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Sean from Canopy Cat Rescue takes us behind the scenes of an extraordinary mission—saving cats from towering trees across Washington State. As a professional arborist and mountain guide, Sean reveals how he and his partner Tom turned their climbing expertise into a specialized rescue organization that's saved nearly 8,000 feline lives.
The conversation unpacks the fascinating intersection of technical climbing and feline behavior—how expert rescuers interpret a cat's meows, ear positions, and tail movements to predict whether a terrified feline will accept help or climb higher to escape. Sean explains the startling reality that fire departments rarely rescue cats from trees, leaving desperate pet owners searching for solutions when their companions climb too high.
Through vivid storytelling, Sean debunks persistent myths about cats in trees. No, cats don't reliably come down when they're hungry—Sean has rescued cats stuck for over 23 days. Leaving food at the tree's base won't work and may attract predators. And the classic claim that "you never see cat skeletons in trees" misses the simple fact that deceased animals fall or are scavenged.
For pet owners, the episode offers practical prevention strategies, from creating secure outdoor catios to understanding why cats climb trees in the first place. Sean shares touching stories of "repeat climbers" (the record is seven rescues for a single cat!) and explains how the organization has expanded to rescue everything from iguanas and parrots to helping wildlife rehabilitators return fallen owlets to nests.
What began as occasional rescues has blossomed into a full-time non-profit service performing around 800 rescues annually. Whether you're a cat lover, fascinated by specialized rescue operations, or simply appreciate dedicated people using unique skills to help animals in distress, this conversation will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the heroes who climb toward the sky to bring our feline friends safely back to earth. -
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Ever wondered what's really going on inside your cat's mind? Prepare to have your understanding of feline behavior completely transformed in this captivating conversation with Dr. Kristyn Vitale, a certified applied animal behaviorist and pioneering researcher in feline social cognition.
Dr. Vitale dismantles the persistent myth that cats are solitary creatures, revealing compelling evidence of their complex social lives. She explains how domestic cats have evolved far beyond their wildcat ancestors, developing remarkable flexibility to thrive in diverse social environments. From free-ranging colonies to multi-cat households, cats form sophisticated social networks with clear preferences for certain companions over others—just like we do.
The conversation explores fascinating discoveries about cats' cognitive abilities that rival those of dogs. Your feline companion can actually read your emotions, follow your pointing gestures, and adjust their behavior based on your reactions to new situations. That "tail up" greeting isn't just cute—it's a deliberate social signal communicating confidence and friendliness. Dr. Vitale reveals the subtle cues cats use to communicate with each other and with us, often through signals so delicate that most humans miss them entirely.
For multi-cat households, this episode offers practical wisdom to reduce tension and conflict. Learn why resource distribution trumps dominance hierarchies, why rushing introductions between cats often backfires, and how to tell the difference between play and aggression. Dr. Vitale's research-backed insights will transform your relationship with your cat, helping you create an environment where they can express their natural behaviors and thrive socially.
Whether you're a devoted cat parent or simply curious about these mysterious creatures, this episode will forever change how you view feline behavior. Join us to discover the extraordinary social intelligence of cats and gain a deeper understanding of what your cat is really trying to tell you. Check out Dr. Vitale's work at maueyes.com or follow her on social media to continue exploring the fascinating world of feline cognition. -
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Ever brought home a beautiful houseplant only to discover your cat treating it like an all-you-can-eat buffet? You're not alone. The delicate balance between maintaining a green home and keeping our feline friends safe is something many pet parents struggle with.
Hiss and Tell welcomes plant and pet specialist Anastasia from Leaf & Paw to explore this crucial intersection of plant parenthood and cat guardianship. With over 200 houseplants coexisting with her pets, Anastasia shares practical wisdom gained from both personal experience and professional expertise.
