April 19 is National Cat Lady Day. My day!

When Tiger Lily rescued me, my mother was a little concerned. I grew up on a farm, and all of our (many) cats lived outside, took shelter in a number of barns and other outbuildings, and were fantastic mousers.

I lived in the city. Mom said, “What are you going to do with a cat?” I don’t remember my answer, but Tiger Lily came, and within a few months – unrelated, this was already in the works – we moved from the city to a home very close to the family farm. I was never going to let Tiger Lily outside without a leash, because the many cats from my childhood typically died on the road. The same road that now runs in front of my house.

So there I was. A grown up farm girl with an indoor cat.

Two years after my initial rescue, I was rescued by another ball of fur, Little Socks, who first tried to rescue my Aunt Mary. Aunt Mary was beyond saving, but she knew I was amenable, and she introduced the two of us.

By now, my mother was nearing apoplexy. She said, “Another one?”

I smiled.

Two years later, a friend begged me to take a look at three abandoned kittens and please take one. I met them. They were playing together, running and jumping. Two dilute calico girls and a gray long-haired boy. At one point they sat in a row and looked up at me. I pointed and went down the row. Kali, Ko and Mo were my newest saviors.

I believe it was at this point that my mother said, “You’re going to be a 90-year-old old maid with a house full of cats!”

The old maid part was classic. I was already in my fifties and never married, so the fact that I could live to be 90 and never marry was a given. But a house full of cats? “Really, Mom, get a grip.”

And now I have seven. Actually, ten lovelies have been a part of my life. Sadly, three wait for me on that Rainbow Bridge, Tiger Lily, Ko and Mo. But…seven at a time is a lot!

My mother was always right.

Yes, I Am A Cat Lady

This website validates me. Of course, the site starts off asking all of us to admit to being “crazy” cat ladies. Well, it’s not National Crazy Cat Lady Day. It’s National Cat Lady Day. I would never admit to being crazy!

I might, however, live up to this label: “old maid spinsters who wear frumpy sweaters and don’t get out enough.”

From several websites, including the one cited above, comes this information regarding the establishment of the day. “Founded by CatCon creator, Susan Michals, National Cat Lady Day is meant to emphasize the modern Cat Lady as a powerful, independent and caring figure who’s not defined solely by the furry company she keeps, or how many cats she may have.”

I guess that’s true of me, but typically, people define me by the furry company I keep and the number of cats that I have.

It doesn’t hurt that 99% of my (now regular part of my wardrobe) face masks are cat-related.

How To Celebrate The Day

Cat ladies like me don’t need to be told how to celebrate a day with cats. Any day with cats. But since the above-mentioned website had some ideas, I’m sharing.

1. Start the morning off on the right paw. Do some yoga with your cat. Just don’t call it Downward Facing Dog in their presence.
2. Get a huff of your cat’s fluff. Because cats smell good. And cat huffing is definitely a thing.
3. Treat yourself to a cat-purr-cino before your cat can steal a sip! Maybe she’s born with it. Maybe it’s caffeine. And, like, three cats.
4. Remember that some of the most fashionable women were cat ladies. “I’ve always been mad about cats,” said Vivien Leigh. She was best known for starring in the 1939 adaptation of Gone with the Wind.
5. Choreograph a dance routine featuring you and your cat. We know you’ve got the moves. This is especially fun right meow with many of us being stuck at home thanks to the coronavirus!
6. Take a break and blow some bubbles with your cat. Because why not?
7. Celebrate with your fellow cat ladies! Put on your best feline fashion and get ready to paw-ty.
8. Post one of the million photos you have of your cat on Instagram (or Facebook or Twitter). The world needs to know who you are, and who your cats are!
9. If you’re a cat lady sans the cat, visit a cat cafe or your local shelter and pet some cats! You won’t regret it, and the kitties in the shelter will love some good company. Note: while you might not be able to visit these kitties in person right now due to social distancing restrictions, they can still use your help. Consider reaching out to your local shelter or animal rescue to see how you can help.
10. Drink some wine with your cat! Because it’s not drinking alone if it’s with your cat. (Actually, this is an excuse I use often!)

In Closing

Okay. I didn’t need the suggestions. As a matter of fact, as I type this, the sun is shining on a pretty spring day, and because I have cats, I installed bay windows on every side of the house with large ledges for sunning. Mr. Bean is on the window to my left, grooming himself in a sunbeam. Sassy Pants is sleeping on the lap desk, close enough that my arm is resting across her body as I type. Little Socks – she is now 19 years old – is sitting on my lap, pushing her head into my fingers as I type (because she loves to do it and it is so helpful). Speckles is sleeping on the left side of the sofa back and Kali is sleeping on the right. Ko, precious Ko, who is in serious decline (she and Kali are 17; they lost their brother Mo several years ago) is sleeping in her spot on the sofa, the spot she has slept on for the past few weeks, the spot that will be the last one for her in this home. Sigh. [A previous paragraph was updated, leaving Ko on the Rainbow Bridge.]

