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Feline Behavior Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Learning about feline behavior, stress reduction, and handling techniques You'll be fully immersed in the day-to-day life of a busy cat-exclusive hospital, with direct mentorship and opportunities to ...

Learning about feline behavior, stress reduction, and handling techniques You'll be fully immersed in the day-to-day life of a busy cat-exclusive hospital, with direct mentorship and opportunities to ...

Why Choose Memorial Cat Hospital? We're passionate about feline health and behavior-and about teaching students who share that interest. As a student extern, you'll be immersed in the daily ...

Feline Behavior information

See Texas salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do feline behavior jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for feline behavior in Texas is $18.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a feline behaviorist?

A feline behaviorist is a professional who specializes in understanding, assessing, and modifying the behaviors of domestic cats. They help cat owners address issues such as aggression, inappropriate elimination, fearfulness, and destructive behaviors using science-based techniques. Feline behaviorists combine knowledge of animal psychology, training, and welfare to improve the relationship between cats and their owners. Their goal is to enhance the wellbeing of cats while resolving problematic behaviors in a humane and effective manner.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a feline behaviorist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Feline Behaviorist, you need expertise in animal behavior, particularly feline psychology, often supported by a degree in animal science, veterinary medicine, or a related field. Familiarity with behavior assessment tools, data tracking software, and certifications such as Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC) from IAABC are typically important. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication with pet owners are vital soft skills that distinguish top professionals. These skills ensure accurate behavior modification, successful owner guidance, and improved welfare for cats.

What are some common challenges faced by feline behaviorists when working with cat owners, and how can these be addressed?

Feline behaviorists often encounter challenges such as owner misconceptions about cat behavior, inconsistent implementation of behavior modification plans, and difficulty in identifying subtle signs of feline stress. To address these, effective communication and education are key—providing clear, actionable guidance and setting realistic expectations for progress. Building trust with both the cat and the owner, and following up regularly, helps ensure plans are followed and adjustments can be made as needed. Collaborative relationships with veterinarians and other pet professionals also support more comprehensive care.

What is the difference between Feline Behavior vs Animal Behavior Specialist?

AspectFeline BehaviorAnimal Behavior Specialist
CredentialsAnimal behavior certifications, veterinary background often preferredAnimal behavior certifications, veterinary or zoological background
Work EnvironmentHomes, shelters, clinics focusing on catsZoos, research facilities, clinics working with various animals
Industry UsagePet care, veterinary clinics, sheltersWildlife centers, zoos, research institutions
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding feline-specific behavior issuesUnderstanding general or multiple species' behavior

Feline Behavior specialists focus specifically on cats, addressing their unique behavioral needs and issues. In contrast, Animal Behavior Specialists work with a variety of animals, including wildlife and domestic species. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in work environment and scope, with feline specialists concentrating on cats in pet and shelter settings, while animal behavior specialists often work in broader contexts like zoos or research facilities.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Feline Behavior jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Feline Behavior job openings:

Infographic showing various Feline Behavior job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,278 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Veterinary Extern - General Practice

National Veterinary Associates

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


National Veterinary Associates rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Veterinary Externship - Houston Cat Hospital (Houston, TX)
Feline-Focused Medicine | Mentorship-Driven | Up to $2,000 Travel/Living Stipend

About the Clinic:
If you love cats, you'll love us. Houston Cat Hospital is a feline-exclusive practice dedicated to providing the highest standard of care in a calm, cat-friendly environment. As part of the NVA network, we offer veterinary students the chance to gain hands-on clinical experience in a setting that is uniquely focused on feline medicine and behavior.

Our team is passionate about mentoring future veterinarians and helping students grow their confidence and skills-whether you're interested in general practice, feline specialty care, or simply gaining deeper experience with a species-specific caseload.

Externship Experience:
Veterinary externs will work closely with our experienced DVM team and gain meaningful experience in:

  • Performing feline-focused physical exams and patient assessments

  • Creating diagnostic and treatment plans tailored to feline patients

  • Assisting with and observing soft tissue surgeries and dental procedures

  • Participating in case management, imaging, lab work, and hospitalization

  • Communicating effectively with clients and team members

  • Learning about feline behavior, stress reduction, and handling techniques

You'll be fully immersed in the day-to-day life of a busy cat-exclusive hospital, with direct mentorship and opportunities to sharpen both your clinical and client communication skills.

Program Details:
Location: Houston, TX
Duration: minimum 2 weeks, up to 4 weeks, based on student and clinic availability
Open to: 3rd and 4th year veterinary students in clinical rotations
Stipend: Up to $2,000 for students in clinical year

Why Choose Houston Cat Hospital?

  • One-of-a-kind experience in feline-only medicine

  • Supportive team with a strong passion for teaching

  • Focus on fear-free, low-stress handling techniques

  • Ideal for students exploring small animal or feline-exclusive practice

  • Located in the heart of Houston, with easy access to the city's amenities


What National Veterinary Associates employees say

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Benefits

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About National Veterinary Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

National Veterinary Associates, based in Agoura Hills, CA, US, is a leading provider in the veterinary healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it operates independently owned veterinary practices across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With a passion for pet health, National Veterinary Associates supports over 1000 veterinary hospitals and pet resort entities. Though their website, nva.com, doesn't explicitly describe their mission, it is evident that their aim is to empower veterinarians with the resources they need to provide high-quality, compassionate pet care services. They have made remarkable strides in advancing veterinary medicine, which is a testament to their industry influence and commitment.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

Year founded

1996