I found a deep love for learning to understand each cat on an individual basis and a desire to help adopters with their own feline friends! Eventually I began doing behavior consultations through the shelter. After 5 years working for that shelter (and a host of behavioral fosters/cats of my own), I realized that I could help families and shelters on a bigger level. I am Fear-Free Shelter Certified, Pet CPR and 1st Aid Certified and have 5 years of working professionally with cats as well as 15 years overall working in animal welfare.
1-hour initial virtual consultation to discuss your behavioral concern as well as a 30 minute follow up appointment. Consultations include a personalized behavior plan. Click to complete behavior survey!
45 minute follow up virtual appointment for return clients who have previously worked with me. MUST be regarding the same cat that has already been discussed. CALL 207-599-8008 TO SCHEDULE!
30 minute virtual Q+A session covering a topic (or topics!) of your choice. These can cover everything from what to consider when choosing a cat, clicker training, to kitten raising and general cat care! CALL 207-599-8008 TO SCHEDULE!
Pre-Intake/Post-Adoption Behavior consultations to help keep cats out of shelters, on-site behavior consults (limited by location) and personalized behavior plans for shelter cats. Call 207-599-8008 for more information and pricing.
" I have worked with cats for many years now, but I still turn to Ashley for behavior advice. She has helped me multiple times with problems like fighting, litterbox avoidance, and kitten chewing, and I fully believe in her expertise. She is the first person I call when I have a cat behavior issue, and she gives me excellent ideas that I didn't even think of! She absolutely knows her stuff and I would recommend her services to anyone I know."
"Ashley gave me a lot of advice and pointers on integrating a very shy cat with my resident cats and her help made it a much smoother process."
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