Cattitude - The #1 Cat Podcast

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!

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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 Life

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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 Cats

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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)

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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 Box

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