Advertise on podcast: Golden Whiskers with Scott Colby

Hey Golden Whiskers family, We’re just eight days away from Tails on Trails, and I’m struggling with something I thought I’d have figured out by now. Last year, I recorded an episode about the stress of organizing this event, constantly checking registration numbers, and letting those numbers affect my mood. Well, here we are a year later, and I’m doing it again. We have 66 hikers registered, nearly $8,500 raised toward our $10,000 goal, a wonderful presenting sponsor, and some amazing people helping bring this event together. And yet, I keep focusing on what’s missing instead of appreciating what’s already happening. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing what it’s been like carrying so much of the responsibility for Tails on Trails, why I’m putting so much pressure on myself, and a realization I had this morning: When you strip away all the planning and stress, I’m simply inviting people to get together on a Saturday morning, hike, listen to music, drink coffee, and help pets. Why am I making something so simple so complicated in my head? I’m still figuring that out. With gratitude,Scottgoldenwhiskerslove.com | tributehikes.com 🎧 Episode Snapshot In this personal solo episode, I share what’s going on behind the scenes just eight days before our third annual Tails on Trails. You’ll hear: * 🧠 Why I’m still obsessing over registration numbers, even when I know it’s not helping. * 💛 The pressure of carrying so much responsibility myself, despite having some wonderful people helping. * 🥾 How something as simple as bringing people together for a hike has become a source of stress. * 🐾 Why I’m struggling to appreciate the progress we’ve already made, including nearly $8,500 raised toward our $10,000 goal. * 🌱 What letting go means to me this year—continuing to work hard without allowing the results to control how I feel. * 🏔️ The irony of organizing a hiking event while barely finding time to enjoy the outdoors myself. I don’t have all the answers. But recording this episode helped remind me why I started Tails on Trails in the first place: to honor Nomar and Mia and create something that will eventually help other pets and their families. 🐾 How You Can Support Tails on Trails Saturday, October 24, 2026 — Baker Creek Preserve, Knoxville, TN Join us for a 3-mile community hike, live acoustic music, coffee, baked goods, s’mores, and a morning dedicated to helping pets and honoring the animals we love. Registration is FREE, and donations are optional! Can’t make it to Knoxville? You can participate through our Hike From Anywhere option, whether that means hiking a trail or walking around your neighborhood. You can also donate or help by sharing the event with friends and family. 👉 Register, donate, or learn more at tributehikes.com All donations support the Nomar & Mia Compassion Endowment at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. Once fully funded at $25,000, the endowment will begin helping families facing emergency veterinary expenses. 🐾 Cattitude Prompt Have you ever worked so hard toward something that you stopped enjoying the process? Or put so much pressure on yourself that you overlooked the progress you were already making? I’d love to hear how you’ve dealt with it. And if you’re participating in Tails on Trails, either in Knoxville or from wherever you live, tell me about a pet you’d like to honor on October 24. Hit reply or leave a comment. I’d love to hear your story. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

After a few months away, I’m back with a new episode of Golden Whiskers, and there’s a special reason why. On October 24, we’re holding our third annual Tails on Trails: A Hike to Save Pets in Knoxville, Tennessee. But this event started long before the first hiker showed up. In this episode, I share the story of Mia and Nomar, the two cats who were part of my life for 16 and 20 years, and how losing them led me to create something in their honor. I talk about the grief that followed Mia’s passing, the role hiking played in helping me through it, and why I established the Nomar & Mia Compassion Endowment at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. The goal is to build a $25,000 endowment that will eventually provide financial assistance to families struggling with emergency veterinary expenses. We’re not there yet, but every donation brings us closer. I also share some of the challenges of organizing Tails on Trails, the pressure I’ve been putting on myself, and why I keep coming back to the two cats who inspired it all. Want to be part of Tails on Trails on October 24? 🐾 Hike with us in Knoxville: Join our 3-mile community hike at Baker Creek Preserve. 🌎 Hike From Anywhere: Walk or hike wherever you live in honor of a pet you love. ❤️ Make a donation: Registration is free, and donations are optional. Every contribution helps build the endowment. 📣 Spread the word: Share Tails on Trails with someone who loves animals or enjoys being outdoors. Register, donate, or learn more:https://tributehikes.com Thank you for listening and for helping me keep Mia and Nomar’s legacy alive. 🎙️ Loved This Episode? Subscribe to The Golden Whiskers Podcast and leave a review—it helps more cat parents discover practical ways to help their cats live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

Could understanding your cat’s energy help you better understand their behavior, emotions, and even their health? In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Joan Ranquet, animal communicator, energy healer, TEDx speaker, and author of Animal Chakra Healing. Since I knew very little about cat chakras myself, I approached this conversation from a beginner’s perspective—and Joan does an excellent job explaining the concepts in a practical, approachable way. We discuss what cat chakras are, how they may relate to physical and emotional well-being, why confidence and relationships matter more than many cat parents realize, and simple ways to create a calmer, healthier environment for our cats. Joan also shares how animal communication complements chakra work and leaves us with one easy technique every cat parent can practice at home. Whether you’re completely new to energy healing or simply curious about another way to understand your cat, this conversation offers plenty of food for thought. 