Our conversation dives deep into which common houseplants pose dangers to cats—those trendy Monsteras and trailing Pothos might look beautiful on Instagram, but their calcium oxalate crystals can cause serious irritation if ingested. But don't despair! You'll discover a wealth of pet-safe alternatives that can satisfy your plant addiction without putting your fur babies at risk. From elegant Hoyas to dramatic Calatheas, there are plenty of options for the plant-loving cat parent.
Beyond just identifying safe and toxic plants, this episode tackles the behavioral aspects of why cats chew plants in the first place. Hint: it's usually not spite, but boredom. Learn practical strategies for redirecting this behavior and creating harmonious multi-species households where both your plants and pets can thrive.
Whether you're dealing with a plant-munching menace or a soil-digging troublemaker, this episode provides actionable solutions that respect both your love of greenery and your commitment to your cat's wellbeing. Subscribe now for more insights on creating healthier, happier lives with your feline companions. -
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This episode addresses the recent concerns surrounding avian influenza and its potential effects on cats, offering vital information and practical advice for cat owners. We explore how avian influenza spreads, its symptoms, and essential steps pet owners can take to protect their feline companions.
• Overview of avian influenza and its two strains
• Understanding the risks for cats and other mammals
• Transmission methods, including respiratory and fecal routes
• Symptoms of avian influenza in felines
• Importance of keeping cats indoors as a precaution
• Recommendations for reducing exposure to infected wildlife
• Concerns about raw diets and contagious food sources
• Tips for enriching indoor environments to keep cats happy and healthy
• Current health resources for monitoring avian influenza cases -
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Unlock the secrets to a happier, healthier cat through the innovative use of pattern games. Join us for a captivating conversation with Beth Brown, a certified cat behavior consultant, as we uncover how these structured exercises can transform your feline friend’s life. From providing predictability for shy cats to reducing stress for high-energy felines, Beth shares insights that could revolutionize your approach to cat care. We dive deep into her journey from shelter work to private consulting and explore why pattern games are a game-changer.
Learn how to make your cat’s carrier their happy place with our guide to carrier training through pattern games like Super Bowls. We examine how empowering your cat to make choices not only eases their anxiety during vet visits but also prepares them for emergency situations. Discover the synergy of partnering with veterinarians who embrace these game-based methods for more pleasant and manageable vet experiences. We also include practical advice for implementing these techniques in multi-cat households, ensuring that resource-guarding and behavioral challenges become a thing of the past.
Finally, we explore the profound impact of pattern games on shelter cats and the adoption process. Learn how simple games like "up and down" can make human interactions more enjoyable, increasing a cat’s chances of finding a forever home. Plus, hear about the support available from experts and the potential for integrating these methods into shelter environments with minimal resources. Whether you’re a cat owner or a shelter volunteer, this episode is packed with valuable techniques to enrich the lives of cats and strengthen the human-animal bond. -
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What secrets do our feline friends hold in their DNA? Join us on a captivating exploration into the world of cat genetics with the esteemed Dr. Leslie Lyons. We promise you'll gain a newfound appreciation for how cats, with their genetic parallels to humans, serve as invaluable models in biomedical research and how their genetic diversity enriches our understanding of their origins and health.
The mysteries of cat coat colors and curious phenotypes are unraveled as we explore phenomena like curled ears and taillessness. Dr. Lyons explains the X-chromosome inactivation that results in striking tortoiseshell patterns and the rare occurrence of tortoiseshell male chimeras. You'll hear about the surprising forensic potential of cat fur DNA analysis, which could one day help identify our mischievous feline companions. These genetic insights not only offer a deeper connection to our furry friends but also present a scientific frontier in understanding variations in feline appearances.
We also navigate the complexities of feline genetic health, tackling conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and polycystic kidney disease. With advancements in genetic testing and the increasing accessibility of genome sequencing, Dr. Lyons discusses the promise of precision medicine in enhancing feline healthcare. We underscore the vital role of genetic testing in responsible breeding, aiming for a future where genetic markers can inform wellness checks and safeguard the health of cats for generations to come. This is more than a conversation about cats—it's a journey into the genetic tapestry that shapes their existence. -
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Ever wondered what goes on in the minds of our feline friends? Join me as I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Vonk, a trailblazer in comparative and cognitive psychology, to uncover the mysteries of animal cognition and behavior. From her journey transitioning from human cognition research to studying a variety of species like orangutans and domestic cats, Dr. Vonk offers enlightening insights. We tackle the misconceptions of cats as aloof creatures and highlight their surprising ability to form deep social bonds with humans, despite their non-social evolutionary origins.
Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we explore the emotional connections between humans and animals, particularly through the lens of attachment and empathy in those with borderline personality disorder and autism. Sharing personal stories and research findings, we challenge common stereotypes, revealing how cats showcase affection just as deeply as dogs. We also navigate the sensitive topic of pet owners' decision-making processes during end-of-life moments, examining how empathy and emotion regulation play critical roles.
Get ready for a journey into the intricacies of pet ownership, animal grief, and sensory perception in cats. Hear about the distinct behaviors of cats following the loss of a companion and the challenges in understanding their emotional responses. Our discussion extends to the importance of recognizing sensory cues and the cognitive abilities of animals typically perceived as solitary. Whether you're a cat enthusiast or simply curious about animal minds, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the emotional lives of animals. -
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Ensure your feline companions are protected and prepared for emergencies and natural disaster with insights from Dr. Gina Rendon, a trusted veterinarian from Williamsburg Vets. Discover essential strategies for creating an impeccable emergency preparedness plan, ranging from assembling a foolproof emergency kit to mastering the art of pet anxiety management. With the rising threats of wildfires, floods, and hurricanes, our conversation is a critical guide for any cat owner eager to safeguard their pets amidst unexpected crises.
Dr. Rendon and I uncover the unique challenges of nurturing resilience in our feline friends when routines are disrupted. Learn why familiarizing your cat with harnesses and unusual situations is crucial, and gain practical tips on incorporating sedatives into your emergency kit to help soothe your pet during stressful events. We highlight the importance of community support post-emergency and underscore the need for comprehensive preparation, including the vital steps for international pet travel.
Secure your home and reduce your cat's anxiety with our effective sheltering techniques, focusing on creating safe spaces and employing recall training as a fun, routine game. From keeping microchip information updated to assembling a compact yet comprehensive emergency go-bag, this episode is your pathway to peace of mind. Prepare methodically by organizing vital documents and essential supplies, ensuring a seamless emergency response that keeps both you and your pets safe and sound. -
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Discover how community dynamics and infrastructure planning can apply to outdoor cat welfare with our inspiring guest, Stacy LeBaron from the Community Cats Podcast. Stacy takes us on her journey from urban planning to championing cat welfare, revealing insights on the transformative impact of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. She explains the crucial distinctions between community, stray, and feral cats and shines a light on regional differences in ear-tipping practices. Through heartwarming anecdotes and practical advice, Stacy demonstrates how small actions, like using paper collars, can lead to sustainable initiatives.
Uncover the importance of spay and neuter programs in managing cat populations and keeping shelters from becoming overwhelmed. We spotlight significant educational resources like the United Spay Alliance conference and online kitten and cat conferences, which provide volunteers the tools they need for effective community cat management. This episode is packed with strategies to spread awareness through social media and foster collaboration for the welfare of community cats.
Explore the success stories from Newburyport, Massachusetts, a true testament to the power of community collaboration. Learn how the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society navigated potential conflicts with bird conservationists by managing local cat populations through open admission and no-kill policies. The episode also highlights initiatives like Vermont's Positive Pantry and the Surrender Prevention Certification Program, which empower shelter staff to handle surrender requests effectively. We delve into cultural barriers to pet sterilization and advocate for affordable spay and neuter programs, aiming to create a compassionate and sustainable approach to managing community cats. -
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Ever wondered how to help your feline friends live their best lives? Get ready to unravel the mysteries of cat behavior with us on Hiss and Tell as Kristiina Wilson teams up with journalist and documentarian David Farrier for an engaging AMA episode. From handling intercat aggression to counter-surfing deterrents, we tackle questions sourced from David's vibrant Webworm community, sharing our expertise alongside anecdotes from David's documentary adventures, including a playful detour into the world of cat shows with his family's Birman cat.
