Cattitude - Episode 296 From New York to Athens: A Global Mission to Rescue Cats

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.

In honor of International Rescue Cat Day, Cattitude shines a light on global feline rescue with special guest Julie Kelly, founder of Let’s Be SMART (Successfully Managing Animal Rights Today). From running a successful construction company in New York to rescuing over 80 cats in Greece, Julie is transforming lives through education, Trap-Neuter-Return initiatives, shelter care, and community outreach. Discover the cultural differences in how cats are viewed around the world, the challenges of limited resources, and the powerful impact of compassion, education, and grassroots action. This inspiring episode proves that rescue has no borders — and one person truly can make a difference for countless cats.EPISODE NOTES: You From New York to Athens: A Global Mission to Rescue CatsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

What do you get when you mix a cozy mystery, talking cats, and Miami Beach in 1998? On this episode of Cattitude, Michelle Fern chats with New York Times bestselling author Gwen Cooper (Homer’s Odyssey) about her delightful new feline whodunit, You Only Live Nine Times—where cats talk to each other (not the humans!) and team up to solve a murder. Gwen shares the real-life, heart-racing moment that inspired her “crime-fighting cat” idea, why writing mysteries intimidated her at first, and how she made sure everything her cats do in the book is something a real cat could do. Plus: cat personalities, feline “communication,” behind-the-scenes writing secrets, a sneak peek at book two (The Cat Wore Black), and how buying direct from her shop supports animal rescue organizations.EPISODE NOTES: You Only Live Nine Times - Crime, Claws & Coconut Oil (Okay… Wesson Oil)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

On this special National Cat Health Month episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern does something she doesn’t usually do — talk about a product. But this one is worth it. Michelle welcomes Jennifer Cookson, Director of R&D Innovation at PrettyLitter, to discuss an innovative “smart” litter designed to help cat parents monitor their cat’s health at home. Cats are famously stoic and often hide signs of illness until it becomes serious. Jennifer explains how PrettyLitter’s color-changing crystals respond to shifts in urine pH and the presence of blood, helping pet parents track patterns over time and have more informed conversations with their veterinarians. The episode dives into the science behind amorphous silica (and why it’s safe), dust control, multi-cat households, odor performance, and why early detection matters more than many cat parents realize. It’s not about replacing your vet — it’s about empowering cat parents with better insight and peace of mind. Plus: use promo code PETLIFE for 20% off your first order of PrettyLitter! EPISODE NOTES: National Cat Health Month: Monitoring Health from the Litter BoxBecome 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 dives into the fascinating world of cat influencers with Ashley, CEO of Pet Influencer Secrets and proud cat mom to Chip — the “world’s most famous Manx cat” — and Biscuit, her adorable calico sidekick. Ever wondered what it really takes to turn your cat into a social media star? From storytelling and brand collaborations to behind-the-scenes realities (including picky cats and litter mishaps!), Ashley shares insider tips on how everyday cat parents can build authentic audiences — and even turn content into a business. They also tackle the rise of AI in pet content, how to avoid brand scams, and why emotional connection — not just cute photos — is the secret to success. If you’ve ever thought, “My cat could be famous,” this episode is your starting point.EPISODE NOTES: From Meow to Millions: Inside the World of Cat InfluencersBecome 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 holistic animal healer Lisa Tully, joining from Ireland to explore a fascinating idea: how cats may mirror the emotional, mental, and physical states of the humans they live with. Drawing on animal communication, Chinese medicine, and botanical healing, Lisa explains how imbalances in our own lives can quietly show up in our cats—sometimes emotionally, sometimes physically. The conversation dives into anxiety, stress, chronic illness, feline intuition, and the powerful ways cats may guide us toward greater self-awareness and healing. Whether you’re deeply curious about holistic care or simply want a deeper connection with your cat, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the profound bond between cats and their people.EPISODE NOTES: Do Cats Mirror Their Humans? The Hidden Messages in Feline Behavior!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

Cat lovers, get ready—this Cattitude episode is basically your all-access pass to the world of cat conventions (and one you’ll actually want to put on your calendar). Host Michelle Fern chats with Katy Cohen, the organizer of WhiskerCon coming to beautiful Savannah, Georgia on Valentine’s weekend 2026, plus Dr. Lisa Rodosta, a veterinary behaviorist, on how to enjoy cat events in a way that keeps feline welfare front and center. You’ll hear what makes WhiskerCon different—its nonprofit mission, community rescue support, and a major emphasis on education, including the adorable Little Whiskers Cat Academy for kids and a neonatal kitten class with Hannah Shaw. They also dig into the real-world issues WhiskerCon aims to impact: TNR, shelter intake, better behavior education, enrichment, and why even lifelong cat people still have more to learn. If you’ve ever thought “Are cat conventions really for me?”—this episode will convince you: yes!EPISODE NOTES: WhiskerCon Savannah 2026: The Ultimate Valentine’s Weekend for Cat Lovers!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.