Stephanie Merlin CFTBS FFCP

Certified Cat Behavior Specialist​

Stephanie Merlin is a Certified Feline Behavior Specialist and Fear Free Certified Professional with over a decade of experience in feline welfare, behavior education, and advocacy.

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Her work began in 2013 as a volunteer in animal welfare, where she developed a deep interest in feline behavior and the systemic challenges that often shape outcomes for cats and caregivers alike. Over time, this experience evolved into a practice focused on understanding behavior through context rather than correction.

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Stephanie works with cat guardians, shelters, rescues, animal welfare organizations, and cat-centered businesses to support feline emotional wellbeing and improve care practices. Her work spans individual behavior consultations, staff education, program development, and collaborative problem-solving across a range of care settings.

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Her approach blends evidence-based behavior knowledge with a trauma-informed, systems-aware lens. She looks at a cat’s history, environment, routines, relationships, and stressors, while also recognizing the realities caregivers and professionals are navigating, including time, resources, and access to support. She views feline wellbeing and human wellbeing as deeply interconnected, and believes sustainable care must honor both.

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In addition to her direct work with cats and caregivers, Stephanie is deeply invested in the broader systems, culture, and conversations that shape animal welfare. She speaks and writes about topics including sustainable care, professional wellbeing, psychological safety, advocacy, and the ways messaging and organizational practices can impact both people and animals. Her work encourages greater nuance, curiosity, and compassion in how we understand challenges and support meaningful, sustainable change.

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Across all of her work, Stephanie’s focus is on clarity, collaboration, and realistic support. She aims to help people feel less overwhelmed, better informed, and more supported as they care for the cats in their lives and communities.