Dr. Melanie Zwiener
Dr. Melanie Zwiener leads the veterinary care at Nelson Cat Hotel, bringing over two decades of hands-on experience in small animal medicine. Her career has taken her from Germany to Australia and New Zealand, building a strong foundation in surgery, internal medicine, dentistry, and diagnostics. Here at the cat hotel, that expertise ensures every cat—whether healthy or requiring extra care—receives the attention they need.
Melanie’s interest in animals started early. She grew up in a small German town surrounded by pets and livestock, and that upbringing shaped both her career and her outlook. Her academic path in veterinary science included research that was recognised with a national science award—an achievement that reflects her analytical mind and commitment to improving animal care.
Melanie has a calm, intuitive approach to working with cats. Years of clinical experience have given her a deep understanding of feline behaviour and health, and she brings that insight to every aspect of the cat hotel’s care model. Whether it’s a routine check or a more complex medical case, her focus is on keeping cats calm, safe, and well.
Outside of work, Melanie enjoys exploring the Nelson region’s outdoors—hiking, fishing, and spending time with her family. Together with her husband Michael, she co-founded Nelson Cat Hotel to offer something they felt was missing: a boarding facility that combines professional standards with personalised, compassionate care.
Melanie’s presence is what makes Nelson Cat Hotel more than just a place to stay—it’s a place where your cat’s wellbeing is genuinely understood and prioritised.
