Cattitude - Episode 302 Style Meets Whiskers: Smart Living for Cat People

What if music could be composed specifically for your cat? This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes acclaimed cellist, researcher, and composer David Teie, creator of the groundbreaking Music for Cats albums. David shares the fascinating science behind species-specific music, explaining how feline vocalizations, purring, suckling sounds, and early brain development inspired music designed to calm and comfort cats. Learn why cats respond differently to music than humans, how shelters and veterinary clinics are using feline-friendly music to reduce stress, and hear heartwarming stories of shy and formerly feral cats finding comfort through sound. If you've ever wondered what your cat wants to hear, this fascinating conversation offers a whole new way to enrich your feline's world.EPISODE NOTES: Music for Cats: The Science of Feline HarmonyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this delightful episode of Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes author and literary agent Kate McKean, creator of the charming new children’s book Pay Attention to Me. Inspired by the world of internet-famous cats, Kate shares how a lovable feline named Edgar came to life and why cats continue to rule social media. From hilarious cat antics and diva behavior to the unique personalities that make cats such captivating companions, this conversation explores the magic of cats through the eyes of a storyteller. Kate also reveals the surprising twist that she’s actually allergic to cats, discusses her favorite feline internet stars, and offers valuable advice for aspiring children’s book authors. It’s a fun, heartwarming episode for cat lovers, parents, readers, and anyone who appreciates a cat’s quest for attention and affection.EPISODE NOTES: Pay Attention to Me! Edgar the Cat Wants His MomentBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this heartwarming episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes author Vanessa Benitez to discuss her touching new children’s book, The Adventures of Puffy Cat and the Lost Name inspired by her real-life rescue cat, Snarf. Vanessa shares the unbelievable story of finding a fluffy cat abandoned in a garbage can, overcoming severe cat allergies to save her, and how that journey led to writing a compassionate story about stray cats, friendship, TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), and pet adoption. Learn why adult rescue cats deserve love too, how TNR helps control the cat population, and why teaching children empathy for animals can change the future for homeless pets everywhere.EPISODE NOTES: From Garbage Can to Beloved Cat: Snarf’s Incredible Rescue StoryBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this informative episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes Amy Castro of the Pet Parent Hotline to tackle one of the biggest concerns for cat parents: how to save money at the vet without compromising care. From understanding estimates and asking the right questions to knowing when to say “not today,” Amy shares practical, empowering tips to help pet parents take control of veterinary costs. Learn the difference between tech visits and doctor visits, when an emergency trip might actually save money, and how prevention and early detection can keep both your cat—and your wallet—healthier. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed at the vet’s office, this episode will give you the confidence and knowledge you need to make smarter decisions for your feline family.EPISODE NOTES: Purrfectly Smart Spending: Saving Money at the VetBecome 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 Ashley OBryan, founder and CEO of Fluff & Boots, for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about creating a home that’s both cat-friendly and human-friendly. From stylish litter boxes and purposeful cat furniture to multiple comfort zones that reduce feline stress, Ashley shares smart ways to blend design, wellness, and practicality for modern cat households. Plus, the conversation dives into advocacy beyond adoption—covering TNR, ethical pet products, declaw awareness, supporting small businesses, and how everyday choices can make a real difference for cats everywhere. A must-listen for cat lovers who want beautiful homes and a better world for felines.EPISODE NOTES: Style Meets Whiskers: Smart Living for Cat PeopleBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this episode of Cattitude Michelle Fern welcomes Dr. Heather Berst, Medical Lead at Zoetis, to talk about the Zoetis Breed Explorer—a fun, vet-approved tool designed to help pet parents find the dog or cat breed that truly fits their lifestyle. With more than 400 breeds featured, the Breed Explorer offers insights into energy level, family friendliness, grooming needs, health considerations, and more. Michelle and Dr. Heather discuss why choosing a pet based on looks alone can lead to surprises, how breed traits can influence behavior and health, and why informed, responsible pet ownership starts before you bring a new furry family member home. Whether you’re considering a purebred, a mixed breed, a kitten, or a puppy, this episode is packed with practical advice to help match the right pet with the right person.EPISODE NOTES: The Breed Explorer: What Breed Is Best for You?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

It’s the 300th episode of Cattitude, and Michelle Fern is celebrating in a big way with a very special guest: Valerie Bertinelli! From One Day at a Time to Hot in Cleveland, Valerie has been part of our lives for decades—but on this episode, cat lovers get to meet a whole different side of her: devoted cat mom, passionate animal lover, voracious reader, and the heart behind her new projects, including Getting Naked and Valerie’s Place. Valerie shares hilarious and heartfelt stories about her feline family—Batman, Henry, Tigger, Bubba, and Beau—along with the chaos, cuddles, spraying, scratching, litter box drama, and unconditional love that come with life in a multi-cat household. She also opens up about vulnerability, grief, books, food, and why animals help us see ourselves with more compassion. It’s funny, warm, deeply real, and the perfect way to mark this milestone episode of Cattitude.EPISODE NOTES: Valerie Bertinelli Talks Cats, Chaos & Cat Mom LifeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this heartfelt episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes author Josephine Spence to talk about her touching book A Cat’s Tail,, told from the perspective of her beloved cat, Onkyo. Through humor, warmth, and deeply emotional moments, Josephine shares the remarkable 19-year bond she had with Onkyo—from mischievous Christmas tree adventures to the quiet comfort a cat can bring during life’s most difficult times. The conversation explores the powerful connection between cats and their humans, the lessons Onkyo taught about slowing down and appreciating life, and the profound grief that comes with losing a cherished pet. If you’ve ever loved a cat, this beautiful story of loyalty, companionship, and enduring love will resonate deeply.EPISODE NOTES: A Cat’s Tail: The Love, Life & Legacy of OnkyoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this episode of Cattitude, Michelle Fern dives into one of the most important — and overwhelming — times in the cat world: kitten season. What exactly is kitten season, why does it happen, and what can cat lovers do to help? Michelle explains how quickly unaltered female cats can go into heat, how fast litters can multiply, and why spay/neuter and TNR efforts are so critical during the spring and summer months. She also shares practical advice for helping community cats and newborn kittens, what to do if a mother cat gives birth near your home, how to keep kittens safe from weather and cars, and why adopting or volunteering during kitten season can truly save lives. Plus, Michelle tells the personal story of Sammy, a community cat whose unexpected litters changed her family forever. It’s an informative, heartfelt, and very timely episode for every cat lover.EPISODE NOTES: When Spring Brings More Than Flowers – Kitten Season!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this episode of Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes veterinarian Dr. Heather Davis, Director of Clinical Affairs and Veterinary Services for Pegasus, to discuss hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)—a surprisingly common heart disease that affects about 1 in 7 cats. Often called a silent killer because symptoms can go unnoticed until the disease is advanced, HCM is something every cat parent should know about. Dr. Davis explains what causes HCM, why certain breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and Sphynx cats may be at higher risk, and how veterinarians diagnose and manage the condition. She also shares a simple “breath test” cat owners can do at home to help detect early warning signs while their cat is sleeping. Plus, Michelle and Dr. Davis discuss new advances in veterinary medicine, FDA-approved treatments for feline heart disease, and the importance of working closely with your veterinarian instead of relying on “Dr. Google.” If you love your cat and want to stay proactive about their health, this informative episode is a must-listen.EPISODE NOTES: The 30-Breath Test That Could Save Your Cat’s LifeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.