Our conversation dives into practical solutions for common feline behavioral challenges. Whether you're grappling with a solo cat's play aggression or trying to keep your furry friend off the counters, we offer insights into using positive reinforcement, high-value treats, and understanding natural hunting instincts. We also discuss strategies to improve relationships with resident cats that feel threatened by newcomers and explore the benefits of adopting kittens in pairs to support their social development. This episode is packed with actionable advice designed to enrich the lives of both cats and their humans.
Rounding off the episode, we delve into the nuances of territorial spraying and instinctual actions around food, water, and litter boxes. From managing territorial instincts with innovative solutions like motion-activated sprinklers to detailed tips for grooming and maintaining hygiene, our conversation is a heartfelt celebration of the Webworm community. Join us as we connect over our shared love for cats and other creatures, leaving you with a new appreciation for the interconnectedness of all animals. -
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Explore the fascinating world of indoor cat enrichment with our special guest, Dr. Lynn Barr, a renowned feline veterinarian and founder of Dezi & Roo. Together, we unpack the critical role of environmental enrichment in maintaining your indoor cat's physical and emotional well-being, revealing simple yet effective strategies to combat the stress and boredom that can arise from confined living spaces.
Ever wondered how to keep your lazy or mobility-challenged cat engaged? We've got you covered. Dive into our enlightening discussion on innovative cat toys, like the Hide and Sneak and the Pop and Purr, which are meticulously designed to tap into your cat's natural instincts. Dr. Barr offers valuable insights into the common pitfalls pet owners face when selecting toys and shares tips on how rotating toys can keep your feline friends actively entertained. Plus, discover the magic of wand toys and creative play techniques that can make even the most sedentary cats spring into action.
We also explore the transformative power of vertical spaces and cutting-edge communication methods like speech buttons, opening up new avenues for bonding with your furry companions. Practical advice on creating vertical escape routes and utilizing suction cup window beds brings a new level of environmental engagement to your indoor cats. Whether you're a seasoned cat owner or new to the feline world, this episode is packed with insights to enrich your cat's life in meaningful ways. -
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Imagine a world where the loss of a beloved pet is met with the same compassion and understanding as the loss of a human companion. This episode introduces you to the heartfelt field of veterinary chaplaincy, a realm dedicated to offering spiritual and emotional support during these challenging times. Joining me are Dr. Rob Gierka, the visionary founder of PetChaplain.com, and Karen Duke, the compassionate senior vice president. Together, they share their personal tales of how they were drawn into this meaningful work, highlighting the deep emotional impact of pet loss and underscoring the importance of providing support and options to those in need.
As the conversation unfolds, we explore the valuable role of veterinary chaplains in offering empathy and a listening ear, especially during trying times. Though formal certification in this field is still on the horizon, educational programs are paving the way for individuals passionate about this calling. We delve into community chaplaincy as a flexible, accessible avenue for providing spiritual care, discussing how this practice can flourish in veterinary hospitals, pet loss support groups, and even church communities. Our dialogue emphasizes the intense emotions felt after losing a pet and how storytelling, rituals, and the continuation of bonds can help navigate this profound journey of grief.
Honoring the memory of our pets becomes a central theme, with poignant stories of rituals and personal tributes. From creating shrines to writing letters and sharing memories, we discuss how these acts can facilitate healing and reflection. There's a deep exploration of the spiritual aspects of pet loss, including personal beliefs about communing with pets in the afterlife. We reflect on how pets shape our lives and how we can pay forward the love they gave us, enriching both human and animal connections. Don't miss this episode filled with empathy, personal stories, and a deep appreciation for the bonds we share with our beloved animals. -
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Unlock the mysteries of the feline world as we host Dr Brittany Florkiewicz, a renowned comparative and evolutionary psychologist who dares to challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding cat communication. Ever wondered if your cat can express more than just hunger or disdain? Our latest episode promises to shift your perception by uncovering the rich tapestry of cat facial expressions, revealing over 200 distinct types that go unnoticed by most of us. Brittany's groundbreaking research, initially sparked by a collaboration with her student Lauren Scott, delves into the subtleties of cat expressions, inviting us to rethink how we interpret our feline friends' gestures.