👉 If you’ve ever wondered why your cat reacts the way they do—or if stress could be affecting their health—this episode is for you. ✨ Episode Snapshot In this episode, you’ll learn: 😺 What Cat Chakras Actually Are A simple explanation of chakras, how they function as energy centers, and how a cat’s chakra system compares to our own. 🧠 Why Cat Parents Should Care How understanding your cat’s emotional and energetic state may help you recognize challenges before they become bigger health or behavior issues. 🐾 The Connection Between Confidence and Health Why confidence, digestion, and emotional well-being may be more closely connected than many cat parents realize. ❤️ How Stress Can Affect Cats Why changes such as moving, introducing a new pet, or other life transitions can influence a cat’s emotional and physical health. 🏡 Creating a Calmer Home How safety, relationships, and household energy may play an important role in helping cats feel secure. ✋ A Simple Technique You Can Try Today Joan demonstrates the “bladder sweep,” a gentle stroking technique designed to help cats feel more grounded and relaxed. 📘 Joan’s Recommendations for Cat Parents * Observe your cat’s body language and behavior with curiosity rather than judgment. * Support both emotional and physical health—they’re closely connected. * Help build your cat’s confidence through enrichment, play, and positive experiences. * During major life changes, focus on creating calm, predictable routines. * Use gentle daily touch, like the bladder sweep, to help your cat feel grounded and secure. * Work alongside your veterinarian, using energy-based practices as a complement—not a replacement—for medical care. 🌍 Where to Find Joan 🌐 Website: JoanRanquet.com 📖 Book: Animal Chakra Healing 🎓 Communication With All Life University (CWALU) 📸 Instagram: @joanranquet 📘 Facebook: Joan Ranquet – Communication With All Life Joan also offers workshops, online courses, animal communication training, and wildlife retreats through her website. ✨ Final Thought Our cats communicate with us every day—through their body language, behavior, emotions, and relationships. Whether or not you’re familiar with chakras, Joan encourages us to slow down, observe more closely, and recognize that supporting our cats emotionally can be just as important as supporting them physically. Sometimes, helping our cats thrive begins with simply paying attention. 🎙️ Loved This Episode? Subscribe to The Golden Whiskers Podcast and leave a review—it helps more cat parents discover practical ways to help their cats 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 Kathleen Prasad, founder of Animal Reiki Source and creator of the Let Animals Lead® Method of Animal Reiki. Kathleen has spent nearly three decades working with animals and teaching people around the world how to build deeper connections through presence, compassion, and meditation. Together, we explore a simple but powerful idea: when we give cats more choice, more agency, and more respect for their preferences, everything changes. We talk about what Animal Reiki actually is, how Kathleen’s approach differs from traditional Reiki practices, why cats are such incredible teachers, and how our own energy can impact the animals we love. Along the way, I share stories about my cats Niko and Milo, and Kathleen shares some fascinating experiences from her years working with shelter cats and other animals. 👉 If you’ve ever wished you could better understand your cat—or create a calmer, more connected relationship—this episode is for you. ✨ Episode Snapshot In this episode, you’ll learn: 😺 What Animal Reiki Really IsWhy Animal Reiki is less about “doing” something to your cat and more about creating a calm, healing space where connection can naturally happen. 🐾 What “Let Animals Lead” MeansHow Kathleen’s approach gives animals the freedom to choose how they engage—and why that choice can be transformative. 💞 Why Cats Are Such Powerful TeachersWhat cats can teach us about boundaries, trust, presence, and respecting individual preferences. 🧘 How Your Energy Affects Your CatWhy stress, worry, frustration, and anxiety can influence our cats more than we realize—and how calm can be contagious too. 🌱 Helping Shy, Fearful, or Stressed Cats Feel SaferA simple breathing practice that helps you become more present and creates an environment where cats feel more comfortable and secure. 💊 Using Calm During Challenging MomentsHow bringing a grounded, peaceful energy to situations like medication time can make the experience less stressful for both you and your cat. 👂 Learning to Listen to Your CatWhy paying attention to your cat’s preferences may be one of the greatest gifts you can offer them. 📘 Kathleen’s Recommendations for Cat Owners Give your cat more choice whenever possible.Choice builds trust, confidence, and emotional safety. Practice being fully present.Cats live in the moment. The more present we become, the more connected we can be with them. Notice your own energy.Stress is contagious—but calm is contagious too. Respect your cat’s preferences.Not every cat wants attention, interaction, or affection in the same way. Let go of expectations.Sometimes the deepest connection happens when we stop trying to make something happen. 🌍 Where to Find Kathleen 🌐 Website: animalreikisource.com📸 Instagram: @animalreikisource📘 Facebook: Animal Reiki Source📺 YouTube: Animal Reiki Source 🎁 Free 3-Day Animal Reiki Challenge:In this free challenge, Kathleen teaches simple practices you can use immediately with your cat to create more calm, connection, and trust. ✨ Final Thought Cats have a remarkable way of showing us what matters. They remind us to slow down.To be present.To listen more than we speak.And sometimes, to stop trying so hard to control everything. When we give our cats the freedom to be themselves, we often discover that they’re teaching us how to be more fully ourselves too. 🎙️ 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

