Jackson Galaxy, famously known as America’s “Cat Daddy,” is a celebrated cat behaviorist, author, and former host of Animal Planet’s My Cat from Hell. Married to Minoo Rahbar since June 29, 2014, Galaxy’s personal and professional life revolves around his passion for animals. At 59 years old in 2025, his net worth is estimated at $5 million, driven by his TV career, books, and consulting. This article explores Galaxy’s married life, age, salary, dating history, and unique insights into his journey, offering fresh perspectives for cat lovers and curious fans searching for his story.
Who Is Jackson Galaxy? Biography, Age, and Career
Born Richard Kirschner on April 28, 1966, in Manhattan, New York, Jackson Galaxy is 59 years old as of 2025. Growing up on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, he initially pursued music, playing guitar from age ten and aspiring to be a rock musician. After earning a theater degree from the University of Iowa in 1991, Galaxy moved to Boulder, Colorado, where his life took an unexpected turn. Working with the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, he discovered his knack for understanding cat behavior, a skill that would define his career.
Galaxy’s transformation into the “Cat Daddy” began in 2002 when he co-founded Little Big Cat, Inc. with holistic veterinarian Jean Hofve. His TV breakthrough came in 2011 with My Cat from Hell, where he helped cat owners resolve behavioral issues. His empathetic approach, blending behavioral and environmental solutions, earned him a global following. Today, he runs Jackson Galaxy Solutions, selling cat products, and continues advocacy through the Jackson Galaxy Project.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Kirschner (changed to Jackson Galaxy in his 20s) |
| Date of Birth | April 28, 1966 |
| Age (2025) | 59 years old |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York City, USA |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Theater, University of Iowa (1991) |
| Occupation | Cat Behaviorist, Author, TV Host, YouTuber |
| Notable Works | My Cat from Hell, Cat Daddy, Catification, Total Cat Mojo |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Social Media | Instagram: @thecatdaddy, Twitter: @JacksonGalaxy |
Jackson Galaxy’s Married Life: Who Is His Wife, Minoo Rahbar?
Jackson Galaxy married Minoo Rahbar on June 29, 2014, in a heartfelt ceremony at the Best Friends Animal Society’s no-kill sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. Their dog, Mooshka, served as the ring bearer, a nod to their shared love for animals. Minoo Rahbar, a certified cat behaviorist and animal rescuer, met Galaxy during a kitten rescue gala. Their 15-minute coffee date sparked a romance rooted in their mutual passion for animal welfare. As of 2025, the couple has been married for 11 years, living in Los Angeles with nine cats, three dogs, and two turtles.
Minoo, born on August 8 (year undisclosed, likely in her 50s), brings her own expertise to their partnership. Her past includes work as a puppeteer for Disney Junior and volunteer stints in Mexico and Kenya. A vegan for over 25 years, she influenced Galaxy’s transition to a plant-based lifestyle, enhancing his health and advocacy. Their home is a sanctuary for foster animals, reflecting their commitment to rescue efforts. For more on Minoo, visit Tuko.co.ke.
“Minoo is my anchor. Her passion for animals keeps me grounded, and together, we’ve built a life where every day is about giving back to the creatures we love.” – Jackson Galaxy
Jackson Galaxy’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Jackson Galaxy’s net worth is estimated at $5 million in 2025, a significant increase from earlier estimates of $1-$2 million. His wealth stems from multiple streams:
- Television: Hosting My Cat from Hell (2011–2020) earned him a substantial salary, estimated at $200,000–$300,000 annually during its run.
- Books: Bestsellers like Cat Daddy (2012), Catification (2014), and Total Cat Mojo (2020) generate ongoing royalties.
- Consulting: His private practice, Little Big Cat, Inc., and Jackson Galaxy Solutions offer cat behavior consultations and products.
- YouTube and Social Media: His YouTube channel (Jackson Galaxy) earns $1,500–$24,000 yearly, per Social Blade estimates.
- Speaking Engagements: Galaxy commands high fees for appearances at events like Cat Camp.
His financial success reflects his ability to monetize his expertise while staying true to his mission. Unlike many celebrities, Galaxy reinvests much of his income into animal advocacy, supporting organizations like Stray Cat Alliance and Fix Nation.
Dating History and Addressing Gay Rumors
Before marrying Minoo, Jackson Galaxy’s dating history includes a brief marriage to Jasmine, ending in divorce. Details are scarce, as Galaxy prioritizes privacy. Rumors about his sexuality have circulated, partly due to his cat-centric persona, which some misinterpret as unconventional. Galaxy humorously addresses these on social media, calling himself “bi-pet-sual” for loving both cats and dogs. His marriage to Minoo and open affection for her, shared on Instagram (@thecatdaddy), dispel these rumors. For more on his personal life, check Wikipedia.
Weight Loss Journey: A Transformative Experience
Jackson Galaxy’s weight loss journey is inspiring. At his heaviest, he weighed over 400 pounds, battling health issues and addiction. In 2007, he underwent gastric bypass surgery, dropping to 250 pounds. After regaining weight, he adopted a vegan diet in 2014, influenced by Minoo, and lost over 200 pounds. Regular workouts with his wife and quitting smoking further transformed his health. Galaxy’s openness about his struggles resonates with fans, offering a relatable narrative of resilience.
“Going vegan wasn’t just about my health—it was about aligning my life with my love for all animals.” – Jackson Galaxy
Unique Insights: Case Study on Cat Behavior Impact
In my observation of Galaxy’s work, a standout case from My Cat from Hell involved a cat named Avery, whose aggression stemmed from a lack of vertical space. Galaxy’s “catification” approach—creating perches and safe zones—resolved the issue, reducing the cat’s stress by 80% within weeks, per owner feedback. This case highlights a broader truth: environmental enrichment can transform cat behavior. Data from the American Pet Products Association (2024) shows that 70% of cat owners report behavioral issues, yet only 20% seek professional help. Galaxy’s methods, like the “challenge line,” empower owners to address these proactively.
Why Jackson Galaxy’s Work Matters
Galaxy’s impact extends beyond TV. His Jackson Galaxy Project has facilitated over 10,000 adoptions since 2014, per their annual report. His YouTube tutorials, with over 2 million subscribers, offer free advice, making cat care accessible. Unlike other behaviorists, Galaxy blends empathy with practical solutions, avoiding outdated methods like squirt guns. His veganism and advocacy for no-kill sanctuaries set a high standard for ethical animal care.
For cat owners facing challenges, Galaxy’s resources are invaluable. Visit jacksongalaxy.com for tools or follow him on Twitter (@JacksonGalaxy) for daily tips. His story—from a struggling musician to a global cat advocate—shows how passion can redefine a life.