We cat ladies know how to grieve, too.

This is a Tiger Lily Approved Very Special Day And She Is Very Sad About Ko

This is Speckles Kitty Kat. I was told I could write today’s blog. I thought I would write about Groundhog Day. It’s tomorrow. Know how I know that? Mom got out her movie for tomorrow. It’s a silly one she watches every year. It stars this guy who keeps waking up over and over and over and it’s the same day. Nothing ever changes. And it’s in this town I can’t pronounce or spell in Pennsylvania. That’s pretty hard to spell, too. Eventually, he figures out how to “do life” right, and he wakes up the next day. It’s kind of confusing. I’ve seen the movie three or four times now, and every time I watch it, I learn something new.

Sources

Mom told me that if I’m going to talk about Groundhog Day, I have to give a source. Or two. Okay. Here’s two. You can learn more about it HERE and HERE.

The first one will tell you that it comes from German or Dutch populations in Pennsylvania, and it talks about that town I can’t spell. And it says that if the groundhog comes out and sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. But if he doesn’t see his shadow, spring will come early.

The second will tell you it started in 1887 – that’s a long time ago – and that the first one was in that town. This second source also tells about some Christian tradition of Candlemas. In dark times, the number of candles you would need would say how long winter would be. Oh, and that second source tells you all about groundhogs and their hibernation and suchlike that.

Okay. That’s enough sources.

Oh, no! One more. HERE. This one says that groundhogs live an average of six years. Could be less if they live on their own outside. If they live in a zoo or something, like that one in that town I can’t pronounce, it can be more. But that groundhog can’t be the same one from the first year. That’s been a long time, like I said. So the groundhogs they use are fake ones. They are all named Phil, but they could be boys or girls. Who knows? It’s all a lie.

Over And Over And Over

So, back to that movie, something happens over and over and over. That happens at my house, too. Like every day that Mom is home, at lunchtime, Mr. Bean will get up on the kitchen counter and prance around and then he’ll knock down a plastic food dish. Then another and another and another until Mom realizes he’s saying, “I’m hungry.” And she’ll say, “Mr. Bean says it’s time for lunch!” And we get to eat a snickle of a little something.

Or sometimes – like every blippin’ day – Ko will stand in front of the bathroom closet and cry and cry and cry to go in and Mom will say over and over, “No, Ko, you can’t go in there.” She should just get a grip! Ko. Not Mom.

And let’s talk about Kali. She has some “over and over and over” stuff, too. After breakfast every day, she grabs the best place on the sofa to sleep. And she doesn’t share. Ever.

And Sassy Pants? She drives me crazy! She gets the same seat on the going-up-to-the-up-high toy, and it’s the one that we all have to use to jump up to the up-high! All the time! We could be chillin’ in the up-high, looking down at everyone in the kitchen or the television room, but we have to jump on top of her, and she screams, and then we have to start chasing one another, and then it gets ugly. It’s all Sassy Pants’ fault.

So That’s How It Happens

Over and over and over again, life is just the same, day after day. And they made a movie about it, and a groundhog comes out and sees his shadow – or her – it could be a her – and it doesn’t make any difference anyway, because the first day of spring is six weeks away anyway.

In Closing

Humans are silly. That’s all I have to say.

This is a Tiger Lily Approved Post. Thank you, Speckles, for a well-thought-out piece.

Tiger Lily is especially happy to promote National Adopt-A-Cat Month (June), but she wants to make some things very, very clear.

“Please tell the humans that cats are people, too. They need food and clean water. The toilet doesn’t have to flush, but the sandy stuff in it should be changed every day. And don’t forget to tell them we aren’t a cheap date. They have to save money for us every year, and the first year, well, that year can cost a really lot of money.”

American Humane Society

The American Humane Society (website here) celebrates Adopt-A-Cat Month at the height of “kitten season.” Yes, there is a kitten season. Cats who have not been “fixed” tend to breed at the same time. This month, millions are born, and they often end up in shelters.

Because they care, they offer many tips on preparing for cat or kitten adoption. If this is your first time to adopt, things can be a little confusing.

Helpful Tips

One page of their site offers tips, which I will summarize here.

If you’re going to adopt one, consider taking two. They require exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction. Having two will help them, and they will help you. (Two purrs and better than one.)

Find a cat whose personality meshes with yours. The tip from this site says that cats with long hair and round heads and bodies are more easygoing than lead cats with narrow heads and short hair. Hmmm. Looking over my cats, I don’t find that to be the case. But what do I know? (I only have eight.) Anyway, it’s a good tip, and a trip to a shelter will, eventually, lead you to the perfect fit(s).

