About Laura

Laura Cassiday, CCBC

Feline behavior expert Laura Cassiday sitting on a couch holding her cat on her lap.Meet Laura Cassiday: a certified cat behavior consultant (CCBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and a Fear Free certified animal trainer

After volunteering and fostering with cat rescues for several years, Laura’s dedication led her to the Maryland SPCA. There, she recognized the need for improved treatment and understanding of shelter cats’ behavior and body language. Laura became the shelter’s cat behavior coordinator, implementing enrichment programs, protocols for working with shy cats, and initiatives to enhance shelter cats’ lives.

Laura launched Pawsitive Vibes Cat Behavior and Training in 2021. Her ultimate goal was to prevent cats from entering shelters by addressing behavior issues in private homes. Through remote consultations worldwide and local in-person sessions in Baltimore, Maryland, Laura has successfully resolved aggression, destructive behavior, and litter box concerns, all while empowering caregivers with a better understanding of their feline companions.

Laura published her first book, The Complete Guide to Adopting a Cat, in 2021 and is proud to have provided expert testimony in support of Maryland’s Anti-Declaw Bill, which went into practice in 2022. In 2023, she began working on a second Master’s degree in Applied Animal Behavior at Virginia Tech. She currently serves as Feline Division Chair for the Pet Professional Guild and sits on the organization’s Steering Committee. Laura’s journey is an inspiring testament to her commitment to creating harmony between cats and their families. 

Laura's Professional Cat Behavior Memberships and Certifications:

Speaking Engagements & Media Appearances

Speaking

2025:

  • IAABC Foundation Conference
  • Pounce! Conference
  • Virginia Cat Festival
  • Pet Sitter World Educational Conference

2024:

  • Animal Care Expo
  • Virginia Cat Festival
  • The Acatemy Conference
  • Pet Professional Guild Celebrating Life Together Conference
  • National Kitten Coalition Online Kitten Conference

2023:

  • The Pet Professional Guild 2023 Summit
  • CFA International Cat Show and Expo
  • The Introducing CATS! Conference
  • National Kitten Coalition Online Kitten Conference
  • The Working with Fearful and Aggressive Felines online conference

Professional & Association

  • Former Feline Division Chair and Steering Committee member of Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
  • Current host of the PPG Feline Division Chat and Chuckle monthly podcast
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Media

I'm Neurodivergent. What Does That Mean?

A graphic of a cat against a colorful ribbon with the word "autism" and the text banner "Neuordiverse-Friendly Business."

As a neurodivergent individual, Laura interacts with clients and cats in ways that may differ from those who are neurotypical. Neurodivergent people have conditions that affect how their brains process and respond to the world. Laura has Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For Laura, being neurodivergent means she sometimes struggles with social interactions, communication, and managing anxiety. Her communication style might come across as blunt or awkward, which can be off-putting to some. She finds small talk challenging and instead focuses on providing the best possible care for each animal. Laura connects most easily with clients who share a love for their pets and communicate their needs clearly.

However, Laura’s neurodivergence also brings unique strengths to her work with cats. She has a deep focus and keen attention to detail, which help her observe feline behaviors and body language closely. This allows her to understand their needs better and identify subtle issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. Her heightened sensitivity to sounds and changes helps her pick up on nuances in a cat’s behavior. Additionally, her unique perspective enables her to approach challenges creatively, often finding solutions others may not consider.

In most cases, clients might not even notice these differences. Laura wasn’t formally diagnosed until her 30s. She chooses to share this information to promote awareness, encourage understanding, and help reduce the stigma surrounding autism. She is grateful to clients for trusting her to care for their beloved pets.