This week on the Golden Whiskers Podcast, I’m re-sharing one of the most downloaded episodes from last year — my conversation with feline longevity expert Penny Wood, also known as Dr. Zoolittle. I wanted to bring this episode back because dental health is one of those topics many of us know is important for our cats… but we still may not really know what to do with it. Honestly, I learned a lot of this the hard way with Nomar and Mia. Nomar ended up needing teeth pulled later in life. Mia also had dental problems, but by the time they were discovered, she was already dealing with kidney disease and other health challenges, and we had to make some very difficult decisions around treatment and anesthesia. Now with Niko and Milo, I’m trying to approach things differently and be more proactive instead of reactive. And as I listened back to this interview myself, I realized I still haven’t fully acted on some of the things Penny shared. So this re-release is a reminder for me too. 🎧 In This Episode Penny and I discuss: * Why dental health is connected to the entire body * How oral bacteria can affect the kidneys, liver, and overall health * Signs of dental problems cat parents often miss * Why brushing your cat’s teeth may not be the only option * The myth that kibble naturally cleans cats’ teeth * How wild cats naturally maintain healthier teeth * Natural approaches to prevention and tartar support * What Penny feeds her own cats, Merri and Pippin 😳 One of the Biggest Takeaways One thing that really stuck with me is Penny explaining why dry food doesn’t necessarily clean cats’ teeth the way many of us were told. She compares it to trying to clean your own teeth with candy or toffee — technically abrasive, but still loaded with carbohydrates and sugars that bacteria love. It was one of those “wait… what?” moments for me. 🌿 About Penny Wood (Dr. Zoolittle) Penny is a longevity zoologist, zoo welfare consultant, mammal trainer, and pet health concierge specializing in animal longevity, cognitive enrichment, and holistic wellness. You can learn more about her work here: * DrZoolittle.co * @DrZoolittle on Instagram 💬 Final Thought Dental issues are now one of the most common reasons pets visit the vet — and according to Penny, cats as young as two are already showing signs of dental disease. If you’ve ever wondered: * “Should I brush my cat’s teeth?” * “Does kibble actually help?” * “What are realistic things I can do?” …this episode is worth a listen. And if you already have a dental routine that’s working for your cat, I’d genuinely love to hear about it. Grab Penny’s free dental care guide for cats, a must-read for starting preventive measures or tackling existing dental issues. 📚 You can download the guide here. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

Have you ever felt like your cat is trying to tell you something… but you’re not quite sure what it is? In this episode, we explore a different way of understanding our cats—one that goes beyond behavior and into energy, emotion, and connection. I’m joined by Blair Hope, an animal communicator and animal hospice practitioner, who shares how our cats are constantly communicating with us… and how our own emotions may be shaping their behavior more than we realize. Whether you’re fully on board with this idea or just curious, this conversation might shift how you see your relationship with your cat. 🐾 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * How cats communicate beyond meows and body language * Why your emotional state can directly impact your cat’s behavior * Hidden reasons behind common behavior issues * What your cat might be trying to tell you when something feels “off” * How to build a deeper, more intentional connection with your cat * Gentle insights into end-of-life care and understanding your cat’s needs 📘 Recommendations for Cat Owners: 🗣️ Start talking to your cat more intentionally—your tone and energy matter 👀 Notice behavior changes as communication, not “bad behavior” 🤔 Before reacting, ask: what might my cat be trying to tell me? 🌿 When things feel off, look at both your cat’s environment and your own energy 🧘‍♂️ In stressful situations (like vet visits), focus on calming yourself first 🎙️ About Our Guest: Blair Hope is an animal communicator, Healing Touch for Animals practitioner, and certified animal hospice practitioner. She helps pet parents better understand their pets, navigate behavior challenges, and make compassionate end-of-life decisions. You can learn more about her work at:👉 www.blairhope.com 🐱 Final Thought: Your cat may not use words… …but they’re always communicating. The more we slow down and pay attention—the more we start to understand what they’ve been saying all along.🎧 Listen now and let me know what stood out to you. 🐾 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow cat lover. The more we learn together, the longer and healthier our cats can live. See you next time on The Golden Whiskers Podcast! 😺💛 Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

Encore Presentation: One of the most important conversations we’ve had on feline nutrition. If you’re feeding your cat kibble—or even if you think you’re doing everything “right”—this episode might change the way you think about your cat’s food. In this encore presentation, we’re diving into cat nutrition with one of the best in the field: Dr. Ruth Roberts, creator of The Original CrockPet Diet and a pioneer in holistic pet health. Whether you’re feeding kibble or already trying to upgrade your cat’s diet, this episode is packed with practical, easy-to-understand ways to support their health and longevity. 🐾 In This Episode: * Why most cats should not eat starchy carbs (bye rice & potatoes 👋) * How to make a slow, safe transition from kibble to canned, then to cooked or raw * What to look for (and avoid) in canned cat food * Easy food upgrades for cats with kidney disease * Why feeding variety matters (and why too many proteins in one meal might be a problem!) * The truth about taurine—and how to make sure your cat gets enough * Toppers, supplements, and homemade tips for feline gut health * How to use fermented foods like yogurt and goat milk for better digestion * The one unexpected human food Dr. Ruth recommends adding to your cat’s bowl 📘 Dr. Ruth’s Recommendations for Cat Owners * 🧠 Start simple: If your cat’s been eating kibble for years, transition slowly to canned, then to cooked or raw * 🥩 Stick to one protein per meal to reduce food sensitivities and support gut health * 🛑 Avoid starches like peas, potatoes, and rice in your cat’s food * 💧 Moisture is everything—especially for cats with kidney disease. Add broth or water to food and use filtered water when possible * 🌈 Feed the rainbow: Add colorful veggies (cooked and pureed) to support the microbiome * 🧂 Use toppers like sardines, bone broth, or butter to make new foods tastier * 🧬 Use omega-3s and probiotics: especially helpful for cats with inflammation or digestive issues * 💪 For cats with kidney disease: prioritize moisture, avoid low-protein diets unless absolutely necessary, and explore phosphate binders if needed * 🔬 Want to cook at home? Check out training from Feed Real Institute, Dr. Ian Billinghurst, or work with one of Dr. Ruth’s certified Holistic Pet Health Coaches 🌐 Where to Find Dr. Ruth Roberts * 💻 Website: drruthroberts.com * 📘 Facebook: The Original Holistic Pet Health Coach * 📸 Instagram: @dr.ruthroberts * 📺 YouTube: Dr. Ruth Roberts ✨ Final Thought “Feeding your cat better doesn’t mean doing everything all at once. Start where you are—and take one small step forward. Even switching from kibble to canned is a big win.”