Dr. Amir Kol, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVP is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. He earned his veterinary degree from the Koret School of Veterinary Medicine in Israel in 2006. Following this, he completed a residency in clinical pathology and a PhD in integrative pathobiology at UC Davis, focusing on stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. We deep dive into FIP as a disease in cats and how cats can help figure out human coronaviruses.

Episode Title: The Burden of Care: Supporting Chronically Ill Cats with Dr. Jessica Quimby. In this heartfelt episode of the Cat Cafe Podcast, Dr. Jolle Kirpensteijn and Dr. Susan Little sit down with the renowned feline internal medicine specialist, Dr. Jessica Quimby, from The Ohio State University. As a leading expert in chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats, Dr. Quimby brings her unparalleled knowledge and compassion to a discussion about caring for chronically ill cats.Topics include:

• Understanding the unique challenges of managing feline chronic illnesses like CKD.
• Balancing medical interventions with quality of life for our feline friends.
• Emotional and professional burden of care for veterinarians, cat owners, and caregivers.
• Practical strategies to provide optimal care while navigating the pressures of chronic disease management.

This episode goes beyond clinical advice, touching on the emotional complexities of working with chronically ill cats and the caregivers who love them. Whether you're a veterinarian, a pet parent, or simply curious about the human-animal bond, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed.

Endocrine diseases are prevalent in cats, and the most frequent ones are diabetes and hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism in cats is a common endocrine disorder typically seen in older felines, characterized by an overproduction of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) from an enlarged, usually benign thyroid gland. This hormone surge ramps up metabolism, leading to classic symptoms like weight loss despite an increased appetite, hyperactivity, restlessness, and a poor coat condition. Other signs may include increased thirst, vomiting, and heart murmurs or hypertension due to the cardiovascular strain. If untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney damage. Treatment options include medication, dietary management, surgery, or radioactive iodine therapy, depending on the cat’s health status and owner’s preference.

Dr. Jolle Kirpensteijn and Dr. Susan Little interview Dr. Terza Brostoff, DVM, PhD, from the University of California, Davis, to discuss her pioneering research on new medications for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). Dr. Brostoff detailed the foundational steps in her investigations aimed at developing effective therapeutic options for this devastating disease, which affects cats and is caused by a coronavirus. Dr. Brostoff emphasized why these new therapeutic options are groundbreaking, offering hope for significant advancements in feline health and veterinary medicine. The podcast provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of FIP research and the promising future of these new medical interventions.

Dr. Petra Cerna, a versatile expert in veterinary medicine, law, and cat breeding, brings her wealth of knowledge to "The CatCafePodcast" as a distinguished guest. In this episode, we explore crucial conversations on cat breeding and Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), delving into the intricate aspects of this disease and its implications for feline health. Join us for an enlightening discussion with Petra, whose diverse expertise provides distinct perspectives on the nurturing and welfare of our beloved feline friends.

In this podcast with Dr. Kelly StDenis, she delves into the new guidelines from AAFP regarding the chronic use of NSAIDs in cats. Dr. StDenis discusses the importance of these guidelines in managing feline pain and the potential risks associated with long-term NSAID usage in cats. She provides insights into alternative pain management strategies and emphasizes the need for careful monitoring when using NSAIDs in feline patients. A must know for cat owners.

Exciting Announcement!  We are repeating an early podcast with Dr. Sheri Ross. In this podcast, Dr. Ross will share her expertise, passion, and experiences in the field of renal (kidney) medicine for cats, covering a wide range of topics including pet care, animal behavior, and the latest advancements in veterinary science. Whether you're a fellow veterinarian, a pet owner, or simply curious about the fascinating world of animal health, this podcast is for you! Stay tuned for engaging discussions, expert advice, and heartwarming stories that celebrate the bond between humans and animals. Don't miss out on this enriching opportunity to learn and connect with Dr. Sheri Ross.

Recent reports have highlighted a case of bubonic plague transmitted by a cat, underscoring the importance for cat owners to be aware of zoonotic diseases. Bubonic plague is spread through fleas, commonly found on rodents and pets like cats. Cat owners should prioritize flea prevention measures, regular veterinary check-ups, and avoiding contact with wild rodents. It's essential to monitor cats for symptoms and seek prompt veterinary care if any signs of illness arise, ensuring both feline and human health. Dr. Mike Lappin, returns to the podcast to explain.

Cat semi-owners refer to individuals who have a relationship with a cat but don't have full ownership responsibilities. These individuals may care for a cat temporarily or occasionally, providing some care or companionship without being the primary or permanent caregiver. For instance, someone might frequently feed and spend time with a neighbor's cat, offer occasional pet sitting, or assist in caring for a friend or family member's cat without having the formal title of an owner. These semi-owners might not be responsible for all aspects of the cat's care, such as veterinary visits or major decisions, but they still play a role in the cat's life and well-being.

The holiday season can bring about several dangers for cats:

1. Tinsel and Ribbons: Cats are attracted to shiny, dangly objects like tinsel and ribbons, but if ingested, these can cause intestinal blockages.
2. Holiday Plants: Some common holiday plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe are toxic to cats if ingested.
3. Candles and Flames: Curious cats might get too close to open flames from candles, risking burns or knocking them over.
4. Gift Wrapping Materials: Similar to ribbons and tinsel, wrapping paper, tape, and strings can be harmful if swallowed.
5. Festive Foods: Rich, fatty, or seasoned foods from holiday dinners can upset a cat's stomach or even be toxic (e.g., onions, chocolate, alcohol).
6. Electrical Cords: Decorative lights and cords can be tempting for cats to chew on, leading to electric shock or injury.
7. Visitors and Noise: Some cats might get stressed or anxious due to increased noise levels or the presence of unfamiliar guests.

Keeping a close eye on cats during the holidays and adjusting to their environment can help mitigate these risks.