KEEP THE HOLIDAY SEASON JOLLY AND BRIGHT

FALL 2014

Blankets Fur Beasties

Let Your Cat BE a Cat

Be Prepared for Emergencies or Natural Disasters

A look at Stevenson Companion Animal Life-Care Center

Signs Your Cat is Fat

Is Your Cats Illness CHRONIC?

Make a New Years Goal for 2015

Please Microchip Your Kitties

CATS IN THE NEWS

What To Do if Your Cat Goes Missing Grass Roo

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KL8720_03_CS_NnNw_ILoveCats_NOV.indd 1 9/4/2014 7:23:16 PM

Harry W. HochmanPublisher

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Lisa AllmendingerEditor

Red Dog Media, LLCilovecatseditor@sbcglobal.net

Marcia CavanManaging Editor

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Joyce WhiteContributing Editor

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Edited, designed andprinted in the USA

If you would like to contact Editor Lisa Allmendinger,please either send e-mail to ilovecatseditor@sbcglobal.netor write to her at I Love Cats, c/o Lisa Allmendinger,Editor, 1040 First Ave., Suite 323, New York, NY 10022.

If you are moving, please give us 8 weeks notice. Pleaseinclude your name and old address as well as your newaddress and send it to I Love Cats, P.O. Box 5887,Harlan, IA 51593-1587.

Please do not send anything to I LOVE CATS that requires a signature!I LOVE CATS (ISSN #0899-9570 USPS 4132) is published quarterly by I Love Cats Publishing Company, Inc. a wholly owned corporation of Grass Roots Publishing Co., Inc., Harry W. Hochman, President.For subscription orders, change of address, correspondence concerning subscriptions write I Love Cats Publishing Co., Inc., PO Box 5887, Harlan, IA 51593-1587. Please enclose latest label for correspondence concerning subscriptions. Executive and editorial office at I Love Cats, 1040 First Ave., Suite 323, New York, NY 10022-2902. Periodicals postage paid at New York, N.Y. and additional mailing offices. Subscription rates U.S. and possessions: 4 issues $32.00. Outside U.S. $10.00 additional per year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to I Love Cats Publishing Co., Inc., PO Box 5887, Harlan, IA 51593-1587. Printed in U.S.A. Copyright I Love Cats Publishing Co., Inc. 2014. All rights reserved. 2014 I Love Cats Publishing Co., Inc. BN 12503 5519 RT.

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FALL 2014VOL. 25 ISSUE 3

8

30

39

Cover Photo by Paul Miller

Blankets Fur Beasties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Relentless . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Classroom Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Be Mindful of Kitty During Halloween . . . . . 10Signs Your Cat is Fat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Top 10 States for Cat Health Insurance . . . . . 12November is National

Adopt a Senior Pet Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Be Prepared for Emergencies

or Natural Disasters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Is Your Cats Illness Chronic? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14November is National Pet Diabetes

Awareness Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Keep the Holiday Season Jolly and Bright . . 15Make a New Years Goal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Potential Problems for Your

Cat on Thanksgiving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Let Your Cat Be a Cat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Whats New, Pussycat? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20CAT: Children and Animals Together . . . . . 24Stevenson Companion Animal

Life-Care Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Please microchip Your Kitties . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28What to do if Your Cat is Missing . . . . . . . . . 29Bumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Cats in the News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

4Theres a little dynamo living in northeast Ohio. Her name is Harley Helman, and she loves animals. She is also 12 years old.

I always try to look for ways to help them, especially the abused, neglected or unwanted ones, Harley says. Ive been collecting new and used baby blankets, quilts, sheets, towels, and toys, and all sorts of animal supplies and

food from businesses and generous people like you.

Everything is taken to area shelters and rescues to help make the animals stay

as comfortable as possible while they wait to be adopted into their forever

home.As of April 5, weve donated

2,962 items, Harley says proudly. But collecting blankets and

toys is not the only thing she does. What we really need

Blankets Fur Beasties Work of 12-Year-Old Ohio Girl

By Joyce White | Photos are of Harley Helman

5is a law that says all public elementary schools in Ohio incorporate a humane education program, one that teaches proper care and treatment of all animals. I think if people were taught at a young age, they would grow up respecting and loving animals, and less would end up in our shelters.

Harley is constantly looking for new ways to help the animals she loves. Im working on a new page that Im really looking forward to; its so exciting building the website. Right now Im trying a celebrity auction, and the pictures on the site are of items they donated and they are stunning.

When asked how this interest developed, Harley said she thinks it was always there. It has been a part

6of my life a part of me. Way back, before I was even two years old, my mom had foster kittens in our house. They were helpless and I wanted to help them. I used to think I wanted to be a vet when I got older, and then I found out I would sometimes have to euthanize animals. I decided it was not the job for me.

Harleys goal for Blankets for Beasties is lofty. One day, I want to have a store sort of thing where shelter workers can come get supplies that they need for their rescue animals, and they wouldnt have to pay for the stuff. I also want to continue to spread awareness, and make sure young people are all taught about animals and the importance of being kind to them. I could use donations of items and money. Money is good for buying food. I dont really get a lot of food donations and we need them.