— Dr. Ruth Roberts This is one of those episodes I’d bookmark and come back to. 🎧 Listen now and let me know what stood out to you. 🐾 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow cat lover. The more we learn together, the longer and healthier our cats can live. See you next time on The Golden Whiskers Podcast! 😺💛 Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

🐾 Episode Overview This episode is a little different. No guest. No expert interview. Just me taking a moment to reflect, celebrate, and say thank you. A few days ago marked one year since the very first episode of the Golden Whiskers podcast—and it also marked two years since I adopted Niko and Milo. Both of those moments are connected, and both have shaped everything this podcast has become. When I started this show, it was coming out of loss. After losing Mia and Nomar, I wanted to do something meaningful to honor them. That led to the Feline Wellness Summit… which then became this podcast. And here we are, one year later. Over 21,000 downloads.Dozens of expert conversations.And a growing community of people who truly care about giving their cats the best life possible. That part means a lot to me. ❤️ What This Podcast Has Been About From the beginning, this wasn’t about me being the expert. It was about learning. Learning from people who know more than I do.Learning from mistakes I made with Nomar and Mia.And applying everything I can with Niko and Milo so they can live longer, healthier, happier lives. This podcast has also helped me in real time. Whether it’s figuring out behavior challenges…nutrition…or even something as simple as reintroducing two bonded cats after a stressful vet visit… There have been moments where I genuinely didn’t know what to do—and this community, and these conversations, helped guide me. 🙏 Thank You I just want to say this clearly: Thank you for being here. Whether you’ve listened from the beginning or just found the podcast recently…whether you’ve shared an episode, reached out, or quietly tuned in each week… You’re the reason this exists. And it means a lot to know there are people out there who care this much about their cats. 🌙 What I’m Excited About I’ve also been working on something new that I’m really excited about. It’s called The Whiskers Sanctuary. It’s very different from this podcast—slower, quieter, more of an experience than a conversation. They’re sleep stories for cat lovers. I created it because I’ve struggled with waking up in the middle of the night, and I know how helpful calming audio, stories, and sound can be. I wanted to create something specifically for people like us—people who love cats and want more calm and peace in their lives. If that sounds like something you need, you can check it out at: 👉 https://thewhiskerssanctuary.com/ I’ve been releasing multiple stories each week, and I really think it’s some of the best work I’ve put out there. 🐱 Final Thought At the end of the day, this podcast started as a way to help people take better care of their cats. But it’s also been a way for me to stay connected—to Nomar and Mia, and to the kind of cat dad I want to be for Niko and Milo. I’m really glad you’re here. 📘 Recommendations for Cat Owners * Keep learning—small changes over time can make a big difference in your cat’s health and quality of life * Don’t be afraid to ask for help (from vets, experts, or even this community) * Focus on the basics: nutrition, hydration, play, and connection * Pay attention to behavior changes—they often tell you more than you think * Most importantly, enjoy your time with your cat. That’s what it’s all about 🐾 Final Thought One year in… and we’re just getting started. With gratitude,Scott Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

This episode came from a moment that honestly caught me off guard. Niko went to the vet. He came home. And Milo—his bonded brother, his constant companion—looked at him like he had never seen him before. There was hissing. There was tension. There was that uncomfortable feeling of watching something that shouldn’t be happening… happen anyway. If you’ve ever had two cats suddenly turn on each other, you know how unsettling that can feel. So instead of guessing my way through it, I brought in someone who truly understands feline behavior—Dr. Rachel Geller—to break down exactly what was going on and how to fix it. What unfolded was not just reassuring—it was eye-opening. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode We talk through what’s actually happening when cats suddenly “forget” each other, and why this situation is much more common than most cat parents realize. Dr. Rachel explains that this behavior has a name—feline non-recognition aggression—and it has nothing to do with your cats suddenly disliking each other. It’s about scent, confusion, and instinct. You’ll hear: * Why your cat may come home from the vet smelling like a complete stranger * How scent—not sight—is the primary way cats recognize each other * Why hissing is usually fear, not aggression * The key body language signs that tell you whether things are escalating or not * When to wait it out… and when to step in 🔄 The Step-by-Step Reintroduction Process We walk through exactly what I did (with Dr. Rachel guiding me behind the scenes) to help Niko and Milo get back to normal. This includes: * Why the returning cat should go into a sanctuary room (not the other way around) * How to do scent swapping with a damp towel to reintroduce familiarity * Using food as a positive association tool to rebuild trust * How to safely start short “togetherness sessions” and build from there * Why going slow is everything—and how rushing can actually set you back This wasn’t instant. It took patience, structure, and a lot of awareness. But it worked. ❤️ The Moment Everything Shifted After a few days of following the process, something changed. They started relaxing around each other. The tension eased. And then one night, I woke up to both of them sleeping on me… and grooming each other again. That was the moment I knew their bond was still there. It hadn’t been broken. It just needed to be rebuilt. 