The Community Cats Podcast

Latest Episodes:

564: Blending the Head and Heart to Help Animals, with Stephanie Mathers, Founder of Grants 4 Animals Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

Ever wondered how treating a nonprofit like a business can unlock millions in funding? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Stephanie Mathers, a passionate animal welfare advocate and skilled grant writer, who has transitioned from the world of education to founding Grants for Animals.

Stephanie's journey began with the adoption of her first cat, Shakespeare, and led her to significant involvement in TNR programs in Michigan. Overcoming numerous challenges, she has since secured over $2 million in funding for animal-related nonprofits, profoundly impacting TNR initiatives and beyond.

Discover the essential steps to getting your nonprofit grant-ready, from solid financial systems to maintaining an up-to-date board member list. Stephanie highlights the importance of building an active online presence and cultivating relationships with grant-giving entities like corporate and community foundations. Learn how understanding their specific grant cycles and requirements can dramatically increase your chances of securing necessary funding. We also discuss various platforms for finding grant opportunities and the significance of treating your nonprofit with the same rigor and professionalism as any thriving business.

Marketing and outreach are crucial, and Stephanie shares effective strategies for animal welfare organizations. Stephanie offers best practices for grant writing, including researching foundation histories and building relationships with funders without compromising your mission.

In this episode, you will hear:

Funding trap neuter return programs
Grants for community cat care
Preparing for grants with necessary documents
Finding funding for animal welfare organizations
Prospecting foundation money for cats
Grant readiness importance for nonprofits

Resources from this Episode

Grants 4 Animals Website - http://www.grants4animals.com

Grants 4 Animals Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/grants4animals

Grants 4 Animals Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/grants4animals

Grants 4 Animals YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@grants4animals

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies564) and The Community Cat Clinic (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/catclinicga).

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

563: Nuggets of Hope, with Kim Lengling, Author and Host of the Let Fear Bounce Podcast Jun 04, 2024

Show notes

When Muffin, a little ball of fur with mischievous eyes, first claimed a corner of my heart, I never imagined where that love would lead. Now I'm joined by Kim Lengling, whose story mirrors the transformative power of companionship, not just with our four-legged friends but with those who share our human journey.

Kim, a vocal supporter of veterans and advocate for cats, delves into her life's narrative that wove together the threads of animal love and the resolve to aid those battling PTSD. Her poignant experiences, beginning with a childhood feline friend and extending to her advocacy for female veterans, are a testament to the healing that comes from caring – both given and received.

As we navigate the landscape of feline welfare and veteran support, the conversation blossoms into a rich exploration of community connections. We discuss the anticipation surrounding the 2024 online kitten conference and the imperative work of the Community Cat Clinic, a beacon of hope for TNR proponents and feline health.

Our chat culminates with a touching look at "Pawprints on the Couch," Kim's latest anthology that's been warming the hearts of readers and topping charts. It's a reminder of the deep bonds we share with our pets, and how these stories of love and loss resonate within us all. This episode is an open invitation to embrace storytelling's power to unite, inspire, and embolden us in the face of life's challenges.

In this episode, you will hear:

Advocating for veterans in need
Unconditional love between animals and humans
Writing anthologies for a cause

Resources from this Episode

Kim's Website - http://www.kimlenglingauthor.com

Kim's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/letfearbouncepodcast

Kim's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lenglingauthor

Kim's Amazon Link - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kim-Lengling/author/B00L9N6VBO?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies563), The Community Cat Clinic (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/catclinicga), and Tomahawk Traps (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/tomahawk.

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Episode Credits

562: From the Backyard to the Front Page: Building a TNR Movement, Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats May 28, 2024

Show notes

Join us as we continue our exploration of the transformative power of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs in the second part of our series with Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats. He shares invaluable insights on adapting TNR initiatives to various community sizes, the balance between grassroots efforts and expert approaches, and the essential steps for involving community members.

Listen in as we discuss the journey from awareness to action for local caretakers and the strategic expansion of TNR efforts that embrace the entire community. We take a deep look at what makes an effective TNR program tick. From not testing feral cats for FDLV or FIV without clinical necessity to the value of TNR certification, we share proven best practices. We also discuss the critical partnership with service providers and the importance of support networks that provide resources, affordable veterinary care, and even crowd-funded assistance for urgent cases.