If you would like to help shelter animals in your area, Harley has this advice. Just go to the website of the shelter you want to help. They usually have a wish list of the things they need. Then just go out and start collecting!

Wise words from a young lady who is making a huge difference in her community. If you would like to learn more, or make a donation, check out Harleys website: www.blanketsfurbeasties.com or email her at blanketsfurbeasties@yahoo.com.

You can also visit the Blankets Fur Beasties Facebook page. Youll be pleasantly surprised by the positive energy you meet. .

Treasure the Memory of Your Beloved Companion Forever

Sometimes you can still hear the pitter-patter of paws scampering down the hallway... your loving pet coming to sit by your side. More than just a pet, they were a part of your family and owned a piece of your heart. Now you can keep these memories alive and celebrate the spirit of your special companion with our My Forever Friend Teardrop Pendanta stunning jewelry creation as meaningful as the precious moments you shared.

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s a single woman living alone with my two cats, Cassie and Cajun, Ive always been very aware of my surroundings.

It came as a great shock to learn I was being stalked in my own home.

As the alpha cat, Cassie had always insisted on being the first to the food dish and watering station. Then I noticed she had to be petted first and always nested closest to me on the bed. Feeling this was all pretty normal cat behavior, I wasnt concerned.

However, as time went by, I noticed more disturbing traits.For instance, she began eating whenever I took my meals.

Heaven knows, she didnt need the additional three squares per day. She was bumping up against 18 pounds and even with the veterinarians special prescription weight loss diet, she continued to gain. When I pondered how many meals she was inhaling, it was no small wonder.

Cassie began following me from room to room, talking to me in her incessant way as she rubbed her beautiful tortoiseshell coat against my leg. There were times when she was silent in her approach and I would turn to see her sitting a few feet from me and staring at me intently. Were her eyes glowing red? Dont be silly, I thought. Youre being unreasonable.

Then my good friend, Colleen, came to visit overnight with her little dog in tow and Cassie adopted a new and alarming habit. The little canine visitor, who hailed by the name of Taffy, was as cute as a button. She melted the hearts of whoever met her. It soon became clear Cassie was jealous of the huge amounts of attention paid to Taffy. I was shocked when Cassie began making noises that could only be construed as barking sounds!

In reality, they sounded more like sneezes, but it was clear that Cassie believed if she took on doggie behavior, she would receive the same love being heaped on Taffy.

Even if it meant making unnatural sounds for a cat!As time went on, I became increasingly concerned about

my neurotic cat. As I mentioned before, Cassie follows me everywhere in the house. However when I shower, I always close the full-sized pocket door between the bedroom and the bathroom. But the second I turn off the water, I can hear her tiny paws banging against the door. Its amazing how loud the knocking is. I call out to her to hang tough until I can dry off, but that doesnt dissuade her.

This has been her routine for months, but this morning as I exited the shower, Im startled to see her little black paw hook around a tiny opening at the edge of the door. She slid it open far enough to get her considerable bulk through.

How long has she been practicing her break-in technique? I wonder.

Surely, it takes a lot of strength for her to move the heavy door. I grabbed my towel and scrubbed at the goose bumps and then headed for the yellow pages in search of cat psychological listings.

We need help..Pat Curren has written previously for I Love Cats.

Relentless

By Pat Curren

8

While the value of classroom pets has always been clear to organizations like the Pet Care Trust, a new study confirms it: Classroom pets have a positive influence on childrens attitudes towards pets, to the point where having pets in the classroom has led to an increase in pets in the home.

In the National Pet Market Opportunity Study released by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), one-third of the survey respondents said that having a pet in their childs class led their family to get a pet.

Also, three quarters of the survey respondents whose child has a pet in their classroom responded that its presence had a positive effect on their pet ownership. Children exposed to a classroom pet were more likely to get over a fear of pets they may have harbored and were also more likely to take responsibility for household pets as a result of the classroom experience.

These results come as no surprise to the Pet Care Trust, a non-profit, charitable foundation that funds the Pets in the Classroom grant program in an effort to promote the understanding of the joys and benefits of pets through education, support, and interaction:

When the Pet Care Trust introduced the Pets in the Classroom program in 2011, the goal was to help teachers engage their students through the care of a classroom pet, says Pet Care Trust Executive Director Steve King.

We know that pets enrich the classroom experience by providing kids with the chance to see, feel, touch and make connections with the animal world, he says.

What we didnt know was how the classroom experience influences a childs relationship with pets at home. Thanks to the study, we now know that there is a very direct and positive correlation for many families.

Having a mission of bringing pets to 100,000 classrooms and 5 million children, the Pets in the Classroom grant program is making great strides in providing students with the benefits associated with exposure to pets.

The program has issued close to 40,000 grants since it began, and with approximately 64 percent of the grants having been redeemed by teachers, about 25,600 classrooms have received a pet as a result. With an average of 50 students being impacted per grant, 1,280,000 kids have daily contact with a pet in their schools.

Based on these numbers and the APPA study, more than 400,000 homes now have pets as a direct result of the grant program. Whether in the home or in the classroom, the Pets in the Classroom grant program is positively influencing lives.

For more information on the Pets in the Classroom grant program, visit www.PetsintheClassroom.org..

I Love Cats would like to thank The American Pet Products Association and Pet Care Trust for the information in this story.

