2025 was a year of expansion and intellectual curiosity for the Purr Podcast. What began as a feline-focused platform continued to evolve into a broader scientific conversation space, without ever losing its clinical feline backbone. From deep dives into pancreatitis and complex GI disease to thought-provoking discussions about artificial intelligence in veterinary medicine, the show balanced rigor with relevance. The standout AI episode with Eric Garcia — where technology met everything from daily practice tools to the surprising world of bees — captured the spirit of the year: curious, future-focused, and just a little bit unexpected. The chemistry between hosts, the willingness to tackle complex themes, and the practical take-home insights kept engagement strong and conversations spilling into clinics and conferences alike. In short, 2025 wasn’t just another podcast year — it was a year of growth, sharper focus, and quietly positioning the Purr Podcast as a space where veterinary medicine meets bigger ideas.

Dr. Susan Little and Dr. Jolle Kirpensteijn kick off the new year with a mix of unforgettable true cat stories, behind-the-scenes podcast moments, and an exclusive first look at our 2025 podcast statistics. Joined by our Communications Manager, Stacey Gonzalez, we reflect on the most-listened-to episodes of the year, uncover surprising listener trends, and share a few insights that even we didn’t see coming. It’s part storytelling, part data dive—and all cats.

Dr. chatgpt://generic-entity?number=0—one of the most respected authorities in veterinary gastroenterology—returns to the chatgpt://generic-entity?number=1 for a deep, science-driven discussion on complex feline gastrointestinal disease. Internationally recognized for his work on pancreatic and intestinal disorders, Dr. Steiner brings decades of research, diagnostic insight, and clinical experience to the table. In this episode, we explore the pathophysiology and diagnostic challenges of feline pancreatitis, confront the notoriously problematic entity known as triaditis, and critically examine the overlap—and distinction—between chronic GI inflammation and gastrointestinal lymphoma in cats. The conversation highlights current diagnostic tools, limitations of histopathology, the role of biomarkers, and practical strategies for clinicians navigating these gray zones in everyday practice. A must-listen for anyone who manages cats with chronic GI disease and wants to move beyond frustration toward evidence-based clarity.

Why were cats with GI disease rarely diagnosed 30 years ago? Let's talk feline Pancreatitis, EPI, and nutrition breakthroughs! Dr. Joerg Steiner explains why nutrition is foundational to internal medicine, how interdisciplinary science advances veterinary care, and why mentorship and training the next generation of scientists may be his most important legacy in this episode of Purr Podcast.

Dr. Allison Kendall is back on the podcast, and she brings with her a fascinating deep dive into a completely new approach to treating feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC). Yes—you read that right. Radiation therapy, traditionally reserved for oncology patients, is now being explored as a potential tool for one of the most frustrating and painful conditions our feline friends face. Dr. Kendall walks us through the rationale, the early clinical findings, and why this modality might just shift our entire perspective on chronic lower urinary tract disease in cats. It’s innovative, surprising, and exactly the kind of boundary-pushing veterinary medicine we love to highlight. From there, we pivot smoothly (or as smoothly as you can pivot when discussing irritated bladders) into another urinary challenge: difficult stones. Dr. Kendall unpacks the diagnostic traps, the surgical dilemmas, and the metabolic mysteries behind those stubborn uroliths that refuse to behave. Expect practical tips, thoughtful insights, and a few “aha” moments that will make you rethink your approach to these cases in practice. Another great conversation with one of our favorite guests: equal parts science, clinical pearls, and inspiration for anyone who has ever managed a blocked cat at 3 a.m.

Why do so many indoor cats develop urinary disease? Meet Dr. Allison Kendall, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine at NC State and feline nephrology & urology specialist. In this episode of Purr Podcast, we talk pee, pain, FIC, minimally invasive procedures, and why the bladder is just the beginning when it comes to cat urinary disease.

We did it! We surpassed 225 episodes of the Purr Podcast! From our very first recording to now, we’ve laughed, learned, and talked all things cat health care with some of the brightest minds in veterinary medicine. That’s more than 225 conversations about feline medicine, clinical breakthroughs, and the cats (and vets) who inspire us every day. Let's reflect on our podcast journey, and look forward to what’s to come!