🛠️ Recommendations for Cat Owners If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here are a few key takeaways: * Always assume scent changes will happen after a vet visit—and plan for it * Use a sanctuary room immediately when your cat returns home * Start scent swapping early instead of waiting for a problem * Keep interactions gradual and structured * Don’t panic over a hiss—it’s often fear, not a fight * Trust the process and give your cats time to recalibrate 🌎 About Dr. Rachel’s Work Dr. Rachel also shares her incredible work through her nonprofit All Cats All the Time, where she helps keep cats in their homes by providing free behavior support and financial assistance for cat parents in need. It’s a powerful reminder that many behavior issues can be resolved—with the right guidance. 🐱 Final Thought If your cats ever seem like strangers overnight, it doesn’t mean their bond is gone. It just means something changed in how they recognize each other. And with a little patience, structure, and understanding… they can find their way back. 💌 Never Miss an Episode For weekly feline wellness conversations—ranging from health and behavior to the deeper emotional bond we share with our cats—head to GoldenWhiskersLove.com and subscribe. Every Friday, a new episode lands in your inbox… along with practical, heartfelt insights to help your cat live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

In this special live episode of the Golden Whiskers podcast, I sat down with Sandra-Lynne, a pet loss grief specialist and founder of Tails of Tribute, to talk about something every cat parent will face at some point… but something we don’t always know how to navigate. Grief. Not just the loss itself—but what happens to the bond after our cats are gone. Because if you’ve ever loved a cat deeply, you know… that connection doesn’t just disappear. It changes. It shifts. And sometimes, it lingers in ways that are hard to explain. This conversation felt especially personal for me. My best friend Lori recently lost her cat Remi on March 1st. It’s been just a few weeks, and I’ve seen firsthand how disorienting that loss can be. The silence in the apartment. The routines that suddenly stop. The spaces that feel… different. I’ve been there too. When I lost Mia, I couldn’t even stay in my own place at first. I ended up sleeping on Lori’s couch because being alone felt unbearable. So this episode isn’t just a conversation. It’s something I wish more people had access to when they’re in the middle of it. ✨ Episode Snapshot In this episode, Sandra shares a deeply compassionate and grounded perspective on pet loss—one that goes beyond the typical “stages of grief” and into what it actually feels like to live through it. 💔 The Early Days of Grief Sandra describes the first few weeks after losing a pet as raw, overwhelming, and all-consuming. It’s not neat or linear. It’s everything at once—sadness, guilt, confusion, longing. Your mind replays moments. Your body feels heavy. You’re not “processing”… you’re surviving. And hearing that—just that alone—can be a relief. Because it reminds you: nothing is wrong with you. 🐾 Staying Connected Without “Holding On” One of the most powerful takeaways from this conversation is the idea that we don’t have to “move on” from our pets. Instead, we begin to integrate the relationship. What was once a physical presence becomes something internal—memories, feelings, lessons, love. That bond doesn’t disappear. It evolves. ⚖️ Navigating Guilt If you’ve ever lost a pet, you’ve probably asked yourself: Did I do the right thing?Should I have waited longer?Could I have done more? Sandra explains that guilt is incredibly common—and it doesn’t mean you did anything wrong. We make decisions based on what we know in the moment, with the resources we have, guided by love. There is no crystal ball. And sometimes, part of healing is gently reframing those thoughts and allowing ourselves some compassion. 🧠 Grief Lives in the Body Too One thing Sandra emphasizes—and something that really stood out—is that grief isn’t just emotional. It’s physical. It can feel like: * heaviness in your chest * restlessness or anxiety * exhaustion * difficulty focusing Your nervous system is trying to process something profound. Which is why gentle practices—like breathwork, tapping, or simply creating small moments of calm—can be so helpful. ❤️ For Anyone Grieving Right Now I asked Sandra what she would say to someone who just lost their cat. Her answer was honest and grounding. There’s no way around it—you have to go through it. But there are small things that can help: Changing your routine slightly so your body isn’t constantly expecting your cat to be therePlaying music or adding soft sound to ease the silenceLighting a candle to create a sense of presenceGiving yourself permission to not be okay It’s not about fixing the grief. It’s about learning how to be with it. 🌿 Honoring Your Cat’s Life We also talked about ways to honor your cat that don’t have to be big or complicated. Some of the most meaningful ideas included: Creating a memory box with collars, tags, photos, or favorite toysWriting letters or journaling to your catPlanting something in their memoryHanging a wind chime and letting the sound become a reminder of themWriting a tribute that captures their story and the impact they had on your life For me, journaling was a big one after Nomar passed. I wrote him letters. I told him I loved him. I apologized for the things I wished I could have done differently. And over time, something shifted. It didn’t take the grief away—but it softened it. 