Shows
Happy Cats WellnessSafe Play for Senior CatsIn this episode, we discuss how caregivers can meet an older cat’s instinctive needs—and help prevent stress and behavioral issues—by enriching the environment and encouraging appropriate play. While all cats need veterinary care, a feline-friendly home, and hunting play, senior pets require more specialized enrichment. We also cover how to adapt activities to accommodate limited mobility, arthritis, and sensory loss.
2026-02-1317 min
Happy Cats WellnessYour Cat Says "I Love You"This episode explores the subtle communication methods felines use to express appreciation and love toward their owners. Based on insights from Dr. Julie Hunt, the text highlights eight specific behaviors, such as slow blinking, kneading, and bearing gifts, that signify a cat’s trust. By recognizing the subtle cues, we can better interpret our pets' complex body language and build a deeper, more affectionate bond with their companions.
2026-01-2014 min
Happy Cats WellnessEmergency EvacuationWhen disaster strikes, every second counts. Whether facing hurricanes, wildfires, floods, or other emergencies, the No. 1 instruction for pet owners is to bring your pets with you when evacuating. If you evacuate your home, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS OR ANIMALS BEHIND. It is unlikely for pets or larger animals to survive on their own. Even if they do, you may not be able to find them when you return.
2026-01-1716 min
Happy Cats WellnessCat and Dog HarmonyIn this episode, we provide guidance on successfully introducing cats and dogs into the same household, emphasizing that thoughtful preparation is essential for fostering harmony.
We highlight the importance of understanding each pet's individual personality and innate traits. We offer practical steps, such as scent-based introductions and closely supervised face-to-face meetings. Success requires patience and advice from your veterinarian to create a stress-free environment where pets can eventually become comfortable, and ideally, even friendly, with one another.
2026-01-1614 min
Happy Cats WellnessElder Cat CareFeline cognitive dysfunction (FCD) is a common age-related decline in cats affecting memory, awareness, and behavior. We emphasize that while FCD can cause issues like inappropriate elimination and disorientation, it's crucial to rule out other treatable medical conditions before attributing changes solely to old age.
The importance of certain identification cannot be overemphasized. Additionally, we provide practical advice for managing FCD symptoms through environmental adjustments, consistent routines, and potential medication, advocating for a mindful and compassionate approach for supporting aging cats.
2026-01-1615 min
Happy Cats WellnessDangers in The HomeCats are naturally curious creatures with behaviors that can put them at risk for toxic exposures in the home environment. Their tendency to explore, climb to high places, investigate small spaces, and groom themselves meticulously means they can encounter and ingest dangerous substances that pose little risk to humans.
Understanding the wide range of potential toxins in your home and taking proactive steps to eliminate or secure these hazards is crucial for keeping your feline companion safe and healthy.
2026-01-1615 minHappy Cats WellnessFeline First Aid KitThis episode is part of our feline emergency preparedness series. We emphasize that cat first aid is distinct from human or canine care due to unique physiological sensitivities. We outline how to assemble a specialized kit containing items like vet wrap, saline solution, and digital thermometers, while highlighting the importance of keeping veterinary contact information and medical records accessible.
2026-01-1617 min
Happy Cats WellnessCalm Veterinary TripsRegular veterinary checkups are essential for a feline's health, yet many cats experience intense anxiety due to unfamiliar environments and travel routines. Returning home from the veterinary clinic has its own unique challenges. This episode provides strategies to help make medical visits a positive experience for both the pet and the owner.
2026-01-1614 min
Happy Cats WellnessProactive Wellness Exams.In this episode, we stress the critical importance of regular veterinary care for cats, highlighting that many felines don't receive the care they need. We discuss the challenges posed by cats' natural ability to hide illness and the stress associated with veterinary visits, which often leads owners to delay or skip appointments.
To address these issues, we introduce two key initiatives: Fear Free Certified Practices and the Cat Friendly Practice® program, both designed to reduce anxiety and create more positive experiences for cats during veterinary care.
2026-01-1413 min
Happy Cats WellnessWhat Your Cat is Telling YouThis episode provides comprehensive information on how cats communicate, focusing on vocalizations and body language. We explain common sounds like meowing, purring, hissing, and chirping, detailing the various meanings behind each, ranging from greetings and demands to signs of stress or pain.
