06/28/2025
We are frequently asked what to look for in a kitten by people wanting to have a therapy cat, here is our advice: Because it is much more difficult to determine a kitten’s temperament and personality (they are still developing) we advise that you adopt a cat at least one year old, two or three would be better. Keep in mind that the cat’s temperament and personality may be well suited to therapy work but if the required training and desensitization is inadequate, inappropriate methods are used, or rushed too quickly, the cat most likely will not qualify. If you have your heart set on having a therapy cat PLEASE do lots research!!
International Cat Assisted Therapy is a FB group that provides free assistance with training, desensitization and certification.
Please note that a therapy cat and its owner are volunteers that visit others, an emotional support cat is a pet that has legal rights in public housing, and cats are not accepted as service animals (in the US). Be aware of websites that provide certification or registration for any of the above mentioned without proof of a behavior and temperament evaluation for the cat and a handler’s skills evaluation for the human are NOT legitimate!
Any questions?
