19 Cats and Counting on Pet Life Radio (PetLifeRadio.com)

What do you do when there are so many community cats outside, and they keep having more and more kittens? If you're Jan Leonard, you don't wait for someone to fix the problem: you create your own solution. Backwoods TNR is a non-profit organization in Clinton, Louisiana, was created by Jan when she saw that no one else was helping these cats. Their mission is to reduce overpopulation, promote the welfare of and improve the lives of free-roaming feral, stray, homeless, and abandoned cats and the people who care for them. Listen in as Rita and Linda talk with Jan about her all-volunteer non-profit, providing TNR at no charge to her community. EPISODE NOTES: Trap, Neuter, Revolution: How One Woman's Mission Transformed a Town

Do you believe in animal communicators? Linda was skeptical and Rita did not think it was possible, until we met Kara Udziela from Pets Eye View. Kara told us things she could not have known! So what's the point? What if we told you a good animal communicator can tell you about pain and illnesses your cat is hiding? What if you were accidentally doing something that hurt or bothered your cat? Would you want to know? These are just a few examples of what Kara helps us with, as well as energy. EPISODE NOTES: Animal Communicator Kara of Pet's Eye View

FIP affects 1 - 2 percent of the cat population. Historically, 96% of cats with FIP did not survive. While it is not common for cats to develop FIP, all cats are at risk, even if they are kept indoors. Peter Cohen's beloved cat, Smoky was diagnosed with FIP at 17 weeks and was one of the first cats to be cured with an experimental trial. To honor Smoky and to save others, he founded Zen by Cat to work with countless other FIP warriors to fund research and help those in need. Join us as we find out more about FIP, where it stands today and what is still needed to permanently end FIP and its devastating effects on us and our cats. EPISODE NOTES: Saving Smoky: How One Cat Sparked a Movement to Cure FIP

So, you've decided to have more than one cat. Congratulations! You've officially leveled up in the game of feline companionship. While single-cat life has its perks, nothing beats the chaos, comedy, and cuddles of a multi-cat household. But let's be honest—living with multiple cats isn't all synchronized purring and Instagram-worthy group naps. It's also territorial tiffs, litter box logistics, and a constant battle for the best sunbeam real estate. Join Linda and Rita as they talk about living with 12 and 18 cats respectively, and how they manage to keep peace among the felines. EPISODE NOTES: Multi-Cat Households

Spring is coming up fast, and with spring comes kitten season. With rescues and shelters already overpopulated, what is the answer? Preventing those kittens from being born in the first place. Join Linda and Rita as they talk with Brianna Lovell Myers, Director of United Spay Alliance and their Fix By Five initiative. Find out how United Spay Alliance is helping to make spay/neuter more accessible and affordable by training veterinarians on the latest and most efficient cost-saving techniques. As quoted on their website: "Spaying or neutering a cat or dog is one of the most important actions any of us can take to prevent animal suffering, cruelty, and neglect. United Spay Alliance strives to make affordable, accessible, and timely spay/neuter services available nationwide. We do this by working with a national network of state and local spay/neuter referral organizations, by carrying out research, education, and public outreach initiatives, and by advocating for strong public policy on spay/neuter." EPISODE NOTES: Spay/Neuter Saves Lives

There's no doubt that raw food for our cats and dogs has arguably been the number one choice, touted by veterinarians and pet experts alike. Closer to what cats and dogs would eat in nature, the benefits of feeding raw range from improved appetite, weight management, and healthier skin and coats. However, our love of the raw diet has now been tarnished. H5N1, aka Bird Flu, has been found in numerous raw meals, causing illness and even death in a few cases. The FDA is demanding better control over the manufacture of raw pet foods, while the AVMA says “Feline susceptibility to H5N1 is a cause for vigilance.” Steve Dale is here to help us understand what is happening in the pet food industry: is raw food still a good choice for our cats, or do we go back to traditional cooked meals for our cats? Let's find out… EPISODE NOTES: Feeding Fears: Bird Flu and the Raw Diet Debate

Have you ever considered doing TNR (Trap Neuter Return) or maybe fostering some cats while they wait for their furr-ever homes? There are many well-known people in the world of TNR and fostering, like Sterling Davis the Trap King and Kitten Lady Hannah Shaw. They commit their days to these tasks, and we are thankful for them. But what if you want to help, but you can't commit to helping full time? Or you don't have resources? Rita and Linda are joined by Rachel Comte, who decided to help when and where she can. She's here with Rita and Linda to discuss how she is helping by doing some part time TNR and fostering and making a big impact in her neighborhood. EPISODE NOTES: Rachel Comte - TNR and Fostering

