Cattitude - The #1 Cat Podcast

This week on Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes Tori Fugate, Director of Communications for Shelter Animals Count, to talk about the peak of kitten season and what new national data is revealing about the influx of feline intakes across shelters. Tori shares critical insights from 2024’s shelter data showing how kitten intakes (0–8 weeks old) surge in May, followed by a boom of juvenile cats in June and July. This seasonal trend puts enormous pressure on animal shelters, making it vital for rescues to proactively plan for fosters, staffing, medical care, and community support. Learn how this data helps shelters better prepare, save lives, and support these most vulnerable feline arrivals—and what you can do to help!EPISODE NOTES: Kitten Tsunami: Why Kitten Season Floods Shelters with FelinesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

In this informative episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes veterinarian and fellow Pet Life Radio host Dr. Jeff Werber to tackle a condition many cat parents have never heard of—megacolon. Inspired by listener Erin and her beloved cat Rosebud, this episode dives into what megacolon really is, why it happens, and how to recognize and manage this serious feline health issue. Dr. Jeff shares his expert insight on how cats, known for being stoic and secretive about their ailments, can suffer in silence—making awareness and early diagnosis crucial. Whether you’ve heard the term before or it’s completely new to you, this episode is packed with must-know info for every cat lover.EPISODE NOTES: Megacolon in Cats: What Every Cat Parent Needs to KnowBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes professional cat photographer Karen Hoglund, who shares her expert tips on how to capture the purr-fect feline photo. From understanding what sets cat photography apart from snapping pics of pups, to creative ways of bringing out your cat’s true personality, Karen offers insights for cat lovers and shutterbugs alike. She also discusses the emotional value of end-of-life photo sessions, and how they can provide healing and closure. Plus, don't miss her fun prop ideas to elevate any cat photoshoot! EPISODE NOTES: Fur-tography 101: How to Snap Your Cat Like a ProBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes feline health expert Dr. Kelly Fishman to uncover the hidden truths about aging cats. Inspired by a recent New York Times article exposing the gap in feline versus canine medicine, Dr. Fishman shares why most cats over age 11 are silently suffering from chronic pain—and what cat parents can do to help. From spotting subtle signs of discomfort to practical tips for exercise, nutrition, and in-home comfort, this episode is packed with must-know advice to keep your cat active, healthy, and pain-free well into their golden years. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation that could change how you care for your feline friend!EPISODE NOTES: Arthritis & the Aging Cat: What Every Cat Parent Should KnowBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and president of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. Dr. Radosta shares her deep expertise on feline aggression, explaining the root causes and how pet parents—no matter how experienced—can better understand and support their cats. Her mission is to educate owners on how to help their cats feel safe, understood, and ultimately less reactive. Tune in for invaluable insights that could transform your relationship with your feline friend.EPISODE NOTES: From Hiss to Harmony: Solving Cat AggressionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Brad Beyer, author of the touching new memoir SILOPI: A TRUE STORY OF LOVE AND RESILIENCE. Brad shares the remarkable journey of how, in the aftermath of the first Gulf War, he rescued a tiny black and white kitten he discovered curled up in his Army hat in a chow tent in Silopi, Turkey. In this heartfelt episode, Brad recounts his military service — from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the deserts of Turkey — and the deep, life-changing bond that formed between a young infantryman and an unlikely feline companion. With warmth, humor, and emotion, he tells the story of sneaking the kitten back through Berlin and all the way home to Philadelphia. More than a tale of survival, SILOPI is a moving tribute to love, family, and the unexpected ways animals can shape our lives.EPISODE NOTES: One Kitten, One Soldier, One Extraordinary Journey: Silopi - A True Story of Love and ResilienceBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Chris Robinson, contributor to the thrilling new book Meow! Cats in Horror, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy Movies. If you’ve ever gasped at a feline jump scare, swooned over a mystical cat in a fantasy epic, or marveled at our favorite furballs in sci-fi adventures, this episode is for you! Chris and Michelle dive into the world of cats on the silver screen—from chilling horror moments to magical feline sidekicks and intergalactic kitties. Hear about cult classics, unforgettable cat scenes, behind-the-scenes trivia, and movie night must-watches from this definitive guide for cat lovers and cinephiles alike. Whether you’re a horror buff, a fantasy fan, or just obsessed with cats in pop culture, you won’t want to miss this purr-fectly entertaining episode!EPISODE NOTES: Meow! Cats in Horror, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy MoviesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Beth Stultz-Hairston, President of Pet Sitters International (PSI), to talk all about finding the right pet sitter for your cat (or cats!). Whether you’re heading out of town or just want peace of mind, Beth shares expert tips on choosing a qualified cat sitter and explains why professional pet sitters are an essential part of your feline family’s care team. With two decades of experience in the pet-care industry, Beth also offers insights into the growing pet-sitting field, industry trends, and the importance of avoiding burnout for sitters. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your cat happy while you're away—or considered pet sitting as a career—this episode is a must-listen!EPISODE NOTES: Not Just Any Cat Sitter: How to Choose the Purr-fessional One!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes back bestselling author Allia Zobel Nolan to talk about her delightful new children’s book, Why Can’t My Brother Be More Like My Cat? With charming illustrations by New York Times bestselling artist Lee Wildish, the book hilariously explores sibling rivalries through the eyes of a little girl who adores her cat but can’t quite figure out her mischievous brother. Join us as Allia shares the inspiration behind the book, the heartwarming (and humorous!) lessons it teaches, and why both kids and adults will smile every time they open its pages. EPISODE NOTES: Why Can’t My Brother Be More Like My Cat?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Dr. Deborah Mandell, member of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council and pet medical expert to talk about disaster preparedness for your pets. With more intense and frequent disasters occurring, the chances of a person experiencing an emergency in their community is a higher possibility. We always think about what we may need as humans to navigate an emergency, but what about our pets?EPISODE NOTES: Disaster-Proof Your Pets: Emergency Prep with Dr. Deborah MandellBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Dr. Evan Zhao, Co-Founder of Pacagen, the groundbreaking biotech pet care brand tackling human allergies to cats! Inspired by his wife’s severe cat allergies after adopting their beloved British Shorthair, Miaomiao, Dr. Evan developed Pacagen’s Cat Allergen Neutralizing Spray—a game-changer for cat lovers struggling with sneezing, itchy eyes, and discomfort. Now, Pacagen has expanded with a Cat Food Topper that boasts a 98% efficacy rate in reducing allergens! Tune in as Dr. Evan shares how bio-manufacturing and science are making it easier than ever to live happily with your feline friend.EPISODE NOTES: From Sneezes to Snuggles: The Future of Cat Allergy ReliefBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