Plus, learn how ongoing support for caretakers post-TNR, including food and shelter provisions, is vital for the well-being of cats and communities alike. Whether you're a seasoned TNR advocate or just starting, get practical advice for nurturing a robust TNR network in both urban and rural settings.

In this episode, you will hear:

Building a grassroots TNR movement
Creating an effective TNR program
Community cat TNR program best practices
Community TNR program support and resources
Building a movement in rural areas

Resources from this Episode

For the Full Recording and Downloadable Handouts - https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/tnrtraining

Neighborhood Cats Website - https://www.neighborhoodcats.org

Neighborhood Cats Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/neighborhoodcats/

Neighborhood Cats Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nbrhoodcats/

The Everything TNR Playlist - https://communitycatspodcast.com/everythingtnr

Visit TNR Workshops and Community Cat Care Training for more webinars like this - https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/community-cat-care-training-education/

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies561).

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Episode Credits

561: From the Backyard to the Front Page: Building a TNR Movement, Part 1, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats May 21, 2024

Show notes

Unlock the secrets behind the transformative Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) movement with Neighborhood Cats' Bryan Kortis as we take you on a riveting two-part adventure. Dive into the grassroots story of New York City's cat population control, discovering how targeted TNR projects and collaborative community efforts led to a dramatic reduction in euthanasia rates. Be inspired by the model colony's success, where cat numbers plummeted through strategic interventions and the passionate involvement of local caretakers.

This week, we're not just talking TNR; we're showcasing the strategic mastery that has reshaped neighborhoods and saved feline lives. We explore how pilot projects can snag government support and the monumental breakthrough with Rikers Island that vaulted TNR into the limelight in NYC. Learn how focused, high-profile initiatives can amplify the impact of TNR and yield significant, documentable successes in community cat care, all while gaining insights into how you can apply these approaches in your own backyard.

In this episode, you will hear:

Community efforts to control cat population
Effective colony-level targeting for population decline
Maximizing caretaker participation in TNR
Model neighborhood project success
Building success through real-life examples
TNR success at Rikers Island

Resources from this Episode

For the Full Recording and Downloadable Handouts - https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/tnrtraining

Neighborhood Cats Website - https://www.neighborhoodcats.org

Neighborhood Cats Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/neighborhoodcats/

Neighborhood Cats Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nbrhoodcats/

The Everything TNR Playlist - https://communitycatspodcast.com/everythingtnr

Visit TNR Workshops and Community Cat Care Training for more webinars like this - https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/community-cat-care-training-education/

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies562).

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Episode Credits

560: Earning Ferals' Faith and Trust, with Caitlin Porter, Executive Director of From Feral to Family May 14, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever looked into the eyes of a feral cat and wondered what it would take to transform that wary creature into a contented purring pet in your lap? Our guest, Caitlin Porter from From Feral to Family, joins us to weave an inspiring tale of how she navigates the delicate path from mistrust to affection with adult feral cats. With her at the helm, we journey through the intricate socialization process, revealing not just the dedication and patience required, but the immeasurable rewards of witnessing a feral cat's leap of faith into family life.

Caitlin's stories of hissing, defensive ferals evolving into loving lap cats under her watch are nothing short of miraculous, reminding us all that every creature deserves a second chance at happiness. This episode also sheds light on the finer points of kitten care and the importance of advocacy within the cat community.

Listen in and get a taste of practical advice for building trust with feral cats, the benefits of fear-free techniques, and the invaluable local resources supporting our mission of cat care. We also share an inside look at the 2024 Online Kitten Conference, with its wealth of knowledge and networking opportunities for cat enthusiasts worldwide.

In this episode, you will hear:

Caitlin's inspiring journey from cat lover to advocate for feral cat socialization
The process of turning hissing ferals into affectionate lap cats
Learn about the meticulous steps from containment to trust-building and adoption
Exploring kitten care and the importance of advocacy within the feline community
A sneak peek into the 2024 Online Kitten Conference with its valuable resources for cat enthusiasts
Cat ownership in Vermont

Resources from this Episode

From Feral to Family Website - http://fromferaltofamily.org

From Feral to Family Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fromferaltofamilyvt

From Feral to Family Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fromferaltofamilyvt/

From Feral to Family YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRfq5I8z4hx7RwFUfAYMj1Q

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies560) and Tomahawk Live Trap (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/livetrap).

