Meet Our Team
Dr. Cynthia Houlihan, DVM, Owner
B.S. in Microbiology, Michigan State University; DVM, Michigan State University
Dr. Cindy Houlihan has been caring for cats at The Cat Practice since 1987, and she values the close, trusting relationships she builds with each feline patient and their family. She believes that truly knowing a cat’s personality is key to providing the best care.
At home, she enjoys the company of her two cats: Percy, who loves stroller rides and trying out new feeding puzzles, and Reggie, who never misses a chance to snuggle. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her family, including special mother-daughter getaways planned by her aspiring travel planner daughter. Together, they’ve shared many meaningful adventures over the years.
Joel, Practice Manager
Since joining The Cat Practice in 2000, Joel has worn just about every hat- from managing the hospital and greeting clients at the front desk to lending a hand with cats in boarding. Behind the scenes, he enjoys developing new software tools and systems to help the practice run more smoothly.
At home, Joel shares life with two cats: Percy, who likes to keep him company during projects, and Reggie, who’s happiest curled up nearby for a nap. In his spare time, Joel can often be found cheering on his favorite teams- especially the Detroit Lions and his alma mater, the Ferris State Bulldogs.
Dawn, LVT
Dawn has been part of The Cat Practice for over 30 years, and she truly can’t imagine doing anything else. She’s always loved cats and has shared her life with many over the years. Her current companions, Moira (camera shy) and Alma, keep her smiling each day. Moira lost an eye due to an injury but doesn’t let it slow her down, and she’ll even dance for treats. Alma brings her own charm to the mix with a spirited personality and a love of play, making every day feel a little more joyful.
When she’s not caring for cats at the clinic, Dawn enjoys tending her garden, where she grows vegetables, herbs, and flowers. She loves cooking, especially when she can share a good meal with friends, and finds joy in being outdoors. Whether she’s skiing the slopes of Vail in the winter, hiking or paddling in the summer, or trying something adventurous like hydrofoiling, she’s always up for exploring new places and making the most of every season.
Laura, LVT
Laura has been part of The Cat Practice team since 1993, bringing decades of skill and compassion to her work. She has a special interest in geriatric pets, end-of-life care, and hospice, helping families understand their options and supporting them through every stage of their cat’s life. At home, she shares life with two playful orange tabby brothers, Colby and Quince, who keep her entertained with their antics and affectionate personalities.
When she’s not at the clinic, Laura enjoys tending her garden, baking sweet treats for friends and family, and singing.. Whether she’s experimenting with new recipes or enjoying a quiet moment in the garden, she finds joy in life’s simple pleasures.
Rachael, LVT
Rachael has been part of The Cat Practice for over five years, and her passion for caring for cats shines through in everything she does. She’s always looking for ways to elevate patient care — from incorporating new technologies to refining clinic systems — all to ensure every cat receives the most thoughtful, efficient, and compassionate experience possible.
Outside of work, Rachael is an avid reader who read more than 80 books last year. Her love for cats carries through to her personal life as well, where she’s happiest surrounded by good stories and furry friends.
Megan, Reception
Megan is one of the friendly voices that greets you at the front desk, helping ensure everything runs smoothly for both clients and their cats. She brings warmth and care to every interaction, whether she’s scheduling appointments or making sure your kitty’s visit is a positive one.
At home, Megan shares life with her kitty, Kate, who fills her days with love, purrs, and cozy friendship.
Brooke, Technician Assistant
Brooke loves being part of a team that helps animals live happy, healthy lives. She has a special soft spot for cats and enjoys working with them each day. Getting to know their unique personalities and helping them feel safe and cared for is one of the most rewarding parts of her job.
At home, she has two cats of her own, Leo and Luna, who always keep things interesting! Outside of work, Brooke enjoys reading, walking the trails at local nature parks, and spending time with loved ones. She also has a passion for wildlife photography and often spends her free time capturing nature through her lens. Whether she’s caring for pets at the clinic or relaxing in nature, she’s happiest when surrounded by animals and the people she cares about.
Kathy J., Technician Assistant
Kathy has been part of The Cat Practice for many years, bringing warmth, compassion, and a gentle presence to every cat she cares for. She balances her time here with her work as a teacher and is a familiar, friendly face to many longtime clients. Whether she's lending a hand with patient care or simply offering a kind word, Kathy helps make the clinic feel calm and welcoming for both cats and their people.
Andrea, Cat Care Provider
Andrea has a gift for getting to know every cat in her care. As a dedicated cat care provider, she brings gentleness, compassion, and a deep love of animals to everything she does. Whether she’s making sure each kitty is comfortable, fed, and clean, or simply offering a quiet moment of affection, Andrea loves to help every cat feel safe and at home.
At home, Andrea shares life with two beloved cats: Faz, a silver tabby with a heart of gold, and Gabi, a recent addition who trilled her way home with her pigeon purr. Outside of the clinic, Andrea enjoys spending time with her family, especially taking long nature walks together, as well as dedicating her time to volunteering at a local animal sanctuary
Maddie, Cat Care Provider
Maddie loves getting to know each cat’s unique personality and earning their trust — whether it’s through quiet support or playful moments during their visit. She’s passionate about helping cats feel safe and cared for, and takes pride in being part of a team that’s dedicated to thoughtful, compassionate care for every feline guest.
At home, she shares life with Luna, a sweet and silly cat who fills her days with affection and fun. In her free time, Maddie enjoys going for walks with her boyfriend, Drew, and her family dog, Lena. She also loves curling up for cat naps with Luna and experimenting with new looks with her passion for hair and makeup.
Kathy M., Technician Assistant
Kathy is a valued member of our medical support team, bringing a hands-on, can-do spirit to her work as a tech assistant. After a successful first career, she made the leap into feline care, following her heart and her love of cats.
She’s also our resident fixer and problem-solver, known for her mechanical skills and knack for keeping things running behind the scenes.
Cynthia, Technician Assistant
Cynthia joined The Cat Practice team as a tech assistant after a successful first career — trading in one passion for another by dedicating herself to feline care. Her calm presence and thoughtful approach make her a reassuring and reliable part of the medical team.
Whether assisting in appointments or lending a hand behind the scenes, Cynthia brings heart and experience to everything she does.
Kristin Hart, RDMS, RVT, RTR
Kristin Hart, RDMS, RVT, RTR, owner of Advanced Veterinary Ultrasound, LLC, is a multi-boarded ultrasonographer with over 25 years of Level IV experience. She trained in human ultrasound at Henry Ford Hospital and cross-trained in veterinary ultrasound under board-certified radiologists and specialists across multiple states.
With 8 years of dedicated ultrasound training and a background in hospital administration and teaching, Kristin brings exceptional expertise to animal medicine. Since 2006, she has provided mobile veterinary ultrasound services using state-of-the-art imaging tools, consistently delivering precise, high-quality diagnostics.
Just like human patients, pets deserve expert care—Kristin’s work reflects the standard you’d expect for your own family. Her studies have been AAHA-approved through Veterinary Care Specialists in Milford, Michigan.