[Question] [1.12.1] Possible to model-swap mobs using CreatureCache.wdb?

I'm working on a Druid Form patch for Classic servers, see thread. I would like to figure out a way to avoid replacing all 'Tiger' type mobs in the game with bird models, which happens due to the Travel Form model swap (Tiger.M2 -> StormCrowDruid.M2).

Before I go on a manic sleepless frenzy, I was wondering if anyone knew if it would even be possible--in theory--to model-swap mobs individually using the CreatureCache.wdb file in tandem with CreatureDisplayInfo.dbc/CreatureModelData.dbc.

Theory:
-I'm thinking I would need to find all the 'Tiger' type mobs in the game (literally find them so they get added to my cache), get their creatureIDs (see WoWDev page for CreatureCache.wdb)
-Modify each row in CreatureCache.wdb associated with said creatureIDs; probably just need to change "DisplayID" field to some unused mob...maybe...(I'm hoping there are unused mobs I could use to model swap. I would need 11 I think, for each of the possible 'Tiger' skins)
-Next I would probably need to modify the pointed-to entries in CreatureDisplayInfo.dbc (and CreatureModelData.dbc?). Basically I need to change these entry's so that the model/skin/sounds/footprints/etc. are all those of the desired creature. I'm very hazy about this part, I haven't had much luck figuring out CreatureDisplayInfo/CreatureModelData so far.


So, before I do all that, can anyone tell me if the road I'm on leads to nowhere? Thankya!