For the first time in its history, the Oregon Humane Society’s (OHS) Behavior Modification Program for cats and kittens has surpassed 100 annual adoptions, with 102 cats that found loving homes in 2024. This groundbreaking program is specifically designed for pets that require specialized training and care before they are ready for adoption.
Behavior modification training for cats
Cats at OHS often face unique challenges. Many are extremely shy and fearful, while others struggle with overstimulation, frustration or specific behavioral problems that make it difficult for them to adjust to life in a home. This is where the behavior modification program comes in.
“When people think of behavior modification and training, dogs are often the ones that come to mind,” says Tanya Roberts, OHS director of training and behavior. “But this program is having an extraordinary, life-saving impact on cats and kittens.”
Take, for example, a 5-month-old kitten named John. On December 24, John became the 100th feline to be adopted through the Behavior Modification Program in 2024. John came to OHS from an overwhelmed pet owner struggling to care for too many animals. His adoption represents an important milestone for a program that has seen significant growth since moving to its purpose-built Behavior and Rescue Center in late 2022.
Erika Sims, OHS Feline Behavior Modification Manager, explains that “cats and kittens are getting ready for adoption almost 50% faster than they did when we did this work at the primary shelter. This means we can help even more cats , because we really are a lifeline and often the last option for most of the cats that come through our program.”
The success of the Behavior Modification Program lies in its individualized approach. Each cat that enters the program receives a customized plan tailored to their specific needs.
“Working with a shy, fearful cat is a slow process of building trust,” says Erika. “Whereas a cat that gets overstimulated and frustrated needs time to decompress before we can start to change their behavior.”
Patience is the key to solving behavioral challenges in cats. The process is often gradual, but the results are profound.
“Progress is measured in small steps, but the results are life-changing and life-saving,” adds Erika. “We are changing stereotypes and showing that cats have an incredible ability to learn and change.”
A lasting impact
Pet parents who welcome these special cats into their homes receive additional support and guidance to ensure a smooth transition and a successful match. This extra level of care helps create lasting bonds between the cats and their new families.
As the program continues to grow, so does it. The milestone reached in 2024 is a testament to the OHS team’s dedication and the transformative power of behavioral change. By meeting the unique needs of each cat, OHS not only gives them a second chance at life, but also changes the way people look at cat behavior and training.
With each success story, the OHS Behavior Modification Program proves that even the most challenging cats deserve a chance to thrive – and that with patience, compassion and expertise, they can find their place in a loving home.
About the Oregon Humane Society
Founded in 1868, the Oregon Humane Society is one of the most respected animal welfare organizations in the United States. Through their mission to create a more humane society, they work towards their vision of a world where all animals are treated with compassion, kindness and respect. With campuses in Portland and Salem, OHS is an Oregon-based nonprofit that relies on donor support for its adoption, education, medical and humane law enforcement programs. Visit oregonhumane.org for more information.
Photos provided to Catster by the Oregon Humane Society