From the minute we bring a tiny kitten into our homes, we know our days with them are numbered. Their lives are so much shorter than ours and someday, we will all face that moment of decision: should I keep treating my sick cat, or should I let him go? Is he happy or is he suffering? If kitty is very sick and we know he's at end of life, do we let nature take its course at home or do we help with euthanasia? How do we know when it's time to help? We are so thankful Dr. Jeff Feinman is back to talk to us about this difficult decision and what we can do now, to help our cats live as long as possible and to be aware of the changes we may not notice. EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Jeff Feinman - End of Life Decisions

They say cats have 9 lives, but what if we could give them 10? Many areas of the country struggle with an overabundance of community cats, causing issues for the residents. In 2013, the live release rate for cats in shelters in Cincinnati, Ohio was only 37%. That means, a whopping 63% of cats didn't survive the shelter system. That one statistic was the cat-alyst for creating the Give Them Ten movement. We are honored to have Deborah Cribbs, the founder and leader of the Give Them Ten movement, as our guest. Listen in to find out how they turned that live release rate of 37% in 2013 to the current live release rate of 96%! WOW that's a staggering improvement! If you LOVE cats and want to improve the lives and health of cats, this episode is for you. If you HATE cats and want to reduce the population of those community cats in your neighborhood ... this episode is for you! Together, we can be the solution. EPISODE NOTES: Give Them Ten!

Most often, when we get a new kitten, they have been weaned from their momma and are ready for their new home. But what if you find a kitten who is abandoned and not yet old enough to be weaned? What do they need? How often should they be fed? When do we visit the vet? Dr. Kelly Cairns is back to help us unpack this situation so we can be prepared to give foundling kittens their best possible start in life. Dr. Kelly is VP of medical excellence and education for over 400 hospitals in the Thrive Pet Healthcare family and is a regular guest on 19 Cats and Counting. EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Kelly Cairns - Found Kittens

Pandora Syndrome can cause many health issues in our cats and comes from anxiety. Dr. Jeff Feinman is here to tell us more about Pandora Syndrome, what is it, how it affects our cats, and what we can do to help cats who have it. Join us to learn more about the issues it causes and how you can help your kitty to lessen their likelihood of suffering from this common ailment. Dr. Jeff Feinman holds degrees in veterinary medicine and molecular biology. He is also a holistic veterinarian. EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Jeff Feinman - Pandora Syndrome

Michael Herbert took one of his cats to the vet. After coming home, aggression immediately started between his cats. They always got along before, what happened? He was shocked to learn about Feline Non-Recognition Aggression, which happens when a cat's scent has changed due to a vet visit, grooming, or boarding visit, or other such time when the cats lived apart. Why hadn't his veterinarian warned him about this possibility when one of his cats had to stay at the animal hospital for treatment? Michael and Dr. Rachel Geller, join Rita and Linda to discuss what this phenomenon is and what we can do to avoid it. This is something that is just now being understood and talked about in the cat community. We feel that ALL cat parents need to know about Feline Non-Recognition Aggression and the best ways to prevent it from happening to your cats. EPISODE NOTES: Non-Recognition Feline Aggression

Does this sound familiar? Your cat is doing something super adorable. You grab your camera and snap a picture, but the photo never does your feline friend justice. Then there's those black beauty kitties! You snap a quick pic of your sleek black panther and the photo looks like a lump with no face. How do people get such great pictures of their cats? Your cat is just as beautiful (possibly more beautiful) than theirs! When Rita and Linda met Suzie Inverso, who photographs pets professionally at her studio, Crimson Cat Photography, they knew they wanted to talk to her! Listen in to hear more and pick up a few tips for your own cat cover-girl... or boy! EPISODE NOTES: Cat Photographer Susie Inverso

Earlier this year, we, and the world, suffered a tremendous loss in the very unexpected passing of our friend and former boss, Richard Simmons. To say we were devastated would be an understatement. If it wasn't for Richard, we never would have met. If it wasn't for Richard, we wouldn't have the comfort with media that we have. And lastly, if it wasn't for Richard, Cat Behavior Alliance, the Carolina Cat Sanctuary, and 19 Cats and Counting would not exist .Please join us as we talk about how we each came to meet and work for Richard, and how fate helped us to become BFFs, business partners, cat behavior experts, and cat behavior trainers. EPISODE NOTES: Richard Simmons – Tribute Show

