Anita Kelsey
Anita is one of the UK's most sought-after cat behaviour experts. She holds a first-class honours degree in Feline Behaviour and Psychology and received the Gerry Fowler Prize for her outstanding work and final results. Anita's passion for cats spans her entire life, and she dedicates her time to caring for, grooming, writing about, and resolving behaviour issues in cats - often juggling these roles simultaneously.
For the past 14 years, Anita has operated a professional feline behaviour practice solely focused on diagnosing and treating cat behaviour problems. Her studies under renowned cat specialist and biologist Roger Tabor, along with her academic achievements at Middlesex University, where she earned a distinguished award for excellent research, have greatly influenced her practice. Her innovative approach to handling difficult or aggressive cats during grooming sessions has benefitted many clients, emphasizing working with the cats rather than against them.
Anita's goal is to thoroughly understand cats, including their origins, habits, species-specific patterns, health, diet, breed personalities, and breed-related needs. She aims to transform any problematic relationship between cats and their owners into a harmonious one. Although she is not an advocate of keeping housebound animals, she works diligently to ensure that indoor cats live happily by creating a balanced home environment.
Her expertise is increasingly recognized by distinguished vets across the UK, including Hyde Park Vets, Goddards, and Addisons Vets in Holland Park. Anita has authored three books on cats. Her debut book, "Claws, Confessions Of A Cat Groomer," published in September 2017 by John Blake, chronicles her experiences as a cat groomer. Her second book, "Let’s Talk About Cats," published in 2020, features interviews with her peers worldwide, including US behaviourist Jackson Galaxy. Her latest book, "The Little Book Of Extraordinary Cats," released in June 2024, tells 15 true stories of extraordinary cats from around the globe. Anita believes that educating cat owners is key to ensuring happy cats by helping humans understand a cat's perspective on its environment.
A strong advocate of a vegan lifestyle, Anita resides in East Sussex with her husband, a music producer, and their Norwegian Forest cat, Kiki. She consults throughout the UK and internationally, often recommending home visits within reasonable travel times. Anita welcomes all inquiries and ensures that if she cannot help, she will direct you to someone who can.
A true professional with a friendly, down-to-earth demeanour and a big heart!
Anita is happy to give telephone and email consultations as well as home visits (the latter which she recommends on most occasions) on any cat behavioural issues and will consider travelling anywhere in the country within a reasonable distance. A true friendly down-to-earth professional with a big heart!