About me
Meet Vicky Alhadeff, Torbay's fully qualified Certified Cat Behaviourist
I have always loved animals and ever since reading Jane Goodall's In the Shadow of Man, wanted to work with them.
I thought I would be learning about wildlife as Jane Goodall did, but instead, I became a companion animal behaviourist, which I find equally fascinating. I now work exclusively as a cat behaviourist.
If your cat is struggling with any changes in their life, or is suddenly behaving differently, contact me once a medical reason has been ruled out by your vet.
The BBC Interview
I was invited to the BBC studios to discuss the impact of cats on wildlife.
I work using only positive, kind and gentle approaches, always thinking of your cat's emotional well-being.
- I obtained the Advanced Diploma in Companion Animal Behaviour from COAPE (Centre for Applied Pet Ethology), expanding my knowledge to more comprehensively include the emotional well-being of all cats with the MHERA approach.
- I obtained a Distinction in International Cat Care's course: Advanced Feline Behaviour for Cat Professionals.
- I continue learning constantly as there is always more to learn about this fascinating species.
- I work on vet referrals to make sure the presenting behaviours have not resulted from a physical cause.
- I come to your home or can also work virtually.
My Qualifications
- Advanced Feline Behaviour for Cat Professionals. Passed with Distinction
- Family Paws Parent Educator - helping people with dogs or cats prepare for life with a baby and/or toddler
- Canine Rescue & Rehabilitation Course, COAPE, passed with Distinction
- Advanced Diploma in Practical Aspects of Companion Animal Behaviour and Training. Centre of Applied Pet Ethology (COAPE)
- Think Cat! (COAPE), passed with Distinction, Intermediate Award in Feline Behaviour. A special study was completed at the Wood Green Animal Shelter
- BA Psychology and Social Anthropology, University of Cape Town
- The IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers: Principles of Dog Training and Behaviour
- Photojournalism, London College of Printing
- Diploma in Photography, School of Modern Photography
Common Questions
What can I expect
I will send you a questionnaire to complete to help me gather as much information as possible to help prepare for the in-person or remote consultation. I will also ask you to request your vet send me your cat’s medical records to build a complete picture.
Following the 90-120 minute consultation, I will send you a summary of the recommendations discussed during the consultation.
Will I get any more help?
Following the consultation and email and WhatsApp summary of recommendations, I provide you with a further 4 months of online support, via WhatsApp or Email.
This can be extended if requested for a small fee.
Do you guarantee to fix the problem?
It is not possible to offer any guarantees as we are working with a sentient being who has complex needs. I can offer to support you to understand your cat as much as possible and to do everything that may help in a kind and ethical way.
Link to my children’s books: Bonnie the Lucky Collie and Nimai and Syama A Black and White Tale
Vicky Alhadeff was interviewed by London Confidential online magazine