Steve Dale knows pets. He is a celebrated Animal Behaviorist and animal welfare advocate, with not one, not two, but THREE radio shows! Rita had the pleasure of meeting Steve a few years ago at a conference about Cat Behavior. Steve is one busy guy, and we're honored he made the time to be on our show! If there is one thing Steve is passionate about, it's the health and well-being of all of our beloved pet companions. As a board member to the Every Cat Health Foundation (formerly known as The Winn Feline Foundation), everycat.org, Steve has his finger on the pulse of feline disease management breakthroughs as they happen. Every Cat is on the cutting edge of the development of treatments for and prevention of the various diseases our feline companions get. Join Linda and Rita, as Steve tells us about the amazing work of Every Cat, as he challenges Rita and “19 Cats” to get involved. With pleasure, Steve! Whatever we can do to help, we're onboard! EPISODE NOTES: Steve Dale and a Cure for FIP

Oh, we love those Two Crazy Cat Ladies! They're back and they have something new to share. Every wonder why some cats are affected by everything and even seems to be allergic to cat food? The ones who pee on the floor versus the ones who don't? What is different about the cats that are laid back and the ones who are afraid of their own shadows, or who constantly get into mischief all the time? The answer may have been found! Jae and Adrianne, The Two Crazy Cat Ladies, join Rita and Linda to discuss their new feline hair and saliva test for cats. This simple test can tell you if cat has environmental or food sensitivities, parasites, organ problems, and more. These sensitivities can cause a myriad of issues, including behavior issues. Not only will we be able to discover and avoid things that are causing our cats issues, but they will help give us a plan to battle the issues caused by them, and a list of holistic remedies that can help. You can also take the result to your cat behaviorist to help pinpoint the issues and recommend appropriate behavior modification methods! How fantastic is that! EPISODE NOTES: Two Crazy Cat Ladies and their CAT – Cat Allergy Test!

There are certain medical conditions that seem inescapable as our cats age. Kidney disease is one of those conditions. Linda and Rita have both lost many cats to this dreaded disease that we cat parents feel helpless to avoid. But, is it indeed avoidable? Dr. Kelly Cairns is joining us again and will tell us the signs to look for, what to do if your cat has kidney disease, and, most importantly, what we can do to be proactive. There are new treatments and preventatives on the horizon that you won't want to miss! Join us now! EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Kelly on Kidney Disease in Cats

There is a big push in the cat world to feed our feline a raw diet. Trouble is, it's often difficult and confusing to find the PURRfect cat food with all the right nutrients that our cats need to live. Add to the equation our cats' finicky pallets, it gets even more challenging. If we find one that is nutritionally complete and easy to serve, it might be a struggle to get our cats to eat it. In an attempt to make feeding raw a little less confusing, Rita and Linda invited the CEO of Boss Brand Pet Foods, Basel Nassar, to discuss their raw food for cats. Not only is Boss Cat complete with the nutrients our kitties need, but it's also been infused with probiotics for even more health benefits. Boss Cat is freeze dried, which makes it easy to serve as either a treat or a meal, and the cats all love it! In fact, one of the cats in our sanctuary, Subra, is a shameless beggar and won't leave Linda alone until she's given a taste of that good stuff! Listen in to hear why we love Boss Cat, and why we think you and your cats will love it, too! EPISODE NOTES: Boss Cat Raw Cat Diet

There has been much in the press about pet foods lately, with many recalls and questions about just how safe commercial pets are. It feels like the big companies don't care about what is actually in our pets' food. But that's all about to change. Spokesperson: Chad Wethal, Senior Global Marketing Manager, Pet & Lifestyle for Cargill's Animal Nutrition business, is here to talk about big changes happening in the petfood industry that will benefit our pets and help them live long and happy lives. Join us as we talk with Chad about Cargill, what they do in the petfood industry, and what changes they are driving to ensure our pets live a long, happy, healthy life. Cargill Cares. EPISODE NOTES: Cargill and Animal Nutrition

How we LOVE our good friend, Arden Moore! If you haven't caught her Podcast, Oh Behave! on Pet Life Radio, you're really missing out! In addition to podcasts, and the a-meow-zing pet first aid and safety catches she teaches, Arden is really an expert on all things cat AND dog! So when Linda's husband decided he wanted to add a dog to their 11-cat household, Rita suggested we reach out to Arden right away! Arden lives with both cats and dogs and has the magic down to creating a multi species household. She has a multiple dog AND multiple cat household, and everyone gets along PURRfectly! If you're considering adding a dog to your cat household, or vice versa, this is the episode for you! EPISODE NOTES: Arden Moore - The Dog and Cat Household