Additionally, we discuss how cats use body language, including tail positions, head movements, and even kneading, to express emotions such as happiness, fear, anxiety, and contentment.
Recognizing these communication signals is crucial for strengthening the bond between cats and their human companions. And it helps to identify potential health issues.
2026-01-1318 minHappy Cats WellnessCommon Signs of IllnessPets often don't show obvious signs of the illness or distress they're experiencing. This episode will help you sense when your pet needs medical attention. There is no sure way for you to always recognize these subtle signs, which makes regular wellness exams with your veterinarian crucial to your pet's health and happiness.
2026-01-0713 minHappy Cats WellnessBuild a Feline Save HavenThis episode outlines how caretakers can transform their homes into feline havens by prioritizing a cat's psychological and physical requirements. A primary focus is on providing safe retreats, which are private, elevated spaces where a pet can rest without feeling trapped or threatened. Furthermore, we emphasize that food, water, and litter boxes be kept in separate, low-traffic locations. By ensuring individual access to these necessities and encouraging natural predatory play, owners can foster a secure atmosphere in a predictable habitat that honors a cat's instinctual need for safety and autonomy.
2026-01-0711 min
Happy Cats WellnessGentle HandlingThis episode offers a comprehensive guide to responsible cat handling, emphasizing both the cat's well-being and human safety. We provide detailed advice on proper interaction techniques, such as understanding feline body language to recognize signs of comfort or stress, and appropriate petting locations.
We highlight safe methods for picking up cats, strongly discouraging outdated practices like scruffing. Preventative measures for aggression are discussed, along with the benefits of environmental enrichment.
2026-01-0414 min
Happy Cats WellnessEnvironmental NeedsThis episode focuses on the AAFP and ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines. The guidelines emphasize that a cat's comfort with its environment directly impacts its physical health, emotional well-being, and behavior.
The article outlines five key pillars for a healthy feline environment: addressing these needs leads to happier, healthier cats and a stronger bond between cats and their human companions.
2026-01-0423 min
Happy Cats WellnessImportance of MicrochipsThis episode, sourced from the American Veterinary Medical Association, provides a detailed explanation of microchipping pets as a means of identification. It covers how microchips work, including their components and the scanning process, and emphasizes the significant benefits of this technology for reuniting lost animals with their owners.
We also clear up some of the misunderstandings about what the chips do and do not.
2026-01-0419 min
Happy Cats WellnessLow Stress Vet VisitVisits to the vet can be stressful for the cat and for you. But there are ways to significantly reduce that stress.
This episode highlights two prominent programs aimed at improving the veterinary experience for companion animals: The Cat Friendly Practice® program, powered by feline veterinarians, focuses specifically on reducing stress for cats during veterinary visits by training staff and optimizing the clinic environment to cater to feline-specific needs and behaviors. Similarly, Fear Free® offers a broader approach, providing science-based strategies to alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress for all animals across various professional settings, including veterinary practices.
Both init...
2026-01-0415 min
Happy Cats WellnessNew Cat HomecomingAdopting a new cat is an exciting yet potentially stressful experience, and this guide emphasizes the "3 P's"—Patience, Planning, and Preparation—as crucial for a successful integration into your home, especially in multi-cat households.
Before bringing your new feline friend home, it is essential to gather necessary supplies and establish a safe, separate space for them to acclimate, as cats are territorial creatures. Furthermore, prioritizing veterinary visits for both new and existing cats is critical to prevent the spread of illness and ensure overall well-being.
By following these steps, you significantly increase the chances of your cat...
2026-01-0421 min
Happy Cats WellnessEssential Bond of TrustAn essential requirement for your cat’s health and happiness is regular and predictable, loving interaction with you. It's the only way to develop and maintain the all-important bond of trust. Building this trust depends upon patience and consistency. Without trust, your cat will never be comfortable and happy in your home.
2026-01-0413 min
Happy Cats WellnessPart 3: Understand Your Cat's WorldThis episode is Part 3 of a 3-Part series that emphasizes the need to understand feline behavior and senses to ensure a cat's well-being and reduce stress. We discuss creating a sense of familiarity and security through gradual introductions to new experiences.
