Hiss & Tell: Cat Behavior and Beyond

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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.

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!

Takeaways

• 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.

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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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Every one of us who has loved and lost a pet knows the profound ache that follows. As host, I joined hands with pet loss and grief counselor Beth Bigler to traverse the tender paths of mourning our cherished animal companions. Our conversation spans the emotional spectrum, offering solace in shared experiences and practical advice for those dark times. From the therapeutic release found in art and movement to the comfort of community and rituals, we provide a heartfelt guide to navigating this deeply personal journey.

When Steve's cat friends faced life without him, their world was turned upside down – a testament to the deep bonds we form with our pets. In this candid discussion, we uncover the layers of pet grief and the interventions that can ease their suffering. I recount the story of how Steve's feline friends, through engagement and new companions, found their way back to a semblance of normalcy, and how Butters, a new arrival, brought fresh joy to the household. Beth and I also tackle the delicate decision of when the heart is ready to welcome a new pet, ensuring that any new addition is a step towards healing, not a replacement for the one lost.

And in those final moments, should other pets be present? This episode doesn't shy away from the tough questions. We delve into the contemplative space of home euthanasia, sharing personal stories and professional insights to aid in making this heart-wrenching decision. Beth opens up about her own pets, Arnie and Zelda, and their unique goodbyes, reinforcing that there's no uniform approach to such farewells. Whether you're honoring milestone days or grappling with PTSD symptoms after a pet's passing, join us in recognizing that grief is a journey we don't simply move on from – we move with it, step by step, day by day.

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When the heart-wrenching moment arrives to say goodbye to our furry friends, the heavy shroud of grief can feel isolating. It's a journey I've walked myself, and one that Beth Bigler, a compassionate pet loss and grief counselor, has dedicated her life to easing for others. Together, we navigate the tender, often unspoken realms of pet loss, providing a sanctuary for those grappling with the aching void left behind.

Beth, with her intimate understanding of the pet-human bond, guides us through the poignant process of anticipatory grief and the realization that our time with our cherished companions is finite. We share strategies for cherishing the final days—from the therapeutic "fuck it plan" where pets indulge in their favorite activities, to the importance of self-compassion for pet owners. It's a conversation infused with empathy, as we honor the joy pets bring to our lives and offer solace for the inevitable heartache that accompanies their departure.

As we traverse the stages of grief and wrestle with emotions like anger and guilt, the importance of community and professional support becomes clear. We address the complex interplay of feelings and the need for self-care, offering practical advice for those navigating the tumultuous seas of loss. This episode isn't just an exploration of sorrow; it's a heartfelt embrace, a recognition of the depth of love we share with our pets, and a guide to finding peace in the wake of their absence. Join us as we reflect on the enduring impact our pets leave on our hearts, long after they've taken their last breaths.

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In this episode of Hiss and Tell, host Kristiina Wilson interviews Julie Posluns, founder of Cat School and an applied animal behaviorist. They discuss clicker training for cats and its effectiveness in training various behaviors. Julie shares her background in dog training and how she discovered clicker training for cats. They explain the concept of clicker training and how it differs from other training methods. They also discuss the importance of consistency and timing in clicker training, as well as the use of food rewards. Julie provides examples of behaviors that can be trained using clicker training, such as sit, down, recall, tricks, leash walking, and cooperative care skills. They also touch on the importance of intellectual stimulation and food puzzles for cats. Clicker training can be used to improve cat behavior and provide intellectual stimulation. Cats enjoy the training process and are intellectually curious by nature. Verbal markers can be used instead of clickers for precise communication. Clicker training can also be effective in addressing behavioral issues like aggression and anxiety. The effectiveness of clicker training may vary depending on the complexity of the behavior being trained. Leash walking can be beneficial for cats, but the environment and safety considerations should be taken into account. A safe harness and leash setup is recommended, and tracking devices can be used for added safety. The conversation covers the dangers of letting cats outdoors and the importance of bringing them inside. The dangers include predators, cars, and poison. The hosts discuss the gradual process of transitioning outdoor cats to indoor cats, including providing a warm house and food for feral cats and introducing leash walking. They also address common cat behavior issues, such as cats following and biting after aggressive play, cats scratching all night long, and cats attacking their own tails. They emphasize the importance of understanding the context of these behaviors and seeking veterinary advice if necessary. The conversation concludes with information about clicker training and where to find resources.

Keywords

clicker training, cat training, behavior, consistency, timing, food rewards, intellectual stimulation, food puzzles, clicker training, cat behavior, intellectual stimulation, verbal markers, aggression, anxiety, leash walking, harness, tracking devices, outdoor cats, dangers, bringing cats inside, feral cats, leash walking, aggressive play, scratching, tail chasing, clicker training

Takeaways

• Clicker training is an effective method for training cats and can be used to teach various behaviors.
• Consistency and timing are important in clicker training, but cats have good memories and can remember skills even if training is not done every day.
• Food rewards, such as dry kibble, can be used in clicker training, and it is recommended to feed cats a healthy diet to maintain their food motivation.
• Clicker training can be used to train basic behaviors like sit, down, and recall, as well as tricks, leash walking, and cooperative care skills.
• Intellectual stimulation and food puzzles are important for cats and can be used in conjunction with clicker training to provide mental enrichment. Cats enjoy clicker training and are intellectually curious animals.
• Verbal markers can be used as an alternative to clickers for precise communication.
• Clicker training can be effective in addressing behavioral issues like aggression and anxiety.
• Leash walking can be beneficial for cats, but the environment and safety considerations should be taken into account.
• A safe harness and leash setup is recommended for leash walking.
• Tracking devices can provide added safety during outdoo

