Cats are the most commonly owned pet in the United States — and yet they're dramatically underrepresented in veterinary visits compared to dogs. One big reason? The vet experience is often so stressful for cats, and so difficult for the people trying to handle them, that owners simply stop bringing them in.
Today we're exploring the science and the solutions behind feline stress in clinical settings — why cats react the way they do, what that behavior is actually communicating, and how veterinary teams can create environments where cats feel safer.
Joining us is Dr. Renee Rucinsky, a board-certified feline specialist, owner of Mid Atlantic Cat Hospital and Mid Atlantic Feline Thyroid Center in Maryland, and a respected voice in feline medicine through her lecturing and writing.


Thanks for tuning in to the Purr Podcast with Dr. Susan and Dr. Jolle!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review—it really helps other cat lovers and vet nerds find the show. Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes stories, cat trivia, and the occasional bad pun. And remember: every day is better with cats, curiosity, and maybe just a little purring in the background. Until next time—stay curious, stay kind, and give your cats an extra chin scratch from us. The Purr Podcast – where feline medicine meets feline fun. 🐾🎙️