📘 Sandra’s Recommendations for Cat Owners If you’re navigating pet loss, here are a few gentle takeaways from this conversation: • Allow yourself to feel everything—grief isn’t linear• Remind yourself: you did the best you could with what you knew• Let the relationship evolve instead of trying to “move on”• Use simple practices like journaling, candles, or music to create connection• Change routines slightly to ease the transition• Speak about your pet, even if it’s just to yourself• Lean on support—you don’t have to go through this alone 🌍 Where to Find Sandra Sandra-Lynne offers a beautiful, compassionate space for those navigating pet loss. Website: https://tailsoftribute.com Substack: Tails of TributeFacebook & InstagramYouTube She also offers:• 1:1 grief support sessions• A free collection of 50 pet loss journal prompts• A space to write and share tributes to your pet• A supportive Facebook group for those grieving If you’re going through this right now, her work is a wonderful place to start. ✨ Final Thought Grief doesn’t mean the bond is broken. It means the bond mattered. And maybe… just maybe… the goal isn’t to let go of our cats. It’s to carry them with us in a different way. 💌 Never Miss an Episode For weekly feline wellness conversations—ranging from health and behavior to the deeper emotional bond we share with our cats—head to GoldenWhiskersLove.com and subscribe. Every Friday, a new episode lands in your inbox… along with practical, heartfelt insights to help your cat live a longer, healthier, and happier life. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

This is a shorter solo episode, but I wanted to share something that happened a couple days ago with Niko and Milo because it really caught me off guard. If you listened to the episode from a couple weeks ago, you might remember the situation where Niko came home from the vet and Milo didn’t recognize him because of the smell. That led to a full separation and reintroduction process over three days, which was stressful for all of us. Thankfully, everything worked out. This time, it was a different kind of situation—and honestly, a little more confusing. Niko and Milo are bonded brothers. They play hard, chase each other around the apartment, jump up on shelves and cat trees, and wrestle constantly. That’s just their normal rhythm. Every now and then, one of them might hiss if play gets a little too intense, but it’s rare and usually passes quickly. A couple mornings ago, I was hosting a video call and could see them in the background doing their usual thing—running, chasing, going up and down the shelves. At one point, I heard a hiss, but nothing that seemed out of the ordinary. A few minutes later, after I got off the call, I noticed Milo hiding in my bedroom closet, behind the hanging clothes. That’s not a place he ever goes, and it immediately stood out to me. It was time to feed them, so I grabbed their bowls like I normally do. As usual, both of them ran toward the kitchen when they heard the bowls—but then Milo suddenly turned around and ran back to the closet before I even put the food down. That’s when I knew something wasn’t right. I also noticed that one of them had used the litter box and didn’t bury it, which was unusual. I started trying to piece things together and wondered if maybe something had happened during play, or possibly while one of them was in the litter box. I didn’t see it happen, so I was left guessing. Lori was here, so we decided to separate them briefly just to give Milo some space. She stayed in the bedroom with Milo and gave him some treats, while I stayed in the living room with Niko and did the same. Even with the door closed and treats in front of him, Milo still seemed uneasy. He just wasn’t himself. After a little while, we opened the door and I put their food down. They both ran to their bowls and ate like normal. Afterward, Milo came up and sat on my lap for a few minutes, which felt like a good sign. But then when Niko came over, Milo got up, moved around a bit, and eventually went right back to the closet. This went on for about two hours. The best way I can describe it is that he just seemed spooked. At that point, I reached out to Dr. Rachel Geller, who helped me with the previous situation, just to get her thoughts. I wanted to know if this was something I should be concerned about or if it would likely resolve on its own. Eventually, things started to shift. Milo came and sat on my lap while I was hosting another call and stayed there for about 90 minutes. Niko was sleeping on the couch nearby. Then Milo got down, walked over to the couch, and instead of reacting or retreating, he joined Niko. They started grooming each other and ended up falling asleep together like nothing had happened. Everything went back to normal. When Dr. Rachel responded, one thing she said really stood out to me. She reminded me that cats, just like people, can have miscommunications. They can misread body language, get annoyed with each other, or simply have a moment where things feel off. I realized I had been thinking of them as bonded brothers who are always in sync, but even they can have small breakdowns in communication. Her recommendation, since this seemed like a one-time event, was to focus on interactive play—specifically using the prey sequence. That means engaging them in play that mimics stalking, chasing, pouncing, and catching, which gives them a healthy outlet for their energy and helps rebuild positive associations. It was a really good reminder for me. They do play together all the time, but that’s not the same as intentional, structured play with me. I haven’t been as consistent with that lately, especially since I don’t currently have a wand toy, and it made me realize that I need to get back to doing that daily. 📘 Recommendations for Cat Owners If you ever notice one of your cats suddenly acting differently—hiding, avoiding food, or seeming uneasy around another cat—it doesn’t always mean something serious is wrong. Sometimes it really is just a moment. That said, it’s worth paying attention. Give them a little space if needed, keep an eye on their behavior, and consider adding in structured play sessions to help release any built-up tension and restore a sense of normalcy. In many cases, like this one, things resolve on their own. 🐱 What I’m Trying With Niko & Milo For me, this was a reminder to be more intentional again. I’m committing to bringing back daily interactive play sessions with both of them, making sure they’re getting that full prey sequence experience, not just relying on their roughhousing with each other. 💭 Final Thought This was a small moment, but it stuck with me. Even in a home where things feel calm and connected most of the time, there can still be brief moments of confusion or miscommunication. What matters most is how quickly things can settle when they feel safe again. If you found this helpful, make sure you’re subscribed to the Golden Whiskers Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes. And if you’ve been enjoying the show, a quick five-star review really helps more cat parents find it. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