We explain calming strategies by focusing on a cat's highly sensitive senses: smell, recommending scent preservation and synthetic pheromones; hearing, advising low noise levels and soothing sounds; touch, suggesting gentle, appropriate petting and whisker-friendly bowls; and sight, encouraging slow movements and providing private retreats.
This episode is intended to equip cat owners with practical tips...
2025-12-3114 minHappy Cats WellnessPart 2: Understand Your Cat's WorldThis episode is Part 2 of a 3-Part series that emphasizes the need to understand feline behavior and senses to ensure a cat's well-being and reduce stress. We discuss creating a sense of familiarity and security through gradual introductions to new experiences.
We explain calming strategies by focusing on a cat's highly sensitive senses: smell, recommending scent preservation and synthetic pheromones; hearing, advising low noise levels and soothing sounds; touch, suggesting gentle, appropriate petting and whisker-friendly bowls; and sight, encouraging slow movements and providing private retreats.
This episode is intended to equip cat owners with practical tips...
2025-12-3112 minHappy Cats WellnessPart 1: Understand You Cat’s WorldThis episode is Part 1 of a 3-Part series that emphasizes the need to understand feline behavior and senses to ensure a cat's well-being and reduce stress. We discuss creating a sense of familiarity and security through gradual introductions to new experiences.
We explain calming strategies by focusing on a cat's highly sensitive senses: smell, recommending scent preservation and synthetic pheromones; hearing, advising low noise levels and soothing sounds; touch, suggesting gentle, appropriate petting and whisker-friendly bowls; and sight, encouraging slow movements and providing private retreats.
This episode is intended to equip cat owners with practical tips...
2025-12-3112 min
Happy Cats WellnessThe Healthcare AdvocateYou know your cat better than anyone else, and your veterinarian needs to know what you know about any changes in your cat's behavior that have occurred since the last exam.
Cats are skilled at hiding pain and illness, so early detection is crucial for preventing or treating physical and emotional disorders. Your participation as part of the veterinary team is key to helping your cat stay healthy and happy.
2025-12-2811 min
Happy Cats Wellness5 Pillars of Happy Cat HomesThis Foundation episode is one of two that make up Creating a Cat Haven, which is discussed in detail in other episodes. In this episode, we outline the FelineVMA and ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines, emphasizing that a cat's comfort with its surroundings is fundamentally tied to its physical health, emotional well-being, and behavior.
The guidelines are structured around five essential "pillars" that provide a framework for a healthy feline environment.
By understanding and proactively addressing these needs, veterinarians, owners, and caregivers can help reduce stress, prevent stress-related disorders, and mitigate unwanted behaviors in cats, ultima...
2025-12-2826 minHappy Cats WellnessThe True Cat ChampionThe core philosophy centers on the owner as the Cat Champion, a proactive healthcare advocate who works in partnership with the veterinarian by maintaining a wellness journal and performing daily observations. This approach emphasizes that routine veterinary checkups are essential for early intervention, especially because cats often conceal illness, and the source encourages owners to seek out a certified Cat Friendly Practice® (CFP) to minimize stress during these crucial visits.
2025-12-2815 min
Happy Cats WellnessYour Cat's Secret LanguageYour cat wants to tell you something, but you must understand behavioral cues to decipher what it's saying.
In this episode we emphasize the critical link between a cat's behavior and its overall physical and emotional well-being. We explain how subtle behavioral changes are often the first indicators of underlying illness, pain, or stress in felines.
Ultimately, this episode underscores the importance of understanding and mitigating stressors in a cat's environment to improve treatment outcomes and enhance their quality of life.
2025-12-2817 min
Happy Cats WellnessMulti-cat HarmonyThis episode provides a comprehensive guide from The Drake Center for Veterinary Care on successfully introducing a new cat into a home with an existing feline resident. It emphasizes the importance of careful planning and a slow, gradual introduction process to ensure a harmonious multi-cat household.
Key recommendations include matching cat personalities, ensuring the resident cat's physical and mental readiness, and implementing a step-by-step introduction method involving scent exchange, separate spaces, supervised interactions, and consistent monitoring.
We offer post-introduction tips for long-term peace, such as separate feeding and ample resources. We emphasize the importance of contin...
