Cat being held by a person wearing blue gloves in a veterinary setting Cat being held by a person wearing blue gloves in a veterinary setting

The Calm Cat Project™

Led by veterinary scientists, this research explores how gut health may influence feline behavior and emotional balance. Understanding your cat starts from within.

Understanding Your Cat Beyond 'Personality'

Research suggests gut health may play a role in everyday cat behaviors, including sensitivity, stress response, and changes in routine.

— Veterinary Microbiome Research

Many cat owners notice changes in how their cat reacts, rests, or interacts and often wonder if it’s simply “personality.”

The Calm Cat Project™ explores a different question: Could everyday behaviors be connected to gut health and the gut–brain connection?

Led by veterinary scientists, this research looks at how internal signals may shape how cats respond to their world — helping owners better understand what their cats may be communicating.

Led by Veterinary Scientists

Our research is led by world-renowned scientists dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation.

Dr. Courtney Graham

Dr. Courtney Graham

Cat Behavior, Stress & Welfare Research
Assistant Professor at the Ontario Veterinary College (University of Guelph), specializing in cat behavior, stress, and animal welfare.
Dr. Alissa Cait

Dr. Alissa Cait

Gut microbiome & probiotic science
Innovation Scientist at Pawomics, specializing in gut microbiome, probiotics, and the gut behavior connection in companion animals.

How Participation Works

A simple, step-by-step way to take part.

1

Apply

Fill out a short application to join.

2

Join

Take part in online sessions with veterinary scientists.

3

Test

Receive a gut health test kit and probiotics.

4

Observe

Notice and share small changes in your cat’s behavior.

5

Results

Get research insights and a personalized summary report.

This Project Is for Cat Owners Who...

  • Enjoy learning and asking thoughtful questions
  • Are curious about evidence-based insights, not guesswork
  • Want their observations to contribute to research
  • Value their perspective in understanding feline behavior
  • Like listening, sharing experiences, and learning from other cat owners

Join Our Research Community

If you find yourself thinking, “I want to understand my cat better — and be part of something meaningful,” this project may be for you.

Join Now

Learn, Connect, and Belong

The Calm Cat Project™ is more than a research project. It’s a growing community of cat owners who value learning, curiosity, and shared understanding.

Learn from Experts

Through group Zoom sessions, participants can learn directly from veterinary scientists.

Hear from Owners

Connect with other cat owners and hear their experiences and insights.

Share Openly

Openly share questions and experiences in a supportive environment.

Woman hugging a golden retriever on a beach with a clear blue sky.

Be Part of the Project

By joining The Calm Cat Project™, you become part of a shared effort to better understand cats — together with scientists and other owners.

Project Timeline

A structured research program designed to deliver meaningful insights.

1

Introduction

Week 1

Application review and initial consultation.

2

Group Sessions

Week 2

Behavioral questionnaires and sample collection.

3

Gut Health Test

Week 3

Comprehensive microbiome sequencing.

4

Behavior Observation

Week 4

Personalized report and expert consultation.

5

Research Report

Week 5

Progress check-in and community session.

Apply to Join

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Selected participants will be contacted within 2 weeks with next steps.