Our practice is made up of talented veterinary professionals, and a wonderful team of cat whisperers, who are passionate about cats and take care of each cat as if they were their own.
Meet Our Team
A Tampa native, Dr. Loren Gassler discovered her passion for animals early on while attending Busch Gardens camp each summer. That childhood enthusiasm led her to pursue a degree in Zoology from Auburn University, graduating in 2007, followed by her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Mississippi State University in 2011.
During her final year of veterinary school, a month-long intensive course in feline medicine sparked a deep and lasting appreciation for cats, guiding her career from that point forward. She began her professional journey in a feline-only practice in San Antonio, Texas, before making her way back to Florida and joining The Cat Hospital at Palm Harbor in 2015.
After several years in practice, Dr. Gassler spent time with Lap of Love, focusing on in-home hospice and end-of-life care—a chapter that deepened her empathy and connection with pet families. She is now thrilled to return to The Cat Hospital at Palm Harbor, where she looks forward to continuing her work in feline-focused general practice.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Gassler enjoys cheering on the Bucs, Rays, and Lightning, and catching shows at The Straz Center. At home, she shares her life with four beloved cats—Dolce, Duncan, Cocoa, and Flash.
During her final year of veterinary school, a month-long intensive course in feline medicine sparked a deep and lasting appreciation for cats, guiding her career from that point forward. She began her professional journey in a feline-only practice in San Antonio, Texas, before making her way back to Florida and joining The Cat Hospital at Palm Harbor in 2015.
After several years in practice, Dr. Gassler spent time with Lap of Love, focusing on in-home hospice and end-of-life care—a chapter that deepened her empathy and connection with pet families. She is now thrilled to return to The Cat Hospital at Palm Harbor, where she looks forward to continuing her work in feline-focused general practice.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Gassler enjoys cheering on the Bucs, Rays, and Lightning, and catching shows at The Straz Center. At home, she shares her life with four beloved cats—Dolce, Duncan, Cocoa, and Flash.
Coming soon
Meet Kayla, our dedicated Practice Manager whose journey with us began in 2014. Starting as a kennel assistant, she has grown through dedication and passion to become an integral leader of our team. With a special affinity for felines, Kayla has developed extensive expertise in cat care and stress-free handling techniques, ensuring both our feline patients and their families have the most comfortable experience possible.
Her commitment to continued education and sharing knowledge with our team exemplifies the high standards of care we provide. As our Practice Manager, she brings both compassion and clinical excellence to every aspect of our practice.
Outside of work, Kayla enjoys a full family life with her husband Tnarg and son Kota. Their home is shared with Tony (affectionately known as "The Rascal") their beloved cat, and Millie their dog. When not at the practice, you'll find Kayla cheering at soccer games, exploring the outdoors on family camping trips, attending car shows, tackling DIY projects, or helping with her husband's catering business.
Bree is our Lead Certified Veterinary Technician and our Patient Care Coordinator. She graduated from Vet Tech Institute of Fox College with her Associates of Science and Veterinary Technician Certification in 2011. Shortly after graduation, Bree followed her 2nd dream and moved from her native home in Chicago Heights, IL, to the beautiful sunshine state of Florida.
She shares her home with her husband, Marc and her cats, Dublin and Rougaroux. During her free time she loves to go the beach and simply enjoys nature to the fullest. She has a knack for being able to appreciate all different forms of art from music to Chihuly's glass sculptures. She is always looking for ways to expand her knowledge on felines and loves continuing her education. Bree truly loves being around cats 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and could not imagine spending life any other way.
Pam returned to The Cat Hospital of Palm Harbor in May 2022 to work the front desk. She is a CVT, a graduate of St. Petersburg College, and worked here many years ago as a technician. Now she is happy to be in the front welcoming clients and cats to our hospital.
She lives here in Palm Harbor with her cat Mr. Petie. Taking advantage of the covid shutdown, she built a catio for Mr. Petie so he could enjoy the outdoors safely.
When she is not at the front desk you can find her kayaking the waterways of Florida, hiking trails at the many parks in the area, and cooking vegetarian dishes for her friends.
Madeline started working here in August of 2021, but knew from the very beginning that she wanted to help animals. Her greatest inspiration to follow this path was her first cat, Franklin. She was finally able to start her journey in early 2017 where she started volunteering at the local Humane Society in their teen program. One year into this, she was promoted to the Critter Care Program. Madeline began her journey in the veterinary field in 2019 when she started the Veterinary Technician Program at St. Petersburg College, graduated at the end of 2020 with her Associate of Science degree in veterinary technology, and passed the VTNE mid 2021. She loves all animals, but cats have always held a special place in her heart. Right now in addition to working at the Cat Hospital at Palm Harbor, she is in school to get her Bachelor’s Degree in veterinary technology and finish her pre-requisite classes to apply to veterinary school and achieve her long term goal of becoming a veterinarian for wildlife and aquatic species.