Study Finds Increase in Pet Ownership Numbers Due to

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CLASSROOM PETS

9

While silly costumes and games are fun for people, cats arent used to spooky surprises, constant doorbell-ringing, and the general hustle-and-bustle in our normally quiet homes.

Halloween noises, smells and people in costumes can overwhelm many pets, so while youre enjoying the festivities, make sure your pets have a safe haven in one room of your house where they can feel safe, comfortable and relaxed.

So, here are some tips:Before the trick-or-treaters begin arriving,

place kitty in a safe room with the door closed, fresh water and a litter box, some of his favorite toys and soothing music or a TV to amuse him.

If you insist on Kitty being loose in the house, remember that masks and costumes change how people look and smell to a pet, so even familiar people may become frightening.

Make sure that your cats are either wearing tags with current IDs or are microchipped in case they try to escape when the doors is repeatedly opened and closed.

Keep candy, popcorn balls and spiked punch out of your cats reach.

Most pets are happiest wearing nothing but their birthday suit so dont try to dress kitty if he doesnt like to be in costume.

Decorations can be dangerous, so be sure to keep them safely out of your cats reach.

Candle flames can set fire to their fur, flames inside pumpkins can be alluring and hanging or dangling decorations can be an entanglement or choking hazard.

Pets can choke on fake cobwebs set up indoors, and outdoors, fake webs may be a hazard to birds and wildlife.

Dont forget about wildlife on Halloween, either. Nocturnal animals, such as raccoons, opossums and foxes will be out foraging for food. If you come across a wild animal while out trick-or-treating, your best bet is to keep your distance.

And although bats are classically associated with Halloween, they will be in hibernation in all but the warmest parts of the South.

Also, if you allow your cats to go outside, black cat owners especially, should keep them indoors until Goosey Night and Halloween are over. .

Be Mindful of Kitty During

10

While Halloween is a lively time for children and adults,

be aware of what all the commotion can do to your cat. In fact, Halloween is a scary time for your kitty.

11

Feeding your cat extra treats or cuddling for longer naps, may be hurting her more than showing her love because it may be leading to an overweight or obese cat.In fact, more than 55 percent of US cats are overweight or obese, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention.

Much like human obesity, carrying excess weight takes a toll on your cats body. Those extra pounds can cause hip and joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease, not to mention a shorter life expectancy.

Along with the physical side effects, there are emotional ones, too. Your cat may become more withdrawn from family and other pets in the home, making them more likely to continue gaining weight; and can lead to depression or acting out.

Preventing and treating your cats obesity is something you should discuss with your veterinarian.

The first step should be a complete veterinary exam making sure there are no underlying physical conditions also adding to the obesity.

Once given the green light, your veterinarian may offer some of the following treatments and recommendations:

Establish an eating plan (sounds better than putting your cat on a diet, right?). This will take some restraint on everyones part, so be patient. Everyone has to be all in, or it wont be successful.

Stop feeding your cat between meals, especially people food or table food.

Establish a feeding schedule and stick to it as much as possible, including timing and quantity.

Control the number of treats and review the treats ingredients to ensure they are well-balanced for your cats health.

Exercise your cat, indoor cats can exercise, too. Two fun games to play are: teach your cat to come when her name is called and encourage her to follow you around the house while you do chores. As your cat begins to get more exercise, youll notice a decrease in your pets appetite and her body composition will begin to change.

Examine your personal commitment to improving your cats health through weight loss.

As your cats owner, are you committed to making these changes in your cats eating and exercise routines?

If you arent leading the charge in making these

changes, your furry feline cant win the battle of the bulge.

So what can you do?Review the eating plan and make sure there is no

snacking or feeding between meals.Only feed your cat in her food dish.Commit to playing with your cat for 30 minutes or

more each day. Set aside the time and find something you can do together such as playing with a new toy, chasing a jingle bell ball or investing in the cat treehouse.

Talk with your veterinarian and commit to taking your cat in for regular check-ups. Remember, your veterinarian is your partner in improving your cats health and will be able to help you along the way. .I Love Cats would like to thank Association for Pet Obesity Prevention and PetFirst insurance for the information in this story.

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I Love Cats magazine

CAT OBESITY: Signs Your Cat May be Living Too Large

CATHEALTH

Top 10 States for Cat Pet InsuranceAccording to a recent survey, heres a list of the Top 10 states for cat insurance.

California tops the list for both dogs and cats.The states with the lowest enrollment included Wyoming, South Dakota,

North Dakota, Montana and Vermont.

Top 10 States for Cat Insurance 1. California 2. New York 3. Florida 4. New Jersey 5. Texas 6. Virginia 7. Pennsylvania 8. Washington 9. Colorado

10. Illinois .

Senior pets are the perfect loving companion for senior citizens and there

are numerous benefits that come with adopting a senior pet.

Many times, senior cats (and dogs) are brought to shelters

because their owners are no longer able to care for them

due to illness, divorce, home foreclosure, military deployment, etc.

