A Trauma Informed Approach

Being trauma informed means recognizing that both cats and their caregivers have likely experienced some form of trauma in their lifetime. A trauma informed approach involves maintaining a high level of compassion recognizing specific needs and accommodating every person and cat that I work with.

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Trauma isn’t so much about WHAT happened, it’s about the behavioral and emotional response to specific events or circumstances. Trauma could be a series of small actions, prolonged conditions in which one’s needs aren’t met, or things that one might not recognize at the time.

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There are many events that can result in a trauma response for cats.

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• Introducing a new animal into their territory.

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• Abruptly losing their housing.

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• Negative encounters with a particular person or situation.

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• Living in an unfulfilling environment.

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• And plenty more.

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Instead of viewing trauma responses as “bad behavior”, I find it important to recognize and respect each cat’s emotions. This helps us learn how to collaborate with them, build a bond, and support their needs.