Cats have long held a special place in our homes—and our imaginations. Independent yet affectionate, playful yet mysterious, they communicate in subtle ways that can leave even devoted owners puzzled. Understanding feline behavior isn’t just fascinating—it’s key to building a happy, healthy relationship with your cat.
This season, our library invites you to explore the world of feline behavior through a special program designed for both current and prospective cat owners on Sunday April 12th at 2pm, called Understanding Your Cat: Behavior, Care, and Communication
In this engaging class led by certified feline behaviorist Camille Re, participants will uncover how cats think, communicate, and interact with their environment. From decoding body language to understanding common behavioral challenges, the session offers practical insights that can transform the way you connect with your feline companion.
You will explore the key differences between cats and dogs, how to choose the right cat for their lifestyle, and what to expect when welcoming a cat into their home. The program covers essential topics such as the true costs of cat ownership, feeding and litter choices, home safety, grooming, and recommended products for a healthy, enriching environment.
The session also addresses common behavioral and health concerns, including improper elimination, biting, fear and stress, medical warning signs, and how practices like declawing impact a cat’s physical and emotional well-being. Attendees will learn to recognize feline body language, understand what cats love—and hate—and discover how to play safely and effectively with toys such as lasers.
Additional topics include “Fear Free” veterinary appointments, proper carrier use, emergency recall, and creating positive experiences through thoughtful handling and care.
To complement the program, highlighted below are a selection of books and online resources on cat care, training, and behavior available with your Livingston Library card. Whether you are a cat owner, looking to be one, or just curious about them, these resources give expert guidance and shed light on their quirks, needs and unique personalities.
Join us as we celebrate our feline friends and discover how a deeper understanding can lead to a more rewarding companionship.
The Cat’s Meow How Cats Evolved from the Savanna to Your Sofa by Jonathan B. Losos
Decoding Your Cat : The Ultimate Experts Explain Common Cat Behaviors and Reveal How to Prevent or Change Unwanted Ones by The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
The Handbook for a Happy Cat : Speak Their Language, Decode Their Quirks, and Meet Their Needs-So They’ll Love You Back! By Liesbeth Puts
The Hidden Language of Cats : How They Have Us at Meow by Sarah L. Brown
How to Clicker Train your Cat : A Step-By-Step Guide to Teaching New Skills and Fun Tricks in 15 Minutes a Day by Stephanie Mantilla
How to Raise a Happy Cat : So They Love you More than Anyone Else by Sophie Collins
The Interpretation of Cats : Understanding the Psychology of our Feline Companions by Claude Beata
Purr : The Science of Making Your Cat Happy by Zazie Todd
Talk to Your Cat : How to Communicate With Your Pet by Susie Green
What Cats Want : An Illustrated Guide for Truly Understanding Your Cat by Yuki Hattori
What Your Cat is Thinking : Everything You Need to Know to Understand Your Pet by Bo Soderstrom
Emagazines on cats can be found on Libby
Universal Class has a course: Cat Care and Training 101
–Archana Chiplunkar, ASA Librarian