Choose a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption. Yes. My cats love Dr. Ralph. They see him as soon as possible after coming here to live. If they come from the shelter, the appointment may be made a few weeks out, because shots – and sometimes surgeries – are already taken care of. Those who have been rescued from the street go more quickly, because we don’t know what may be hiding in that body.

Make sure everyone in the family is ready for the adoption, for example, making trips to the shelter together. For this family, it’s easy. I’m the only human. And, just so you know, I talk to all of the cats about the pending adoption so they are not caught unawares. (Plus, when the extra litter pan comes out so the main one can be closed in … that’s a clue that someone is going to be in the quarantine room.)

Budget for short- and long-term costs. Sometimes, the spay/neuter is already done, or done for a bargain cost, especially if the cat/kitten comes from a shelter, and shelter cats typically have their first round of shots. If not, be prepared to lay out some bucks up front. And be prepared to do the same thing (at least with shots) every year. You can save some money by getting three-year rabies shots, but every three years, it’s more expensive. Also, other medical expenses can come up. In the twenty years that I have had cats, I have paid for long-term kidney issues, long-term diabetes issues including nearly a week of hospital care (wowzer), surgical kidney stone removal, two cancerous lump removals, one extended thing with my second kitty that was never diagnosed but led to at least three weekend emergency visits to out-of-town vets (wowzer again). By the way, that cat is now 18 years old and doing very well.

Have supplies before the cat arrives so your new family member can feel at home right away. Litter box, litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed (that may or may not ever be used, especially if there are great pieces of furniture and laps), grooming tools and other items.

Cat-proof your home. The site talks about leaving things lying out, leaving food out, loose items, electrical cords, and random things that could be swallowed, like paper clips. You’ll learn, but in general, anything that can go into the mouth can be swallowed and can be dangerous. As you grow used to your first cat, you’ll learn (for the second, third and fourth) what to do and what not to do.

Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family. The site says it can take several weeks for a cat to relax in a new environment. That is absolutely true. They suggest keeping the new kitty secluded to a single room with litter, food, water, toys and the cat carrier left out and open. This has proven to be, again, absolutely true. I have a huge bathroom, almost as big as a bedroom, and that’s where all the new cats/kittens go. And it can be for several weeks, through worming, issues with ear mites, recovery from surgery. All of the other cats can play with the new one underneath the door, and if there are not medical issues (ear mites!), I introduce the cats into the room one at a time. It takes weeks. Weeks. Get used to it, and keep the family in line. If you are quarantining the cat, please don’t leave it alone all the time. The humans of the family need to spend lots of time in the room as well. Figure it out, depending on how many live in the house, where the seclusion is. You can do it. And remember that after the cat comes out for the first time, it will take several weeks to get used to the “big” house. I try to bring the cat out in a carrier several times before opening the door for good.

Include your cat in the family emergency plan. My safe space has several cat carriers ready, and there is water for me and water bowls for them. Food for me, food for them. In my billfold, I carry a card that says I have cats at home, and there is a number to call to get someone to my home to care for them in the event something happens to me. Whatever plans you have, include them.

This site has tips for giving cats as a gift. My tip? DON’T DO IT.

More Tips

Most web sites have similar tips, but I pulled a few additional ones from this site.

1. Please adopt from a local shelter. According to this site, 71 percent of cats going into shelters are euthanized because there are simply not enough homes. You can find a wide variety of breeds, sizes, colors, personalities and ages. If you are committed to finding a specific breed, find a reputable breeder.
2. If your heart is set on a kitten, wait until “kitten season” when shelters are inundated with homeless kittens. (Springtime.) Remember, that kitten will look like an adult in just a few short months. This site also reminds us that if you adopt a full-grown cat, you will be better able to tell its fundamental personality.
3. Consider your current pet(s). For them, personality means more than looks, size, breed, etc. For example, if you have a laid-back, elderly or frail cat at home, it might be best to avoid kittens. For me, I have to know that the cat under consideration can handle other cats. I know mine can. Some better than others!
4. This site talks about the introductory process as well as the site above. This one may have additional tips. Check it out. It also has tips on introducing your new cat to a dog!!

In Closing

Tiger Lily watched carefully as this blog was written. She said, “You didn’t get all the points, but you got most of them. So…….

…This is a Tiger Lily Approved post!

I have seven cats. I’ve had nine total, two have passed. Every single one of them was a rescue.

• Tiger Lily was dumped at my parents’ farm house. Actually, she was thrown. The vet said all of the missing hair from her face was road burn. She was thrown so hard, she was unable to land on her feet. (The hair grew back; she survived with only a puncture wound on her upper lip.)
• Little Socks was dumped at my aunt’s house.
• Kali, Ko and Mo were dumped on the side of a highway by a woman in an expensive car. She dumped them, made sure to keep the box.
• Sassy Pants was dumped at a friend’s house.
• Mr. Bean was stuffed into a purse with his siblings, and the purse was tossed into a trash bin behind a local hardware store. He was the only one to survive.
• Speckles fell out of a truck at the local recycling station.
• No one knows what happened with Moriah. She was loved at one point (she was “fixed”), but she was brought to the local shelter in the dead of winter by someone who either found her or was dumping her.