Madeline currently has two cats–Darkshine and Baby, two Golden Retrievers– Shasta and Sadie, and two Shih Tzus– Grizzly and Daisy. You can often find a couple of foster kittens tumbling around her house at times as well! When she is not at the cat hospital, Madeline’s interests include trips to Disney, reading, watching movies, drawing, theatre, and attending comic book conventions. She loves discussing sci-fi and fantasy novels, Marvel comics, Star Wars, and her all time favorite book series about feral cats, Warriors by Erin Hunter. She is currently trying to learn swordsmanship.
Madeline loves all the patients that come through the hospital and makes it a goal of hers to connect with all of them in a special way and getting to know their personalities. She enjoys learning new information about how to better herself as a veterinary technician every day to provide the best care for all of the cats.
Shana is a compassionate veterinary assistant at the Cat Hospital at Palm Harbor, where she brings her love for animals and strong dedication to feline care every day. She provides support to the veterinary team in delivering exceptional care for feline patients. With a deep love for cats and a strong commitment to animal welfare, Shana assists by helping to ensure that each cat is comfortable and calm throughout their visit it is evident in her calm demeanor and attentive approach.
Shana graduated High School in the Tarpon Springs Veterinary Assistant Program in 2023, Shana is a certified veterinary assistant recognized by the Florida Veterinary Medical Association and she is currently pursuing an AA degree at St. Petersburg College, she is eager to continue her education and grow her expertise in the veterinary field.
Outside of work, Shana enjoys spending time with her own pets: her cat Leo, two dogs Molly and Max, and two map turtles Toby and Tessa. She’s also a fan of photography, capturing the beauty around her, and loves relaxing with a good cup of coffee. When she’s not studying or spending time with her animals, Shana is hanging out with friends or enjoying quality time with her family.
Shana’s combination of skill, compassion, attention to detail and friendly demeanor make her a great part of the team.
Shana graduated High School in the Tarpon Springs Veterinary Assistant Program in 2023, Shana is a certified veterinary assistant recognized by the Florida Veterinary Medical Association and she is currently pursuing an AA degree at St. Petersburg College, she is eager to continue her education and grow her expertise in the veterinary field.
Outside of work, Shana enjoys spending time with her own pets: her cat Leo, two dogs Molly and Max, and two map turtles Toby and Tessa. She’s also a fan of photography, capturing the beauty around her, and loves relaxing with a good cup of coffee. When she’s not studying or spending time with her animals, Shana is hanging out with friends or enjoying quality time with her family.
Shana’s combination of skill, compassion, attention to detail and friendly demeanor make her a great part of the team.
Bailee joined our team in early 2023 and has been a friendly and dedicated member, Serving as our receptionist with a warm smile and a genuine love for animals. Growing up, Bailee’s education background focused on large animals during high school, where she developed a strong foundation in animal care. However, during the COVID pandemic, her interest transitioned to small animals, leading her to broaden her knowledge and shift her focus to caring for cats. This transition has only deepened her passion for feline medicine and she’s now an integral part of our team.
At home, Bailee shares her life with six cats—Spooky, Slinky, Dahlia, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday—and two dogs, Champ and Lana, creating a household filled with love and energy.
When she’s not greeting clients at the front desk, Bailee enjoys reading, theater, crafting, and solving puzzles in escape rooms. Her passion for both animals and creative pursuits shines through in everything she does, and her welcoming personality makes her a perfect fit for our team.
Bailee’s dedication to providing excellent customer service, her caring nature, and her diverse background in animal care ensure that every visit to our Cat Hospital is a positive experience for both you and your pets!
At home, Bailee shares her life with six cats—Spooky, Slinky, Dahlia, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday—and two dogs, Champ and Lana, creating a household filled with love and energy.
When she’s not greeting clients at the front desk, Bailee enjoys reading, theater, crafting, and solving puzzles in escape rooms. Her passion for both animals and creative pursuits shines through in everything she does, and her welcoming personality makes her a perfect fit for our team.
Bailee’s dedication to providing excellent customer service, her caring nature, and her diverse background in animal care ensure that every visit to our Cat Hospital is a positive experience for both you and your pets!
Lucy is the purrfessional supervisor at our cat hospital, overseeing daily operations with whiskers twitching and tail held high! This adorable three-legged queen doesn't let anything slow her down—in fact, her unique strut only adds to her remarkable character.
As our resident paper inspector, Lucy ensures no document goes unshredded if left within paw's reach. Her meticulous attention to detail extends to our laundry service, where she personally adds a layer of cat fluff during her biscuit-making breaks.
With her raspy little meow and happy tail wiggles, Lucy greets her favorite staff members by climbing to her preferred perch—right on your shoulders! Her sassy attitude comes through when she demands attention, but it's always balanced by her incredibly sweet nature and purrs of appreciation.