Whether youve always been an animal person, or are just now looking for a furry friend, the benefits of being a senior pet owner are never-ending:

Senior Pets are far less rambunctious than their kitten counterparts

Senior Pets are

usually already litter box trainedYou Know What You are Getting their

size and personality are fully-developedSenior cats get better with age and are

always ready for a nap by your sideRelax: Most of us live hectic lifestyles

running from here to there all day long. Senior pets tend to have less energy and want lots of love, so what better way to end your day than to relax with your new best friend?

Most people want to adopt the younger cats at shelters, so senior cats are frequently overlooked. Bringing a senior cat into your home will surely make that pet feel special. Knowing you are helping them live out the last years of their life with a loving family by their side and a warm bed to relax on will make a difference for them.

And for you. .

November is National Adopt a Senior Pet Month

12

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for Emergencies or Natural DisastersIts always the right season to be prepared for emergencies or natural disasters by stocking necessities and making emergency plans for your cats.

Hills Pet Nutrition offers the following tips to ensure your cats safety in case of emergency.

Ensure your pet can be identified by either a microchip or collar ID tag and that contact information is up-to-date.

Prepare a Pet Emergency Go-Kit of pet supplies that is readily accessible in an emergency. Your Pet Go-Kit should include: first aid supplies and guide book; three-days supply of pet food (in a waterproof container) and bottled water; a safety harness and leash; waste clean-up supplies; medications and medical records; a contact list of veterinarian and pet care organizations; information on your pets feeding routine and any behavioral issues; comfort toys; and a blanket.

Display a pet rescue decal on your front door or window to let first responders know there is a pet in the house. Include your veterinarians contact information.

Learn where your pet likes to hide in your house when frightened. Finding your pet quickly will help you evacuate faster.

Identify a location to take your pet if you need to leave your immediate area. Keep in mind that disaster shelters for people may not be open to pets. Scout hotels and motels with pet-friendly policies and ask relatives or friends if they could house you and your pet.

Carry a picture of your pet in the event of separation.

If you need to evacuate, take a pet carrier or crate for transport and safe-keeping.

When disaster does strike, Hills deploys its Disaster Relief Network to quickly respond with shipments of pet food. Hills established the first-of-its-kind network in 2013 as a way to coordinate with shelter partners to deliver food to communities impacted by disaster.

In its first year, the Hills network has delivered free pet food to 50 shelters and veterinary clinics in response to 12 major incidents. .

I Love Cats would like to thank Hills Pet Nutrition for the information in this story.

Be Prepared

In most scenarios, a cats sickness comes and goes.But that isnt always the case.Unfortunately, people and cats alike can develop illnesses

that require ongoing treatment, care, or medication for years sometimes even for the rest of their lives. And, these costs add up quickly due to repeated treatments and medication.

Some of the most common conditions that can affect your cat in a long-term (if not life-long) basis are:

DiabetesCancerChronic AllergiesHearing that your pet has a chronic condition such as

diabetes can be overwhelming and frightening, says Fran Mitchell, claims manager at PetFirst insurance.

She says the first thing a pet owner should do is become informed about the condition.

In 2013, PetFirst reimbursed more than $93,528 for diabetes in both dogs and cats.

Diabetes in pets can be managed under the supervision of a veterinarian. Insulin shots are typically administered daily by the pet owner, so costs add up quickly.

In addition to diabetes, another diagnosis that pet owners dont want to hear is a diagnosis of cancer.

Just as with our own personal health, you can never anticipate or predict when your pets will get sick or injured. Chances are at some point in their lives, they will, says Mitchell.

The best thing a pet owner can do is to be informed and prepared. There are multiple symptoms and behaviors your cat will exhibit if something is wrong. Know the symptoms and immediately seek veterinary advice.

Pet owners with pet insurance have the satisfaction of knowing their veterinarian bills can be reimbursed up to 90 percent, should an accident or injury arise any time of year.

PetFirst offers pet insurance that is convenient for pet owners and can be activated online or by phone. To receive a customized quote for pet insurance, visit www.petfirst.com or call 877-894-7387..

I Love Cats would like to thank PetFirst for the information in this story.

November is National Pet Diabetes Month and BluePearl Veterinary Partners encourage pet owners to become more aware of the signs and symptoms of diabetes.

Diabetes is a relatively common disease in which the body doesnt use glucose properly. If left untreated, diabetes is life-threatening but it is manageable if detected early enough.

Pets with diabetes can live a normal life when treated and medicated properly, and in some cases with cats, diabetes can actually be reversed.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes that owners should be aware of include the following:

Increase in water consumption Increase in urination Increase in appetite Weight loss Cataracts may be present if diabetes has been

existent for a longer period of time

If you notice any of these symptoms, we highly recommend seeing your family veterinarian as soon as possible, said Dr. Neil Shaw, chief medical officer of BluePearl.

Plus, certain steps can be taken to prevent diabetes including obesity, which is a risk factor that can be controlled.

In cats, diabetes is similar to the human version of diabetes and can often be managed with a change of diet, which is recommended and supervised by a veterinarian..

I Love Cats would like to thank BluePearl Veterinary Partners for the information in this story.

Is Your Cats Illness an Isolated Incident? or a Chronic Condition?

November is National Pet Diabetes Awareness Month

CATHEALTH

14

Veterinarians across the country will tell you that the holiday season is a bonanza for business because of pet emergencies, but many of them are avoidable.As family and friends come together, do not forget that your cat is wait-ing in the wings to indulge in some holiday cheer as well.