In my opinion, all of these precious kitties rescued me.

Thinking of Adopting?

From this website – the Humane Society – come ten reasons to rescue.

1. Because you’ll save a life.

Each year, 2.7 million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized in the United States, simply because too many pets come into shelters and too few people consider adoption when looking for a pet.

2. Because you’ll get a great animal.

Animal shelters and rescue groups are brimming with happy, healthy pets just waiting for someone to take them home. Most shelter pets wound up there because of a human problem like a move or a divorce, not because the animals did anything wrong. Many are already house-trained and used to living with families.

3. Because it’ll cost you less.

Usually when you adopt a pet, the cost of spay/neuter, first vaccinations (and sometimes even microchipping!) is included in the adoption price, which can save you some of the up-front costs of adding a new member to your family. Depending on the animal, you may also save on housebreaking and training expenses.

4. Because of the bragging rights.

No one needs to see another selfie—unless it’s a selfie of you with the adorable pet you just adopted! Adopt a pet, post those pictures and let the well-earned likes roll in.

5. Because it’s one way to fight puppy mills.

If you buy a dog from a pet store, online seller or flea market, you’re almost certainly getting a dog from a puppy mill. Puppy mills are factory-style breeding facilities that put profit above the welfare of dogs. Animals from puppy mills are housed in shockingly poor conditions with improper medical care, and are often very sick and behaviorally troubled as a result. The moms of these puppies are kept in cages to be bred over and over for years, without human companionship and with little hope of ever joining a family. And after they’re no longer profitable, breeding dogs are simply discarded—either killed, abandoned or sold at auction.

6. Because your home will thank you.

Many of the pets from shelters and rescues are already house-trained, which means you’re not only saving a pet’s life, you may be saving your rug. Adopting a mature pet not only gives older animals a second chance, it often means introducing them to your family will be much easier.

7. Because all pets are good for your health, but adoptees offer an extra boost.

Not only do animals give you unconditional love, but they have been shown to be psychologically, emotionally and physically beneficial to their companions. Caring for a pet can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment and lessen feelings of loneliness. And when you adopt, you can also feel proud about helping an animal in need!

8. Because adoption helps more than just one animal.

Overburdened shelters take in millions of stray, abused and lost animals every year, and by adopting an animal, you’re making room for others. Not only are you giving more animals a second chance, but the cost of your adoption goes directly towards helping those shelters better care for the animals they take in!

9. Because The Shelter Pet Project makes it easy.

You can go to The Shelter Pet Project to find pets near you, of every size, color, temperament and breed. Purebred and mixed breed animals alike are waiting for their forever homes!

10. Because you’ll change a homeless animal’s whole world.

And get a new best friend out of the deal. Seriously, what could be better than that?

More Humans Needed

The ASPCA presents the following arguments.

Many people who purchase pets may feel a certain breed best fits their family needs, or subscribe to misinformation about shelters and shelter animals. But if these pet lovers were given an opportunity to learn the full range of adoption benefits – including decreasing the homeless animal population, creating more space at shelters and rescue organizations, and reducing demand that supports puppy mills – it might be enough to change their minds, save more lives, and transform their communities and community shelters.

With that in mind, I encourage anyone who’s ever rescued an animal to reach out to a potential pet owner – it could be a neighbor, a colleague, or even a family member – and make the case for adoption. Here are some key points to share.

You’re Saving More Than One Life

Of the approximately 7.6 million companion animals entering animal shelters nationwide every year, approximately 2.7 million are euthanized. Adoption not only moves an animal from vulnerability to safety, but creates space at the shelter, and moves more resources and attention to the remaining animals. Across the country, many shelters are crowded, challenged, and stretched for resources, so every free cage, every available supply, and every extra moment of care makes a difference.

You’ll Make a Match

An animal shelter is invested in the well-being of its animals, and many are committed to creating matches that take animal temperament, home environments, and special needs into account. At a pet store – as with any for-profit business – the prime objective is earning financial profit from the production and sale of their “merchandise,” not serving the best interest of pets, owners, or communities.

You’ll Find a Great Pet

Few people need to be sold on the value of having pets, but harmful myths and misperceptions about shelter pets persist. The truth is this: the only difference between homeless animals and other animals is that the first group doesn’t have homes. No matter where they live, where they come from, or where you find them, every dog – even dogs within a specific breed – are individual animals, with individual personalities and dispositions.

