Ever wondered why your cat scratches the furniture, ignores expensive toys, or overgrooms? Are you struggling with a cat that seems bored, stressed, or even aggressive, despite your best intentions? In this informative episode, I sit down with Stephanie Merlin, certified cat behaviour specialist and the creator behind The Fulfilled Feline, to debunk common cat myths and offer real, science-backed solutions for happier, healthier felines. Stephanie, drawing on years of hands-on experience in shelters and private homes, shares: The hidden reasons behind so-called “problem behaviours” like biting, house soiling, and furniture scratchingWhy enrichment isn’t a luxury, but a basic feline need (and how to deliver it on any budget!)Easy, low-cost ideas for keeping indoor and outdoor cats stimulated and engagedPro tips for multi-cat households, managing introductions, and deciphering subtle signs of feline stressHow to use play, vertical space, scent, and routine to build trust and a stronger bond with your cat Whether you’re a lifelong cat lover or a new guardian, this episode is packed with actionable advice that’ll change how you see your cat. Hit subscribe, share with your fellow cat lovers, and let’s help every cat live their best, most fulfilled life! SPONSOR: Ultra Pet Check out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/optimal-balance-adult/ Connect with Dr Carra: Website: https://drcarra.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carra LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/ Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/ Connect with Stephanie: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thefulfilledfeline?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=5739723b-75ec-4478-a99e-dd9745bd3ebd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefulfilledfeline Podcast Production: This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital. Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/ THIS EPISODES SPONSORS: Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za Just For Pets: Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/ FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you. Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this. --------------------------------------------- 00:00 "Understanding Your Cat's Needs" 03:39 Passion for Understanding Cat Behavior 09:30 "Simple Enrichment for Cats" 12:46 Cat Stress and Over-Grooming 14:14 "Careful with Adding Cats" 18:33 Creating Comfort for Cats Amid Change 22:44 "Patience with Fearful Cats" 26:56 Engaging Cats with Prey Toys 29:53 Redirecting Self-Soothing Behaviors 34:37 Cat Behavior and Litter Issues 38:48 "Outdoor Enrichment for Cats" 40:07 Indoor Cat Enrichment Ideas 43:49 Understanding Cats' Scratching Needs 48:42 Engage Cats, Not Stuff 49:40 "Routine Enrichment for Happy Cats" 52:45 Cat Enrichment and Novelty Ideas 58:00 "Understanding Feline Behavior" 59:31 Pet Care Essentials Offered