Join us on a virtual journey to a cat café, where the behavior of over fifty cats has been scrutinized using the Facial Action Coding System (FACS), a tool traditionally reserved for human expressions. This cat café study is a testament to the complexity and sophistication of cat communication, challenging the long-held belief that cats lack the expressive range seen in other animals. From playful whisker twitches to the comforting squint of their eyes, we explore how these cues can enhance our understanding of cats' social interactions, adding depth to the way we bond with them at home.
Explore the implications of these findings for pet owners and animal behaviorists alike. With Brittany's insights, we discuss the creation of a comprehensive cat facial expression dictionary, a resource that promises to transform daily interactions with our feline companions. Whether you're a seasoned cat owner or simply curious about the enigmatic world of cats, this episode is packed with revelations that will change how you perceive and interact with these fascinating creatures. Don't miss out on the chance to become fluent in the language of cats! -
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Unlock the secrets to a stress-free life for your feline companions with expert insights from Dr. Gina Rendon of Williamsburg Vets. Discover how to identify the subtle signs of stress and anxiety in cats, and learn how to differentiate these behaviors from underlying medical conditions through comprehensive exams and lab work. Dr. Rendon shares her knowledge on how environmental changes can impact your cat's health, leading to issues like urinary and gastrointestinal problems, and emphasizes the importance of a nurturing environment built on the American Association of Feline Practitioners' five pillars.
Get ahead of potential stressors with practical strategies for reducing anxiety and creating a cat-friendly home. From the arrival of a new pet to the challenges of boredom, this episode guides you through the triggers that may be affecting your cat's well-being. Gain valuable advice on the use of calming sprays, supplements, and medications tailored to address feline anxiety. Explore products like Purina's Calming Care probiotic, dietary supplements with L-theanine, and prescription options when needed, ensuring your cat's peace of mind.
Whether you're managing the dynamics of a multi-cat household or preparing for a big move, we've got you covered with stress-reducing techniques and expert tips. Learn the nuances of handling inter-cat aggression and maintaining harmony in your home, as well as how to ease the stress of moving with a cat. Dr. Rendon also provides practical advice on cat carrier training and stress reduction during vet visits, ensuring that your feline friends remain comfortable and calm in any situation. This episode is your comprehensive guide to happy, healthy, and stress-free cats. -
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Discover how to transform your pet care approach with insights from Mikkel Becker, the lead trainer for Fear Free. Join us as Mikkel shares her inspiring journey from broadcast journalism to becoming a beacon of compassion in animal training, highlighting the profound impact the Fear Free method has had on her rescue dog, Mr. Otis. Learn how gentle handling and calming environments are more than just techniques—they're revolutionizing how we care for our pets, especially in veterinary settings.
Dive into the world of feline behavior as we reveal strategies to understand and mitigate cat stress. By paying close attention to subtle body language cues, you'll learn how to enhance your cat's comfort and communication through innovative tools like buttons, ensuring they have a voice in their interactions with humans. From utilizing interactive toys to applying fear-free training techniques, this episode is packed with practical advice on reducing inter-cat aggression and fostering a stress-free environment for your whiskered companions.