Rita and Linda work with many clients and see all kinds of cat behavior issues. Although it's rare, there are times where the anxiety in that cat is so extreme, they often wonder if a neurological consult might help. However, many clients hear "neurologist" and think it's going to be insanely expensive. So, they invited Dr. Karen Kline, who specializes in neurological conditions, to know talk to chat about the various problems we might see, and how they are addressed. Dr. Kline took the fear out of the neurological consult and shared so much great information and education. We know you won't want to miss this one! EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Karen Kline - Feline Neurologic Anomalies

Dr. Andy Roark is a veterinarian who not only helps animals, he also helps to educate their humans and veterinarians, too! In addition to conducting training sessions and attending speaking engagements, he also hosts a podcast entitled "The Cone of Shame". Dr. Andy is also active on social media giving great tips and information. Be warned! He does pull out the occasional Dad joke... if your dad was a veterinarian. Rita and Linda had a great time talking with Dr Roark and he even threw in one of his signature jokes at the end. Wait for it… EPISODE NOTES: Cats Needs Vet Care Too

We all know dogs can be therapy animals, but did you know cats can as well?? We were surprised, too, until we met Mary Margaret Callahan. Pet Partners' mission is to improve human health and well-being through the human-animal bond. Humans and animals share a deep, innate connection, and we believe that through the human-animal bond we can improve the physical, social, and emotional lives of more people and communities. Listen as Mary Margaret tells us how YOUR CAT can become a therapy cat and bring joy to people who would otherwise not get to spend time with animals. EPISODE NOTES: Pet Partners – Therapy Pets

Shichic was founded by Paul Joly and his tuxedo cat, Mateo. Two cat lovers fed up with the horrors of open, smelly, plastic litter boxes ruining their homes & spoiling their paw-some relations with their feline companions! After Paul and Mateo moved to Paris after living in the French countryside, Mateo no longer went outside, so Paul had to buy a litter box. Paul was perplexed as to how to solve the age-old problem of stinky litter boxes, and where in the house could they be tolerated. Paul had an idea. He wanted to come up with a way to “elegantly” hide the litter box that wasn't an eyesore but was still functional and served his cat's needs. Paul wanted to give the cats a large space where their litter box would be contained, so they wouldn't feel trapped inside of a box. But they also had to be beautiful so people wouldn't be afraid to have them in their homes. So the enclosures Paul designed are not only attractive to the cats, but are also beautiful pieces of furniture that would add to the home's décor. Many of the materials used are also repurposed, making them environmentally friends. Join us as we talk with Paul about MyShiChic. com and the Chic Cat Furniture you can find on their website and in their Etsy Shop. EPISODE NOTES: That Ugly Litter Box – and the Solution

Do you have a diabetic cat, or one you suspect might have diabetes? It's much more common that you might think. If fact, 3 times as many cats as dogs develop diabetes. Cats are so skilled at hiding signs of illness that the early stages of the disease can sometimes be hard to spot. Signs include increased thirst, increased hunger, and excessive urination. It is estimated that 1 in 500 cats will become diabetic at some point in their lifetime. The major contributing factor for cats developing diabetes is obesity. In this podcast with our resident veterinarian, Dr. Kelly Cairns, we'll answer these common questions about Feline Diabetes, and more: 1. What are the signs of feline diabetes? 2. Is there a cure for feline diabetes? 3. Can feline diabetes be prevented? 4. Will I need to feed my cat a special diet? 5. Is this a condition that I can manage at home, or will my cat need to go to the vet for insulin injections? Don't miss this potentially life-saving episode. EPISODE NOTES: Cats and Diabetes

Sometimes it's hard to tell when a cat's issue is a medical one verses a behavioral issue. Is your cat peeing outside of the box because she has a UTI? Or is it due to anxiety over the cats that hang around outside. Is your cat attacking because he doesn't feel well or is in pain, or is it because he is feeling insecure? The awesome Dr. Rachel Geller is here to talk about Behavioral vs Medical issues, and how to tell the difference. Along with her is Daniel Fissel, an experienced and respected Vet Tech who will talk to use about medical issues that could be the catalyst for issues that later become behavioral. Vet Techs are our unsung heroes, yet they are often the first ones you talk to when explaining your cat's issues. They work hand in hand with your vet to discover and treat those medical problems to help solve some of those behavioral challenges. EPISODE NOTES: Why is My Cat Being a Brat?

Dr. Kelly Cairns joins Rita and Linda to talk about cats and appetite. Some common questions we hear from cat parents, and we sometimes ask ourselves: Why is my cat hungry all the time? My cat seems hungry but refuses his food, why? Am I feeding my cat too much? Too litter? Is what I am feeding the best and right food for him? Dr. Kelly is here to talk about all that, what may cause a cat to not eat or to overeat, and when it's time to take your cat to the vet to find out what's going on. EPISODE NOTES: Why Is My Cat So Hungry?

