Golden Whiskers with Scott Colby

• Is Your Cat Struggling More Than You Realize? Diet and Mobility Warning Signs with Michael Daly

  Welcome back to the Golden Whiskers Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Michael Daly, owner of Pawsitive Wellness. With over 25 years in the animal field as a Vet Tech, Canine Massage Therapist, and Holistic Pet Health Coach, Michael brings deep experience and a heart for helping pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives.Michael lives with his cats Nemo (turning 18!) and Chloe, plus his golden retriever Luna — and he shares plenty of personal stories about them in this conversation.Together, we explore how small shifts in diet and mobility care can transform our cats’ wellbeing, plus the patience it takes for real changes to happen.✨ Episode SnapshotIn this episode, you’ll learn:🐟 Smart Diet Upgrades (Without Overwhelm)How to move from kibble ➝ canned ➝ lightly cooked/raw in tiny steps—and why any fresh add-ins (sardines, cooked chicken, goat’s milk) are wins.🧠 Patience > PerfectionWhy diet shifts and supplements can take months (even a year) to “show up” in your cat’s body—and how to stick with it without losing your mind.🍼 Picky-Eater PlaybookReal-world tricks to outsmart stubborn cats: baby food starters, toppers, gradual mixing, and rotating textures and proteins.💧 Hydration = Kidney ProtectionWhat kibble demands from a cat’s water stores, why adding water to meals matters, and how “not drinking from the fountain” can actually be a good sign on moist diets.👀 Early Mobility Red FlagsSubtle clues most of us miss: hesitation to jump, “tippy-toe” stance, belly or foreleg over-licking (neuropathy clue), tightening when picked up, and more.👐 At-Home Body CareSimple lap-time shoulder/neck rubs to “un-wrinkle” tight muscle fibers after play or big jumps—plus easy prevention for young cats and comfort for seniors.🌿 Holistic Help, When to Use WhatWhere acupuncture, cold-laser therapy, chiropractic, and massage fit—and when Adequan injections or vet-tech house calls make life easier.🌾 Gut First, Joints SecondWhy probiotics (e.g., spore-based options) + a species-appropriate diet reduce whole-body inflammation and set the stage for joint support later.🍲 What’s in the Bowl (Today!)Michael’s current rotation: pork, white fish, or chicken CrockPet-style with carrots + squash (cat-approved sweet notes), sometimes dandelion greens, and a targeted multivitamin—plus how/when he tweaks for Nemo (almost 18!) and Chloe.📘 Michael’s Recommendations for Cat Owners* Give it time. Diet changes and supplements can take months — sometimes even a year — to show results. Don’t give up too soon.* Hydration matters. Canned or homemade food with added water helps protect kidney health.* Start with gut health. A solid diet plus probiotics can reduce inflammation throughout the body.* Rotate proteins. Mix things up with pork, chicken, or white fish for variety and balance.* Support mobility early. Watch for subtle signs (hesitation to jump, excessive licking, tippy-toe walking) and talk to your vet before problems worsen.* Explore holistic care. Options like acupuncture, cold laser therapy, and massage can make a big difference, especially for senior cats.🌐 Connect with Michael* Website: www.pawsitive-wellness.com* YouTube: Pawsitive Wellness — massage demos, educational shorts, and client advocacy tips* TikTok: Pawsitive Wellness* Instagram: Pawsitive Wellness (personal/acting + some pet content)💭 Final ThoughtHelping our cats thrive doesn’t always come from big, dramatic changes — it often comes from consistency, patience, and observation. Whether it’s slowly transitioning their diet, noticing subtle signs of discomfort, or adding a little massage at home, every small step builds a healthier, happier life for our feline companions.💌 Never Miss an EpisodeIf you loved this conversation and want more bite-sized feline wellness wisdom each week, head to GoldenWhiskersLove.com and join the newsletter.You’ll get weekly podcast drops, behind-the-scenes updates, and extra goodies for devoted cat parents like you. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

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• Is Stress Making Your Cat Sick? What Every Cat Parent Should Know With Nayana Morag