Keep holiday decorations out of reach. Ingestion of metal or glass ornaments, ribbons and tinsel is a medical emergency. They can cause severe damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

Place holiday plants high off the ground. Ivy, holly, poinsettia, lilies and evergreens can be toxic to animals if ingested.

Seal garbage bags and place them in tightly covered containers to prevent pets from getting into something that could injure them.

Keep pets away from turkey bones, chicken bones and ham bones that can splinter and perforate the intestinal tract.

Keep your pets on their normal diets. Many spices and foods that are safe for humans are not safe for animals. Onions, garlic, chocolate, raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, the sugar substitute xylitol and raw or undercooked food can be poisonous to pets.

Make sure as guests and deliveries come and go pets remain safely inside. Doors left open can result in your pet escaping.

If traveling with pets, make sure they are comfortable. Try to get them acclimated when they are young by taking them on trips. If needed, your veterinarian can assist with remedies to calm your pet. (Or, better yet, leave your pet home with a reputable pet sitter.)

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah..

Keep This Holiday Season Jolly and Bright

15

CATHEALTH

Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Thinkstock

CATHEALTH

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Every year we say we will make (and not break) New Years resolutions, so why not start thinking about your 2015 goals now?

I say goals, and not resolutions, because goals are something to work toward, and with the help of your cats veterinarian, and your primary care physician, you can make 2015 the best year yet for both your kitties and you.

You love your cats, right? And, sadly, even under the best of circumstances,

they never live long enough. So why shorten their lives by allowing them to be overweight, which can lead to any number of health issues? You control your cats food portions and you can influence his exercise, so as 2014 draws to a close, make it a goal that everyone in the household becomes healthier in 2015.

Its estimated that between 25 and 40 percent of dogs and cats and 31 percent of people in this country are overweight. And, I think thats a low estimate.

Just like humans, overweight dogs and cats are more likely to get a number of diseases and health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, skin conditions, liver disease, and joint problems. So putting yourself and your pet on a diet and exercise regimen will result in improved health for 2015 and perhaps a longer life for both you and your pet, according to veterinarians from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

In this issue are a number of fun cat toys that will encourage your cat to expend some energy playing with them.

So, if your cat has any rounding of the abdomen or bulging in the back, limbs, neck or face, youve got a fat cat.

Here are a few easy tips to get you started. When you feed your cat, twice a day, or three

times with smaller meals, whatever isnt finished in 20 minutes is picked up. End of meal for kitty.

Talk to your veterinarian about the best weight reduction plan for your overweight cat. Your veterinarian may come up with some ideas you hadnt thought of trying.

And, you should have fun with your goals, too. Its all about eating real food (not processed stuff) and moving more. If youre not sure where to start, there are a ton of books on the subject. Plus, you dont have to go out and train for a marathon unless of course, this is your goal.

Getting healthier isnt rocket science. Its pretty simple, eat less, move more.

I got a pedometer to see how many steps I take in a normal day, then I challenged myself to do more each day than I did the day before. I made it a game and kept track of the results. Plus, if you teach your cat to walk on a harness and leash, you can even take your cat for walks with you. They dont have to be outside; you can walk together around the house.

And, since I was having back problems, I enrolled in an adult ballet class to stretch and tone up my core.

But, if youre stumped about what kinds of games to play with your kitty, ask your veterinarian, go to your local library and ask about cat activity books. You can Google books and products that will stimulate not only your cats mind but also his body. (The laser pointer is a popular one in this household.)

The best place to start your 2015 goals is with a wellness exam for both you and your kitty to get a baseline from which to begin your quest for a healthier household. Ask for advice and find things that both you and your kitty enjoy doing.

Remember, one foot in front of the other. For more information on pet health, please visit

www.avma.org. .

By Lisa M. AllmendingerEditor, I Love Cats

What Are Your Goals for 2015?

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CATHEALTH

Doctors from BluePearl Veterinary Partners are urging people to practice caution over the Thanksgiving holiday as many of the items prepared for humans to feast on, may pose serious problems for both cats and dogs.

Some of these problems include gastrointestinal irritations with vomiting and diarrhea, and pancreatitis from eating foods high in fat.

By practicing these safety precautions and these tips, you will truly have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Turkey bones, chicken bones and ham bones can splinter and cause the intestinal track to become perforated.

Foods high in fat content can cause pancreatitis so make sure to seal garbage bags and place them in a tightly covered container to prevent your pets from getting into something that could injure them.

Many spices and foods (as well as alcohol) that are fine for humans are not safe for animals. Onions, garlic, chocolate, raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, the sugar substitute xylitol, and raw or undercooked food can create major problems for pets. So, make sure friends and family arent sneaking treats to your pets.

Although a treat or two is fine, always keep your pets on their normal diets.

Every year, at each of our hospitals around the country, we see an increase in emergencies during the holidays, many of which are avoidable, says Dr. Jennifer Welser, chief medical officer of BluePearl Veterinary Partners.

While prevention is certainly the best way to avoid an emergency, if people do notice their pet exhibiting unusual behavior or symptoms of an emergency, they should get their pet to their veterinarian or nearest emergency veterinarian as soon as possible, she says.