You’re Fighting Puppy Mills

Most pet store puppies come from puppy mills, and everyone should know what happens there. Puppies born in puppy mills are usually removed from their mothers at six weeks of age, denying them critical socialization with their mothers and litter mates. The mothers, meanwhile, have little to no recovery time between bearing litters.

You’re Sending a Message

When you proudly tell others you chose to rescue an animal, you’re sending a message that individuals can take effective action to save lives, fight cruelty, and end suffering. The movement starts with one, but can expand to a family, then to a community, then to many communities.

Tiger Lily Has Another Website For You

Normally, Tiger Lily is interested only in cats, but a friend passed on a website to her about adopting dogs. Dogs? Really, big girl?

The site, The site, 20 Questions To Ask When Adopting A Dog, advocates the adoption of rescue dogs. The questions:

• 1. Is the breed of the dog known?
• 2. What are the most common characteristics of their breed?
• 3. How big is the dog going to get?
• 4. Was the dog handed in or is it a stray?
• 5. Does the dog have any known history/background details?
• 6. Are they neutered, microchipped and up to date with vaccines?
• 7. Is the shelter aware of the dog’s medical history or any known conditions?
• 8. Has the dog’s socialization skills been assessed?
• 9. Does the dog get on with other dogs/animals?
• 10. Has the dog had experience being around children?
• 11. Has the dog ever bitten or shown signs of aggression?
• 12. Is the dog toilet trained?
• 13. Does the dog suffer from anxiety and can it be left alone?
• 14. What are the dog’s energy levels?
• 15. Is the dog trained to walk on a lead?
• 16. Does the dog have any recall training?
• 17. What food is the dog currently eating?
• 18. Does the dog have any specific Grooming requirements?
• 19. Can you go on a trial walk with the dog?
• 20. Can you take your dog back if it doesn’t work out?

Update added 08/07/2020

In Closing

You will have noticed a theme. All of the websites referenced sing the same song from the same handbook. And they sing to my heart.

This is a Tiger Lily Approved Way To Add To Your Household.

Yes. How to walk your cat. They LOVE the outdoors, and I’ve seen several videos of cats walking (happily) on a leash. (With a harness. Not a collar.)

What Not To Do

From Preventive Vet comes this cautionary tale.

If you are going to walk your cat, don’t go about it like this writer from the New York Post.

“I procured a cat leash and harness… from a friend, who had attempted, unsuccessfully, to walk her own cats. Hoping to have a better go of it, I strapped my 7-year-old tabby, Jameson, in and headed out on a recent sunny Saturday.”

As you might imagine, she soon realized that walking a cat is not exactly like walking a dog! First of all, cats don’t always take to leashes and walks as readily as dogs (at least not initially). Second, being cats, they’re not exactly, shall we say, “naturally inclined” to being led around by a leash. Third, many of the places you’d likely take your dog typically aren’t as well-suited for a cat (but fear not, there are often plenty of great alternatives!).

These differences don’t mean that you can’t or shouldn’t try taking your cat for leash walks. After all, many cats can really enjoy and benefit from them! But they do mean that you really do first need to train and prepare your cat — and yourself — for these new outdoor adventures! 

Taking your cat for walks can be a novel and fun way to give them the mental stimulation and physical exercise that so many cats crave and need, without letting them loose as an outdoor cat (which significantly reduces their life expectancy, as compared to indoor-only cats). While there are a ton of (easy, and not-so-easy) things you can do for indoor environmental enrichment, some cats have the personality and interest for, and can also benefit from safe outdoor enrichment, such as leash walking.

Before you go out and try a little turn on the “cat walk,” there are a few things you need to do and be aware of — including some potential hazards that your cat might encounter — so you both can have the best and safest time possible. And before I even dive into those things, I just want to take a second to also point out the importance of ensuring that your cat is protected. This means getting them vaccinated against infectious diseases like Feline Leukemia virus (a.k.a. FeLV); and properly identified, both by a legible ID tag AND a microchip.

Walking Your Cat Starts Indoors

Successful outings with your cat actually start indoors! To have the best chances for the best walks, there’s a bit of kit you’ve got to get, and a bit of training you’ll have to do. 

Get a Proper Harness (and Leash)

These are actually things I did correctly. I got harnesses that fit well for all of my cats (who are different sizes and shapes) and I had great leashes.

Cats are great squirmers. If you try to hook a leash to their neck collar, you will soon see firsthand how easily a cat can slip that collar. If you’re going to try leash walking your cat, you’ll need a good harness.

The best harness for your cat will be good at two things: 

• Distributing pressure across multiple areas so the harness doesn’t choke your cat (this is the comfort part)
• Preventing your cat from slipping out of their harness (this is the safety part)

And don’t forget the leash! There are lots of good cat leashes out there, and a couple of the harnesses below actually include the leash. What’s very important to note here though is that there’s also a very dangerous type of cat leash out there… retractable leashes!