  🎙️ Episode SnapshotStress isn’t just a human problem — our cats feel it too, often in ways we don’t recognize. In this episode, I’m joined by Nayana Morag, founder of Essential Animals, Animal Aromatherapist, Herbalist, and author of The Aromatic Cat.We chat about how to recognize stress in your cat, why reducing stress is the first step to health, and simple ways you can help your feline friend feel more calm and secure.🐱 Meet NayanaNayana lives in Portugal with a bustling crew of animals — 3 cats (Kestra, Amokey, and Joma), 3 dogs, and 9 horses — all living in harmony on her farm. Through decades of study and teaching worldwide, she’s developed Animal PsychAromatica, a holistic wellness system that combines stress reduction with aromatherapy and natural care.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode😼 The Hidden Signs of StressNayana shares how to spot subtle signals—like over-grooming, litter box changes, or sudden mood shifts—that reveal when your cat’s stress bank is running low.🏦 Building Your Cat’s “Stress Bank”Discover why not all stress is bad, and how topping up your cat’s emotional reserves helps them bounce back from life’s inevitable changes.🥩 Food as a StressorIt’s not just about nutrition—learn how diet choices can either soothe or strain your cat’s body, and why variety and species-appropriate meals matter.🤲 Respecting Feline ChoicesWhy honoring your cat’s unique quirks—whether it’s where they sleep, how they’re held, or what they eat—might be the most powerful stress reducer of all.🌿 The Magic of Aromatics and HydrosolsNayana explains how offering gentle scents like lavender or chamomile allows cats to self-select calming remedies—turning wellness into a two-way conversation.🧘 A Ritual for CalmTry this simple practice tonight: sit quietly, breathe, and offer your cat the gift of presence. You’ll both feel the stress melt away.📘 Nayana’s Recommendations for Cat Owners* Respect your cat’s choices 🐾 — Every cat has a unique personality and comfort zone. Notice what they enjoy, and don’t force what they don’t.* Offer aromatic choices 🌿 — Hydrosols (like lavender, chamomile, peppermint) are a safe way to let your cat self-select calming support.* Rethink diet as a stress factor 🍗 — Food that doesn’t suit your cat’s body can create hidden stress. Observe what foods make them thrive.* Pause and be present 🧘 — Your stress becomes their stress. Taking a breath and simply sitting with your cat is one of the most healing practices.* Notice individuality 😺 — What stresses one cat may comfort another. Tune in and honor their unique needs.🌐 Where to Find Nayana* Website: essentialanimals.com* Facebook and Instagram* Book: The Aromatic Cat (available online worldwide; also through her site for Europe & UK)🐾 Final ThoughtOne of the easiest — and most powerful — things you can do tonight? Sit quietly with your cat, breathe, and simply say: “I love you, just as you are.”Stress reduction isn’t always about big interventions. Sometimes it’s about presence, choice, and respect. When we calm ourselves, our cats feel it too.💌 Never Miss an EpisodeIf you loved this conversation and want more bite-sized feline wellness wisdom each week, head to GoldenWhiskersLove.com and join the newsletter.You’ll get weekly podcast drops, behind-the-scenes updates, and extra goodies for devoted cat parents like you. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

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• Your Cat Is Bored — Here’s Why They Need More Adventure With Laura Moss

  🎙️ Episode SnapshotIn this fun and inspiring episode, I chat with feline adventurer and author Laura Moss about why every cat deserves adventure—whether they’re scaling a mountain or just sniffing socks in a laundry room.Laura is the founder of AdventureCats.org, a Webby-nominated resource created to help cat parents explore the world safely and joyfully with their feline companions. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, Fodor’s Travel, Best Friends Magazine, and she’s the co-author of two books: Adventure Cats and Indoor Cat (co-written with Golden Whiskers podcast alum Dr. Lynn Bahr!).We cover:* What "adventure" really means for cats (hint: it's not always hiking!)* How to safely introduce cats to outdoor exploration* Tips to enrich your indoor cat’s world—on any budget* The twofold mission of Adventure Cats: improving cat lives & challenging stereotypes* Why adventure is about choice—not forcing your cat into something they don’t enjoyWhether your cat prefers a kayak or a couch, this episode will leave you inspired to shake things up at home and give your cat a more adventurous, enriched life.🐱 In This Episode✈️ How Laura Moved 3 Cats Across the OceanFrom TSA chuckles to a smooth 10-hour flight, Laura shares what it’s really like to relocate three cats internationally—and how planning ahead made all the difference.🧭 What “Adventure” Really Means for a CatThink your cat needs to summit a mountain to be adventurous? Think again. Laura redefines adventure in a way that works for every cat—from couch explorers to kayak companions.🎒 Harness Training 101Learn how to introduce a harness the right way (hint: treats, patience, and positive association), and why harness confidence starts long before you ever open the front door.🌱 Enrichment = LifesavingLaura shares how enrichment activities—indoors or outdoors—can transform not just a cat’s wellbeing, but even boost adoption rates and break harmful stereotypes about cats and cat lovers.🪜 Why Small Changes Feel Big to CatsMoving a scratching post. Cracking a window. Leaving the closet door open. Laura explains how even tiny tweaks to your cat’s world can spark curiosity and joy—no matter their age or activity level.👵🏼 Adventures for Senior CatsScott and Laura reflect on their beloved senior cats, Mia and Fiverr, and explore what gentle enrichment can look like for cats who can’t jump or run but still deserve stimulation and surprise.🧠 The Science Behind Indoor Cat BoredomInspired by the book she co-wrote with Dr. Lynn Bahr, Laura explains how lockdown gave us human insight into our cats’ indoor-only lives—and why our homes should be built with their senses in mind.🐾 Letting Cats Lead the WayWhether it’s introducing outdoor walks or letting them sniff leaves in the bathtub, Laura reminds us that adventure should never be forced—it’s about choice, curiosity, and trust.📘 Laura’s Recommendations for Cat Owners💡 Redefine “Adventure”Adventure isn’t just about the outdoors—it’s about enrichment. That could mean a new window perch, scent games, hiding spots, or just opening a closet door.🧠 Mental Stimulation MattersEven senior cats or those with mobility issues need mental engagement. Silvervine, puzzle feeders, new smells, and even cat TV can offer important stimulation.🛡️ Safety First for Outdoor TimeStart harness training indoors with treats and patience. Always bring a safe space (backpack or carrier) when venturing out. And let your cat take the lead—don’t force them.🛏️ Senior Cats Deserve Adventure TooHeated window seats, branches to sniff, or new play zones near their cozy spot can be huge. Adventure is all about honoring what your cat enjoys now.🎯 Fight the StereotypeCats are trainable. Men love cats. Cats can hike, kayak, and stroller-hop their way into people’s hearts—and that visibility changes minds and saves lives.🔗 Connect with Laura🌍 Website: https://www.adventurecats.org📸 Instagram: @adventurecatsorg📚 Books:* Adventure Cats* Indoor Cat (co-authored with Dr. Lynn Bahr)🛠️ Products & Ideas Mentioned* DIY enrichment: Puzzle feeders from paper bags, hiding treats in boxes* Dr. Lynn Bahr’s “Hide and Sneak” paper tunnel* Heated window seats* YouTube “cat TV” for indoor visual stimulation* Harness and backpack training💬 Final ThoughtAdventure isn’t about distance—it’s about connection. It’s about giving your cat new things to smell, feel, climb, or watch. Whether you’re hiking through a forest or just leaving the linen closet open, every cat deserves to feel something new, something exciting… something alive. Let them choose. Let them lead. And let them remind you how magical the everyday can be.🐾 Thanks for listening, Golden Whiskers family.To get future episodes (and weekly wellness tips), make sure you’re subscribed to the newsletter at GoldenWhiskersLove.com🎧 Know someone who thinks cats are boring? Send them this episode.See you next time—– ScottHost, The Golden Whiskers Podcast Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

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• Why Feeding a Stray Cat Isn’t Just “Being Nice” With Dr. Debra Blaine

