Golden Whiskers with Scott Colby

In this week’s episode I’m joined by Melissa Natanson, certified holistic pet health coach and founder of Holistapaws Pet Health. Melissa specializes in gut and kidney health using principles of functional medicine and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).Together we dive into one of the most common — and most misunderstood — issues facing senior cats: kidney disease.We talk about why kidney issues are rising, the surprising role of chronic dehydration and kibble diets, how gut health directly impacts renal function, and what cat parents can do proactively — before lab values start climbing.Melissa also shares the health journeys of her two senior cats, Lily and Whip, and how nutrition, probiotics, omega-3s, Rehmannia-based supplements, and even subcutaneous fluids helped them thrive.👉 If you’ve ever heard “elevated creatinine” or “early kidney disease” at the vet and felt that pit in your stomach… this episode is for you.✨ Episode SnapshotIn this episode, you’ll learn:🩺 Why Kidney Disease Is So Common NowUp to 30% of cats over age 10 and 50% over age 12 show signs of kidney issues. We unpack why longevity is rising — but so are chronic conditions.💧 The Chronic Dehydration ProblemWhy cats are biologically designed to get moisture from prey — not dry food — and how long-term low-moisture diets can stress the kidneys over time.🧠 The Gut–Kidney ConnectionIBD, inflammation, dental disease, and environmental toxins don’t just affect the gut — they increase the burden on the kidneys.🍽️ The Protein MythWhy lowering protein too early can backfire, what really matters (hint: phosphorus), and when prescription renal diets may — or may not — make sense.🌿 TCVM & Rehmannia-Based SupportHow Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine supports kidney blood flow, and why Melissa often uses Rehmannia-based formulas for aging cats.💦 Subcutaneous Fluids DemystifiedWhat they actually do, why they help, and practical ways to get support if you’re nervous about administering them yourself.🧬 Stem Cell Therapy: The Future?Emerging research on MSC stem cells and whether they may help regenerate kidney tissue in senior cats.📘 Melissa’s Recommendations for Cat Owners(Keeping things simple, practical, and proactive.)• Prioritize moisture. Move toward a high-moisture, species-appropriate diet whenever possible.• Support the gut. A quality probiotic helps reduce uremic toxin burden and inflammation.• Add omega-3s. They help lower inflammation and support both gut and kidney health.• Watch phosphorus, not just protein. Especially in later-stage kidney disease.• Reduce environmental toxins. Be mindful of plug-ins, cleaners, laundry detergents, and chemicals cats walk through on their paws.• Consider Rehmannia-based kidney support. Especially for senior cats, even before symptoms appear.• Don’t panic over early numbers. Mild elevations don’t automatically mean the end — monitoring and foundational support matter.🌍 Where to Find MelissaWebsite: https://www.holistapawspethealth.comFacebook Page: HTA Paws Pet HealthMelissa is also partnering with Ask Ariel (pet nutritionist and product formulator) for additional feline wellness resources.✨ Final ThoughtKidney disease isn’t sudden. It’s cumulative.Years of dehydration, inflammation, environmental stressors, and dietary mismatch slowly add up — until one day the lab values shift.But here’s the hopeful part: so do small improvements.Moisture. Cleaner inputs. Better fats. Gut support. Inflammation control.You don’t need perfection. You need awareness — and consistent upgrades over time.And as I’ve learned personally, a kidney diagnosis is not an immediate death sentence. With the right support, many cats live happy, comfortable years beyond that first scary appointment.💌 Never miss an episodeFor weekly feline wellness conversations with leading experts, head to GoldenWhiskersLove.com and subscribe. Every Friday’s episode lands straight in your inbox — plus practical takeaways for cat parents who want their cats to live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode I’m joined by Dr. Paola Zanabelli Davies — The Holistic Cat Specialist. She’s a psychologist trained in advanced feline behavior management, nutrition, and holistic care, and she helps proactive cat parents expand their options beyond traditional vet care with a hands-on approach.Together we dive into cooperative care — the practical, relationship-preserving way to help your cat willingly participate in things like supplements, medication, hydration support, handling, and more. We also talk through Paola’s simple frameworks for doing this well (without turning your house into a wrestling match), plus the five phases cat parents go through during a health crisis — and how to stay grounded when you’re in the thick of it.