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Dr. Laurie Marker, founder of the Cheetah Conservation Fund, discusses the basics of cheetah conservation and her journey into studying and protecting cheetahs. She explains that cheetahs have a short lifespan and low genetic diversity, making them vulnerable to extinction. Dr. Marker also talks about the challenges of conserving cheetahs living outside protected areas and the importance of working with farmers to reduce human-wildlife conflict. She highlights the role of livestock guarding dogs in protecting livestock and preventing cheetah killings. Additionally, Dr. Marker explains the physiological adaptations of cheetahs that enable them to be the fastest land animals and their hunting behavior. She also discusses the cognitive abilities of cheetahs and their large home ranges. Dr.  Marker discusses the health challenges faced by cheetahs, including diseases like herpes virus, calicivirus, and feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). She explains that cheetahs lack genetic diversity due to a historic small population, which has led to a reduced immune system. However, there is now a cure for FIP  which has saved seven cheetahs. Dr. Marker also discusses the illegal wildlife pet trade, where cheetah cubs are stolen from the wild and sold as pets in the Middle East. She emphasizes the need to stop the trade and the demand for cheetah cubs. Additionally, Dr. Marker talks about the rehabilitation program at Cheetah Conservation Fund, where cheetahs are raised and rewilded to be released back into the wild. She mentions the success of reintroducing cheetahs in India, where they had gone extinct. Dr. Marker highlights the importance of conservation and the need for funding to save the cheetahs from extinction.

Keywords

cheetah conservation, genetic diversity, human-wildlife conflict, livestock guarding dogs, physiological adaptations, hunting behavior, cognitive abilities, home ranges, cheetahs, health challenges, diseases, genetic diversity, immune system, FIP, illegal wildlife pet trade, rehabilitation program, rewilding, conservation, funding

Takeaways

• Cheetahs have a short lifespan and low genetic diversity, making them vulnerable to extinction.
• Conserving cheetahs living outside protected areas requires working with farmers to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
• Livestock guarding dogs play a crucial role in protecting livestock and preventing cheetah killings.
• Cheetahs are the fastest land animals and have physiological adaptations that enable their speed, such as semi-non-retractable claws and aerodynamic bodies.
• Cheetahs hunt small to medium-sized antelopes and use their speed and agility to catch their prey.
• Cheetahs have large home ranges and navigate their environment through scent marking and learning from their mothers.
• Cheetahs are more shy and prone to stress, and providing them with companionship and exercise helps reduce stress levels. Cheetahs face health challenges such as herpes virus, calicivirus, and feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) due to their reduced immune system caused by a lack of genetic diversity.
• There is now a cure for FIP called Cheetah 44, which has saved seven cheetahs.
• The illegal wildlife pet trade is a major threat to cheetahs, with cubs being stolen from the wild and sold as pets in the Middle East.
• Cheetah Conservation Fund has a rehabilitation program where cheetahs are raised and rewilded to be released back into the wild.
• Reintroduction efforts have been successful, with cheetahs being reintroduced in India after going extinct in the 1950s.
• Conservation efforts and funding are crucial to saving the cheetahs from extinction.

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Lilly Ludwig, an animal intuitive and communicator, explains that animal communication is the telepathic communication between species through mental images, sensations, and sometimes words. She shares that animal communication is more common than we realize and that we can all enhance our intuitive connection with our pets by talking to them and practicing mindfulness or meditation with them. Lilly also discusses her experiences with pets that have passed away, emphasizing that they are at peace and often provide messages of healing and reassurance. She mentions that signs from departed pets can come in the form of dreams, physical sensations, or symbolic associations, and that honoring a pet that has passed can be done in any way that makes the owner feel connected to them. In this conversation, Lilly discusses various ways to connect with deceased pets and offers advice for pet owners. She suggests using physical objects like photos, stuffed animals, or stones associated with the pet to create a sense of connection. She also emphasizes the importance of spending time with pets and being mindful of their needs. Lilly addresses common misconceptions about cats, such as the idea that they have to earn love, and highlights the unique challenges and traumas that cats often face. She also shares memorable experiences communicating with cats and offers insights into the legacy of Kristiina's cat, Steve.

Keywords

animal communication, telepathy, pets, intuitive, mindfulness, meditation, passed pets, signs, dreams, honoring, connecting with deceased pets, pet memorials, pet communication, pet behavior, cat behavior, cat relationships, cat anxiety, cat misconceptions, cat trauma, cat communication

Takeaways

• Animal communication is the telepathic communication between species through mental images, sensations, and sometimes words.
• We can enhance our intuitive connection with our pets by talking to them and practicing mindfulness or meditation with them.
• Pets that have passed away are at peace and often provide messages of healing and reassurance.
• Signs from departed pets can come in the form of dreams, physical sensations, or symbolic associations.
• Honoring a pet that has passed can be done in any way that makes the owner feel connected to them. Physical objects like photos, stuffed animals, or stones associated with a deceased pet can help create a sense of connection.
• Spending time with pets and being mindful of their needs is crucial for building a strong bond.
• Cats often face unique challenges and traumas, and it's important to understand and address their specific needs.
• Misconceptions about cats, such as the idea that they have to earn love, can hinder our understanding of their behavior and needs.
• Cat vocalizations can indicate anxiety or anticipation of something anxiety-inducing.
• The legacy of a pet can extend beyond their physical presence, and their purpose may be to educate and support others even after they have passed away.