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

June is National Adopt a Cat Month, making it the perfect time to welcome Dr. Mark Primiano of Tree House Humane Society in Chicago to the show. Rita and Dr. Mark discuss the growing popularity of the modern Cat Dad, the importance of adoption, and how affordable spay/neuter programs help save lives and reduce cat overpopulation. They also take a closer look at the incredible work being done at Tree House to support cats, families, and communities. Whether you're thinking about adopting, already share your home with cats, or simply love hearing about people making a difference for felines, this is an episode you won't want to miss.EPISODE NOTES: Cat Dads, Cat Rescues & Celebrating Cat Adoption Month Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

On today’s episode of 19 Cats and Counting, we’re talking all about pet wellness with holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Feinman. He’s the author of the new book Path to Pet Wellness, and we’ll be diving into natural approaches to keeping our pets healthy, from nutrition and stress reduction to overall emotional and physical well-being. It’s a fascinating conversation for anyone looking to take a more whole-body approach to pet care. We’re happy to have him back on the show to share his holistic approach to all things pet and talk about his book.EPISODE NOTES: Beyond the Vet Visit: Natural Ways to Help Your Cat Thrive Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

On Part 2 of this episode of 19 Cats & Counting, feline behaviorist Rita Reimers welcomes cat welfare scientist Katia Colitti for an eye-opening and emotional conversation about what cats truly need to thrive. From enrichment, boredom, litter box mistakes, and respecting every cat’s unique personality, to the deep bond we share with our feline companions, this episode explores the science and soul of living with cats. Rita and Katia also dive into the often-overlooked topic of cat loss grief, senior cat care, and why adopting older cats can be one of the most meaningful acts of love. A must-listen for anyone who has ever loved, lost, or learned from a cat.EPISODE NOTES: More Than ‘Just a Cat’: Love, Loss & Living Better with Cats Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

In this episode of 19 Cats and Counting, Rita Reimers sits down with feline behaviorist Stephen Quandt to explore his journey into the world of feline behavior and shelter volunteerism. Stephen shares how his work with numerous shelters shaped his approach to behavior consulting and discusses the diverse clientele he serves today. He also gives listeners a glimpse into his own home life with his husband Thom and their two beloved cats, Crickett and Jenny, who prove that friendship knows no limits. Stephen will be joining the show on a semi-regular basis to share his expertise across many aspects of feline wellness.EPISODE NOTES: Feline Wellness in Action: Inside the Work of Stephen Quandt Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

Today I’m joined by Margaret Tompkins, and we’re tackling one of the most persistent myths in the cat world: the idea that cats who are FIV or FeLV positive can’t safely live with cats who are not. This belief has caused a lot of unnecessary fear, heartbreak, and even rehoming decisions (or worse) over the years. In this episode, Margaret and I break down what’s actually true, what’s outdated, and how informed, responsible cat guardians can make thoughtful decisions based on science, not stigma. I currently have an FIV cat in my rescue, Larry. He gets along very well with my non FIV rescue cats and he is a sweet love bug. Don’t pass up adopting an otherwise perfectly wonderful cat out of fear; listen to what Margaret has to say so you can feel better about introducing an FIV or FeLV cat into your clowder.EPISODE NOTES: FIV and FeLV Cats Need Love Too! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

In this episode of 19 Cats & Counting, I’m joined by Dr. Bethany Hsia, co-founder of Coda Pet. Dr. Bethany Hsia and her husband, Dr. Gary Hsia, are both veterinarians. Along with Dr. Karen Whala, they created Coda Pet to help families navigate one of the hardest parts of loving an animal: saying goodbye. We talk openly about at-home euthanasia, what it really looks like, and why having this option can make such a profound difference for pets and the people who love them. Dr. Hsia explains how in-home care allows animals to remain in familiar surroundings, reduces stress, and gives families the space and time they need to be present and supported during the process. This conversation also explores the emotional side of end-of-life decisions, including how to know when it may be time, how veterinarians approach these moments with compassion, and why education around euthanasia is so important. For many pet guardians, fear of the unknown makes an already painful situation even harder. Dr. Hsia helps gently demystify the process while honoring how deeply personal these decisions are. This episode is thoughtful, honest, and reassuring, and it offers comfort and clarity to anyone facing — or wanting to better understand — end-of-life care for their pets.EPISODE NOTES: At-Home Euthanasia and Compassionate End-of-Life Care Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

The holidays are full of sparkle, celebration, and togetherness, but they also bring a few unique safety challenges for our feline friends. In this special episode, Dr. Kelly Cairns and I unwrap the biggest seasonal hazards you’ll want to watch for, including tempting but toxic holiday foods, extra household activity and guests, and all the glittery décor cats love to investigate, from ribbons and bows to ornaments and Christmas trees, even plants we should be careful with around our feline family members. We’ll share practical, vet-approved tips to keep your home safe, calm, and cat-friendly throughout the season, and what to do if your cat does eat something they shouldn’t. And because the holidays should be fun for our pets too, we also talk about thoughtful, enriching gift ideas your cats will absolutely love. Join us for a festive, informative guide to ensuring your feline companions enjoy the holidays as much as you do! EPISODE NOTES: Have a Cat Safe Holiday Celebration Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

FIP, Feline infectious peritonitis, is a feline disease every cat own dreads. Once 100% fatal, great advances in the cure, and preventative medication, mean no cat must die just because of a FIP diagnosis. However, not everyone can afford the expensive treatments. Listen as Rita talks with Peter Cohen about FIP, the symptoms, new medications, and how the FIP Warriors organization is working hard to ensure medication is available to everyone who needs it.EPISODE NOTES: Taking the Fear out of FIP, a discussion with Peter Cohen Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

Lisa Schermerhorn is a Quantum Healer and celebrated author of the popular book, “Every Truth is a Lie.” Lisa believes that “individuals who use focused intention, visualization, and energy transfer, they can stimulate their own body’s innate healing capabilities.” She is a Certified Hypnotherapist, Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and an Energy Medicine Practitioner, specializing in the release of conscious and unconscious behaviors, inherited ancestral beliefs, and deep quantum healing. Her work helps clients break free from limiting patterns and access their full potential. Lisa believes we can also use this energy to help our cats live peaceful and healthier life with us as well. After all, if you are feeling more at peace with yourself, that energy will reflect in how your pets behave as well. Join Rita and Lisa as they discuss how we can help our cats (and other pets) achieve a more peaceful existence, as well as ourselves. They’ll and also talk about her upcoming film “Zero Limits.”EPISODE NOTES: Lisa Schermerhorn, Energy Medicine Practitioner Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

As cat owners, we all want to give our feline friends the best life possible. We’re careful about the food, treats, and toys we choose to keep them happy and healthy. But what about their teeth? Dental health is one area that often gets overlooked, and trust me, I’ve been guilty of that myself! So today, I’m super excited to chat with Dr. Greg Reinhart, Chief Scientific Officer at Pet Honesty, to dive into how we can keep our cats' teeth and gums in tip-top shape. Let's get those kitty smiles sparkling! EPISODE NOTES: Feline Dental Health Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

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 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

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 FIPBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.

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 LivesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.