👉 If you’ve ever thought, “I know my cat needs this… but I can’t physically do it without stress and chaos,” this episode is for you.✨ Episode SnapshotIn this episode, you’ll learn:🐾 Cooperative Care 101What cooperative care actually is: training your cat to willingly participate in handling and medical support — using positive reinforcement — so care doesn’t become traumatic for your cat or for you.🧠 Why Trauma Is Real (for cats AND cat parents)Paola explains why so many cat parents end up dreading meds, fluids, and therapies — and how the fear of “doing it again” becomes its own barrier.💧 Real-World Examples: Fluids, Syringe Feeding, Enemas (yep)When a cat needs ongoing support, the “just get it done” approach stops working. Paola shares why training and technique matter most when the timeline is long.🎯 The Gradual Approach That Actually WorksHow to build a positive association step-by-step (treats, routines, calmness, consistency) so your cat learns:“This isn’t scary… and something good happens after.”😼 Your Energy Matters More Than You ThinkYour cat reads your nervous system. If you’re anxious, hesitant, or bracing for battle… they feel it. Paola explains how to reset your attitude before you even begin.🧩 The TEAM Formula (Paola’s Practical Framework)A simple acronym that makes cooperative care more doable:T = TechniqueDifferent supplements and meds require different methods — and your mobility/comfort matters too. The goal is effectiveness without bitterness, stress, or uncertainty.E = EquipmentThe wrong syringe, wrong size, wrong tool = chaos. Paola emphasizes choosing the right equipment so you don’t accidentally create a negative association.A = AttitudeThis is the big one. Your cat picks up on everything — breath, tension, fear, hesitation. Calm is part of the method.M = MetricsWrite it down. Not a novel — just enough to track progress and patterns. You’ll be shocked how far you’ve come when you look back.🧠 The RESPECT Framework (How Paola Thinks About Whole-Cat Care)Paola’s big-picture model for strengthening feline wellness and the human–cat bond:🏡 LifestyleR = Rhythm (routines, rituals, timing)E = Environment (home setup, stressors, resources)🌿 WellnessS = Species-Appropriate NutritionP = Proactive Care (herbs, natural support, holistic tools)🤝 ConnectionE = EmpathyC = Containment (loving boundaries + compromise)T = TrustPaola explains how these areas overlap — and how where you start depends on what’s happening (health issue vs behavior issue vs “everything’s fine but I want to do better”).🚨 The 5 Phases of a Cat Health Crisis (and what to expect)Paola walks through the emotional reality cat parents face when something goes wrong:* Emergency & Troubleshooting — panic, overwhelm, decisions on the fly* Planning & Adjusting — food changes, routines, options, info overload* Maintenance — stabilizing, building daily systems, avoiding flare-ups* Recovery — improvement + the lingering “is this really over?” feeling* Monitoring (Cruising Phase) — enjoying life, but staying observant and prepared📘 Dr. Paola Zanabelli Davies’ Recommendations for Cat Owners* Train before you need it. Cooperative care is easiest when you build the foundation early — not in the middle of an emergency.* Make it a positive pattern. Pair handling + equipment + tiny steps with a reward your cat truly values.* Get the equipment right. The wrong syringe or tool can ruin the moment (and the association).* Calm yourself first. Your cat mirrors your nervous system. Breathe, slow down, don’t “brace for battle.”* Use boundaries + alternatives. If something is a “no,” offer a “yes” — compromise builds trust.* Track progress (metrics). Write down what worked and what didn’t. Your future self will thank you.* Know the phase you’re in. Emergency mode requires different thinking than maintenance or recovery.