Meet Jody Teiche, pet health expert and pet parent coach. Her unique holistic approach to pet issue ranging from nutrition to anxiety have helped calm both pets and pet parents alike. She is a Certified Pet Homeopathic Educator and her program, 3 Key Health Pillars Every Pet Parent Should Know (And Why They Lead to a Longer Life), is offered a couple of times a year. Jody focuses on nutrition, anxiety, increasing energy and vitality and giving senior animals a more vibrantly alive life. Join Rita and Linda as they talk with Jody about helping our pets live long, happy, healthy lives. EPISODE NOTES: Meet Jody Teiche

How would you like to buy one toy for your cats that never needs replacing? That you can store away neatly on its own hanger. That you can buy multiple different toys to dangle on the end, PLUS you can add a long lead to make it even more fun for your cats? Enter the Forever Stick at Repounce.com! Created by engineer and cat dad Anton Kreicbergs, this is the more durable and customizable cat toy on the market today. Anton was inspired by his own two cats, handsome Russian Blue brothers, Gorba and Tolstoy, Anton wanted to create a toy that was made to last and that would keep his cats interested. He also insisted upon using sustainable materials that are of the best quality. On top of all that, the handle of the toy is ergonomically designed for the comfort of we humans, too! Linda and Rita love Anton and the Forever Stick, and we know you will too! EPISODE NOTES: Forever Stick

Bryan Kortis was a Manhattan lawyer when he stumbled up some kittens who needed homes. After that experience, he then got involved with TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) and finding homes for animals on the street. Rescue became his passion, and he happy to be making changes happen. Today, this once Manhattan attorney is living in Maui (talk about change!) and has been helping to be reunite and/or rehome cats who were displaced during the Maui wildfires. Linda and Rita found Bryan and his new calling in life fascinating and think what he is doing a-meow-zing things! We think you'll love Bryan as much as we do! EPISODE NOTES: Bryan Kortis – Saving Maui Fire Cats

Julie Bradford, Partner and Medical Director at Goodvets.com, is here to tell us about a new concept in vet care. Goodvets is an innovative network of animal hospitals that are each co-owned by the local vets who run them. In this structure, local vets get the autonomy they need to run their practices, yet they have the support of a team and the good name of Goodvets.com. Listen as Julie explains how this model works to benefit not only the veterinarians, but also benefits you and your pets, too! EPISODE NOTES: Goodvets

We all love our pets, and we'd do anything for them. But what happens when we can't, or aren't there to make sure they are well cared for? Some of us plan for our cats should we pass unexpectedly. But what happens when we are sick, temporarily unable to care for our pets, or wind up having a lengthy hospital stay. A timely topic in view of Rita's current bout with Covid, what would have happened to her cats had she been hospitalized? Or worse? As prepared as Rita thought she was, there is a big hole in her plans. This is where PetPeaceofMind.org comes in. This wonderful non-profit organization is there to help. Keeping people and pets together when they can is their goal, offering to help find temporary placement for people who find themselves unable to care for the pets due to illness of their own. They also teach hospices how to provide pet care assistance for their patients with pets. Join Linda and Rita as they talk with President and Founder, Dianne McGill. EPISODE NOTES: Pet Peace of Mind

Dr. Kelly Cairns, VP of medical excellence for over 400 Thrive Pet Healthcare clinics, is back with Part Two of our Holiday Safety Tips for cats and dogs. With all the special foods, plants, presents, decoration, as well as people coming into your home, the holidays can be a dangerous time for our pets. How do we keep them safe? Tune is as we talk with Dr. Kelly about everything from Christmas Trees and Menorah's to how to safely wrap our holiday gifts, so our cats (and dogs) won't get hurt. We'll also talk about what to look for in cat toys, so we give our cats enjoyable yet safe presents this holiday season. EPISODE NOTES: Holiday Décor and Cats

Your cat just chewed up one of your plants. Should you be worried? Is it poisonous? If she starts throwing up, should I take her to the vet? Before you panic, there is a place you can contact BEFORE you even head to the vet's office with your pet: PetPoisonHelpline.com Manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the people at Pet Poison Helpline can tell you if you should be concerned, if you can treat your cat (or dog) at home, or if you need to go to your veterinarian. They'll even tell you exactly what to tell you vet should it be determined that your cat needs to be seen. Dr. Renee Schimd is here to tell us all about this amazing service. (855) 764-7661 is the number you need to tack up on your fridge, especially for the holiday season when your cats (and dogs) may well eat something they shouldn't! EPISODE NOTES: Pet Poison Helpline – Just in Time for the Holidays!

