Minnesota entrepreneur has scientific approach to a better cat toy

[Ocelot II]

This Twin Cities scientist is a catnip chemist.

Oils are being heated in a water bath. Botanical substances are awaiting extractions and infusions. There’s a white board diagramming the molecular makeup of pheromonal compounds such as actinidine and civetone.

Elsewhere in the house, a product tester named Cabbage is awaiting the results. Cabbage is a cat. Zank is trying to create a better cat toy.

The 49-year-old entrepreneur is a research chemist and microbiology expert who has had jobs working for a biodiesel company and a personal care products manufacturer.

But after a layoff, she started her own company in 2023 called Minou Le-Mew. Under the brand name Feline Grove, it creates “handcrafted, small‑batch botanical cat toys" and “wellness solutions” for discerning users like Cabbage.

More at https://www.startribune.com/twin-cities-chemist-creates-locally-made-artisan-cat-toys/601344128

[SheltieLover]

1. What a cool business!

Ty for sharing!!!

[2naSalit]

2. Well that's interesting...

My neighbor's cat is a little chonky and she suddenly had those mats appear on her back, They were dealt with but this sounds like an easier way to go about it! This was just last week, what timing.

I called her and told her about it.

[jls4561]

3. This sounds like a worthwhile enterprise...

but who thinks Cabbage’s favorite toy is an empty cardboard box?

[ShazzieB]

4. Here's a no paywall, registration-free link.

I have an aversion to sites that make me sign up before I can read anything. Even if it's free, I'd rather avoid it. If anyone else feels the same, you can read the article (and see the pics) here:

https://archive.ph/2025.05.14-143551/https://www.startribune.com/twin-cities-chemist-creates-locally-made-artisan-cat-toys/601344128

The toys she sells are adorable.

[Ocelot II]

5. Sorry, didn't know that was necessary!

I have a regular subscription to the Strib so I wasn't aware of it - thanks for the linnk!

[tblue37]

6. Her cat needs to lose a lot of weight. His health and his life depend on it.

[Ocelot II]

7. Yes, he's quite portly,

but I'm sure she knows it. Probably why he got mats.