She's also our unofficial inventory specialist, carefully observing all deliveries from her strategic vantage points. Don't let her three-legged status fool you—this determined feline can reach any shelf she sets her mind to!
A true team player, Lucy embraces every holiday with enthusiasm, happily sporting festive attire for special occasions. When she's not busy supervising the staff, you'll find her in the waiting room, sweet-talking clients for extra treats and affection while they wait.
Next time you visit, be sure to say hello to Miss Lucy—just don't be surprised if she inspects your paperwork with her teeth and gives you a look that says, "I run this place!"
As our resident paper inspector, Lucy ensures no document goes unshredded if left within paw's reach. Her meticulous attention to detail extends to our laundry service, where she personally adds a layer of cat fluff during her biscuit-making breaks.
With her raspy little meow and happy tail wiggles, Lucy greets her favorite staff members by climbing to her preferred perch—right on your shoulders! Her sassy attitude comes through when she demands attention, but it's always balanced by her incredibly sweet nature and purrs of appreciation.
She's also our unofficial inventory specialist, carefully observing all deliveries from her strategic vantage points. Don't let her three-legged status fool you—this determined feline can reach any shelf she sets her mind to!
A true team player, Lucy embraces every holiday with enthusiasm, happily sporting festive attire for special occasions. When she's not busy supervising the staff, you'll find her in the waiting room, sweet-talking clients for extra treats and affection while they wait.
Next time you visit, be sure to say hello to Miss Lucy—just don't be surprised if she inspects your paperwork with her teeth and gives you a look that says, "I run this place!"
While his sister Lucy handles the supervision, Chunky serves as our official Staff Morale Expert at the cat hospital. This lovable gentle giant has made it his personal mission to ensure everyone—staff and clients alike—feels the comfort of his substantial, purring presence.
Most days you'll find Chunky regally lounging in our reception area, where he's perfected the art of the slow blink—a cat's way of showing love. Don't be surprised when he rolls over for belly rubs; unlike most cats, Chunky genuinely enjoys this form of affection and offers it freely to visitors. He's also quite fond of butt spanks—those gentle pats at the base of his tail that make his whole body wiggle with delight.
But beware leaving your purse unattended! Chunky has developed a keen interest in handbag archaeology, diving headfirst into any bag in hopes of discovering forgotten treats. Similarly, any cat food bags within paw's reach will quickly bear the distinctive teeth marks of our food quality inspector.
Where Chunky truly shines is his natural empathy. With an almost supernatural ability to sense emotional distress, he'll abandon his comfortable perch to provide support to any staff member feeling sad or stressed. He reserves special attention for his OG mama, Practice Manager Kayla, with whom he shares an unbreakable bond.
Never one to miss a meal, Chunky begins his dinner reminder service a full two hours before feeding time, patiently sitting beside his bowl and gently "reminding" each passing staff member of his readiness for dinner.
Come holiday time, Chunky enthusiastically joins Lucy and the staff in festive celebrations, sporting stylish outfits with the dignified air that only a cat of his stature can maintain.
If you're visiting our hospital and feel something substantial and furry pressing against your leg, that's just Chunky—offering his services as the unofficial welcome committee and reminding us all that sometimes, the best medicine is simply a purr and a gentle headbutt.
Most days you'll find Chunky regally lounging in our reception area, where he's perfected the art of the slow blink—a cat's way of showing love. Don't be surprised when he rolls over for belly rubs; unlike most cats, Chunky genuinely enjoys this form of affection and offers it freely to visitors. He's also quite fond of butt spanks—those gentle pats at the base of his tail that make his whole body wiggle with delight.
But beware leaving your purse unattended! Chunky has developed a keen interest in handbag archaeology, diving headfirst into any bag in hopes of discovering forgotten treats. Similarly, any cat food bags within paw's reach will quickly bear the distinctive teeth marks of our food quality inspector.
Where Chunky truly shines is his natural empathy. With an almost supernatural ability to sense emotional distress, he'll abandon his comfortable perch to provide support to any staff member feeling sad or stressed. He reserves special attention for his OG mama, Practice Manager Kayla, with whom he shares an unbreakable bond.
Never one to miss a meal, Chunky begins his dinner reminder service a full two hours before feeding time, patiently sitting beside his bowl and gently "reminding" each passing staff member of his readiness for dinner.
Come holiday time, Chunky enthusiastically joins Lucy and the staff in festive celebrations, sporting stylish outfits with the dignified air that only a cat of his stature can maintain.
If you're visiting our hospital and feel something substantial and furry pressing against your leg, that's just Chunky—offering his services as the unofficial welcome committee and reminding us all that sometimes, the best medicine is simply a purr and a gentle headbutt.