We also explore the broader Fear Free movement's impact on animals in shelters and even livestock, emphasizing collaborations with experts like Dr. Temple Grandin. Discover how these compassionate practices can create more harmonious environments for all animals, regardless of their setting. Whether you're preparing your pet for a vet visit or introducing them to a new family member, this episode equips you with actionable tips to ensure a serene and cooperative experience, ultimately leading to a happier and healthier life for your furry friends. -
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What are the critical elements of providing compassionate end-of-life care for pets? Join us as we explore this profound topic with Dr. Sheila Robertson, the Senior Medical Director for Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice. With her extensive background in anesthesia and pain management, Dr. Robertson offers invaluable insights into proper sedation procedures before euthanasia, the emotional impact of these practices on pet owners, and the need for more compassionate approaches in veterinary medicine.
Discover how alternatives to traditional sedation shots, such as gabapentin and the innovative pre-gabalin liquid Bonquat, can ease the stress of veterinary visits for cats. Dr. Robertson shares practical advice on managing chronic pain and hyperesthesia in feline patients using oral medications like buprenorphine. We also highlight the benefits of in-home euthanasia and the creative outdoor euthanasia practices adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to provide a peaceful and familiar environment for pets and their owners.
Finally, we delve into the emotional aspects of saying goodbye to a beloved pet and the importance of respectful aftercare. From guiding pet owners through cremation or burial choices to understanding the concept of the peak-end rule, Dr. Robertson emphasizes creating comforting last memories. We discuss the balance between physical health and emotional well-being for pets and explore the rewarding yet complex role of veterinarians in this field. This episode is a heartfelt guide for pet owners navigating the challenging journey of their pets' end-of-life care. -
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What if understanding the intricate dance between human psychology and animal behavior could transform how we care for our pets? Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Maya Gupta and Dr. Miranda K. Workman from the ASPCA's Applied Behavior Research and Animal Welfare Team. Dr. Gupta shares her compelling journey from clinical psychology to animal welfare, sparked by a poignant encounter with domestic violence and animal cruelty. Meanwhile, Dr. Workman delves into her extensive background in sheltering and applied animal behavior, anthrozoology, and her critical research on multi-species families.
Ever wondered why some cats get adopted faster than others? Miranda's fascinating study on Petfinder reveals the subtle yet powerful factors that influence cat adoption success, such as the cat's age, gender, and even the presence of toys in photos. Our guests also shed light on innovative approaches to understanding dog-cat interactions in shelters, using mechanical cats and olfactory cues to better assess compatibility. We discuss the challenges in animal welfare research, including financial barriers and the crucial role of open access publications in democratizing knowledge.
Language shapes perceptions and, ultimately, the fate of animals. We explore the transformative power of terms like "community cats" over "feral" and how these shifts can positively impact animal welfare. Our conversation touches upon common behavioral issues in cats, such as house-soiling and shyness, and the importance of addressing these to prevent owner surrenders. You'll also hear about the promising research into cooperative care for cat grooming and the use of pharmacological aids to improve feline well-being. Don't miss the valuable insights from Dr. Gupta and Dr. Workman as they help us build a more compassionate world for our animal companions. -
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Ever wondered how to create harmony in a multi-cat household or why your feline friends sometimes clash? Discover the secrets to preventing intercat aggression in our latest episode of Hiss and Tell. Kristiina Wilson shares expert insights with Dr. Gina Rendon and Dr. Lee Nancarrow on keeping your cats intellectually stimulated. Learn about the importance of species-appropriate activities like catios, window perches, and bird feeders that mimic natural hunting behaviors. From engaging toys to puzzle feeders and even harness walking, Kristiina reveals how to channel your cats' natural instincts to keep them content and reduce unwanted behaviors.
