By Jillian Matyjevich RN, NBC-HWC, LSSC

During a recent coaching session, a client shared an observation that stopped me in my tracks: “I believe all cats are on the autism spectrum.” At first, it sounded quirky. But as he unpacked the idea, I realized he was onto something profound. The behavioral patterns, sensory needs, and social preferences of cats mirror the lived experience of many autistic adults in ways that create an almost perfect companionship. This client wasn’t diagnosed with autism until his mid-thirties, after years of ineffective mental health treatments. Since his diagnosis and discontinuing all medications, he’s been able to build a life that honors his needs rather than fighting against them. His cats were instrumental in that journey. This is what they taught him about connection, boundaries, and being seen.

Awareness is powerful, but change happens when you live what you’ve learned. Discover how to move from insight to action and turn understanding into transformation.