This week’s episode is a little different. Most weeks on the Golden Whiskers Podcast, I’m talking about feline wellness — nutrition, longevity, enrichment, and how we can help our cats live long, healthy lives. But today I’m talking about grief. My best friend Lori’s cat, Remi, passed away on March 1st. I’m recording this episode on March 10th, so it’s still very fresh. Remi wasn’t technically my cat… but the loss has still hit me really hard. If you’ve ever loved a cat — whether it was yours, a friend’s, or one you cared for often — you probably understand how deep that bond can go. In this episode, I share a tribute to Remi and reflect on the powerful ripple effect animals can have on the people around them. I also talk about the unique grief that can come when a cat who wasn’t “officially yours” still becomes part of your heart and your daily life. Remi was a stunningly beautiful cat with a joyful spirit. She loved being outside, exploring the grass around Lori’s apartment, greeting people at the door, and opening Christmas presents like a little kid on Christmas morning. Over the past couple of months, as Remi’s health declined, I spent a lot of time helping Lori care for her — giving medication, visiting almost daily, and simply being there. That time deepened the bond even more. And when the time came to say goodbye at the University of Tennessee Veterinary Hospital, I was there with Lori — just as Lori had been there for me when I had to say goodbye to my own cats, Nomar and Mia. This episode is really about that bond. The quiet magic animals bring into our lives. The companionship, comfort, and purpose they give us — often without us even realizing it until they’re gone. 📘 Recommendations for Cat Owners If you are experiencing pet loss right now — or supporting someone who is — a few thoughts from the heart: Lean on your support system.Grief can feel incredibly isolating, especially when your home suddenly feels quiet. If you have someone you trust — a friend, family member, or fellow pet lover — let them be there for you. Talk to someone who understands the human–animal bond.Not everyone has experienced pet loss, and that’s okay. But it can help tremendously to talk with someone who truly understands how deep that bond runs. Let go of guilt.Almost every pet parent experiences it after a loss — wondering if we could have done something differently. The truth is, we make the best decisions we can with the information and resources we have, and we do it out of love. Allow yourself to grieve.The loss of a cat is real grief. Give yourself permission to feel it. ✨Final Thought Remi may have been Lori’s cat… but the love she created reached far beyond just one person. Animals have this quiet way of changing our lives. They bring joy, comfort, companionship, and meaning into our everyday routines. And when they’re gone, that absence is deeply felt. Remi will always be remembered, and always loved. Rest easy, sweet Remi. 🐾 Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode, I share a very personal story that unfolded right here in my apartment with my two bonded brothers, Niko and Milo. If you have more than one cat, you might know this scenario. You bring one cat home from the vet… and suddenly the other cat acts like they’ve never met before. Hissing. Swatting. Staring. That’s exactly what happened with Niko and Milo. These two normally sleep together, groom each other, and chase each other around the apartment like brothers. But after a quick vet visit, Milo looked at Niko like he was a complete stranger. It was confusing. It was stressful. And honestly, it made my stomach drop. In this episode, I walk through what happened, why this kind of reaction is actually very common in cats, and how things eventually resolved. 😻Why Cats Sometimes “Forget” Each Other After the Vet Cats recognize each other primarily through scent. When a cat goes to the vet, they often come home smelling like things that are completely foreign to the other cat: • disinfectants• other animals• medications• unfamiliar environments So when the cat returns home, the other cat’s brain may process it as: “Something about this cat is different.” That’s what leads to the hissing, swatting, and intense monitoring. It’s not that their bond suddenly disappeared. It’s more like a temporary case of scent confusion. ⏳What It Felt Like in the Moment Even though I understand cat behavior pretty well, watching Niko and Milo react to each other like that was tough. You start wondering: Did their bond break? Are they going to fight? Did I do something wrong? Every hiss suddenly feels huge. But what I learned through this experience is that hissing and even a light swat are often just cats communicating boundaries, not signs of a broken relationship. 🙏Getting Guidance from Dr. Rachel Geller and Melissa Sherman I reached out to two people I trust for guidance. Dr. Rachel Geller, a cat behaviorist, helped me put a structured plan in place. Her approach focused on rebuilding positive associations between the cats through controlled feeding sessions and short, supervised “togetherness” sessions. At the same time, Melissa Sherman — an animal communicator — shared another helpful perspective. Melissa reminded me that sometimes we can over-manage situations like this. Cats also need space to communicate and work things out naturally. So I followed Dr. Rachel’s plan while also trusting what I was seeing from Niko and Milo. 🐱❤️🐱How the Togetherness Sessions Went We started with short, supervised sessions where Niko came out of the bathroom and Milo could see and smell him again. At first Milo watched him closely. There were a few: • butt sniff checks• small hisses• a couple gentle swats But nothing escalated. They were able to be in the same space and disengage on their own. And gradually the tension started to fade. 