Mary Ellen Goldberg on Feline Pain Management through Physical Rehabilitation (Part 1)
Our latest episode of “All Cats Considered” features Mary Ellen Goldberg, BS, LVT, CVT, SRA, CCRVN, CVPP, VTS-Lab Animal Medicine (Research Anesthesia), VTS-Physical Rehabilitation—a distinguished veterinary technician and long-time leader in pain management and rehabilitation. The conversation focuses on Goldberg’s extensive career spanning research, anesthesia, and teaching, and highlights her recent article in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery’s Pain Management special collection: “Physical Rehabilitation of Cats, Part 1: Common Conditions Benefiting from Physiotherapy.” This episode explores the growing role of physical rehabilitation in improving quality of life for feline patients suffering from conditions such as osteoarthritis, fractures, neurologic disorders, and obesity. Drawing on her unique experience across species and settings, Goldberg underscores the value of a multimodal, evidence-based approach to feline pain and mobility challenges.
Together, Dr. St. Denis and Goldberg also address common myths surrounding feline physiotherapy, emphasizing the importance of behavioral awareness and low-stress handling. Goldberg discusses practical strategies for adapting rehab techniques to cats’ emotional and physical needs—including home exercise plans, laser therapy, acupuncture, and tools like the Assisi loop. She urges veterinary professionals to “think cat” when approaching physical rehab, integrating fear-free principles with pain recognition to maximize treatment success. This conversation offers both inspiration and practical takeaways for clinicians looking to elevate feline care through physical rehabilitation.