🌍 Where to Find Dr. Paola Zanabelli Davies* Website: TheHolisticCatSpecialist.com* YouTube: The Holistic Cat Specialist * Facebook: Paola Zanabelli Davies + The Holistic Cat Specialist ✨ Final ThoughtCooperative care isn’t about forcing your cat to “tolerate” something. It’s about building trust so care becomes part of the relationship — not a threat to it. Start small, get your tools right, calm your own nervous system… and track your progress. Because a month from now, you’ll look back and realize: you and your cat are already doing better than you think.💌 Never Miss an EpisodeFor weekly bite-sized feline wellness episodes, head to GoldenWhiskersLove.com and subscribe. You’ll get each Friday’s podcast in your inbox, plus updates and extras for devoted cat parents. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Ruth Roberts, often called the original pet health coach. Dr. Ruth is a holistic veterinarian and creator of the Crock Pet Diet, and she has helped thousands of cats and dogs navigate chronic health challenges — from kidney disease and GI issues to inflammation, anxiety, and cancer — using gentle, whole-body approaches.Together, we dive into one of the most misunderstood (and intimidating-sounding) topics in feline wellness: daily detoxification. The good news? Detox doesn’t mean extreme protocols or complicated routines. Dr. Ruth breaks it down into simple, doable foundations that support your cat’s natural healing systems — and often improve your health and stress levels too.We also talk candidly about kidney disease, food transitions, supplements, hydration, gut health, and how to set kittens and young cats up for long, vibrant lives.👉 If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re doing enough for your cat — or felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice — this episode will calm your nervous system and give you clear next steps.✨ Episode SnapshotIn this episode, you’ll learn:🧘‍♀️ Detox Starts With YouWhy your emotional state matters more than you think. Dr. Ruth explains how calming yourself helps your cat shift into a healing, parasympathetic “rest and digest” state — and how something as simple as turning off your phone and sitting with your cat can be powerful medicine.🌬️ The Real Detox Organs (Hint: It’s Not Just the Liver)The lungs, gut, and lymphatic system do more detox work than most people realize. We discuss how movement, breath, digestion, and hydration all work together to move waste out of the body naturally.💧 Clean Water = Daily MedicineWhy filtered water matters, what it removes (chlorine, plastics, PFAS), and why even a basic filter like a Brita can make a meaningful difference for your cat’s kidneys and gut.🍽️ Food as Foundation (Not a Fight)Why minimizing ultra-processed food is more important than chasing supplements — and how moisture, protein quality, and inflammation all tie into longevity.🩺 Kidney Disease: What Cat Parents Should KnowWe talk about early-stage kidney disease, why restricting protein too early can backfire, the importance of phosphorus management, moisture, omega-3s, quercetin, and how sub-Q fluids can be truly life-changing when used thoughtfully.🧠 Gut Health, Anxiety & NeurotransmittersHow the microbiome influences mood, stress resilience, immune surveillance, and even cancer defense — and why sporulated probiotics may be a better fit for many cats.🐾 Starting Early = Aging BetterWhy introducing whole foods, gentle supplementation, and routines before senior years gives your cat a health “runway” instead of playing catch-up later.🥣 How to Transition Picky Cats (Without Losing Your Mind)Real-world strategies for kibble-addicted cats: tiny steps, texture respect, patience over perfection — including Dr. Ruth’s legendary “⅛ teaspoon on the side of the bowl” method.📘 Dr. Ruth’s Recommendations for Cat Owners* Focus on foundations, not overwhelm. Health doesn’t require 27 supplements — it starts with food, water, calm, and movement.* Feed the least processed food your cat will eat. Progress beats perfection every time.* Prioritize moisture. Anything wetter than kibble is kinder to kidneys.* Support inflammation early. Omega-3s (or food sources like sardines) can make a big difference.* Think food-first for joints. Natural collagen sources (like cartilage) can support aging bodies.* Start support before symptoms. Gentle supplementation in “middle age” creates resilience later.