💤 The Moment Everything Shifted Later that evening we let Niko stay out longer while my friend Lori and I just sat on the couch watching TV. At first Milo monitored him closely. But over time things softened. Lori went to sleep in my bedroom and I fell asleep on the sofa. Then around 3:40 in the morning, I woke up and saw something that made me smile. Niko and Milo were sleeping together again. About five minutes later they woke up and started grooming each other. That’s when I knew things were truly back to normal. 💡What Cat Parents Can Take Away from This If something like this happens in your home, here are a few things to remember. Vet scent confusion is very common. Cats rely heavily on scent to recognize each other. Hissing doesn’t necessarily mean aggression. Often it’s just a cat saying: “Give me a little space.” Most bonded cats work things out surprisingly quickly. Once the scent starts to normalize again, their relationship usually resets. ✨ Final Thought Watching Niko and Milo sleep together again reminded me just how strong the bond between cats can be. Sometimes they just need a little time to remember who each other are. And sometimes the best thing we can do as cat parents is stay calm, give them space, and let them communicate in their own language. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode, I’m resharing one of our most downloaded conversations — and it’s hitting differently for me right now. I’m joined by Julie-Anne Heart, founder of Naturally CAT and author of Cat Chakras. Julie-Anne specializes in gentle, holistic approaches that support a cat’s emotional and energetic well-being — including something many of us have never heard of: color therapy. I’m bringing this episode back because a close friend of mine, Lori, is navigating a tough stretch with her cat Remi. Remi was recently diagnosed with chronic IBD. She’s dealing with thyroid issues and recently started steroids after vomiting, appetite loss, and weight changes. Since starting steroids, she’s been more vocal. Sometimes restless. Sometimes unsettled. And honestly? Sometimes we just don’t know what she wants. If you’ve ever had a cat on medication and felt like you were guessing… this episode is for you. Color therapy may sound unfamiliar — it did to me at first — but what I appreciate about Julie-Anne’s approach is that it’s gentle, non-invasive, and centered around giving your cat a choice. ✨ Episode Snapshot In this episode, you’ll learn: 🌈 What Color Therapy Actually Is Julie-Anne explains how color therapy works with the seven main energy centers (chakras) in the body — and how each color corresponds to different emotional and physical support. 🧘 Why Choice Is Everything You don’t force a color into a cat bed or carrier. You offer options and let your cat choose. The act of choice itself is part of the healing. 🎨 The 7 Main Colors Explained * Red (root – grounding, safety) * Orange (sacral) * Yellow (solar plexus) * Green or Pink (heart – love, reassurance) * Blue (throat) * Indigo (third eye) * Violet or White (crown) Shade doesn’t matter nearly as much as intention and offering. 🟥 Grounding Anxious or Restless Cats For cats who seem on edge, unsettled, or stressed — especially after vet visits or medication changes — Julie-Anne often starts with red for grounding. 💚 Rebuilding Trust After Stress When Nico came home from an emergency vet visit and Milo hissed at him (because his scent changed), Julie-Anne suggested red for Nico and green for Milo — to support grounding and heart reassurance. 🧺 You Can Use What You Already Have You don’t need special equipment. Towels, shirts, scarves, paper, even pens can work. The medium isn’t the magic — the offering is. ⏱ “My Cat Only Sat There for Two Minutes… Did It Work?” Yes. A sniff. A paw placed on a color. A brief sit. All count as engagement. 🌈 Rainbow Blankets: Helpful but Limited Rainbow fabric can help, but individual colors give your cat more control if they only want one frequency at a time. 📘 Julie-Anne’s Recommendations for Cat Owners Keeping it simple, gentle, and practical: • Offer colors in neutral, calm areas — not near litter boxes or food stations.• Don’t force colors into carriers or beds.• Watch subtle signals — sniffing, stepping across, stretching a paw.• Start with red for grounding if your cat feels anxious or unsettled.• Use green for emotional reassurance and bonding support.• Be patient — some cats take a day or two to lean into something new.• Remember: your calm energy matters too. 🌍 Where to Find Julie-Anne Website: https://naturallycats.co.uk/ Books mentioned:• Cat Chakras• The Aromatic Cat (co-authored with Nayana Morag) Julie-Anne also offers chakra rebalance sessions, Soul Sensing treatments, and programs to help anxious cat guardians move from head to heart. ✨ Final Thought When our cats are stressed — especially during illness or medication changes — we don’t always need a dramatic intervention. Sometimes we need gentleness. Sometimes we soften the room.Sometimes we regulate ourselves.Sometimes we offer choice instead of control. If you try color therapy — or even just experiment with calming environmental shifts — I’d genuinely love to hear what you notice. 💌 Never Miss an Episode For 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 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 Snapshot In this episode, you’ll learn: 🩺 Why Kidney Disease Is So Common Now Up 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 Problem Why 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 Connection IBD, inflammation, dental disease, and environmental toxins don’t just affect the gut — they increase the burden on the kidneys. 🍽️ The Protein Myth Why 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 Support How Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine supports kidney blood flow, and why Melissa often uses Rehmannia-based formulas for aging cats. 💦 Subcutaneous Fluids Demystified What 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 Melissa Website: https://www.holistapawspethealth.com Facebook Page: HTA Paws Pet Health Melissa is also partnering with Ask Ariel (pet nutritionist and product formulator) for additional feline wellness resources. ✨ Final Thought Kidney 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 episode For 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