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Episode Credits

559: Dr. Kimberly Mann, Medical Director & Surgeon of the York County SPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic, and Steven Martinez, Executive Director of the York County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals May 07, 2024

Show notes

When compassion meets innovation, extraordinary things happen. That's the story we're telling today, with Dr. Kimberly Mann and Steven Martinez, who are changing the lives of thousands of community cats through the York County SPCA spay/neuter clinic. Kimberly, a veterinarian with surgical prowess and a big heart, alongside Steven's business acumen, has led their clinic to an astounding 11,000 surgeries in a single year. Their shared dedication not only speaks volumes about their love for animals but also sets an inspiring standard in animal welfare.

The complexities of managing feline populations are at the forefront of our discussion, as we tackle the intricacies of trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs. Discover how Kimberly and Steven navigate the logistical challenges of caring for community cats while providing insights into the strategic functions of spay and neuter clinics. As we celebrate the astounding success of their clinic, we also gear up for the highly anticipated 2024 Online Kitten Conference, an event that promises to be the cat's meow for enthusiasts everywhere.

In this episode, you will hear:

Passionate about community cats
Spay-neuter clinic operations and success
Community cats and strategic communication
Community cat spay-neuter program sustainability

Resources from this Episode

York County SPCA Website - http://www.ycspca.org

York County SPCA Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/YorkCoSPCA

York County SPCA Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yorkcountyspca/

York County SPCA Vimeo - https://vimeo.com/ycspca

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies559).

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Episode Credits

558: Fine Tuning TNR Clinics with Cameron Greig, Community Cat Coordinator at the Humane Society of Huron Valley Apr 30, 2024

Show notes

Get a glimpse of what it's like on the front lines of feline welfare. Cameron Greig joins us from the Humane Society of Huron Valley to discuss the trials and triumphs of their TNR (trap-neuter-return) program. It's a revealing chat about the ingenuity required to navigate staffing shortages, the shift towards online systems to streamline TNR efforts, and the crucial weekend spay-neuter events that help keep their mission afloat.

Cameron's dedication to the care of community cats shines through as he explains the intricacies of dealing with unsocialized felines and the critical need for TNR-savvy vets in an industry currently facing a crunch for qualified staff. In the heart of our discussion, we confront the hard truths of veterinary staffing woes and their ripple effect on essential services like TNR. The conversation is seasoned with tales of innovation and adaptation, from enticing veterinary clinics with educational "lunch and learns" – to embracing digital tools for managing the TNR workload.

We also let you in on some of our personal top-notch baiting tips for successful cat trapping and why appropriate recovery times are important for our feline friends post-neutering. For those compelled to support community cats or who are simply curious about the inner workings of the TNR initiatives at the Humane Society of Huron Valley, this episode is an invaluable trove of knowledge and encouragement.

In this episode, you will hear:

The current challenges of the TNR program
TNR's transition to an online sign-up system
The complexities of working with unsocialized cats
The importance of having veterinarians skilled in TNR
Veterinary staffing challenges and solutions

Resources from this Episode

Humane Society of Huron Valley Website - http://hshv.org/tnr

Humane Society of Huron Valley Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/humanesocietyhuronvalley

Humane Society of Huron Valley Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/humanesocietyofhuronvalley/

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies556) and Tomahawk Live Trap. (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/tomahawk).

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Episode Credits

557: Keeping an Open Mind to Reduce Stress and Pain in Cats with Stacy McVicker, DVM, CVA, CCRT, Veterinarian & Crazy Cat Lady Apr 23, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever watched your cat move with less of its usual grace or hesitate before leaping onto its favorite perch? In this episode, understand the complex world of feline pain with Dr. Stacy McVicker. These whiskered companions are masters at masking discomfort, but Dr. McVicker's expertise, inspired by the stories of James Herriot, equips us with the tools to uncover what our cats cannot voice. We chart the journey from the veiled signs of pain in our feline friends to actionable steps that can significantly enhance their quality of life.

