Dr. Alison Gerken

Dr. Alison Gerken is a second-year resident in veterinary behavior at the Florida Veterinary Behavior Service under the mentorship of Dr. Lisa Radosta. She graduated from the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2017. Following veterinary school, she completed a one year internship at VCA San Francisco Veterinary Specialists where she then worked as an emergency clinician for another year. Dr. Gerken has a special interest in feline behavior and is inspired by her three kitties, Hetch-Hetchy, Lily, and Bambu. Learn more about veterinary behavior and the Florida Veterinary Behavior Service at flvetbehavior.com.

Recent Articles

10 of the Healthiest Cat Breeds

Alison Gerken, DVM (Clinical Behavior Resident)

Any cat can experience health challenges, but choosing a breed celebrated for robust health may help reduce the risk of certain genetic conditions that some cats are known for—and give you peace of mind....

Why Do Cats Like Boxes?

Alison Gerken, DVM (Clinical Behavior Resident)

Have you ever bought new toys or a towering cat tree for your kitty, only for him to be much more excited about the box it came in? You’re not alone. Cats seem to possess an unexplainable fascination with...

How to Read a Cat’s Body Language

Alison Gerken, DVM (Clinical Behavior Resident)

Our feline friends have their own cat language to communicate their thoughts and emotions. They use both their body (including their eyes, ears, whiskers, and tail) and their voice to show what they are...

9 Cat Noises and What They Mean

Alison Gerken, DVM (Clinical Behavior Resident)

Like humans, cats have a vast vocabulary. Up to 21 different feline vocalizations have been described in scientific research, but their vocal repertoire probably contains even more. Cats can use these...

Dog Calming Products to Help Ease Dog Anxiety

Alison Gerken, DVM (Clinical Behavior Resident)

There are many products marketed to reduce fear and anxiety and provide generalized calming effects in dogs, and you may find the array of options dizzying. While some pet parents swear by certain dog...

Why Does My Cat Lick Me?

Alison Gerken, DVM (Clinical Behavior Resident)

When I adopted Bambu, my adorable orange kitty with arguably the world’s poofiest tail, I was immediately taken aback by the extent of her licking. I left all of our snuggle sessions with my hands, arms,...