Episode 5: What Is a Clinical Animal Behaviourist?

The term “clinical animal behaviourist” is often misunderstood, and frequently used interchangeably with trainer, behaviour consultant, or veterinary behaviourist.

In this episode of Cat Talk by Alice Cat Expert, clinical animal behaviourist Alice Chau explains what the role actually involves, how it differs from other behaviour-related professions, and why clarity matters when seeking help for cat behaviour problems.

You’ll learn:

• what “clinical” means in a behavioural context
• the level of postgraduate study involved
• how behavioural diagnosis and treatment planning work
• the difference between clinical animal behaviourists, trainers, behaviour consultants, and veterinary behaviourists
• why collaboration is often essential
• why the industry is not formally regulated in many countries
• and why the educational pathway can be complex and difficult to access

This episode provides a factual overview of the profession, including its scope, limitations, and the realities of working in a small, largely self-employed field.

Understanding who does what in animal behaviour care helps you seek the right support — at the right time.

Behaviour isn’t random — there’s always a reason.

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