Ferris, a community cat with hyperthyroidism and spine pain, becomes our case study in understanding the importance of a patient veterinarian. This episode isn't just about sad tales; it's about real solutions, including groundbreaking treatments like Solensia and simple yet effective environmental changes that can transform a cat's golden years. We also talk about the "lift the lid" strategy, which might just revolutionize how shelters and pet owners handle litter box challenges.

The connection between pain and behavioral changes takes center stage as we share the stories of Zeno and Argo, two cats whose sudden aggression indicated deeper issues. From the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index Tool to cold laser therapy, we discuss the vast array of resources and treatments available to cat owners. This conversation with Dr. McVicker is a heartfelt reminder of our role in recognizing and treating our cats' silent suffering, ensuring they live full, comfortable lives within our loving homes.

In this episode, you will hear:

Exploring pain in animal behavior
Recognizing pain in cats without x-rays
"Lift the lid" campaign benefits
Feline musculoskeletal pain index tool

Resources from this Episode

Animal Care Center of Castle Pines - http://animalcarectr.com

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies556)

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Episode Credits

556: Colony Caretaking Tips & Tricks Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats Apr 16, 2024

Show notes

Brace your whiskers for a deep dive into the heartwarming world of community cat care as we reveal secrets to crafting the perfect winter shelters and share non-invasive tricks for keeping our feline friends safe and neighbors happy. Our guide through this chilly chapter is Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats. His expertise is just what we need to navigate the wintry challenges that face community cats.

Bryan brings a wealth of knowledge and practical advice on constructing winter shelters that not only provide warmth but also blend seamlessly into urban landscapes. Whether it's crafting shelters from scratch or adapting readily available materials, his insights are invaluable. And it's not just about the physical structures – Bryan delves into the nitty-gritty of keeping peace with neighbors, non-invasive cat deterrents, and ensuring the overall health and well-being of the cats we cherish.

From vitamin C supplements to cranberry extracts for urinary health, we cover all the essentials and even sprinkle in some wisdom on leveraging the community for support. Storms may howl and snow may fall, but with this episode's guidance, you'll have the tools to shield your community cats from nature's challenges. Discover the significance of proper shelter placement and the art of prepping a storm-ready haven to keep their tails wagging while giving you peace of mind.

In this episode, you will hear:

Tips for winter shelter building and cat management
Using Mylar blankets for cold climates
Cat-proofing garden and car
Nature's remedies for cat health
Community cat care and support
Funding and food for animal colonies

Resources from this Episode

Neighborhood Cats Website - https://www.neighborhoodcats.org

Neighborhood Cats Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/neighborhoodcats/

Neighborhood Cats Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nbrhoodcats/

The Everything TNR Playlist - https://communitycatspodcast.com/everythingtnr

Visit TNR Workshops and Community Cat Care Training for more webinars like this - https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/community-cat-care-training-education/

This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies556) and Tomahawk Live Trap. (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/tomahawk).

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Episode Credits

555: Colony Caretaking Tips and Tricks Part 1 with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats Apr 09, 2024

Show notes

Unlock the secrets to managing a thriving community cat colony as we team up with experts Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats shares essential tips on maintaining a consistent feeding schedule and crafting secure feeding locations that benefit our feline companions.

Prepare to enhance your caretaking skills. Learn how to keep mealtime peaceful and food safe from wildlife intruders. Join us for a deep dive into cat nutrition as we dissect pet food labels, revealing the necessity of meat-based ingredients for your colony's carnivorous diet. We demystify the grain vs. meat debate and serve up practical advice on delivering quality nutrition without breaking the bank. Whether you're navigating the aisles for wet or dry food options, we've got you covered with brand recommendations that strike the perfect balance between cost and the health of your colony cats.

As the winter winds blow, we wrap up with vital strategies for adapting your care routine to the colder months. Discover how to keep water unfrozen and the importance of providing adequate shelter to ensure the comfort and safety of your community cats. Plus, we emphasize the role of responsible feeding practices and the significance of spay-neuter programs in humanely controlling cat populations. This episode is a must-listen for both seasoned caretakers and newcomers eager to make a meaningful impact in the lives of community cats.

In this episode, you will hear: