Happy Cats Wellness

This 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 pheromo...

You 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...

The 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...

Your 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 impor...

This 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...

Each 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 y...

Your 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 al...

Happy 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 te...

“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