Get Your Cat Comfortable Wearing their Harness and Leash

Anyone who knows cats knows that they aren’t exactly eager to jump into new life experiences. They need time to grow familiar with new experiences. Before you take your cat for a walk outside, make sure you have taken the time to familiarize and get them comfortable with wearing their harness and being “on-leash” inside.

Begin by Walking Indoors

When your cat is comfortable wearing their harness, start going for little walks indoors. 

• Let your cat wander the home while wearing the harness, with you holding the leash. Click and treat frequently to encourage a positive association. If your cat struggles or refuses to walk, it’s time to take a break and then start again later at the level your cat was previously comfortable with.
• Patience is key at this phase. Don’t try to tug your cat into submission or force them to walk. Instead, reward them when they behave the way you want them to.
• Give lots of praise and treats when your cat walks alongside you. Your goal should be to get your cat walking freely, but close enough that you can easily scoop them up in your arms, should the need arise.

Once you’ve checked all of these boxes and cleared all of these hurdles, then try the outdoor walking thing — first in the comfort and safety of your own yard, or another uncrowded and relatively private outdoor space. Only when you and your cat are comfortable with these escalating challenges should you attempt to venture further afield.

And don’t forget to protect your cats from common issues: fleas, mosquitoes and worms! And keep them safe from predators (dogs and other cats, or, if you live in the country, lots of other critters) by keeping them close and easy to scoop up.

Also, know which plants to keep clear of.

Is It A Gimmick?

Huffington Post weighs in on the frenzy! Their advice mirrors the advice on the first site, but adds a few additional details.

As it turns out, walking a cat on a leash isn’t some senseless gimmick. Many felines find great pleasure in time spent outside, enjoying the sounds of birds chirping and the scent of freshly cut grass, just like humans do. Even more, that activity can help strengthen the bond between a cat and his owner, giving the pair something to experience together. So, folks, the cat’s out of the bag: Leashes are not just for dogs anymore. Here’s what you need to know:

Not all cats will want to be walked on a leash, but every cat should be given the opportunity.

Walking a cat can provide your pet with a more enriched life. “A lot of cats love to go outside and smell things, see things and roll around in sand and grass and dirt. They love to scratch real trees. Those are things they can do on a walk,” Woodard said.

When out for a walk — rather than prowling an apartment — a cat will use his brain in different and more thoughtful ways. “The cat is thinking more. It’s thinking about how to use its body and what things smell like. The cats are brighter and engaged,” said Woodard. The fact that the two of you will be exercising is an added bonus.

Walking can transform a scaredy cat into a cool cat.

“A lot of cats may lack confidence, but they gain it once they’re harnessed trained.”

Not all cats will comply with your leash desires.

And that’s OK. If a cat shows no interest in the great outdoors, his decision should be respected.

Make sure your cat doesn’t become an escape artist.

Some cats (who get a taste of being outside) may wait by the door and attempt to run out once it’s opened. Make it clear to your cat that the only time he can go outside is when he is dressed in the harness.

In Closing

I wish I had looked at these websites before I tried walking my cats. In every instance, it was a disaster, because I didn’t know websites existed with this information.

In all honesty, I was trying to walk my cats 20 and 18 and 16 years ago. This information probably didn’t exist on the web. I should try it now with my younger ones.

This is a Tiger Lily Approved Fun Thing For Cats, And I Wish My Mommy Had Done It Better!

Our Facebook pages are inundated with news of missing cats and dogs. Families frightened for their pets; generous people taking in strays that appear to be loved. What’s up with that?

It’s spring! Not only does it reach out to humans, it reaches to our wonderful furry friends. They find ways of getting outside the door, out of the pen, off the leash.

What is it? What draws them?

How To Tell Spring Has Sprung

This website has great information about cats in spring. According to it (and according to my personal experience), there are several ways you can tell your cats have found out it’s now spring.

They get up early. Very early. Way too early for a not-morning person. In my house, seven cats rise early, jumping from one side of the bed to another, generally needing to pounce on top of Mom first. Here’s hoping I never develop osteoporosis.

Their time at the windows grows longer. Of course, there is more sun, and there will be even more in the summertime. My cats follow the sun. They go from east to south to west. The west windows are the best. There are more west-facing windows and less chance for catly fights for the best space. I don’t look forward to the summer. One of the younger babies (I won’t mention her name but her initials are Speckles) jumps against the screens to catch the bugs outside. She is stronger than the screens.

Evening hours typically become running jumping chasing time. The good news: they get more exercise. The bad? Well…one or two of the kitties generally end up on the wrong end of it all.

A favorite spot for my cats is in front of any of the screen doors when the outer doors are open. Fresh air, chipmunks, birds, probably the smells of random animals that draw close. The danger is when I open the door to go out………………..