Happy Thanksgiving and please pass the pumpkin pie. .

Potential Problems for Cats During

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It can be tough being a cat.Sure, your cats seem to have it pretty good: A life spent

napping in sunny windows, safe from predators and attended to by humans who play with them, pet them and feed them whenever necessary.

But in an Animal Tracks podcast from the American Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Tony Buffington, a professor at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, says that things can look a little different from a cats perspective.

What the cat sees, is, Well, Im confined to this house, I have no choice what to eat or drink, Ive only got one tiny place that I can eliminate in and I just have to hope that somehow magically it gets clean because I cant do it, Buffington says, adding that many natural behaviors, like climbing and scratching, can lead to cats being punished or even relinquished.

Before bringing a cat into the home, its important that pet owners are familiar with cat behavior so that they can create an environment that best meets a cats needs. Doing so, Buffington said, will lead to happier, healthier cats.

If theyre living in a threatening enough environment, their stress response system, their sympathetic nervous system, their hormonal system and their immune system can all be activated searching for the threat, Buffington says. And if the threat never goes away, those systems can be activated all the time. After a while, they start

damaging organs in the body, and we start seeing clinical signs. I spent most of my career studying lower urinary tract disease in cats, and it turns out that the disease in many cases is a consequence of this chronic activation of the stress response system.

By creating an environment where cats feel more in control than threatened, The cat will be interested in whats going on around it, but its stress response system wont be activated constantly, he says.

In the podcast, Buffington also provides tips for cat owners on how to avoid problems such as scratching furniture, spraying and going to the bathroom outside of the litter box. In addition, he provides tips on playing with your cat, feeding your cat and trimming your cats nails.

To listen to the podcast, visit http://www.avmamedia.org/display.asp?sid=556&NAME=Creating_a_cat-friendly_home. It is also available on iTunes via AVMAs Animal Tracks channel (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/avma-animal-tracks/id672386638), a free podcast series for pet owners addressing animal health and safety issues. .

I Love Cats would like to thank the American Veterinary Medical Association and Dr. Tony Buffington, a professor at the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, for the information in this story.

Let Your CatBe a CAT

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Thinkstock

Kitty Connection by Innovation Pets is a cat playground complete with scratching post and removable adjustable toys.

Check out this video to see why cats love this cool toy.

Kitty Connection Video: http://youtu.be/NZ3NRqAdwVo

Voyager Comfort CarrierBergan has introduced the next generation of Comfort Carrier the Voyager.

It has features such as redefined pockets, locking zippers and an easy top loading entry in the large size.The Voyager is manufactured with durable material, reinforced seams as well as supportive carrying straps.

Each Voyager has a Pet ID tag for listing important contact information while traveling. Voyagers are available in two sizes; small and large and in Air Blue, Pink, Black, Purple and Bright Blue.

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Ahs Shhh! Litter Box FormulaAh! Products Shhh! Litter Box Formula is safe non-toxic water based formula that makes the toughest smelling litter box odorless.

Nontoxic, biodegradable and water based, litter box odors are eliminated through oxidization and not simply covered-up with a scent or fragrant like some other products.

For more information or to order visit www.productsbyah.com or call 952-230-7960.

Fresh Step Lightweight Extreme Litter Its time to give your back a break with new Fresh Step Lightweight Extreme litter.

Its 30-percent lighter so it is not only easier to lift, carry and pour, but it also has odor control because activated carbon traps and destroys extreme odors from urine and feces.

Turbo Cat GrassThis product will allow cats to munch in a healthy organic way while playing and scratching at the same time.

Many cats munch on grass to fulfill their nutrient needs or to gain additional water/fluids in their system. So, the company placed a healthy grass sprouting tray into the Turbo Scratcher. The sprouting tray includes a bag of organic wheat grass as well as a bag of vermiculite. Consumers will simply place the contents into the tray, add water and then see growth in 3-5 days.

continued

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Some cat owners want naturally healthy greens and prefer catnip filled over toys without catnip, so Worldwise has expanded its organic catnip product line

There are now 20 tempting new catnip toys, including five refillable catnip options.

Petlinks catnip is organically grown and processed without chemicals. Plus, it contains only leaves and blossoms with no inert fillers.

Here are a few of the options. Snakey Nip an oversized plush snake thats fun for cats to kick and wrestle with. Little Nip Mates feature a teabag-like mesh panel for better catnip diffusion in plush-filled mouse, ladybug and fish shapes.

Theres an oversized and floppy Crinkle Buddy in elongated bunny, mouse and chick shapes, purfect for cuddling and wrestling with their hidden crinkle sounds, feathers and raffia teasers.

Pudgy Pals chubby 3" bodies in mouse, bird and squirrel shapes are also great for wrestling and hugging for those cats who like to have their arms around a pawful of plush mixed with burlap.

Lil Crinklers features a 2-pack of brightly accented mice with stretchy elastic, felt bodies, crinkles and rope teasers. The soft bodies and attractive iridescent wings of the butterfly, ladybug and dragonfly Bug Catch toys are lightweight and easy to carry in cats mouths.

For more information, go to www.worldwise.com.

