Cat Behavior Fundamentals & The Cat Whisperer Book

Mieshelle Nagelschneider and The Cat Whisperer

Mieshelle Nagelschneider is a cat behaviorist, founder of The Cat Behavior Clinic and author of The Cat Whisperer. Her book connects an understanding of feline behavior with everyday challenges such as litter box avoidance, conflict between cats and scratching.

Read the publisher’s book description or the clinic’s book information. For a specific household concern, explore common cat behavioral issues and seek appropriate veterinary or individualized behavior support.

Cat Behavior Fundamentals: Frequently Asked Questions

Who wrote The Cat Whisperer, and what is the book about?

Mieshelle Nagelschneider wrote The Cat Whisperer: Why Cats Do What They Do—and How to Get Them to Do What You Want, published by Random House through its Bantam imprint. The book explores feline behavior and common household challenges. Use it for education alongside veterinary care and individualized behavior support when needed.

Which litter box fundamentals should I review first?

Offer clean, accessible boxes in quiet locations, with enough separate options for a multi-cat home. Box design, litter preferences and competition can affect use. If avoidance begins suddenly or persists, arrange a veterinary assessment before assuming the cause is behavioral.

How can a multi-cat environment reduce conflict?

Give cats separate access to food, water, litter boxes, resting places and hiding spots. Competition and rushed introductions can contribute to tension. Observe each cat’s access to resources and seek individual guidance for recurring conflict rather than forcing cats to share space.

Why is scratching part of normal cat behavior?

Scratching helps cats stretch, maintain their claws and communicate. Provide stable scratching surfaces in preferred locations and reward their use. Try different orientations and textures instead of punishing the cat or expecting scratching to stop entirely.

Further reading: ASPCA guidance on litter box problems, aggression between household cats and scratching.