Welcome to Felinésse!
Felinésse is a podcast dedicated to women driving progress in feline health, innovation, and conscious living. Together, we explore new ideas and discoveries that reveal how supporting the well-being of our cats also means caring for the planet we share.
Watch the Latest Episode
Join Melissa Mezzalira, founder of CatsEssentials, for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Jennifer Conrad, veterinarian and founder of The Paw Project.
In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood procedures in veterinary medicine: cat declawing—and why this surgery is causing lifelong harm to feline companions.
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Why Felinésse?
The name Felinésse is inspired by Italian words ending in “-esse,” such as dottoresse or professoresse, signifying women with knowledge and expertise.
The sound of the word also recalls lioness, a symbol of strength, wisdom, and community. Just as a lioness nurtures and protects, Felinésse honors women making a difference for cats, for people, and for the planet.
About Your Host
Melissa Mezzalira is the founder of CatsEssentials, a brand dedicated to creating toxin-free, organic cat beds that improve feline comfort and well-being. Born and raised in Italy, she brings a passion for design, craftsmanship, and healthy living into everything she creates — with cats always at the heart of her mission.
Through Felinésse, Melissa combines her love for cats with her passion for amplifying women’s voices, opening the mic to leaders and innovators who are shaping a healthier future for cats, people, and the planet.
“Cats are not just pets — they’re family, teachers, and healers. Felinésse is about giving them, and the women making a difference in their world, the spotlight they deserve.”