Environmental stimulation is crucial for cats, especially in multi-cat households.Introducing a new cat into a household requires a slow and careful process, using positive reinforcement and high-value rewards.Ankle biting and other unwanted cat behaviors are often a result of boredom and lack of intellectual stimulation.Regular playtime is essential for cats to prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors. Negative reinforcement does not work on cats, and attention-seeking behavior should be managed by ignoring unwanted behavior and praising desired behavior.Aggressive behavior in cats can be managed by ignoring the behavior that is not wanted and praising appropriate behavior. Psychopharmacological interventions may be necessary for cats exhibiting extreme aggression.Encouraging physical activity in cats involves checking for mobility issues, using clicker training, harness training, and providing environmental enrichment. Environmental and intellectual stimulation are essential for the emotional well-being of cats.The use of psychopharmacological interventions, such as Prozac, may be necessary for cats exhibiting extreme aggression or anxiety. It is important to rule out any medical issues before addressing behavior problems in cats.Cats can benefit from clicker training, harness training, and outdoor walks to encourage physical activity and mental stimulation. Environmental enrichment, such as activity boxes and foraging activities, can also help in keeping cats active and engaged.
Navigating the introduction of a new cat into a multi-pet household can be tricky, especially with older cats. Kristiina discusses the delicate process of gradual introductions, positive reinforcement, and creating separate spaces to foster peaceful coexistence. We also touch on how to manage peculiar behaviors in cats with mysterious pasts, including the potential need for psychopharmacological interventions like Prozac. Plus, get practical tips on encouraging activity in sedentary or obese cats through clicker training and ensuring they are physically capable. Tune in to create a more harmonious and enriching environment for your feline family members!
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Unlock the secrets to a purr-fectly healthy cat on today's Hiss and Tell, with special guests Dr. Gina Rendon and Dr. Lee Nancarrow. We sink our claws into the hotly debated topic of raw food diets, weighing the benefits against the risks such as bacterial contamination and antibiotic resistance. For pet owners and feline aficionados alike, this episode is a treasure trove of insights into keeping both your four-legged companion and your household safe. We cover practical tips for impeccable kitchen hygiene and tackle myths about dental health, ensuring you're armed with knowledge to make informed decisions about your cat's diet.
With a whisker's-width focus on your cat's nutrition, we navigate through the intricacies of supplements, the challenges of ensuring balanced homemade meals, and how to cater to cats at every stage of life. Dr. Rendon and Dr. Nancarrow share their expertise on how to advocate for your cat's diet, whether they're battling health issues like kidney disease or simply transitioning from kibble to a more varied menu. Our discussion serves up a full bowl of recommendations on dry versus wet food, and how to tailor your cat's diet to their unique needs without compromising on nutrition or taste.
Get ready to indulge in a feast of feline wisdom, as we also address the emotional side of pet guardianship. We confront the guilt associated with pet illnesses, explore the judicious use of treats for training, and even satisfy your curiosity about quirky questions like the benefits of feeding cats raw quail eggs. Today's episode is an essential listen for anyone dedicated to nurturing their cat's health through thoughtful nutrition choices. Join us for an enlightening chat that will help you keep the health and happiness of your feline friend in perfect balance. -
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Unlock the secrets of your feline's dietary needs with myself, Kristiina Wilson, alongside veterinarians Dr. Gina Rendon and Dr. Lee Nancarrow. We journey through the labyrinth of cat nutrition, debunking the myth of vegetarian kitties and emphasizing the vital role of proteins and specific nutrients like taurine for these obligate carnivores. Our conversation promises insights into how these needs shift through various life stages, and offers a stark comparison to the dietary requirements of other household pets.
Prepare to challenge every belief you've held about what makes your cat's diet purrfect. We're tackling common misconceptions head-on, from food allergies to the effects of preservatives and dyes. Dr. Rendon and Dr. Nancarrow help us navigate through the murky waters of hypoallergenic diets and the impact of feeding schedules on your pet's health. Plus, we're stirring up the pot with a candid debate on raw versus commercial foods – a discussion that might just redefine your cat's mealtime.
Hydration hacks, weight management wisdom, and the grain-free controversy – we cover it all, blending practical advice with the latest in feline health research. As we wrap up, we ponder the parallels between the diets of domestic cats and their wild relatives, questioning the appropriateness of our chosen pet foods while weighing the balance between economic feasibility and the ideal nutrition for our cherished companions. Join us for this purr-inducing episode that is a must-listen for every cat owner out there looking to optimize their furry friend's well-being.
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