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Worldwise Fresh Refillable Catnip Tubes and Petlinks Eco-Friendly Catnip Toys

Kong Glide n Seek Unlike most cat toys, the Glide n Seek is a puzzle toy designed to stimulate feline minds and bodies.

What makes this product different is exceptional design. To create exciting and challenging movement, Kong used futuristic magnetic levitation technology. The toys interior feathers (prey) dance around unpredictably, stimulating the feline instinct to chase and capture. Since the feathers are housed inside the toy and move continuously, they hold a cats attention and cant be removed.

The game doesnt end until the toy is turned off.

The Glide N Seek includes 2 AA batteries to bring its magnetic levitation technology to life. .

The Cat at Night Collection The hand-sewn wool on canvas pillows are based on designs from the 1969 childrens book The Cat at Night by Maine artist Dahlov Ipcar.

Ipcar, 95, is still painting fine art and publishing childrens books. The Cat at Night Collection is available at www.ShopClassicRug.com and at the Classic Rug Collection showroom. Also available at museums throughout Maine.

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Two 10-year old boys killed a kitten and Juvenile Probation Officer Dorothy Thompson did not want their horrific act to go unpunished, but incarcerating boys that young was not an option.

Childhood animal abusers are almost always released to their parents, but Thompson wanted an age appropriate treatment so the boys would not harm other animals.

Although a call to the Arizona Humane Society revealed nothing was available, staff there suggested a professor at Arizona State University was interested in starting such a program.

A short time later, Dr. Christina Risley Curtiss, associate professor of social work, called the probation department. And so began CAT (Children and Animals Together) in early 2008.

Childhood animal abuse is worrisome. Psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers agree it is likely an indication of current and later violence. Experts such as Frank Ascione, Randall Lockwood, and Phil Arkow say a strong link exists between animal abuse and human

violence; a child who intentionally harms a puppy is seriously troubled.

So, a panel of local animal and child welfare experts met to develop a pilot program. Pam Gaber, president and founder of Gabriels Angels, an advocacy group that provides healing pet therapy to abused, abandoned, and at risk youth, served on the original panel. Gaber says, Im very impressed with CAT. Its through these connections that we have the opportunity to teach that animal cruelty isnt acceptable.

Lesson plans included kindness to animals and humans. In the beginning, children met at the Arizona Animal Welfare League where volunteers demonstrated proper treatment and care of animals. Interestingly, some of the children in the program were in foster care or had experienced abuse at home.

Since the early days, CAT evolved and is now more formalized. Referrals come from family court, schools, or child protective service case managers. There was a self-referral from a parent. Most but not all referrals are from

C A T: Children and Animals Together Fights Juvenile Animal Cruelty in Arizona

By Debra J. White

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lower socio-economic backgrounds although animal abuse just like child abuse is found among all levels of society. Children from age 2 to 17 years are evaluated and assessed for intervention. Those from 6 to 17 are assigned to groups that last 14 weeks and attendance is required of at least one parent or guardian.

Social workers decide if siblings should attend based on family history. At the beginning of the program, each child receives a binder with homework assignments that center on kindness, dealing with anger, and interacting with others. Other exercises include making toys for shelter animals and care packages for homeless people with pets.

In addition, an animal cruelty investigator discusses animal cruelty laws. Social worker Kris Williams who leads some of the groups brings along her therapy dog Dakota to interact with the children.

Diane Decker, an experienced dog behaviorist, talks to the children about specific canine and feline behaviors and violence. For example, if dogs are fearful, they may run away, hide, or bite as a way to protect themselves. If extremely frightened, a dog may empty its bladder, bowels or anal glands.

Cats usually scratch or hiss when abused or scared. Children may see biting dogs or cats as bad when in fact they are fending off abuse. Decker explains that if children are hurt they have options such as crying, screaming, hiding, or asking for help. Dogs or cats have no option to solicit help.

Decker brings her Rottweiler, Halle, to sessions. A rescue, Halle is blind in one eye and disfigured from abuse. However, the dog is playful and friendly.

Decker asks the kids to get on their hands and knees, to imitate a dog. Halle runs towards them. Why? Decker says so children have an idea what its like for the animal to be confronted. Halle naturally backs up, displaying fear. Decker then demonstrates proper treatment of dogs and Halle rolls over for belly rubs. Children seem to understand how abusive, violent behavior hurts animals.

About halfway through the program, social workers conduct home visits. Are the children progressing? Have they incorporated lessons from the program at home? What other areas need to be covered? Are children and animals in the home safe?

A young girl in foster care was referred for excessive teasing and rough behavior with the cats in her new placement. CATs assessment revealed a child with an extensive history of abuse, domestic violence that included animals in the home.

Although very bright, she was full of rage. Such behavior is expected in children with little control over themselves, no safety and lack of empathy. Among the issues CAT discussed with the girl and her foster family was the validation of her anger and concrete ways to expel the physical emotion of rage. As the 14-week program progressed, there were changes in her interactions with kittens at the Arizona Animal Welfare League. Her caregivers reported that the cats at home no longer seemed as afraid of her and one was actually sleeping on her bed with her.

CAT is privately funded, and donations are always accepted. CAT will continue to accept children into the program as long as there is a demand for services.