Stacy LeBaron has long been a champion of TNR (Trap Neuter Release) to help stop the growth of the feral cat population, affectionately referred to as Community Cats. But it's not just ferals who are part of the community: people who let their cats wander outside, cats that have been cast out of their homes, and any cat, feral or domestic, that lives the majority of their lives outside can be considered part of the outside Community Cats. Host of the Community Cats Podcast, Stacy says Community Cats are “all those cats we see outside, whether feral, stray or cats that are inside/outside cats.” It's become her mission to educate people about the outside cat population, and why TNR is such an important component to ending the growth of the feral population and the suffering of all outdoor cats due to resource limitations. Stacy is always working to bring education to cat lovers everywhere with her blogs, classes, and continuing education. EPISODE NOTES: Stacy LeBaron – TNR and Community Cats Advocate

Dr. Kelly Cairns, VP of medical excellence for over 400 Thrive Pet Healthcare clinics, shares her feline knowledge with us here each month. As the winter holiday season is upon us, Dr. Kelly is here to talk about holidays, cats, and the things we need to be careful with around our feline friends as we celebrate. Can I share my Thanksgiving feast with my cats? What foods are okay for our cats, and which foods are dangerous? Will all the people coming and going from our home be upsetting to our cats? Join us and let's plan for the upcoming holidays, and how to make the season joyful and safe for all of our holiday guest, both human and feline. EPISODE NOTES: Gobble Gobble, Meow Meow!

Catification. It's a big buzz word in the cat world, but what does it really mean? Does it mean you need to live in a home filled with cat trees and shipping boxes in order to make your cats happy? Well, in fact it's quite the opposite. Kate Benjamin of HausPanther.com is here on our show to talk about bringing great cat items into your home that are also aesthetically pleasing to we humans. And it does not have expensive either. Join us as Kate shows us real examples in her how home that are inexpensive, functional for cats, while adding style, too. Enabling cats to climb and run, sleep and hide, replicating what they do when living outside in nature, gives cats the type of environment they need to thrive. A happy cat is less prone to unwanted cat behaviors, too, so this is a show you won't want to miss. EPISODE NOTES: Kate Benjamin – Hauspanther

We LOVE Peter Cohen. Talk about Catification - his a-meow-zing home is often featured on his social media and has been built with the cats in mind. However, Peter's focus is on FIP research and the quest to make the off-label use of drugs that cure FIP available for veterinarians to prescribe. His kitty, Cookie Monster, was one of the first cats to be treated for - and cured of – the once always-fatal FIP. Once a death sentence, there are medications that cure FIP and allow these cats to live out full lives. BUT – you can't get these drugs through your veterinarian. Peter and other FIP warriors are working to help all cat parents who are dealing with FIP to have access to these treatments through their veterinarians, and allow their cats to live long, healthy lives free of FIP. Listen as we find out what is FIP, why curing FIP is considered an “off-label” use of these certain drugs, and why your vets cannot prescribe them. EPISODE NOTES: Peter Cohen and FIP Warriors!

Rita and Linda adore the Two Crazy Cat Ladies, Jae and Adrienne and now they love them even more! The ladies have created a new cat symptom checker on their website, TwoCrazyCatLadies.com! Instead of searching through different websites on the internet to find the answers to your questions about the various symptoms of cat illnesses, Jae and Adrienne have created a One-Stop resource for cat parents everywhere. From skin and coat issues, to urinary symptoms, joint pain, dental problems, and so many other topics, you can enter your cat's symptoms and read about what may be the cause. That way, you can make that vet appointment a little more informed about your cat's symptoms and what your vet may be looking for. Join us as we talk about the details behind the creation of this wonderful tool! EPISODE NOTES: Our Favorite Two Crazy Cat Ladies are Back!

Have you noticed that your cats are scratching more lately? Sometimes our cats scratch so much the entire bed shakes! But why are they itchy when we see no fleas, bugs, or rashes on our cats? There are some common skin conditions that might be the cause of the scratching, but how can we tell exactly what's going on? Some cats can even develop behavior problems as a result of the irritation and feeling just plain yucky. Should we be worried when our cats scratch so much they leave scabs and raw sores? When our cats are so itchy that they drive themselves (and you) and little crazy, if they seem to be in pain, and/or full of little scabs, it is definitely time for a visit to your veterinarian. Dr. Kelly Cairns is here to let us know what might be, or not be, causing your cat so much discomfort, and what your veterinarian is on the lookout for, so we can get your cat back to feeling like his usual kitty self. EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Kelly Cairns: Itchy Kitties

Do we have a treat for you! On this episode of 19 Cats and Counting, the legendary Sandy Robins joins Linda and Rita to talk tech… There are so many advances in technology that benefit so many different industries, and Cat Health and Wellness is no exception. From litter boxes that scoop and sanitize to microchips that allow you (and maybe your pet sitter) to locate shy cats who like to hide away, cats have benefitted from technology in ways we never thought possible. Join us as Sandy Robins shows us some of these new items, many of which will be on every cat lover's holiday gift list this year! EPISODE NOTES: Sandy Robins Talks Tech and Cats

Carla McCarty, who goes by the name @MsCurlyMcCatLady on social media, is a schoolteacher in Chicago, Illinois. She also happens to be the go-to cat lady in her neighborhood, single-handedly saving 23+ cats from living outside, without shelter or love. That's right, 23, even more than Rita and each Linda have! She tells is that the just show up on her doorstep, in need of spay/neuter, vet care, food, and a warm loving place to call home. And Carla obliges, paying for their care herself, without benefit of donations (although in our opinion, she surely deserves some help!) Carla is the PURRfect cat mom, making sure everyone gets what they need and feels secure in their new home with her. How did this Chicago school teacher become an advocate for the cats in her city? Tune in, as Rita and Linda find out! EPISODE NOTES: School Teacher Becomes Ad Hoc Cat Sanctuary

As much joy as our cats (and dogs) provide, they come with the knowledge that their time with us is all too brief. Our pets grow old, get sick, pass away, often leaving us with a deep sense of grief and sometimes even guilt that we were not able to save them. We ask ourselves questions like: Why didn't I notice the illness sooner? Did I wait too long to say good-bye? Did I not wait long enough? Did I do the right thing in the end? Was my pet suffering? Linda and Rita have been where you are. with currently 28 cats between their own and their sanctuary cats, they know what it feels like to suddenly feel the great burden of pet illness, making “the decision,” and the pain of being suddenly faced with their loss. We are never really prepared to say good-bye. Join Rita and Linda as they talk about their experiences losing pets, making THE decision, coping with the pain, and dealing with (well meaning?) people who tell us it's “only a cat.” We know better; they are more than “just” cats to us, too. In this two-part series, Linda and Rita also talk about Rita's book, Sadie's Heart, and the lessons she learned the hard way about advocating for your pets when they are sick. You are their voice, and in the end, only you know what's best for your cats and dogs. EPISODE NOTES: Grief Over the Loss of Our Pets - Part 2

As much joy as our cats (and dogs) provide, they come with the knowledge that their time with us is all too brief. Our pets grow old, get sick, pass away, often leaving us with a deep sense of grief and sometimes even guilt that we were not able to save them. We ask ourselves questions like: Why didn't I notice the illness sooner? Did I wait too long to say good-bye? Did I not wait long enough? Did I do the right thing in the end? Was my pet suffering? Linda and Rita have been where you are. with currently 28 cats between their own and their sanctuary cats, they know what it feels like to suddenly feel the great burden of pet illness, making “the decision,” and the pain of being suddenly faced with their loss. We are never really prepared to say good-bye. Join Rita and Linda as they talk about their experiences losing pets, making THE decision, coping with the pain, and dealing with (well meaning?) people who tell us it's “only a cat.” We know better; they are more than “just” cats to us, too. In this two-part series, Linda and Rita also talk about Rita's book, Sadie's Heart, and the lessons she learned the hard way about advocating for your pets when they are sick. You are their voice, and in the end, only you know what's best for your cats and dogs. EPISODE NOTES: Grief Over the Loss of Our Pets - Part 1

Can you believe we've been on the air for 100 Episodes! Listen in as Linda and Rita share their favorite podcast memories, along with some cat behavior tips and tricks! Thank you for being loyal listeners of 19 Cats and Counting. Keep listening; the best is yet to come! And a special thank you to Mark Winter for all you do for us! Visit CatBehaviorAlliance.com for more information about Cat Behavior or to book a session. EPISODE NOTES: Blending the Cat/Dog Family, with Special Guest Arden Moore

At our behavior practice, CatBehaviorAlliance.com, we're seeing more and more families that have both cats and dogs. We love that! There is nothing cuter than seeing a cute kitty snuggled up with a big dog! Although Linda and Rita both grew up with dogs, they understand cat behavior much better than dog behavior, especially since behaviors vary among dog breeds. Enter our friend, Arden Moore! Arden is both a fear-free certified cat behaviorist AND a dog behaviorist. Not only that, Arden lives with multiples of both species, so, “Arden Knows” what to look out for in order to have a successfully blended multi-species household. Not only that, Arden is also pet first aid expert for both cats and dogs as well. If you don't want your cats and dogs fighting like, well, cats and dogs… join these three notable behavior experts as they look at successfully blending cats and dogs together, from the dog's perspective as well as the cat's. Also be sure to check out Arden's podcast, Oh Behave!, heard right here on Pet Life Radio. EPISODE NOTES: Blending the Cat/Dog Family, with Special Guest Arden Moore

