Why is my cat peeing outside the tray? 
Let’s start with one of the most common reasons people seek behaviour help. Inappropriate toileting.  Your cat may stop using the litter tray for a number of reasons, although not because they are being naughty or dirty. Maybe your cat has cystitis and now associates the tray with pain. They could hate the texture of a new litter. They might be anxious about another cat in the home or one just outside the window. They may be marking territory due to stress or sexual behaviour (looking at you unneutered tomcats!).

A cat behaviourist gathers clues from your cat’s environment, history, health, and daily routine, combining your insight with behavioural science. Once we understand what’s triggering the behaviour, we can tailor solutions that restore harmony to your home for both you and your cat.

Relationship coach for cats (and their people)
The second major part of a behaviourist’s work is navigating feline relationships. Cats evolved from solitary, territorial hunters, the African wildcat doesn't exactly host dinner parties. Yet over time, many domestic cats have learnt to tolerate (and sometimes even enjoy) company, especially in human-dominated environments full of mice, food offerings and warmth.
 

This makes cats selectively social. Some cats form close friendships, they groom each other, nap in piles, and greet like old friends. Others? Let’s just say they believe hell is other cats. And unlike dogs, cats haven’t evolved many ways to “say sorry.” When you hunt alone you never have to apologise. Grudges are real. 
 

When relationships break down, whether between cats, or between cats and dogs, or even cats and people the result can be tension, hiding, aggression, and stress-related behaviours. The signs can be subtle. You may not see a fight, just two cats who carefully avoid each other or a silent battle over litter trays. A cat behaviourist reads these social dynamics and works with you to adjust the environment so that everyone feels safer, respected, and relaxed.
 

The human–cat bond
Of all the relationships your cat has, the most important is the one your cat has with you. We know cats are good for us, studies show they reduce stress, boost wellbeing, and bring comfort. However, if your cat is anxious, aggressive, or eliminating on your sofa, that bond can start to fray. You may feel anxious, frustrated or irritated. Some people live with these challenges for years, assuming “it’s just what cats do”. Yet those behaviours can be a sign that something in your cat’s world isn’t quite right and they could be changed.

A behaviourist isn’t just about fixing problems. We strengthen the bond between you and your cat. Helping you understand their needs, motivations, and unique quirks so that life together feels better for both of you.

Every cat is an individual
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to behaviour. What one cat needs may be very different from the next, that’s where the tailored support of a behaviourist can make all the difference. Which means the second most important relationship in your cat’s life (after you!) might just be with their behaviourist. So it’s worth finding someone you feel comfortable with, someone who understands both your cat’s needs and your own.

Ready to better understand your cat?
If you’re curious, concerned or just want to deepen your bond with your feline friend, working with a cat behaviourist could be the next step.  After all, behaviour is communication and a cat detective and relationship coach may be the one to help you and your cat find a way to speak the same language.