What good is sitting alone in your room, when you can join the fun as Michelle Fern welcomes Gemma Smith, producer of Catbaret! This one-of-a-kind show, held in NYC for over six years, brings cat lovers together for a night of comedy, music, and "purr-lesque." More than just entertainment, Catbaret! partners with a local cat café and rescue group to showcase adoptable cats during intermission, helping felines find their forever homes. With a cozy 120-seat theater and a virtual audience, this event is all about building a vibrant “com-mew-nity” of cat enthusiasts. Tune in for a fun and fascinating look behind the scenes of this feline-inspired spectacle!EPISODE NOTES: Life Is A Catbaret!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes nationally recognized feline behavior expert Stephen Quandt for an insightful and engaging discussion. In the first half, they explore what cat parents can expect from a behaviorist, offering valuable insights into understanding and improving feline behavior. Then, they dive into New Year's resolutions for your cat, with a special focus on weight management and overall well-being. Stephen, known for his compassionate approach, shares expertise gained from working with the Animal Care Centers of NY and numerous media appearances. Don’t miss this purr-fectly informative episode!EPISODE NOTES: Pawsitive Changes: Resolutions for a Happier, Healthier CatBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, host Michelle Fern chats with Dr. Elizabeth Flickinger, senior manager of insights and innovation at World’s Best Cat Litter, about a groundbreaking new study that sheds light on cat owners’ concerns. According to the study, 54% of cat parents worry about their feline’s litter box habits, with nearly 1 in 4 reporting that their cat has experienced urinary tract issues. Surprisingly, men expressed more concern about litter box behavior than women. Dr. Flickinger introduces Health Check-In Boosters, an innovative formula that can be added to any litter, using color-changing technology to detect blood in a cat’s urine. Tune in to learn how this revolutionary product can help cat parents monitor their furry friends’ urinary health and take timely action, providing peace of mind for today’s busy pet owners.EPISODE NOTES: Paws and Reflect: Why 54% of Cat Owners Are Losing Sleep Over Litter Box Woes!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern chats with board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Maggie O’Brian about the latest in virtual veterinary visits and their growing role in pet care. Dr. O’Brian shares insights into common feline behavior issues like inappropriate elimination, inter-cat aggression, stranger anxiety, and the fascinating field of psychopharmacology in cats. Tune in for expert advice and practical tips to help your feline friends live happier, healthier lives!EPISODE NOTES: Cat Behavior Unlocked: Virtual Visits & Feline Fixes with Dr. Maggie O'BrianBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.