Learn about:

• Cat communication – domestic and wild cats

• Cat behaviour training – domestic cats

• Cat behaviour

• Cat business management

Course duration and pace: 100 hours of self paced study. Start the course at any time and study at a pace to suit you. Take 12 months to complete the course with as much or as little tutor guidance or support as you need.

Course Structure & Content:

Course Duration: 100 hours.

Lessons: The course comprises 10 lessons as detailed, below.

• Introduction To Animal Foods
  Terms and Definitions; Groups of Foods; Other Terms That Are Used; Food Processing Terms; Water.
• Food Components – Carbohydrates and Fats
  Carbohydrates; Carbohydrates as a Source Of Energy; Fats and Oils; Adipose Tissue Deposits in Animals; Fat Deposits in Different Animals.
• Food Components – Proteins, Minerals, and Trace Elements
  Composition of Proteins; The Build Up Of Proteins; Biological Value of Protein; Protein Content of Foods; The Function of Protein; Feeding Urea to Ruminants; Major Minerals; Trace Elements; Vitamins.
• Evaluating Foods and Digestibility
  Analysis of Feed Stuffs; Calculating Digestibility; Protein Value; Energy Value; Nutrient Value of Some Common Foods.
• Classifying Foods Part, A
  Cereals and Cereal By-Products; Brewing By-Products; Grasses, Legumes and Succulents; Lucerne; Sainfoin; Other Succulent Foods; Roughage, Hay, Silage and Dried Grass.
• Classifying Foods Part B
  Oil and Legume Seeds; Oil Seeds and Their Products; Legume Seeds.
• Classifying Foods Part C
  Fodder Trees and Animal Products; Fodder Trees and Shrubs; Animal Products.
• Calculating Rations Part, A
  The Object of Rationing; Nutritional Requirements of the Animal, Calculating a Maintenance Ration; Cattle at Pasture; Working Out Rations for a Herd.
• Calculating Rations Part B
  Nutrient Requirements for a Dairy Cow; Working Out the Total Requirements; Feeding a Ration to Meet Nutrient Needs; The Dairy Ration.
• Calculating Rations Part C
  Ready Mix Feeds; Using Protein Contents; A Summary of Rationing; Further Considerations in Rationing.

The lessons are:

Nature and Scope of Cat Psychology 

• Introduction.
• Terminology.
• Cat Industries.
• Differentiating Health and Behavioural Issues.
• Feline Diabetes.
• Kidney Disease.
• Stress.

Cat Senses and Communication 

• Understanding Cat Communications.
• Sounds Made by the Cat.
• Body Language.
• Smell.
• Hearing.

Understanding Natural Behaviour in Cats 

• Aggression.
• Scratch Fever.
• Cat Behavioural Development.
• Biological Rhythms and Sleep.
• Sexual Behaviour.
• Maternal Behaviour.
• Eating and Drinking.

Behavioural Disorders/Abnormalities 

• Nature or Nurture.
• Sensitive Periods.
• Neurological Development.
• Sleep.
• Play.
• Cat Temperament Tests.
• How Breeds Differ.

Basic Training 

• Aggression.
• Redirected Aggression.
• Maternal Aggression.
• Idiopathic Aggression.
• Dealing with Aggression.
• Housebreaking.
• Inappropriate Elimination.
• Excessive Vocalisation.
• Geriatric Dysfunction.
• Controlling the Killing of Wildlife.
• Eating Disorders.
• Abnormal Suckling.
• Separation Anxiety

Obedience Training 

• Forming Habits.
• Train them Early.
• Conditioning.
• Operant Conditioning.
• Socialisation.
• House Training.
• Grooming.
• Bathing.
• Scratching.
• Catching Vermin.
• Tricks.
• Discipline.

Cat Behaviour Management 

• Cat Doors.
• Microchipping and registering.
• Coming when called.
• Energy Release Activities.
• Neutering.
• Drug Treatment.
• Nice Smells.
• Getting Used to a Cage.
• Managing Climbing.

Operating a Cat Business

• Problem Based Learning Project which is designed to help you think about your cat business. Work closely with your tutor for support.

Learn online the psychology of cats. Understand how to manage behaviours and train them. 

• Understand how cats behave.

• Learn how cats communicate.

• Learn about cat behaviour training.

Looking after cats is more than caring for their physical needs. The emotional needs of cats need to be cared for to keep them happy.

Cats are complex animals. Learn new skills to make your work with cats more effective than ever.

A statement of attainment in cat psychology could benefit a variety of individuals and groups, including:

• Pet Owners: Cat owners who want to better understand their feline companions and improve their relationships with them can benefit from learning about cat psychology. This knowledge can help them address behavioural issues, provide better care, and create a more enriching environment for their cats.
• Veterinarians and Vet Technicians: Veterinary professionals who work with cats can benefit from a deeper understanding of cat psychology to diagnose and treat behavioural problems, reduce stress in feline patients, and provide better overall care.
• Animal Shelter and Rescue Workers: Those who work in animal shelters and rescue organizations often deal with cats of different backgrounds and behaviours. Understanding cat psychology can help them provide appropriate care, rehabilitation, and adoption support for these cats.
• Animal Behaviourists and Trainers: Professionals in the field of animal behaviour and training can enhance their expertise by specializing in cat psychology. This knowledge allows them to develop effective training programs and behaviour modification techniques for cats.
• Cat Breeders: Breeders can use their knowledge of cat psychology to improve the breeding process, create healthier and more well-adjusted kittens, and provide valuable advice to new cat owners.
• Educators and Researchers: Individuals involved in cat-related research or education can use a statement of attainment in cat psychology to support their work and contribute to the field’s understanding of feline behaviour.
• Pet Sitters and Cat Boarding Facilities: Those who provide pet-sitting or boarding services can use their knowledge of cat psychology to ensure the comfort, safety, and well-being of the cats under their care.
• Cat Enthusiasts and Hobbyists: People who have a strong interest in cats and want to deepen their knowledge of feline behaviour and psychology can benefit from such a course to better understand and enjoy their companions.
• Cat Rescue Organizations: Groups dedicated to rescuing and rehoming cats can use cat psychology knowledge to rehabilitate cats with behavioural issues, making them more adoptable.
• Cat-Related Businesses: Businesses that provide cat-related products or services, such as pet stores, grooming salons, or cat cafes, can benefit from employees with a strong understanding of cat psychology to provide better customer service and care.

In summary, a statement of attainment in cat psychology can be valuable for a wide range of individuals and organizations involved in the care, management, and study of cats, helping them provide better care and support for feline companions.