✦ Partner Program
Animal Behavior College

Cat Management and Training Program

Fully online cat training program, one of North America's first, leading to the ABCCT certification with a 25-hour shelter practicum.

25350 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Suite 346, Valencia, CA 91355

🎯 Vocational School
💸 altAid Eligible
Remote
Part-time
Program at a glance
999Total cost
8 monthsProgram length
*Completion rate
$30KMedian grad salary
* This program doesn't collect and report this data.

Open enrollment year-round; students can enroll and begin studying at any time (self-paced online).

No experience required

Program Philosophy

Animal Behavior College launched one of North America's first cat training certification programs to meet growing demand for feline behavior expertise. Built on cat psychology, communication, and positive-reinforcement methods, the fully online program teaches students to prevent and resolve common feline behavior problems, teach basic cues, and support cat health, then apply it in a hands-on shelter practicum. Business-building coursework prepares graduates to work with clients, shelters, or start their own service.

Started in 2013

Visit program website

Best For

Cat lovers wanting to become certified feline trainers

Time Commitment

Self-paced online modules studied on the student's own schedule (the program is shorter than ABC's externship programs and can often be finished more quickly). Includes a minimum 25-hour volunteer shelter practicum arranged by the student.

What You'll Gain

Animal Behavior College Cat Trainer certification, feline behavior and training skills, shelter practicum, Pet CPR/First Aid

Cost & Outcomes

🙌🏽 Program has a cost
program cost

Tuition is $999, payable in full or over a monthly payment plan. Students pay out of pocket or through ABC’s financing, and eligible students can use WIOA funding, Veterans education grants, MyCAA, or Vocational Rehabilitation.

💸 Financial Assistance
how altAid funding can helpTransportation to the volunteer shelter practicum; computer, internet, or technology costs for online study; cat training supplies (clicker, treats, calming products); food or childcare while studying
Learn more about altAid
*Completion rate (most recent cohort)
67%Employment rate within 1 year
$30KMedian annual salary of graduates
*Total graduates since founding
* This program doesn't collect and report this data. Employment rate and earnings measured at 6 months. Outcomes data sourced from program's most recent annual report. View source →

Who This Program is Built For

This program was specifically designed with these communities in mind. If you see yourself, you belong here.

Veterans
Anyone interested in this career
Military spouses (MyCAA eligible)
Working adults balancing jobs or family
Career changers
Animal lovers with no prior experience

What Sets This Program Apart

Among the first cat trainer certification programs in North America

Fully online, self-paced coursework

Minimum 25-hour hands-on shelter practicum

Includes Pet CPR & First Aid certification

Awards the recognized Animal Behavior College Cat Trainer (ABCCT) credential

Dedicated Program Manager support

Day in the Life

Daily Structure
  • Self-paced online reading, videos, assignments, and module exams
  • Guidance from a dedicated Program Manager
  • Volunteer shelter practicum observing and interacting with cats (min. 25 hours)
  • Business-building coursework for client work or self-employment
  • Pet CPR & First Aid certification
📄 Instructor Credentials

Led by a Registered Veterinary Technician who holds an Associate's degree in Veterinary Technology, with roughly 13 years of professional experience.

Skills Gained

Soft and technical skills you'll gain by program completion.

Feline behavior, breeds, anatomy, and development periods
Cat psychology, communication, and body language
Use of cat training tools and calming/behavior-modification products
Preventing unwanted behaviors and socializing kittens
Teaching basic cues (sit, down, stay, come, off) and leash/stroller travel
Managing common issues (litter box avoidance, spraying, biting)
Cat nutrition, basic care, and safety
Business building, marketing, and interviewing
Pet CPR and First Aid
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Highs & Lows

hardest part

Staying self-motivated to finish the self-paced coursework and arranging/completing the volunteer shelter practicum.

most rewarding part

Becoming certified in a rare, in-demand specialty and applying feline behavior skills hands-on with shelter cats.

Possible Career Outcomes
Animal Trainer

Train animals for performance, security, or assistance with positive methods.

💰 $50K Median Salary
📈 4% Job Growth
As a newer niche, graduates can become sought-after feline behavior specialists, work with shelters and clinics, add cat training to an existing pet business, or build an independent cat training practice over 5-10 years.

Employment Support

Business Building module: setting up a business, marketing, resume, and interview prep

Shelter practicum that builds practical experience and connections

Dedicated Program Manager support

ABC job board and alumni benefits

partner Employers

Hear From the Program

S
Steven P. Appelbaum

Founder of Animal Behavior College

"Hard work, dedication, and a steadfast desire to make a difference are powerful motivations" that drive students' success in helping pets and people."

How It Works

1

Request program information or speak with an ABC Admissions Counselor (online form or 800-795-3294)

2

Submit an application for admission

3

Complete financial arrangements and choose a payment plan (financial aid application if applicable)

4

Verify a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent (or pass the Scholastic Level Exam) and complete the entrance exam if required

5

Sign the Enrollment Agreement and receive acceptance notification

6

Gain access to the online course materials and connect with your assigned Program Manager

Complete all online modules and pass the final exam to earn your ABCCT certification

Frequently Asked Questions

If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.

No. Most students begin with little or no professional experience; programs are designed for beginners.

Yes. The online coursework is self-paced so you can study around work, school, or family.

No. Externships are unpaid educational experiences that provide hands-on training before entering the workforce.

ABC is a California state-approved (BPPE) vocational school. It is not accredited by a USDE-recognized agency; the Veterinary Assistant Program is NAVTA-approved.

Programs prepare you for careers in the animal industry, though employment is not guaranteed.