* Be patient with transitions. Weeks or months is normal — especially for lifelong kibble eaters.* Your calm matters. A regulated nervous system helps your cat heal more efficiently.🌍 Where to Find Dr. Ruth Roberts* Website: https://drruthroberts.com* Instagram: @dr.ruthroberts* YouTube: Dr. Ruth Roberts* Community: Private Circle community* Bonus: Crock Pet Diet ebook✨ Final ThoughtHealth isn’t built through extremes — it’s built through rhythm.Calmer moments. Cleaner inputs. Better food. Small, steady upgrades over time.You don’t have to do everything at once. Start where you are. Choose one simple shift. And trust that your cat’s body knows how to heal when the terrain supports it.💛🎙️Loved This Episode?Subscribe to The Golden Whiskers Podcast and leave a review—it helps spread the word so more cat parents can help their furry friends live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Julie‑Anne Heart, founder of Naturally Cats. Julie-Anne is a holistic cat therapist who specializes in supporting anxious cats — and anxious guardians — through emotional and energetic approaches.Together, we dive into one of the most common (and quietly stressful) challenges cat parents face: how to help cats actually be happy in a multi-cat home — not just coexist.We talk about why “one-size-fits-all” approaches often backfire, how emotional needs drive behavior, the role we play as guardians, and simple ways to create more harmony without adding complexity.Julie-Anne also shares personal stories about her cats Leo and Baby Max (and her late cat Pickle), while I reflect on what I’ve learned living with bonded brothers Niko and Milo — and previously, Nomar and Mia.👉 If you’ve ever wondered whether your cats are truly content, or felt overwhelmed trying to keep the peace, this episode is for you.✨ Episode SnapshotIn this episode, you’ll learn:😺 What “Happy” Actually Looks Like in CatsWhy happiness isn’t about silence or compliance — and how confidence, safety, engagement, and emotional regulation show up differently in every cat.🧠 Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t WorkHow treating cats as interchangeable (even bonded cats) leads to emotional stress, behavior challenges, and missed needs.🐾 Behavior Is CommunicationWhy scratching, fighting, hiding, or food issues are signals — not problems — and how emotion always sits beneath behavior.🏠 Multi-Cat Stress Points You Can FixThe most common environmental pressure points in shared spaces, including litter boxes and feeding routines — and how small adjustments make a big difference.💞 The Guardian’s Role (Yes, That Means Us)How our stress, emotions, and energy affect our cats more than we realize — and why caring for yourself isn’t selfish, it’s supportive.🎨 Color Therapy as Emotional SupportA simple, accessible way to help cats self-regulate emotionally by giving them choice — without forcing anything. Check out my other interview with Julie-Anne on color therapy. 🌱 Small Changes That Restore HarmonyWhy progress doesn’t come from perfection, but from awareness, patience, and meeting cats where they are.📘 Julie-Anne’s Recommendations for Cat Owners* There is no one-size-fits-all approach.Every cat is unique. What worked for a previous cat may not work again — and that’s okay.* Give cats choice whenever possible.Choice builds confidence, emotional safety, and reduces stress in shared environments.* Support emotional health, not just behavior.Behavior is a response to emotion. Address the feeling first.* Rethink shared resources.Feeding stations and litter boxes should support different preferences, not force competition.* Try color therapy.Let cats choose when and how they interact with different colors to support grounding, calm, and emotional balance.🌍 Where to Find Julie-Anne🌐 Website: naturallycats.co.uk📖 Books: The Aromatic Cat and Cat Chakras📺 YouTube: Naturally Cats YouTube Channel📸 Instagram: @naturallycats📘 Facebook: Naturally CatsShe also offers practical eBooks on color therapy, herbs, essential oils, bone broth, and more — all available through her site.Check out our other interview: Is Your Cat Anxious or Stressed? Use This Simple Color Therapy Technique To Help. 👉 Listen here. ✨ Final ThoughtHarmony in a multi-cat home doesn’t come from managing behavior — it comes from understanding emotion. When we release expectations and give our cats more choice, safety, and patience, the entire household softens.You don’t need to do more.You just need to notice more.🎙️Loved This Episode?Subscribe to The Golden Whiskers Podcast and leave a review—it helps spread the word so more cat parents can help their furry friends live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

