Specialized Certificate (9 credits)
Do you dream of starting a rewarding new career in cat training? Would you like to understand their behavior, drives, and emotions? If so, a Specialized Certificate in Feline Training and Behavior is for you! Our comprehensive program goes beyond simple problem solving; your training will allow you to:
- Use fundamental & advanced training techniques
- Create appropriate diets and offer nutritional counseling
- Work with diverse clients
- Interview for solutions
- Build training plans that really work
- Administer first aid, CPR and handle emergencies
- Solve common behavioral issues, such as scratching and improper elimination
- Understand behavioral development in kittens and younger cats
- Comprehend feline communication and body language
- Manage sexual behavior and reproduction
- Handle aggressive behavior in cats
- Treat fears and phobias
- And much, much more!
The specialized certificate in Feline Training and Behavior requires the completion of three online courses (9 academic credits) and a requirement, 40 hours of hands-on experience as an employee, intern or volunteer at an approved institution of your choice. The required courses for this specialized certificate are:
- ABI 235 Feline Training
- ABI 272 Feline Behavior and Enrichment
- ABI 313 Feline Health and Nutrition
Upon graduation, students will earn their certificate and may begin using the designation CFTBS, Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist. Many of our graduates start their own businesses after obtaining their certificate, working as independent cat trainers and behavioral consultants. Other graduates find work in kennels, animal shelters, veterinary practices, animal control agencies, sanctuaries or other cat-related organizations. The animal care and service industry, which includes animal trainers, is expected to grow at 15% over the next decade*. Opportunities in training have never been greater!
Our program in Feline Training and Behavior is unlike any other distance education program. Students at the Animal Behavior Institute participate in a highly interactive online classroom, engaging in regular dialog with their professors and student colleagues. Students receive feedback each week, working on collaborative projects while training their own animals. This allows them to achieve a deeper level of understanding than they would develop on their own. This collaboration, coupled with the mentoring each student receives from their instructors, ensures that they receive a very personal education.
Tuition is $1,320 per course; the total tuition for the certificate program is $3,960 (textbooks are purchased separately). Tuition assistance is available via interest-free financing. If you have questions on the program, or need help getting started, please contact us at (866) 755-0448 or via email at [email protected].
*U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition
Learn more about Careers in Feline Training & Behavior.
Discounted insurance is available to all ABI students and alumni