OUR VETERINARIAN

Owner And Veterinarian

A fifth grade research project set the direction for Dr. Leland’s career in a way that never changed. What began as an assignment quickly became something much more meaningful after interviewing a veterinarian and gaining a firsthand look into the profession. From that point forward, Dr. Leland focused her education and experience toward becoming a veterinarian, building a foundation that would later define her work and specialty.

Dr. Leland pursued both undergraduate and veterinary school at Texas A and M University, graduating Cum Laude with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1996. During those years, she worked as a veterinary technician while completing her studies, gaining practical experience that reinforced her long-term goals. It was during veterinary school that Dr. Leland developed a strong interest in internal medicine and recognized a natural understanding of feline patients. That combination led her to focus specifically on feline-only care, a direction that would shape her career.

After moving to Austin, Dr. Leland gained experience working in the Lake Travis area before opening Cat Hospital of Austin in 2000. As the founder, owner, and sole practitioner, she has grown the practice into a feline-exclusive hospital dedicated to meeting the specific needs of cats and the people who care for them.

Dr. Leland’s interest in advancing patient care expanded through personal experience when exploring alternative therapies during her husband’s health challenges. Seeing the benefits firsthand led her to pursue additional training, ultimately becoming board certified through the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association. This allows her to incorporate additional treatment options that support mobility, comfort, and overall well-being for her patients.

In practice, Dr. Leland values both the medical and relational aspects of care. She enjoys helping clients better understand their cats and appreciates working with those who see their pets as family. Her continued focus on internal medicine allows her to stay current on conditions commonly affecting aging cats, including endocrine and gastrointestinal disorders.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Leland enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and spending time in nature at her second home in Ruidoso, NM. Life at home is shared with her husband, Tyler, along with four cats and a group of dogs whose personalities bring daily energy and balance.