Are cats the forgotten patients in oncology? Dr. Sue Ettinger is back on the Purr Podcast to elaborate on cancer tests, treatments, and why cats deserve more. Why are clinical trials and funding so limited for cats? What is the next big leap in feline oncology? What is the best practice for early cancer detection in cats? Dr. Sue Cancer Vet joins our hosts, Dr. Susan Little and Dr. Jolle Kirpensteijn, live from WVC 2025 to tackle one of veterinary medicine’s biggest questions: Why are cancer diagnostics and treatments for cats lagging behind dogs?

Cats deserve cancer breakthroughs too! Dr. Sue Ettinger, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), shares what’s on the horizon for feline cancer testing in the next episode of the Purr Podcast. Known on social media as Dr. Sue Cancer Vet, she is an international speaker, author, & vlogger. She is a board-certified specialist in medical oncology. She received her veterinary training at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. She completed her residency in medical oncology at the Animal Medical Center in NYC in 2003.

Is there new hope for cats with heart disease? Steve Dale thinks so! Steve is a certified animal behavior specialist who has been a trusted voice in the world of pet health for over 20 years. He is a nationally syndicated pet columnist, radio show host, and television personality who specializes in pet news and information, as well as editorial and advocacy pieces. Steve is the host of Steve Dale's Pet World, on WGN Radio. His contributions to advancing pet wellness have earned him many awards and recognitions around the globe. Steve is a habitual repeat offender and is almost the #1 interviewed personality on the Purrpodcast

Lights, camera, action! Dr. Joya Griffin gives us a peek behind the curtain, sharing what it’s like to star on a veterinary TV show. She is the star of the Nat Geo WILD television series, Pop Goes the Vet, now streaming on Disney+. Find out what it was like to bring her joy of feline dermatology to the small screen. Listen to Purr Podcast on Tuesday, August 19th, wherever you get your podcasts!

🎙️ Dr. Leslie Lyons is back on the PurrPodcast! This week, we’re diving into the world of veterinary genetics—starting all the way back with Mendel and his legendary peas. 🫛👨‍🔬 We’ll chat about what’s coming up in the genetics session at the WSAVA Congress in Rio, and as always, Leslie brings her passion, expertise, and even a surprise cameo from her very own cat 🐈‍⬛ (who may or may not have inherited the spotlight gene). Leslie is not only a renowned geneticist, but also a key member of the WSAVA Hereditary Disease Committee, working hard to make sure our furry friends get the best genetic insights around the globe. Tune in for a purr-fect blend of science, cats, and a little Mendelian magic!

Why are cats orange? Meet Dr. Leslie Lyons, one of the world’s foremost experts in feline genetics. In this episode of Purr Podcast, we are demystifying orange cats! Dr. Lyons discusses new studies that revealed a never-before-seen genetic pathway for color pigmentation linked to orange cats.

Dr. Ilona Rodan is back for the second episode and is a leading feline behavior specialist whose recent work on the 2024 AAFP Intercat Tension Guidelines (now Feline Veterinary Medicine Association) sheds light on often-overlooked stress between housemates. Her contributions equip both professionals and cat-parents with clear, science-backed strategies to foster peaceful, harmonious multi-cat homes.

What is normal feline behaviour? Meet Dr. Ilona Rodan! Dr. Rodan is ABVP certified in feline medicine and completed her ISFM Advanced Certificate in Feline Behaviour with Distinction. She founded Cat Behavior Solutions for veterinary referral of feline behavior problems. Dr. Rodan discusses what the feline experience is like in a veterinary practice, and what you can do to reduce the fear. Dr. Susan and Dr. Kelly are back with a wonderful episode.

Cats have skin too! Dr. Sandra Koch will discuss the rarely talked about subject of feline dermatology emergencies! What are common derm emergencies that she sees in cats? How do we treat dermatological emergencies in our feline patients? Dr. Sandra Koch is back for part 2 to go deeper than skin deep into the topic of feline skincare. Dr. Kelly St. Denis joins Dr. Susan Little to fill in as guest host while Jolle is away.

Cats have skin too! Dr. Sandra Koch joins Dr. Susan Little and special guest host Dr. Kelly St. Denis to discuss the importance of derm care and how dermatology can improve a cat’s quality of life. Sandra is a professor of dermatology at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. She obtained her DVM degree at the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Dr. Koch obtained a Master of Science degree in veterinary dermatology at the University of Minnesota, where she completed a residency in veterinary dermatology. She is the author of Canine and Feline Dermatology Drug Handbook.  What are common dermatology symptoms that cats can get? Dr. Koch will scratch the surface of the importance of feline-focused veterinary skincare! Dr. Koch shares how dermatology can improve a cat's quality of life!