Going on vacation should be relaxing—but for cat parents, figuring out who you can trust with your feline family member can be the most stressful part! This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Emily Grossman, Chief Marketing Officer of TrustedHousesitters, to explore a unique approach to pet care that connects pet parents with verified animal-loving sitters who stay in the home while their owners are away. Emily explains how the membership-based community works, how sitters are vetted, why trust and transparency are so important, and what cat parents should look for before inviting someone into their home. Plus, Michelle and Emily tackle the myth that cats are perfectly content being left alone for days, why staying in their familiar home environment can be especially important for felines, and how photos, updates and a little preparation can give nervous cat parents some much-needed peace of mind while they're away.

EPISODE NOTES: Have Cats, Will Travel! Finding Pet Care You Can Actually Trust

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When kitten season arrives, shelters and rescues are pushed to their limits—but you can make a lifesaving difference. This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes Deborah Felin-Magaldi of Helen Sanders CatPAWS to share how fostering, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), and community involvement are helping save thousands of vulnerable cats and kittens. Deborah explains why fostering isn't as difficult as many people think, how first-time volunteers can get involved, and shares the inspiring story of Benny, a severely abused kitten who found healing, hope, and his forever home. Whether you're an experienced cat lover or simply wondering how you can help, this episode proves that even small acts of kindness can change a cat's life forever.

EPISODE NOTES: Saving Lives, One Foster Cat at a Time

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This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes author Louise Ross to discuss Slow Blink: A Memoir, a moving and mystical story about a stray black cat named Archie, the mysterious bond between cats and humans, and how love and grief can linger across time. Louise shares how Archie entered her life, why the feline “slow blink” became such a powerful symbol of trust, and what cats can teach us about loss, letting go, and opening our hearts again.

EPISODE NOTES: Slow Blink: The Cat Who Changed Everything

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What happens when a glamorous Maine Coon cat from paradise teams up with a street-smart feline detective from Las Vegas? On this episode of Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes author Ellen Laura to discuss her delightful new cozy mystery, Bella and Django: A Vegas Velvet Caper. Inspired by her real-life Maine Coon, Bella, Ellen shares the heartwarming story behind the book, how a Christmas miracle brought Bella into her life, and why cats make such irresistible literary stars. From the famous Lanai Cat Sanctuary to the colorful world of Las Vegas, discover how imagination, mystery, friendship, and feline charm come together in a purr-fectly entertaining adventure. Whether you're a cat lover, mystery fan, or aspiring writer, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and plenty of cattitude!

EPISODE NOTES: Bella, Django & a Vegas Cat Mystery

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What if music could be composed specifically for your cat? This week on Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes acclaimed cellist, researcher, and composer David Teie, creator of the groundbreaking Music for Cats albums. David shares the fascinating science behind species-specific music, explaining how feline vocalizations, purring, suckling sounds, and early brain development inspired music designed to calm and comfort cats. Learn why cats respond differently to music than humans, how shelters and veterinary clinics are using feline-friendly music to reduce stress, and hear heartwarming stories of shy and formerly feral cats finding comfort through sound. If you've ever wondered what your cat wants to hear, this fascinating conversation offers a whole new way to enrich your feline's world.

EPISODE NOTES: Music for Cats: The Science of Feline Harmony

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On this delightful episode of Cattitude, Michelle Fern welcomes author and literary agent Kate McKean, creator of the charming new children’s book Pay Attention to Me. Inspired by the world of internet-famous cats, Kate shares how a lovable feline named Edgar came to life and why cats continue to rule social media. From hilarious cat antics and diva behavior to the unique personalities that make cats such captivating companions, this conversation explores the magic of cats through the eyes of a storyteller. Kate also reveals the surprising twist that she’s actually allergic to cats, discusses her favorite feline internet stars, and offers valuable advice for aspiring children’s book authors. It’s a fun, heartwarming episode for cat lovers, parents, readers, and anyone who appreciates a cat’s quest for attention and affection.

EPISODE NOTES: Pay Attention to Me! Edgar the Cat Wants His Moment

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On this heartwarming episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes author Vanessa Benitez to discuss her touching new children’s book, The Adventures of Puffy Cat and the Lost Name inspired by her real-life rescue cat, Snarf. Vanessa shares the unbelievable story of finding a fluffy cat abandoned in a garbage can, overcoming severe cat allergies to save her, and how that journey led to writing a compassionate story about stray cats, friendship, TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), and pet adoption. Learn why adult rescue cats deserve love too, how TNR helps control the cat population, and why teaching children empathy for animals can change the future for homeless pets everywhere.

EPISODE NOTES: From Garbage Can to Beloved Cat: Snarf’s Incredible Rescue Story

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On this informative episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes Amy Castro of the Pet Parent Hotline to tackle one of the biggest concerns for cat parents: how to save money at the vet without compromising care. From understanding estimates and asking the right questions to knowing when to say “not today,” Amy shares practical, empowering tips to help pet parents take control of veterinary costs. Learn the difference between tech visits and doctor visits, when an emergency trip might actually save money, and how prevention and early detection can keep both your cat—and your wallet—healthier. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed at the vet’s office, this episode will give you the confidence and knowledge you need to make smarter decisions for your feline family.

EPISODE NOTES: Purrfectly Smart Spending: Saving Money at the Vet

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This week on Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes Ashley OBryan, founder and CEO of Fluff & Boots, for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about creating a home that’s both cat-friendly and human-friendly. From stylish litter boxes and purposeful cat furniture to multiple comfort zones that reduce feline stress, Ashley shares smart ways to blend design, wellness, and practicality for modern cat households. Plus, the conversation dives into advocacy beyond adoption—covering TNR, ethical pet products, declaw awareness, supporting small businesses, and how everyday choices can make a real difference for cats everywhere. A must-listen for cat lovers who want beautiful homes and a better world for felines.

EPISODE NOTES: Style Meets Whiskers: Smart Living for Cat People

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On this episode of Cattitude Michelle Fern welcomes Dr. Heather Berst, Medical Lead at Zoetis, to talk about the Zoetis Breed Explorer—a fun, vet-approved tool designed to help pet parents find the dog or cat breed that truly fits their lifestyle. With more than 400 breeds featured, the Breed Explorer offers insights into energy level, family friendliness, grooming needs, health considerations, and more. Michelle and Dr. Heather discuss why choosing a pet based on looks alone can lead to surprises, how breed traits can influence behavior and health, and why informed, responsible pet ownership starts before you bring a new furry family member home. Whether you’re considering a purebred, a mixed breed, a kitten, or a puppy, this episode is packed with practical advice to help match the right pet with the right person.

EPISODE NOTES: The Breed Explorer: What Breed Is Best for You?

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