🐾 Episode SummaryThis week on the Golden Whiskers Podcast, we’re bringing you one of our most powerful and practical interviews from the Thrive: Feline Wellness Summit. Certified Canine Nutritionist and Integrative Pet Health Coach Elizabeth Casas shares how whole food nutrition reversed her cat Lumiere’s life-threatening pancreatitis—even after vets said there was nothing more they could do.We talk about:* Why kibble could be quietly harming your cat* How to transition your cat to a healthier diet (without drama)* What pet food labels don’t tell you* How to combine holistic approaches with conventional veterinary care* Affordable ways to meal prep whole food for cats* How gut health, skin issues, and diet are deeply connectedThis episode is packed with heart, real-life stories, and simple, empowering takeaways for any cat parent ready to help their cat thrive—without fear or overwhelm.📘 Recommendations for Cat Owners* Start small: Elizabeth recommends just 1 teaspoon of a superfood per day (like sautéed mushrooms, sardines, or goat milk) to begin upgrading your cat’s nutrition.* Watch for warning signs: Itching, frequent vomiting (beyond hairballs), goopy eyes, or flaky skin might signal gut dysbiosis or food sensitivities.* Rotate proteins: Feeding the same protein daily (like chicken) can cause sensitivities over time. Aim for variety across the week.* Read food labels carefully:* Look for whole named proteins (e.g., “chicken” or “beef”).* Avoid by-products and vague meals unless you know the source.* Beware of ingredient splitting (e.g., corn in multiple forms).* Meal prep made easy: A slow cooker meal with turkey, veggies, and organ meat can last 3–4 weeks and cost less than most premium kibble!* Collaborate with your vet: Holistic care is not about replacing your vet—it’s about working together for your cat’s long-term wellness.🔗 Connect with Elizabeth Casas* 📸 Instagram: @ecasasCPCN🐾 Final ThoughtYour cat might look okay—but are they truly thriving?Nutrition isn’t just about survival. It’s about vitality, longevity, and making sure your feline companions feel good every single day. Elizabeth’s story is a reminder that we have more power than we think—sometimes, it just starts with a single teaspoon of change.If this episode helped you see things differently, share it with a fellow cat parent or leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify. It helps more people find these important conversations.Thanks for being here and for loving your cat as much as you do. 💛🐾 Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

This week’s episode of the Golden Whiskers Podcast is a special one — a live interview with Penny Wood, also known as Dr. Zoolittle, a longevity zoologist who studies why animals age the way they do and what’s truly possible when we work with their biology instead of against it.In this powerful conversation, Penny explains why most cats never reach their true biological potential, the seven lifestyle facets that shape a cat’s healthspan, and what we can do right now to help our cats live longer, healthier, happier lives.You’ll also hear some personal reflections from me about my late cats, Nomar and Mia, and how much I wish I had known this information years ago — and how grateful I am to apply it now with Niko and Milo.Whether your cat is young and thriving or already a senior with health issues, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, hopeful, and inspired.What You’ll Learn in This Episode🐾 Why the “average” lifespan of 12–15 years isn’t a biological limit🐾 The truth about genes vs. lifestyle — and why 92% of longevity is in your hands🐾 The 7 lifestyle facets that determine how fast (or slow) your cat ages🐾 Why kibble accelerates aging — and what species-appropriate food really looks like🐾 How detoxification, microbiome balance, movement, and environment shape healthspan🐾 Why mental health and enrichment matter just as much as physical care🐾 What’s still possible for senior cats with kidney disease, thyroid issues, or mobility challenges🐾 What “biohacking” means for cats — and how stem cell activation supports longevity🐾 Whether cats experience “aging spurts” like humans🐾 Why nature, grounding, and outdoor elements are essential — even for indoor cats📘 Recommendations for Cat Parents* Shift toward species-appropriate nutrition.Even small steps — adding fresh meat, rotating proteins, or reducing kibble — create meaningful change.