2025-12-2817 min
Happy Cats WellnessWhat Your Cat is SayingThis episode, sourced from the ASPCA, decodes the complexities of feline vocalizations, particularly meowing, emphasizing its unique role in cat-human communication.
We also provide advice on identifying and addressing excessive meowing, ranging from ruling out underlying medical conditions through veterinary consultation to implementing behavioral modifications.
2025-12-2820 min
Happy Cats WellnessSafety in All SeasonsEach season brings unique challenges and potential hazards for cat owners. From the blooming plants of spring to the holiday decorations of winter, every time of year presents specific safety considerations that require attention and preparation.
Understanding these seasonal patterns helps you anticipate potential dangers and take proactive steps to keep your feline companion safe throughout the year.
2025-12-2814 min
Happy Cats WellnessCommon Signs of IllnessYour pet relies on you to recognize when something isn’t right. Cats and dogs often hide their discomfort, making it difficult to spot illness in its early stages. However, there are key signs that indicate your pet may be unwell.
By learning to recognize these symptoms, you can seek veterinary care sooner and improve your pet’s chances of a swift recovery. In this episode, we present some (not all) of the common signs of illness in cats and dogs that every pet owner should watch for. Always consult your veterinarian anytime your pets behavior changes, even...
2025-12-2813 min
Happy Cats WellnessAt Home Routine ExamYou know more about your cat's behavior than anyone else and your veterinary team needs to know what you know. The weekly exam is necessary to make sure subtle signs of distress or illness are recognized before becoming major medical concerns. Record any changes you notice in a journal and refer to your notes when you phone or visit the veterinary clinic. It's easy to forget something when worried about your cat's health. The purpose of comprehensive journaling is to empower pet owners to become active participants in their cat's preventive health care and to ensure that subtle changes...
2025-12-2514 min
Happy Cats WellnessPrepare For EmergenciesWhen emergencies strike, having a well-stocked pet first aid kit can make the difference between a minor incident and a serious crisis. Just as you maintain a first aid kit for your family's human members, your feline companions deserve the same level of emergency preparedness. A comprehensive pet first aid kit enables you to provide immediate care while seeking professional veterinary assistance, potentially saving your cat's life and reducing the severity of injuries or illnesses.
2025-12-1933 minHappy Cats WellnessThe Trip to the VetProviding your cat with good healthcare, especially preventive care, can allow her to live a longer, more comfortable life. However, this cannot happen unless you take your cat to see the veterinarian routinely.Many cats are fearful or distressed when going to the veterinarian because the practice is unfamiliar, as is the carrier and the car. Here are some tips from Happy Cats Wellness, the pet preventative health coaches, Cathryn and Gene Jirleds, that can make trips to the veterinary clinic a positive experience for you and your cat.
2025-12-1814 min
Happy Cats WellnessSecret Language of CatsThis episode summarizes research into cat vocalizations conducted by Susanne Schotz at Lund University in Sweden. The article highlights how Schotz's studies, detailed in her book "The Secret Language of Cats," help owners decode what their pets are trying to communicate. A key finding is that meowing is primarily used by cats to interact with humans and acts as an attention-seeking sound with various meanings, such as requesting food or play. The author also notes the importance of combining an understanding of vocalizations with interpreting a cat’s body language to fully grasp their requests.
2025-12-1111 min
Happy Cats WellnessThis is Preventive HealthcareHappy Cats Wellness is built on the fundamental belief that "the animals we share our lives with are deserving of dignity and respect. They share with us the same rights for access to necessary resources and the kind of lives that lead to contentment, good health, and happiness."
Their mission is to share what they've learned about feline care to help all cats live happier, healthier lives.
Key tenets of their philosophy include:
Addressing Misinformation: The founders recognized that much of the readily available advice on cat care, from family, friends, and the internet...
2025-11-1106 min
Happy Cats WellnessWho We Are“Welcome to Happy Cats Wellness, where we help you keep your cat happy and healthy. We're Cathryn and Gene Jirlds, and we're certified pet preventive healthcare coaches. We are not veterinarians. Always consult your cat's medical provider when you have questions or concerns about your cat's health.”
From Happy Cats Wellness: Who We Are, 1 Nov 2025
2025-11-0110 min