Ep 2. Mad Max

In the second episode of season 2 of My Cat From Hell, titled "Mad Max," cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy takes on the case of a cat named Max who has been causing chaos in his owner's home. Max is a big, beautiful Maine Coon cat who weighs in at a hefty 28 pounds.

Max's owners, Leslie and Rick, have been struggling to control his aggressive behavior for years. Max has bitten and scratched both of them numerous times, and Leslie is even afraid to be in the same room as him. They've tried everything they can think of to calm him down, from playing with him more to giving him medication, but nothing seems to work.

As Jackson arrives at their house, Leslie and Rick explain the extent of Max's troublesome behavior. Jackson observes the cat from a distance before approaching him to get a closer look. When he does, Max begins growling and hissing, making it clear that he's not happy about the intrusion. Jackson notes that Max is displaying classic defensive behavior, and that he'll need to approach him very carefully in order to gain his trust.

Over the course of the episode, Jackson works with Leslie and Rick to understand Max's behavior and come up with a plan to help him. He observes Max in different situations to see what triggers his aggression, and searches for ways to provide him with the stimulation he needs without causing him to lash out.

Throughout the process, Jackson encourages Leslie and Rick to better understand their cat's needs and emotions. He helps them see that Max's behavior isn't just random aggression, but is instead a result of his deep-seated anxiety and fear.

In order to help Max, Jackson has to get creative. He introduces the family to a series of new toys and games designed to keep Max occupied and to channel his energy in a positive way. He also works with Leslie and Rick to create a safe space for Max to retreat to when he's feeling anxious.

As the episode progresses, we see Max gradually becoming more relaxed and less defensive. He begins to trust Jackson and his owners more, and even shows affection towards them. By the end of the episode, Max's aggression has been greatly reduced, and Leslie and Rick are feeling much more confident in their ability to manage his behavior.

Overall, "Mad Max" is a heartwarming episode that showcases the power of patience, understanding, and dedication when it comes to working with challenging cats. Jackson's expertise helps this family turn their relationship with Max around and provides hope for other cat owners struggling with similar issues.