Veterinary Psychiatry of the Cat

Richly illustrated, this textbook lays the foundation for a dedicated discipline of feline veterinary psychiatry. Drawing on recent advances in neuroscience, ethology, psychology, and psychiatry, it also integrates the clinical expertise of its contributors. Building on the groundwork established in the authors’ first volume on canine veterinary psychiatry, this book expands the scope to address the unique behavioral complexities of cats.
Today, cats are the most common companion animals in households, outnumbering dogs. This rise has been accompanied by significant growth in feline medicine, including the emergence of research groups focused exclusively on feline health and veterinary clinics specializing in cat care.
As animals with a dual status - both prey and predator - and a naturally solitary disposition, cats often exhibit behaviors that may appear puzzling or inappropriate. Behavioral disorders have become a major concern in veterinary medicine, representing a source of animal distress and a critical threat to the human-animal bond.
Adopting a distinct medical perspective, this work offers a functional interpretation of feline behavior and presents concrete, practical solutions for everyday clinical practice. It consistently prioritizes the well-being of both the animal and its human companions. Comprehensive yet accessible, this reference opens a previously underexplored field to a wide audience. It is an essential resource for veterinary students delving into the discipline, practicing veterinarians seeking a reliable guide, future specialists aiming to deepen their expertise, as well as all cat owners and feline behaviorists looking for practical and insightful information.

Stéphane Bleuer-Elsner, DVM, Dip.ECAWBM-BM:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, holder of the Inter-School Diploma in Veterinary Behavioral Medicine (DIE). Board-certified specialist in Companion Animal Behavioral Medicine (ECAWBM-BM). Member of the board of GECAF (Companion Animal Behavior Study Group / AFVAC) and member of the Examination Committee of the European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioral Medicine (ECAWBM-BM).
After several years practicing general veterinary medicine in France, Dr. Stéphane Bleuer-Elsner specialized in veterinary psychiatry. Since 2011, he has been based in Israel, where he exclusively practices veterinary psychiatry in Tel Aviv, while also offering specialized consultations in France and Switzerland. A frequent speaker in France, Israel, and at international conferences, he has authored and co-authored several scientific publications and contributed to the book Veterinary Psychiatry of the Dog.
Sylvia Masson, DVM, Dip.ECAWBM-BM:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, holder of the University Diploma in Veterinary Psychiatry (DUPV). Board-certified specialist in Companion Animal Behavioral Medicine (ECAWBM-BM). President of the Examination Committee of the ECAWBM-BM. Member of the board of GECAF and Secretary of the European Society of Veterinary Clinical Ethology (ESVCE).
After ten years practicing general veterinary medicine, Dr. Sylvia Masson specialized in veterinary psychiatry. She currently practices referral-based behavioral medicine in Voreppe, France. An active speaker in France and internationally, she is the author of several popular science books (G.E.R.E.R. l’éducation et le comportement de votre chien and Comment cohabiter avec votre chat?) and contributed to the book Veterinary Psychiatry of the Dog.
Marie Lacoste, DVM:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, holder of a Master’s degree in Cognitive Neurosciences.
Dr. Marie Lacoste practices both general veterinary medicine and veterinary psychiatry within the Behavioral Medicine Department at Dr. Masson’s clinic in Voreppe, France. She has been actively involved in research projects since the beginning of her career.
Gérard Muller, DVM, Dip.ECAWBM-BM:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, holder of the Inter-School Diploma in Veterinary Behavioral Medicine (DIE). Board-certified specialist in Companion Animal Behavioral Medicine (ECAWBM-BM).
Founding Diplomate of the European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioral Medicine (ECAWBM-BM) and former President of Zoopsy, the French Veterinary Zoopsychiatry Association, Dr. Gérard Muller practiced for over thirty years in Lille, France, combining general practice with behavioral medicine specialization.
He has trained numerous veterinarians, participated extensively in research, and co-authored the book Veterinary Psychiatry of the Dog.