ABOUT THE CAT BEHAVIOR STUDIO

-What does a Certified Feline Behavior Specialist do?

As a Certified Feline Behavior Specialist, I help cats and their families solve behavior problems using science-based, fear-free methods. Similar to what you may have seen on My Cat From Hell with Jackson Galaxy, I work with complex cat behavior issues like aggression, biting, scratching, excessive meowing, litter box problems, and cat anxiety.

As a professional cat behaviorist in New York City, I observe your cat’s body language and environment to uncover the root cause, then design a customized plan to restore peace and trust in your home.

-What kinds of cat behavior issues do you help with?

I help with a wide range of cat behavior problems, including:

• Aggression toward people or other cats

• Biting, scratching, or attacking

• Excessive meowing or nighttime vocalization

• Litter box avoidance and marking or spraying

• Anxiety and stress-related behaviors

• Over-grooming and excessive licking

• Cat introductions and territorial disputes

• Weight management and boredom-related behaviors

• Scratching on furniture or unwanted surfaces

-What do clients say about you?

Many clients call me a “cat whisperer” or say “she speaks cat,” because I get even shy or anxious cats to relax with me.

One of the things I hear most often is:
“My cat doesn’t trust anyone, not even people she’s known for years, but within 10 minutes she is sitting on your lap! How did you do that?!”

- Do you make in-home visits in my area?

Yes! I offer in-home cat behavior consultations in New York City. Seeing your cat in their home environment helps identify triggers, stressors, and routines that may be contributing to unwanted behaviors like aggression, anxiety, or litter box avoidance.

In addition to my regular work in NYC, I also provide in-person consultations in select U.S. and U.K. cities while traveling for professional and educational visits. Cities may include San Francisco, Washington D.C., Houston, New Orleans, Boston, Philadelphia, London, and others depending on my schedule.

If you’re outside New York City, you can still receive personalized cat behavior help through virtual consultations, which are available to cat guardians anywhere in the world.

-What areas of NYC do you serve?

I provide cat behavior help throughout New York City, including Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and select parts of Staten Island and the Bronx. Virtual consultations are also available for cat guardians outside NYC or across the U.S.

-How long does it take to see improvement?

Every cat is different. Some show improvement after just one behavior consultation, while others need a few weeks or months of consistent follow-through. I provide ongoing email support after your full consultation to help you stay on track. My gentle, positive-reinforcement methods focus on lasting results rather than quick fixes.

ABOUT MICHELLE

-What’s your training?

I’m a Certified Feline Behavior Specialist with advanced training in feline behavior, emotions, and fear-free handling. I combine science, intuition, and compassion to uncover what your cat’s behavior is truly communicating. I collaborate closely with veterinarians across New York City to ensure every cat’s medical and behavioral needs are fully supported.

My education includes professional training through the Animal Behavior Institute and Neighborhood Cats, along with extensive field experience at Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) and Best Friends Animal Society.

-What’s your background?

I’m a New Orleans native who has been connected to animals, especially cats, my entire life. My instinctive understanding of feline behavior began in childhood and runs in my family; my brother and sister share the same natural intuition and now care for four cats between them. My commitment to animals was shaped long before any formal training.

During Hurricane Katrina, my husband and I sheltered 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 5 displaced family members (plus our own 2 cats) in a tiny one-bedroom apartment, while my uncle and cousin were out in a boat rescuing abandoned pets. The experience was life-altering in nearly every way, deepening a lifelong dedication rather than creating it.

Soon afterward, I moved to New York City, where I spent more than 20 years working in live theatre. Supporting artists and high-pressure productions taught me to read subtle cues, adapt quickly, and stay grounded, skills that now inform the calm, intuitive way I work with cats and their guardians.

My son grew up alongside my cats, my coursework, and my case discussions, even reading the same behavior books I was assigned during formal training. He’s become a sharp, natural observer of feline behavior himself (just not officially certified because he's still in high school), carrying forward our family’s tradition of intuition, curiosity, and deep respect for animals.

-Do you work with kittens and senior cats?

Absolutely. I work with kittens, adult cats, and senior cats. I help kittens learn confidence, adult cats adjust to change, and senior cats manage anxiety or litter box issues related to aging. Every plan is tailored to your cat’s life stage and unique personality.

VALUES & VISION

-Did you rebrand from Michelle Danahy to The Cat Behavior Studio?

Yes! The Cat Behavior Studio is my new name, but I’m still the same Michelle behind it. I chose “Studio” because it reflects the creative, compassionate heart of my work with cats and their families. One day, I hope it will grow into a real physical space—a calm, healing, rehabilitation place where I can help the most sensitive and struggling cats.
If you or someone you know would like to help make that dream a reality—through volunteering time, resources, or support—I’d love to hear from you.

-Do you work with dogs?

No, I work exclusively with cats. My background and certifications are entirely in feline behavior and welfare. (There’s another “Michelle Danahy” who worked with dogs on Long Island—that’s not me!)

-What if I can’t afford a session right now?

Please reach out. I never want cost to be the reason someone can’t get help for their cat. If you are going through a tough time, let me know. I’m always willing to find a way to help—whether that means flexible payment options, reduced fees, or pro bono support when possible.