The Calm Cat Project™
Why your cat’s behavior may start in the gut
Gut health may influence up to 70% of stress-related behaviors through the gut–brain connection. Understanding gut health may help explain why cats feel and behave the way they do.
Understanding Your Cat Beyond 'Personality'
Research suggests gut health may influence up to 70% of stress-related behaviors.
— Veterinary Microbiome Research
The Calm Cat Project™ is a veterinary scientist–led research initiative exploring how your cat’s gut health may be connected to everyday behavior. What often looks like “personality” may actually reflect internal biological signals.
By combining clinical expertise with microbiome analysis, our research examines how gut–brain communication may influence stress, anxiety, and social behavior in cats.
Participants gain meaningful insights into their cat’s gut health while contributing to research that aims to improve future feline care.
Led by Veterinary Scientists
Our research is led by world-renowned scientists dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation.
Dr. Courtney Graham
Dr. Alissa Cait
How Participation Works
A structured, five-phase protocol designed to support your cat's gut health journey.
Apply
Apply to participate
Join
Join group Zoom sessions with the veterinary science team
Test
Receive and use a gut health test kit and probiotics.
Observe
Share simple observations about your cat's behavior
Results
Receive 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.
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.
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.
"Your participation supports research, strengthens the community, and helps shape future understanding of cat behavior."
Project Timeline
A structured research program designed to deliver meaningful insights.
Introduction
Application review and initial consultation.
Group Sessions
Behavioral questionnaires and sample collection.
Gut Health Test
Comprehensive microbiome sequencing.
Behavior Observation
Personalized report and expert consultation.
Research Report
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.
