Behaviors and physical diseases are not mutually exclusive in our cat patients. Research has shown time and time again that undesirable behaviors we experience with our cats in the home are often the first sign we may see of a medical disease or a situation of chronic stress and distress.

It is known that many chronic stressors in the environment of our cats coupled with a genetic predisposition to have a low neurochemical threshold for stressors lead to many diseases our cats may experience. Some of these diseases that may stem from environmental stressors are Feline Herpes Virus, feline lower urinary tract disease, skin diseases, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, vomiting, diarrhea and many other undesirable behaviors may ensue. Dr. Lacie is aware of the strong connection between feline behavior and physical and emotional health. A balance of all of these components is essential for the welfare of our cats.

In order for a behavior consultation and environmental modification to be a success it is extremely important your cat has had a medical work up addressing the physical systems associated with the undesirable behavior. For example and older kitty may urinate outside the box simply because of severe arthritic lumbar pain, and with some litter box modification and good pain medicine this will resolve. However, without proper medical examination, associated radiographs and bloodwork even environmental changes will not be a success without the pain medication component.

If you are a new client seeking Dr. Lacie’s behavioral consultation and treatment, please provide records of all medical diagnostics performed. If you have not had any performed and you feel this is truly behavioral, Dr. Lacie may recommend some diagnostics prior to any modification program. This is to ensure as much success as possible as each cat is an individual. A thorough picture physically, environmentally and socially of the particular cat in question must fully be evaluated by Dr. Lacie to ensure the best chance of success. As an owner, its important you realize that feline behavior medicine is a true commitment on both doctor and client’s part. Change often takes time and occurs gradually. There isn’t always a quick fix. Please be assured Dr. Lacie is committed to behavioral medicine as an aspect necessary in harmonious balance for the welfare of our cats.

Please fill out the questionnaire and email the following forms to [email protected] attention Dr. Lacie behavioral consultation three days prior to your appointment to give the doctor time to read, evaluate and prepare.

Forms to fill out and email:

1. Diet questionnaire – If you click on this and print it out, you can fill it in and email to us.

2. General medical information

3. Complete the thorough pre-consultation questionnaire

4. Provide a hand drawn schematic (does not need to be perfect) of your home labeling the following:

  • Where all cat resting places are located throughout the home
  • All litterbox locations in the home and do they have hoods?
  • Scratching post locations
  • Cat tree or vertical space locations
  • Water sources are located
  • Feeding bowls are located and where each cat eats
  • Play zones are located
  • Make note of where the undesirable locations occur in red and note if a particular context exacerbates them.
  • Note all windows in the home and exterior doors

We look forward to your visit and please don’t hesitate to call (225) 228-1039 if you have any question associated with the above information.

Hugs and Purrs,

Cat Care Center Team