* Reduce environmental toxins.Swap out plug-in air fresheners, harsh cleaners, and scented products for safer alternatives.* Support the microbiome.Healthy gut, oral, and skin flora dramatically impact aging, immunity, and disease prevention.* Prioritize movement and alignment.Play, stretching, climbing, and natural movement patterns help maintain youthful function.* Bring nature into your cat’s world.Sunlight, airflow, textures, greenery, and grounding all support biological balance.* Don’t give up if your cat is already a senior.Penny reminds us that the body is always trying to return to health — and it’s never too late to make meaningful improvements.🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned* Learn more from Penny (Dr. Zoolittle):Website: https://drzoolittle.co/* Penny’s Anti-Aging Course for Pet ParentsIf today’s conversation opened your eyes the way it did mine, Penny’s full Anti-Aging Program is honestly the best next step you can take.She goes deep into all seven pillars, gives practical guidance you can start using immediately, and helps you build a personalized longevity plan for your cat.If you’re ready to help your cat thrive at every age — this program is absolutely worth exploring.Check out her Anti-Aging Course for Pet ParentsFinal ThoughtsEvery time I talk to Penny, I’m reminded how much power we actually have as cat parents. I wish I had known this information when Nomar and Mia were with me — but I’m grateful to apply it now with Niko and Milo and to share it with you.Longevity isn’t about chasing a number. It’s about giving our cats the healthiest, happiest, most vibrant life we can… for as long as we can.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow cat parent who wants to help their cat thrive. And if Penny’s wisdom resonates with you, her Anti-Aging course is an incredible next step — not a hard sell, just an invitation to go deeper.Thanks for listening, Golden Whiskers family. 🐾💛 Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

🐾 Episode SummaryThis week I’m doing something different. Instead of a brand-new interview, I’m sharing the full, uncut conversation from the Thrive Feline Wellness Summit with clinical herbalist Rita Hogan.Rita is best known as a canine herbalist, but she’s also a devoted cat mom who’s spent over 20 years using herbs to support animals—especially around kidney disease, urinary tract issues, and stress.In this episode, we talk about:* Why kidney disease is so common in modern indoor cats* The role of kibble and low-moisture diets* Early warning signs that your cat’s kidneys and urinary tract might need help* How herbs like parsley, nettle seed, marshmallow root, catnip, and cat grass can support your cat* How to use herbs safely, without guessing on dosage or relying on sketchy Google advice* Real-world tips for actually getting your cat to take herbs (without turning it into a wrestling match)This conversation hit home for me after going through kidney disease with Mia. My hope is that it gives you a clearer roadmap and a little more confidence to support your own cat—especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or brand new to herbs.Important note: This episode is for education, not medical advice. Always work with your veterinarian (and, ideally, a qualified herbalist) before adding herbs or supplements to your cat’s routine.