A native of Idaho, Dr. Irwin returned to the Gem State to join the Boise Cat Clinic team after completing her veterinary medicine studies at Colorado State University. There, she completed the rigorous DVM/MBA combined-degree program.
Dr. Irwin’s fondness for felines began at the tender age of three with her first cat, Candy – so named because “I love cats & I love candy” – statements that still hold true to this day. As her appreciation for the special intricacies of the human-feline bond deepened, her pursuit of a career in feline-exclusive medicine was only natural. Dr. Irwin believes this special bond is best served through compassionate care for kitties and sharing her knowledge and expertise with the people they have touched.
In January of 2024, Dr. Irwin became the proud owner of the Boise Cat Clinic when she purchased the clinic from her long-time mentor and clinic founder, Dr. Robin Roller. Maintaining the clinic under private ownership is very important to Dr. Irwin because it allows her the autonomy to provide the best care for her patients and clients. Dr. Irwin’s clinical interests include internal medicine, nutrition, and dentistry.
Dr. Irwin takes pride in her membership of the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Association of Feline Practitioners, Idaho Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Animal Hospital Association.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Irwin enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, biking, kayaking, and tending her vegetable and flower gardens. She also enjoys spending cozy evenings knitting and crafting alongside her feline companions: Twila Luna, Norabel Soleil, Margeaux LeRoux, Alexxy Fyodor, and Arges Abyss.
Dr. Sutherland’s passion for veterinary medicine was sparked early on, despite the challenges of frequently relocating as a child in a military family. At just fourteen, she began working at a local vet clinic, which deeply influenced her career direction. She pursued her education with determination, earning both her Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from Washington State University, completing the latter in 2022 as part of the Honors College’s accelerated 7-year program. Additionally, Dr. Sutherland is Fear Free Certified, reflecting her dedication to reducing stress and enhancing the welfare of animals.
Her professional focus includes preventative medicine, client education, and soft tissue surgery. After working in a mixed animal practice, her love for the unique personalities and independence of cats led her to specialize exclusively in feline medicine. This specialization reflects her commitment to enhancing veterinary care for cats, who are often less likely to receive preventive care compared to dogs.
Dr. Sutherland thrives in a feline-exclusive environment that perfectly aligns with her expertise and passions, allowing her to provide tailored care. Her diverse background, shaped by moves across the country and enriched by her proficiency in Spanish, has endowed her with a broad perspective and adaptability that enhance her practice. Beyond her professional life, Dr. Sutherland enjoys camping, cooking, reading, caring for her many houseplants, and spending time with her two beloved tuxedo cats, Franklin and Regina, who she considers the best cats in the world.