Spring. Springing out all over the place!

Tips From The ASPCA

The ASPCA has specific tips for spring. This website is good to check out.

First of all, for those of you that celebrate Easter (and even those who don’t, but who partake in the chocolate fest), keep candy safely away from your animals. And lilies? Cats love to eat plants; lilies can be fatal. I have a cat (again, no names, but his initials are Mr. Bean) who loves to chew on plastic. Any kind of plastic. Several Easter things (plastic grass, for example) are plastic and can lead to a number of digestive issues.

Do your cats (and dogs) love to go for rides in the car? Truck? Flying debris and insects can be dangerous, leading to lung, ear and eye injuries. Just being in a vehicle can be dangerous, especially if you allow your pet to ride in the back of the truck.

In our house, spring cleaning is more spring throwing away. Some people actually use cleaners and chemicals. Keep them closed and away from your pets. The same holds for paints and other chemicals you may use to spruce things up.

Thinking of adding to your garden? (Indoor or outdoor.) Check for toxicity first, and keep fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides away from your precious ones. (The ASPCA site has a list of toxic and non-toxic plants.)

Cats and dogs can have allergies, just like people. If you notice sniffles, sneezing or itching, check with your vet. It’s also possible for pets to go into anaphylactic shock as a result of insect bites and stings. The ASPCA also recommends year-round heartworm prevention medication and a flea and tick control program. Their site has recommendations.

They have one last recommendation. Whether your pet is indoor or outdoor, on a leash or not, invest in a microchip for identification. Springtime leads to adventurous spirits, and a healthy pet will actively pursue new adventures.

In Closing

It’s spring! Finally!

This is a Tiger Lily Approved Springboard To Success.

It may be March, but Christmas doesn’t just “go away” at our house. No, Christmas sticks around for months in the form of boxes.

Small boxes. Big boxes. Open boxes. Closed boxes.

Boxes to sit in. Boxes to sit on. Boxes just made for pee.

Cat pee, that is.

There is always That. One. Box. that hits a maximum expiration date with the cats and becomes a convenient litter box. Usually, that’s one of the open ones that landed on the floor.

(For some of you, that was too much information.) (Sorry.)

When I send thank you notes, they are not only for the gift, but for the box that became a re-gifted gift to my feline family members.

They’re best when they sit in the path of what will be – for some time of every sunny day – in the path of a sunbeam.

But Why?

Research has been attempted on the reason cats like boxes. Cats, however, make poor test subjects. Check here for one fun article. A few points are highlighted below.

The box-and-whisker plot

“… there’s a sizable amount of behavioral research on cats who are, well, used for other kinds of research (i.e., lab cats). These studies—many of which focused on environmental enrichment—have been taking place for more than 50 years and they make one thing abundantly clear: Your fuzzy companion derives comfort and security from enclosed spaces.”

Box (anti-) social

“It’s also important to note that cats really suck at conflict resolution. … ‘Cats do not appear to develop conflict resolution strategies ….’ so rather than work things out, cats are more inclined to simply run away from their problems or avoid them altogether. A box, in this sense, can often represent a safe zone, a place where sources of anxiety, hostility, and unwanted attention simply disappear.”

The ‘If it fits, I sits’ principle

“Astute feline observers will note that in addition to boxes, many cats seem to pick other odd places to relax. Some curl up in a bathroom sink. [In my house, that would be Little Socks and Mr. Bean.] Others prefer shoes [Speckles], bowls [Mo], shopping bags [all of them], coffee mugs, empty egg cartons, and other small, confined spaces.”

And the other reason?

“Which brings us to the other reason your cat may like particularly small boxes (and other seemingly uncomfortable places): It’s friggin’ cold out.”

Why Do We Waste Time Looking At Cat Pictures And Watching Videos?

How else to kill a couple of hours that you didn’t know you had to waste? I don’t have enough web space on my server to add cat pics and videos. Here are a few sites to enjoy!

• https://www.pinterest.com/obama4me2/cat-in-box-cats-in-boxes-funny-hillarious-felines-/?lp=true
• https://www.pinterest.com/joanthuffman/cat-box/?lp=true
• http://wanna-joke.com/tag/cats-and-boxes/

In Closing

I love to watch my cats in boxes. And to watch them defend their territory if they got there “first.” I can’t imagine life without them, or the toys they love.

Boxes are Tiger Lily Approved anytime presents.

I would be the first one to encourage everyone to rescue a cat, a dog, any animal in need of a loving home. I will also be the first one to ask those everyones to seriously consider the cost of pet ownership.

If you can’t afford it for the long haul, Do. Not. Do. It.

For many people, owning a pet means giving up something else. It might be coffee at Starbucks, or meals out, or gas that will get you to and from work, or a utility bill or two, or the rent or mortgage. If you can’t afford it, Do. Not. Do. It.