  ✨ Episode SummaryWhat can a single meow on a snowy day teach us about feline trust, healing, and what it means to be chosen by a cat?In this Trail Chat episode of the Golden Whiskers Podcast, Dr. Debra Blaine—retired physician, resilience coach, and author of Whiskers in the Wild—shares her journey into the world of community cats. We talk about her emotional bond with Midnight, a former street cat with a clipped ear and ancient soul, and why trust from a cat is a sacred gift, not a given.Deb also breaks down the myth that cats are aloof or independent, explains how dogs and cats see the world differently, and reveals what happens when we start seeing through feline eyes—and slow down enough to really listen.🐾 What You’ll Learn in This Episode🧠 Why Cats Aren’t Tiny DogsDeb explains why treating cats like dogs backfires—and how understanding their unique psychology leads to better relationships.🐾 The Power of a Single MeowHear the moving story of how one polite little tuxedo cat showed up during the pandemic—and changed Deb’s life.👁️ See the World Like a CatScott and Deb share mindful walking practices, and why imagining life through a cat’s senses can help humans destress.🪶 Body Language SecretsFrom tail swishes to ear flicks, Deb gives tips for decoding your cat’s emotional state—and how to respect their space.🤝 How to Earn Feline TrustLearn how to let cats set the pace when building a relationship—and how even feral or street cats can become deeply affectionate.🐈‍⬛ Inside the World of TNRDeb recounts how she learned about Trap-Neuter-Return and became an advocate for helping community cats in safe, informed ways.💔 What NOT to Do When Feeding Stray CatsYou’ll hear hard-earned wisdom about the “contract” that forms when you feed a cat—and why consistency matters more than we think.📘 Dr. Deb’s Recommendations for Cat Owners💡 Let cats lead the relationship—follow their cues, respect their signals, and let them come to you.💡 Approach mindfully—use a single finger to invite contact, and let the cat initiate the interaction.💡 Decode their tail and ears—body language is everything. A wagging cat tail is not the same as a wagging dog tail.💡 Think before you feed strays—feeding outdoor cats creates a relationship. Don’t start unless you’re ready to follow through.💡 Build trust slowly—small rituals, consistent feeding, and non-threatening presence work wonders over time.💡 Be ready to learn—cats are great teachers if we slow down, stay observant, and listen deeply.🔗 Connect with Dr. Debra Blaine📚 Book: Whiskers in the Wild on Amazon🌐 Website: allthingswriting.comDeb also offers resilience coaching and helps writers professionally publish their books while keeping 100% of their royalties.🌿 Final ThoughtTrust from a cat is never assumed. It’s earned—in quiet moments, consistent gestures, and an open heart.As Deb reminds us, even the most “wild” cat may be searching for connection. Sometimes all it takes is a warm meal, a soft voice, and a willingness to sit in the snow and wait.🧡 The wild calls gently. The whiskers always know.💌 Never Miss an EpisodeIf you loved this conversation and want more bite-sized feline wellness wisdom each week, head to GoldenWhiskersLove.com and join the newsletter.You’ll get weekly podcast drops, behind-the-scenes updates, and extra goodies for devoted cat parents like you. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

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• I’m Climbing 2,768 Stairs with 23 Pounds on My Back. Here’s Why.

  This week’s episode is deeply personal. It’s just me—no guests, no fancy production. Just a heartfelt message recorded from the road as I prepare to climb the Manitou Incline in Colorado this Saturday, August 23rd.It’s not just a hike. It’s a tribute.August 23rd marks 6 years since I said goodbye to Nomar, one of the two senior cats who changed my life. His passing hit me hard—unexpected, gut-wrenching, and tangled up in all the guilt and questions that often come with pet loss. And yet, here I am, six years later, still finding new ways to carry him with me.So on the anniversary of his death, I’m climbing 2,768 stairs with 23 pounds on my back—one pound for every day of the month—up the steepest incline in Manitou Springs.Not for glory.Not for fitness.But for love, grief, memory... and healing.In This Episode, I Share:* The story of Nomar and Mia—and how they became my heart* What happened in the week leading up to Nomar’s sudden passing in 2019* The weight of grief and the questions I still carried for years* Why I chose to climb the Manitou Incline as a tribute to him* The symbolism behind every step (and every pound in my ruck)* What this has to do with you and your own pets—past or present🐾 I’d Love to Hear From YouIf you’ve ever lost a pet you loved deeply...If you’ve ever done something to honor them…Or if you’re simply walking alongside me in spirit this weekend…Drop a comment and let me know:Who would you carry with you, step by step?Let’s remember them together.📘 Recommendations for Cat Parents* Don’t wait to honor your pets—alive or passed. You don’t need a big hike. A photo. A journal entry. A quiet moment. It all counts.* Consider ways to transform your grief into something beautiful. It doesn’t erase the pain, but it does give it meaning.🎧 Listen + Cheer Me OnI'll be reading every single comment before the hike. If you feel moved to support me or share who you’re remembering this week, I’d be honored to carry your story with me.➡️ Please leave a comment below. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe

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