Dr. Sam
Hello! I’m Sam a qualified cat behaviourist based in West Yorkshire, UK, helping cat guardians understand their cats, resolve behaviour issues, and build happier relationships.
My approach blends scientific insight and compassion with real-world experience because understanding cats means understanding both their behaviour and their emotional world
Before founding Kat-Zen, I spent over a decade working in cat rescue, supporting cats and their people from terrifying beginnings to settled into new loving homes.
I also hold an Advanced Diploma in Applied Feline Behaviour and a PhD in Population Genetics which trained me in careful observation, data-based decision making, and structured problem solving. These analytical skills translate directly into decoding behaviour patterns in cats.
I am proud to be a member of the International Society of Animal Professionals and an associate member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, organisations committed to ethical, science-based animal support.
Known Sam for years. What she doesn't know about cats isn't worth knowing. Can highly recommend
Jo
The Kat-Zen cats
I have met thousands of cats throughout my time working with them but my real understanding of the bond between cat and people comes most from the ones that share my life. They have taught me that cats need patience, choice, safety, and joy.
They have also helped me understand that our relationships with the cats that live with us is as complicated as any family member might be! From the easy times when Pookie snuggles under the covers on a frosty morning to the harder ones of managing an elderly cat with complex medical needs that I still remember as a kitten.
Prudence AKA Pookie
The Muse
Pookie loves life. It's what makes her a muse (or is that a Mews!).
She has a wonky leg, which the other cats are grateful for as it means she can't access everywhere they can!
Brave Pookie is always ready to bowl you over and tell you All About It! MEOOOOW!
Mittens
Matriarch
Mittens sadly passed away in January 2026 aged 19 years.
She was the foundation stone to all the Kat-Zen cats and Chester's beloved companion. Letting him sit beside her and even lick her paws.
We all miss her very much. She leaves a legacy in our hearts and remains the video star for the senior kitizen package,
Chester Bear
Cobweb diviner
Chester is wary of a lot things as he didn't have a very easy kittenhood. He can often be seen waving at cobwebs.
Positive reinforcement training was critical to get this floof happy about being brushed
He is coping with the loss of his snuggle companion Mittens by learning how to play with Spider
Spider
Shadow cat
Spider is the youngster of the group. A house panther that disappears into dark corners.
His lively nature is tolerated by the other cats as he finds being sociable with other cats easy.
Clicker training gives him an outlet for his energy and makes it easier to get him into a carrier for the V.E.T.
The Kat-Zen cats on Facebook, Instagram and X
The Kat-Zen cats are also very obliging (they are bribed!) photo subjects and video stars for my cat care based social media and cat club training demonstrations.
Follow Kat-Zen on Facebook, Instagram or X for helpful hints on cat care such as 'Just One Thing for Cats'. easy things you can do to increase cat happiness, 'Whisker Wonders', science for cat nerds, training tips and how to help care for senior kitizen's. There are also posts of all things "cat" including Pookie's tales of being Prudence.