The First Year

I’m a cat person, so I’m going to talk about cats. According to the brief research I did, dogs are more expensive; fish and smaller animals, like hamsters and mice, can be less expensive. Horses and larger animals are much more expensive.

So. Cats.

According to the ASPCA, the first year can cost more than $1,000. The referenced website tells the store of a man who moved into his first real apartment and immediately adopted two kittens from an animal shelter. Ten years later, one of the cats had died and another was still living. Along the way, they spent thousands on food and veterinary care, including more than $2,000 for surgery.

This site broke down the average first year costs of pet ownership. I’ve added a note or two to the mix.

• Adoption fees, which range from $50 to hundreds.
• Spaying or neutering: $145. (In some localities, there are less expensive options, but you have to do it.)
• Initial medical exam: $130.
• Collar or harness: $10-$20.
• Litter box: $25.
• Scratching post: $30. Add cats, add posts.
• Carrying crate: $40.

Average annual expenses:

• Food: $145. (I would like to know where this guy bought food. I want to shop there.)
• Litter: $200. (Again, I want to know where he shops. My litter would cost WAY more.)
• Annual medical exams: $130. (Unless it’s time for the 3-year rabies. Add another $100.)
• Toys and treats: $25. (I want his shops.)
• Pet health insurance: $175. (This is an investment I couldn’t afford.)
• Stuff you haven’t even thought about: $50. (Really???? This guy does pets on the cheap.)

If you travel, tack on pet sitting or kennel services, and if you rent an apartment, expect to pay a sometimes no refundable pet deposit or cleaning fee, if your landlord allows animals at all.

Readers added comments to this post.

• Reader Willfe said he thought some of the averages were too high. His cats’ food costs about $72 per year, he said, even though it’s name brand. He also suggested buying litter in bulk, which he said could lower that amount as much as $50 per year.
• Another reader, Amy, said she is part of the “frequent buyer” program at her pet store, so she is able to get the tenth bag of dog or cat food for free.

On the other hand, some readers pointed out there are occasional surprise costs associated with pets—and not a good kind of surprise. These additional fees could be significantly higher than the estimates.

• Livingalmostlarge said he spends $30 per month on Heartguard and flea/tick medication.
• Meg suggested there might be some opportunity costs associated with pet ownership. “Many of my coworkers have to take long lunches and frequently miss office happy hours to go home and walk their dogs. I also see people in suits frantically walking their dogs in the morning by my building, late for work. Not something I’m ready to deal with yet,” she wrote.
• “Funny About Money” said since pets cause damage at times, replacing your stuff should be factored in, too. “Carpets ruined or at least in need of professional cleaning and de-stinking, furniture clawed, doors scratched up, flower and vegetable gardens unearthed, window screens ripped, draperies sprayed upon….eeek!” she wrote.

Cats Make Great Pets For The Right People

Another article relates costs in a different way. It was quick to point out that the cost of owning a cat will be much more than the average pet owner thinks it will be. Premise number one: No pet should suffer as a result of poor financial planning and a lack of commitment of their owner.

The writer delineates care of cats in this way.

1. Semi-wild, living on farms and back streets. These cats are “often infested with parasites and deadly viral diseases” and survive by hunting which takes a tremendous toll on wildlife. The quality of life is very poor and most do not live more than a few years. These cats are not even considered to be receiving care.
2. Lowest cost adequate care.
3. High-end cost of care.
4. Cost of care for the writer’s cats.

The writer gives costs for the first year and then an average for thirteen additional years, assuming an average life span of 14 years. The writer cautions these are conservative costs and further clarifies that he lives in the rural Midwest. In an urban area, the costs could easily be doubled.

These prices also do not take into account animals with special health or behavioral problems. If you have a cat with a chronic illness, your veterinary cost could triple. Likewise, if you have a cat that urinates on the carpeting and you have to clean or replace the carpeting as a result, your costs are going to be higher.

While some people think they can cut costs on food, litter, and veterinary expenses (which when combined are often the biggest expenses), my experience shows otherwise. If you feed cheap food, you can end up with a cat with urinary or intestinal problems and high veterinary bills. If you use cheap litter, your cat may use the living room carpet instead.

The same goes for avoiding routine veterinary care; you will shorten your cat’s life or end up paying in the end.

Kathi’s note: Those vaccine costs are low, low, low. You need a four-in-one shot annually and rabies (annually, or one every three years, if you’re on top of it). Those are expensive.

But I Love Cats…

Do you love cats enough to commit totally?

Do you love cats enough to commit financially and emotionally? To commit your time?

Animal shelters overflow with unwanted pets. Think about that. Do you want to add to that misery?

In Closing

Was this a “preachy” post? Oops.

This is a Tiger Lily Approved Preachy Post.