Feline Stress Anorexia (TSA™) Protocol
A trauma-informed escalation framework. TSA™ is a behaviorally observable, reversible condition that can precede metabolic collapse. The protocol uses somatic thresholds, hydration cues, and behavioral data to guide intervention—preserving trust while preventing decline.
Escalation Flow (Tiers 1–3)
Observation & Smorgasbord Offering
Trigger: first missed meal
- Goal: minimize stress; stimulate natural appetite
- Actions: offer 3–5 textures; quiet setting; familiar scent/bedding
- Monitor: gaze, nose tapping, limb tension, bowl engagement
Engagement-Based Coaching
Trigger: no intake after Tier 1
- Goal: reinforce presence and trust
- Actions: gentle encouragement; utensil/fingertip feeding; rhythmic breathing
- Monitor: flank flattening, tail posture, soft protest vs. shutdown
Supported Feeding Initiation
Trigger: 2+ meals refused or decompensation
- Goal: begin nutritional reentry; prevent crash
- Actions: consent-based syringe/bottle; warming food; swaddling; paced pauses
- Monitor: bounceback, grooming/vocalizing, postural shifts
Escalation Flow (Tiers 4–5)
Hydration Support & Medical Alert
Trigger: ongoing refusal + dehydration signs
- Goal: prevent organ stress/lipidosis
- Actions: somatic hydration check; sub-Q fluids; notify DSM™ / vet
- Monitor: skin tenting, dry gums, temperature gradients, tremors
Emergency Veterinary Escalation
Trigger: collapse, weight loss, worsening vitals
- Goal: protect life; initiate medical feeding plan
- Actions: immediate transfer; full charting; guardian communication
- Monitor: low temperature; non-responsiveness; vocal silence
Clinical Principles
- Cats may move up or down tiers based on real-time somatic response.
- Every step must preserve emotional trust and avoid force.
- Supported feeding is never coercive—relationship precedes intake.
- TSA™ is reversible if caught early; time is not neutral.
- Refusal is data, not a waiting period.
Role Scope Pyramid
TSA™ integrates with TANDEM Cat®’s three-tier professional structure.
- Somatitarian Technician™ — Clinical Support Practitioner
- Somatitarian™ — Certified Primary Clinical Practitioner
- Doctor of Somatic Medicine (DSM™) — Clinical Architect & Systems Ethicist
Why TSA™ Matters
- Early intervention saves lives before crisis.
- Trauma-informed at every step—consent and co-regulation.
- Replicable & scalable for training and practice.
Trademark & Copyright
Transitional Stress Anorexia (TSA™) and related terms are proprietary to TANDEM Cat®. Copyright © 2025 TANDEM Cat, LLC. All rights reserved. Unauthorized copying, distribution, or adaptation of the TSA™ protocol and training materials is prohibited.
Shawn and Dan are the inventors and developers of TANDEM Cat® Care, the founders of Cats in the City, and the founders of The TANDEM Cat® Institute. This method is a safer and more relaxed experience for your cat. When the TANDEM Cat® Grooming technique is used, two or more professional groomers attend to your cat, comfortably and naturally positioning them while the lead groomer focuses on the coat. Solo grooming involves only one groomer, which is unsafe and stressful.