🐱 What You’ll Learn In This Episode* Why kidney disease is so prevalent in cats* The impact of dry food and low moisture* How stress and the emotional “vibe” in your home can affect your cat’s kidneys* Early red flags for kidney trouble* Vomiting and loss of appetite* Weak teeth, low immune function, ear infections* Constipation, groaning when they lie down* Jumpy, noise-sensitive, or howling at night* UTIs, bladder infections, stones, incontinence* Herbs that support your cat’s kidneys* Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) – gentle diuretic, rich in minerals, helps sodium balance* Nettle seed (stinging nettle) – a powerhouse herb that can support kidney function, reduce inflammation, and help with protein in the urine* Why trace minerals are such a big deal for kidney health* Herbal help for urinary tract issues* Marshmallow root to soothe irritated urinary tissues* Other supportive herbs: ginger, couch grass, uva ursi, juniper berry (when used properly)* Why your cat’s pooping habits are part of the equation* The difference between “weird but still peeing” and a true emergency (especially in male cats)* Everyday herbs you probably already know* Catnip as a daily nervous system support herb, not just “kitty party dust”* Cat grass/wheatgrass for urinary and kidney support and chlorophyll* Using herbs safely (without guessing)* Why more is NOT better* The importance of correct dosing and Latin names* Why Google (and yes, even ChatGPT for dosing) isn’t where you want to be making medical decisions for your cat* How to slowly build your own “herb library” by learning one herb per month* Getting herbs into picky cats* Using glycerite extracts (less smell, less drama)* Hiding drops in high-value foods (tiny bit of tuna, churro sticks, etc.)* Staying calm and confident so you don’t stress your cat out further📘 Recommendations for Cat OwnersHere are some practical, doable steps inspired by Rita’s wisdom in this episode:* Rethink the bowl.* Work with your vet to move away from an all-dry diet toward more moisture-rich, species-appropriate food (wet, gently cooked, or raw where appropriate and safe).* Get yearly kidney data before there’s a crisis.* Ask your vet about a yearly urine protein check and bloodwork so you have a baseline and can spot changes early.* Start with one safe, simple herb.* Examples to explore (with proper guidance and dosing):* Parsley tea (Petroselinum crispum) as a gentle tonic* Nettle seed tincture for kidney support* Marshmallow root for urinary tract soothing* Catnip and cat grass for everyday nervous system and urinary support* Learn one herb a month instead of trying to master everything at once.* Use trusted products—not random Amazon bottles.* Some brands Rita mentioned in the interview to research and discuss with your vet/herbalist:* Pet Wellbeing – especially Urinary Gold* Adored Beast – silver hydrosol* Two Crazy Cat Ladies / Feline Essentials – urinary support with vitamin C and PEA* Dr. Judy Morgan’s store – PEA formulas* Invest in a good reference.* Book: Herbs for Pets by Greg Tilford (covers cats and dogs, safety, and dosing).* Book: The Herbal Dog by Rita Hogan (includes info on which herbs are safe for cats and how to dose them).* Don’t over-dose.* With herbs like nettle seed, “one to two drops” really means one to two drops.* If you’re ever unsure, pause and ask a pro instead of guessing.* Watch the whole cat, not just one symptom.* Mood, sleep, appetite, energy, litter box habits, and vocalizations all give clues.* If something feels off, check in with your vet—especially if your cat is straining to pee, not peeing, or seems in pain. Those are emergencies.🔗 Links & Resources MentionedLearn from and connect with Rita Hogan:* 🌿 Website & Store: [canineherbalist.com]* 🎓 Teaching Platform: [canineherbalism.com]* 🎙 Podcast: Dogs Are Individuals (search wherever you listen to podcasts)* 📗 Book: The Herbal Dog by Rita Hogan (includes cat-safe herb notes and dosing)🐾 Final ThoughtsGoing through kidney disease with Mia was one of the hardest stretches of my life as a cat dad. A lot of what Rita shared in this conversation—especially around nettle seed, parsley, and early subtle signs—are things I wish I had known back then.If your cat is already dealing with kidney issues or urinary problems, or if you just want to be more proactive, my hope is that this episode gives you:* A few concrete places to start* Language you can bring into conversations with your vet* And a reminder that you don’t have to learn everything at onceJust like Rita said: one herb a month is more than enough.If this episode helped you, it would mean a lot if you:* Share it with another cat parent who’s navigating kidney disease or UTIs* Follow/subscribe to the Golden Whiskers Podcast* Leave a quick rating or review so we can help more people help their cats live longer, healthier, happier lives into their golden years.Thanks for being here and for loving your cat as much as you do. 💛🐾 Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe