1-15 Lexington Rd, Underwood, QLD, AU, 4119
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Training the Next Generation of Feline Specialists at CSS
It is a small field, but the impact reaches cats and their families far and wide. That’s why training others to become feline specialists is about more than clinical skill. I was trained by people who love the species and the work. They gave their time and dedication to help me, and it’s something I’m really passionate about passing on to the next generation at CSS.
Cat Specialist Services has been a training ground for interns, residents and specialists over the years. While it’s a huge commitment, it’s something we’re really proud of. Alongside fellow feline medicine specialist Alison Jukes, our focus is on making sure the information we teach is current and that those coming through are encouraged to think critically for themselves.
From learning everything to realising how much there is to learn
My own journey began with a love of cats and veterinary science and learning. When I love something, I want to know as much as I can about it and then the more you know, the more you realise there’s still so much more to learn!
From the time you’re an undergraduate through to general practice, there’s a huge amount to take in. For some, that naturally leads to wanting to take the next step and specialise. That requires a training position, and when it comes to feline medicine, there are actually very few of them around.
In my case, my path took me overseas, where I worked within the veterinary field in the UK. While there were options at home, the feline medicine space over there was advanced and the idea of cat friendly practice was more widely accepted within the profession and among pet owners. Being exposed to that level of care and focus was incredibly motivating. That experience has had a huge impact on my approach, and it’s something I really enjoy sharing with like-minded professionals here in Australia.
What training looks like at CSS
Having our own feline-exclusive hospital provides the perfect setting for this kind of learning. We can teach cat-friendly handling and methods and create an environment where responsibility is shared rather than purely top-down.
Everyone here loves cats and understands their role.
You can’t be across everything all of the time, but when those gaps come up, someone else usually has it covered. That shared knowledge leads to regular discussion, healthy debate and valuable clinical insight.
Learning is also supported through structured touchpoints like weekly journal clubs, where the team comes together to talk through new research and industry developments. Also, we are constantly working on lectures and teaching for the profession and that helps to make sure we stay current!
Of the many wonderful interns we’ve had the privilege of working with at CSS, two have gone on to become residents, one of them is now working in general practice, and another has moved into an emergency practice role. Our registrar, Dr Kristy Stone, is currently getting ready for her exams and we’re fortunate to have her up to date knowledge contributing to the team.
Teaching vets to think beyond the textbook
It takes a lot of time to train a feline specialist, and that’s for both the mentor and the student. It can be easier to just give someone the answer, but part of the job is developing their critical thinking so they can work things out for themselves. As they say, give a man a fish, and he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he eats for life. We’re in this for the long haul. Specialising in any veterinary discipline requires thinking outside the box. Rote learning will not suffice.
Real-world cases rarely, if ever, present in a textbook manner. Clinicians are often faced with new territory. This is where those critical thinking skills matter, because the approach is just as important as the answer. You can’t simply recognise a pattern and move on, you have to work it out properly. It’s a gradual learning process, but it’s imperative that specialists in training learn to reason their way through uncertainty.
Creating a lifelong learning cycle
As mentioned, there are many pathways from here after spending time immersed in feline medicine at CSS. Trainees move into a range of disciplines, but no matter where they go, they take with them a depth of knowledge that can be applied across a wide range of feline clinical scenarios.
Training for a specific qualification may have an end, but learning does not. When it’s done the right way, it encourages ongoing questioning and discussion around cases, and that’s what drives progression. It’s also how we develop high-quality feline medical professionals who carry that standard of feline-friendly practice throughout their careers.
Setting the standards in feline medicine
At CSS, training the next generation of feline medical experts is a huge part of what we do. And while we’d like to see all our trainees remain with us in the years ahead, that’s not why we’re working so hard in this space. Our priority is always the wellbeing of cats, and that means cats everywhere. Whatever is learned here and taken elsewhere for the benefit of this beautiful, fascinating species is something we consider a win.
The work continues. We’re looking forward to helping many more like-minded, cat-obsessed professionals as they further their veterinary knowledge and skills. It’s a huge responsibility, and one that drives us to constantly improve in order to provide strong training and accurate, up-to-date information. One of the best feelings is realising the student has surpassed the teacher. I know it well.
If you’re a veterinary professional with a deep love for cats and would like to know more about specialising in feline medicine, contact us today.
Owners can learn more about our experienced team and range of services here, and vets can refer patients here.
“Hands-on learning and real-world exposure are essential in shaping veterinary professionals who truly understand the unique needs of feline patients.”
Are you worried about your cat’s health?
If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.
Meet The Author
Dr Rachel Korman
Specialist in Feline Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS (Internal Medicine) FANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Dr. Korman’s childhood love for cats led her to veterinary medicine, and early on, it was clear that feline care was her calling. After graduating from the University of Queensland in 2000, she worked in small animal and feline-only practices across Australia and the UK.
She received a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship from the Feline Advisory Bureau (now International Cat Care) at the University of Bristol, where she researched feline infectious and haematological diseases, and in 2018, became a Fellow of the Feline Medicine Chapter of the Australian New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered Feline Medicine specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes feline specialist training at CSS different from general veterinary training?
Training at Cat Specialist Services takes place in a feline-exclusive hospital, which allows a focused approach to cat health and behaviour. The environment supports cat-friendly handling and encourages collaboration among clinicians. This setting helps veterinarians build deeper insight into feline-specific needs rather than applying broader, generalised approaches.
How does CSS support critical thinking in feline health training?
Trainees are encouraged to work through complex cases rather than relying on straightforward answers. Real-world feline cases rarely follow textbook examples, so developing reasoning skills is a core part of the training process. This approach helps veterinarians build confidence when managing uncertainty in clinical situations.
What types of learning opportunities are included in the training program?
Learning is supported through both hands-on clinical exposure and structured activities such as weekly journal clubs. These sessions allow the team to review current research and discuss developments in feline medicine. The combination of practical experience and ongoing education strengthens clinical understanding.
What career pathways are available after completing training at CSS?
Veterinarians who train at Cat Specialist Services move into a variety of roles, including general practice, emergency care, and specialist training pathways. The knowledge gained can be applied across many areas of feline health. This flexibility reflects the depth and relevance of the training experience.
Why is ongoing learning emphasised in feline medicine at CSS?
Feline medicine continues to evolve, and training is designed to foster a mindset of continuous learning. Even after formal qualifications are completed, veterinarians are encouraged to keep questioning and refining their approach. This ongoing development supports better long-term outcomes for feline patients.
Patient Stories
Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.
Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.
Kitty, a lymphoma survivor
We first met Kitty after she was referred to CSS for the evaluation of a large intestinal mass
Poppi finds her feet again
Following surgery to remove a hairball obstruction, Poppi was referred to us at CSS as she had not bounced back as expected
Rusty and his ongoing chronic rhinitis journey
Lifelong nasal issues, including persistent discharge and breathing noise, have been a bit of a thorn in Rusty’s side.
Lando’s long game with cryptococcus
Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.
Popeye coughs up the culprit
Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.
Key Takeways
Developing future feline specialists improves the overall standard of cat healthcare.
Hands-on training builds confidence and real-world clinical skills.
Mentorship plays a critical role in shaping capable veterinary professionals.
Cat Specialist Services Reviews 
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Tanya Bell
6 months ago
We transported our cat here from another animal hospital, as his condition was too complex for them. Our pet was given the highest quality of care, multiple investigations/procedures being able to be done at the one place a godsend. We were kept up to date frequently throughout his stay. All questions & options explained thoroughly. Being able to have private visits certainly helped us and our cat too. I would highly recommend Cat Specialist Services at Underwood. Amazing staff from reception, vet nurses, vets & specialists. Oh, and yes he is recovering wonderfully at home.
Melinda Cox
A month ago
So very happy we were asked to come here for advice for our NORBIT. He has had 2 x UTI blockages within weeks of each other since turning 6. Surgery seemed to be his only option and he didn’t feel it was very fair on him if we didn’t at least exhaust all other avenues first.
Dr Allison was very thorough in her tests and has let us know she would like to treat the cause of the problem. Great news.
It may lead to removal of crystals in his bladder if his diet doesn’t let him pass them naturally.
At least this surgery won’t be as severe at taking his penis off him – so as his fur parents – we are very happy with this.
We await further tests to see what’s in store for him.
NORBIT will now be a patient of the clinic as we are so far very happy with his treatment thus far.
Lesley Rosekrans
A month ago
Hi has only been a week since losing my beautiful Peaches but can’t thank Dr Cindy, Maree and Jackie enough for the tender care they gave her and they after care they gave me. I sincerely thank them and can’t recommend the Clinic highly enough they are such caring people. Peaches I’m happier times.
Madison McEwan
A month ago
I cannot thank the entire CSS team enough and especially Dr Cindy for the care they provided for our boy with a urinary blockage, and we will be taking both our cats here from now on. The clinic is exceptionally clean and calming compared to all other clinics we’ve been too, and all staff from the reception to the nurses/vets were so supportive during a stressful time. I knew from the first minute that I got to see him after he was transferred that he was in the best place, and that the staff genuinely care about their well-being and positive long term outcomes. We were given regular updates and full transparency, so much information including QR video codes on how to administer medications, along with print outs and emails about how to best help avoid future issues or recurrence. Our boy got to smooch on everyone and was beyond well looked after. Thank you again, you all made an incredibly stressful situation actually manageable and calming.
Astrid El Gamal
6 months ago
Dr Wan-Ju has been treating my baby since her first seizure in November 2025 and she has been fantastic.
Everybody at the clinic is so friendly and caring and I know my baby is in good hands.
Thank you team!
Deeba M
3 months ago
Dr Alison Jukes from CSS Underwood is an AMAZING feline physician. She is kind, professional, thorough and our cat is blessed to have her on his side. She even was able to save us money and invasiveness by being skilled to the level of doing ultrasound on two separate occasions without our cat needing to go under full sedation. Our other cat was recently seen by Dr Jukes as well, and she made sure our cat’s heart was ok. I also want to thank the lovely Jacqueline and Mairead from customer care. They are very kind each time I see them and call up. Sending thanks from our family, including Smokey and Floozy!
Judith Dionysius
A month ago
My whole experience with CSS was positive – from the first email I received giving lots of information regarding the process of radioactive iodine treatment to the expected costs, to checking my cat in for the treatment, boarding for 2 weeks after the treatment and picking her up to come home. They didn’t push for any tests that were not necessary.
Janelle Wieden
5 months ago
We never knew this service existed but we are very grateful we were referred to them. Our vet Cindy was really great, she made us feel at ease during a very stressful time. We got the sense straight away the Leo was in good hands. This service made us feel better knowing that they specialise is cats only. Would highly recommend their services
Georgia Carter
5 months ago
My Lani finished her I-131 treatment today and I am beyond impressed with the way she was looked after. I am by definition a neurotic pet owner and sending my fur child away for a week was seriously daunting.
I was given daily updates about how kitty was eating, toileting and behaving. This really put my mind at ease. Vets and vet nurses were so accomodating and allowed Lani to have her favourite foods from home prepared her favourite way.
Her vet was so thorough when explaining her treatment and condition to me.
The ladies at reception were so friendly and understanding.
I honestly cannot recommend this clinic enough and I am so thankful for the positive experience Lani and I have had.
Lauren Woodward
A year ago
My sweet ginger boy Louis was hospitalised at CSS for a Urinary Obstruction. Dr Cindy and all the reception staff were amazing and empathetic. I would often ring up with questions post procedure and Dr Cindy would make time to talk and explain things to me
Service Locations
Cat Specialists accepts referrals for cats across Brisbane and surrounding regions, working closely with local veterinary clinics to provide specialist diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Contacting Us
Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pmSaturday/Sunday - Closed