Where will this course lead?

By completing this course, participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to make cat-friendly decisions in their homes and lives. Whether you are a current or prospective owner, you'll learn how to see the world through your cat's eyes, create an environment that supports their natural behaviours, and ensure their wellbeing and welfare are always prioritised. This understanding can help strengthen the bond between you and your cat, reduce the likelihood of behavioural issues, and support a happier, healthier life for your feline companion. If you work with, or aspire to work with cats, this course will enable you to confidently promote excellence in feline wellbeing and welfare.

What will I study?

Cats as a species

• - History of Species and Domestication
• - Feline Emotions
• - Feline Senses
• - Normal Feline Behaviour
• - Respecting Cats

5 Freedoms (Animal Welfare Act 2006)

Problems faced by Cats & Kittens in 2025

• Human Expectations
• External Influences
• Trends

Kittens - and their precious 'Mom time'

Your Home… a Cat's Perspective

How to be a Cat Detective (importance for keeping your cat healthy!)

Optimising your home environment and bonding with your cat

Playing with your cat

How to avoid problem behaviours

Cats and Children

Multi-cat Households

Cats and other animals

Taking your Cat to the Vets (without the stress!)

Costs of owning cats (and where you might be able to make savings!)

How will this course be delivered?

6 x 3hr Face to face sessions (Lectures, discussions), every other Saturday at Blossomfield Campus. Sessions are every other week to allow to reflection/observations of cats between lessons (you do not need to be a cat owner to join the course)

What qualifications will I get?

Vocational CPD leading to a Solihull College Course completion certificate. All sessions must be attended to receive a certificate of completion.

How will I be assessed?

There is no formal assessment associated with the course, however participation in activities is required.

How do I get a place on the course?

Apply online, no prior knowledge or qualifications needed, no interview required.

What are the entry requirements?

No entry requirements, apart from being committed to cat welfare.

What else do I need to know?

This class runs on Saturday mornings from 9.30 - 12.30pm at Blossomfield Campus. Reading lists will be provided to encourage private study, and you will be invited to take part in observations of cats between sessions.

If you have a learning difficulty or disability, please let us know when you apply. You will be offered support.

IN THE INTEREST OF CAT WELFARE, PLEASE DO NOT BRING CATS TO SESSIONS (Humans only!)

What can I do after this course?

After completing this course, you'll be equipped to make informed, cat-friendly choices at home/work, adapt your environment to support feline needs, and apply welfare principles to everyday situations. You'll also be able to spot early signs of stress or health issues and feel more confident in providing and/or promoting the best possible care for cats.

This is an ideal course for anyone who aspires to work in a voluntary setting with cats i.e. rescue/rehoming, a boarding cattery environment, pet sitting or other role which requires working closely with cats.