If you have cat (or two), you've no doubt stepped in something squishy in the middle of the night. Or you've ran a sprint trying to get your cat onto the floor as he is preparing to cough one up… Yes, we're talking about every cat owner's nemesis – the dreaded hairball… Somehow, it's become an accepted fact that cat's vomit, and do so often. But is it normal? Is it nothing to worry about? Or should we be concerned when our cats cough up hairballs, undigested food, and the icky clear stuff that we all hate wiping up… Dr. Kelly Cairns of Thrive Pet Healthcare is here to talk about cat hairballs and the assorted other types of cat vomit and when should be concerned enough to call our veterinarians. EPISODE NOTES: Dr. Kelly Cairns - Beyond the Hairball – When is Vomiting a Problem?

Finding the right cat food is confusing! Antibiotics, fillers, grains, and pesticides are everywhere. Fish is a healthy, low fat, high protein choice, but the mercury in fish is an issue, too. Mercury poisoning can cause a myriad of health issues and even death, for both humans and felines, as Pure Cravings' Founder, Sean Wittenberg, well knows. Sean came home from college to find his mother very ill. After a difficult journey, they were finally about to identify the issue... It was mercury poisoning. This experience changed the course of Sean's life, as he set out to conquer the mercury issue, so no one else had to go through what his mom did. He started a company called SafeCatch.com, the only company that tests for mercury levels in tuna to make it safe for consumption. Now, we humans can consume tuna safely without worrying about mercury. But then Sean began thinking, “what about our beloved cats?” Once Safe Catch was up and running, Sean turned his attention toward improving our cat food supply. He and his business partner Brian Roches started Pure Cravings, making the only fish food for our cats that is mercury tested and safe! In fact, his is the ONLY cat food to do mercury testing at all. And Sean and Brian aren't done yet… Tune in to hear this a-MEOW-zing story AND you can even try Pure Cravings at 15% off! Visit PureCravings.com and when ordering use special code: CatLove15 EPISODE NOTES: Sean Wittenberg, Co-Founder, Pure Cravings and Safe Catch

Did you know there is a rescue sanctuary dedicated to blind cats? Linda and Rita were amazed to find such a wonderful rescue, full of happy cats who don't miss their sight at all. Since cats mainly rely on their sense of smell and the vibrations of their whiskers to make their way through the world, their lack of site doesn't slow them down one bit. Meeting Katherine Hilton, Program Manager or Donor Relations and Stewardship for Blind Cat Rescue, was a heartwarming experience. She has so much love for these special cats, who get around just as well as any other cat. You can even visit BlindCatRescue.Com and see for yourself via their 24-Hour LIVE CAMS! Join Linda and Rita as they talk with Katherine about the sanctuary, and why she tells people “Don't feel sorry for them” because these cats are just as happy as can be! EPISODE NOTES: Blind Cat Rescue

We had never heard of it either… During our monthly visit from the PAW-some Dr. Kelly Cairns really opened our eyes to this affliction, and how common it really is. Some of the client cats we see at our practice at Cat Behavior Alliance have this all-to-common condition. Pandora Syndrome often gets lumped in with other urinary diseases, such as FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease), however it is so much more than “just” a typical urinary infection or disease. Cats that are prone to being high strung often suffer from Pandora Syndrome, take longer to recover, and tend to get re-afflicted with urinary issues over and over again. Join Linda and Rita as Dr. Kelly tells them about Pandora Syndrome, and how you can best help those anxious cats. EPISODE NOTES: Does Your Cat Have Pandora Syndrome?

Linda and Rita always thought of pet insurance as a luxury only people that was not necessary and largely unaffordable by most pet owners. Their interview with Brian Jorgensen, head of MetLife's pet insurance division, has changed their minds. MetLife's pet insurance is currently covering over 140,000 US pets in all 50 states and DC. In addition to our beloved feline friends, they cover dogs, birds, rabbits, lizards, potbelly pigs and more. Unlike many other insurers, MetLife even has a multi-pet policy option. How cool is that! If you have pets, you need to hear this Podcast. Join us as Brian fills us in on why all pet parents should look into pet insurance, and see how helpful and truly affordable it really is. EPISODE NOTES: Pet Insurance for Your Feline Friends