Most children who abuse animals emulate behavior seen at home. Domestic violence remains a stubbornly common problem among all social classes, races and ethnic groups everywhere. And, pets are often victims of violence in the home.

Until there domestic violence decreases, programs like CAT will continue to serve a major role in Maricopa County, Arizona. .Debra White has written previously for I Love Cats.

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The Stevenson Companion Animal Life-Care Center, located at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM) is a facility quite unlike any other.

This unique center provides for the physical, emotional, and medical needs of companion animals whose owners find themselves no longer able to do so. Whether they are entering a retirement home, being hospitalized for an extended period of time, or predeceasing a pet, they can rest easy that their pets are being well cared for at the Stevenson Center.

I believe the Stevenson Center is unique in that it is the only life-care facility for pets that is an integral part of a College of Veterinary Medicine, says Dr. Sonny Presnal, director of the Stevenson Center. This means that companion animals that are living with us at the Stevenson Center will receive the ultimate in veterinary care, which is provided by our Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.

The Stevenson Center has veterinary students

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Stevenson Companion Animal Life-Care Center at Texas A & M

Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Thinkstock

who live at the center to care for the resident pets at night and on weekends and holidays.

It is unique in another way because four veterinary students live at the center to provide around-the-clock care and companionship whenever the staff is off duty, says Presnal. This is an excellent learning opportunity for the students and ensures a high quality of life for our pet residents.

Situated on 3 acres beside the CVM campus, the total space of the center, including a recent second expansion since its opening in 1993, is about 11,000 square feet and will be able to house nearly 100 pets.

A stable behind the main building houses the centers resident llama, with space for other large companion animals when the need arises. Residing in the center at this time are 19 cats, 14 dogs and the llama. There are a total of 480 animals currently enrolled to enter the program, with 173 owners from 26 different states.

Over the more than 21 years which we have been in operation, many donors have supported the center by making contributions to our building fund, unrestricted gifts, and in many cases creating an endowment from their estate plans in excess of the minimum required endowment to enroll their pets, Presnal says. We are extremely grateful for this support, and this support is what has enabled us to create the exceptional facility and care that our resident pets receive at the center.

Enrollment is not a complicated process, and interested donors can contact the center by phone 979-845-1188 or on the website (http://vetmed.tamu.edu/stevenson-center).

We highly encourage anyone that might have an interest in enrolling their pets in the center to visit the center to fully appreciate the compassionate care that their pet would receive, she says.

Center staff will pick up enrolled animals anywhere in Texas when necessary.

The first stop for the pets before they even enter the center is the CVM Small Animal Hospital, where they go through a thorough examination before joining the others.

The hospital and its veterinarians also provide comprehensive care when a center resident is sick or injured, ensuring the animals get the best care available.

We believe that the Stevenson Center provides the ultimate in life-care for companion animals comprised of exceptional, compassionate care and the very best veterinary care available anywhere, Presnal says. We highly encourage anyone interested in the program to schedule a visit to see the center up close and personal. .

I Love Cats would like to thank the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University for the information in this story.

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Although many of you have indoor cats, should one escape from your home, a microchip can save his life.

Las Vegas veterinarian Dr. David Drake is urging all pet owners to microchip their pets, and research shows that without a microchip, 90 percent of lost pets are never reunited with their owners.

In case you are not familiar with a microchip, its a small device encoded with a unique serial number that is implanted between a pets shoulders. Most animal shelters and veterinarians offices have microchip readers so should your lost cat be found, it can be scanned and youll get a call that your lost kitty has been found.

With the cooler breezes, those wonderful smells and a cats prey drive, fall is a common time for lost cats (and dogs).

Drake reminds pet owners that microchipping their cats is the best insurance policy for ensuring a happy reunion between lost pets and owners.

A staggering nine out of every 10 lost pets will never be reunited with their owners, he says. Even worse, many of these pets will end up in animal shelters, where an estimated 30 to 60 percent of

pets are ultimately euthanized. Microchipping is an effective and permanent form of identification that helps return lost pets to their owners.

A microchip is no bigger than a grain

of rice and contains a unique serial number. This serial number corresponds with the pet owners contact information, which is stored in a secure database. Only

approved veterinary hospitals and animal shelters have access to this database.

A pet owners private information is completely secure, Drake says. We must first scan the microchip and then log into the database in order to match the serial number up with the pet owner. Once we have done this, we can contact the pet owner directly and facilitate a reunion between the pet owner and the lost pet.

The veterinarian stresses that microchips are a safe, more reliable form of pet identification when compared with collar tags. Should a pet owner move or change phone numbers, the contact information on the tag can quickly become outdated. Replacing the tag can be a hassle, which means pets could become lost and not even have the correct contact information listed on their tags.

In contrast, he says, microchip contact information can be instantly updated in the secure database. It takes only minutes for a pet owner to log in and change their information. .

I Love Cats would like to thank St. Francis Animal Hospital for the information in this story.

Please Microchip Your Kitties

Moving?Take us with you!

Send your info to:I LOVE CATSPO Box 5887Harlan, IA 51593-1587

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According to one survey, while losing your pet can be a traumatic experience for both you and the pet, about 93 percent of dogs and 75 percent of cats reported lost are returned safely to their homes.

Here are 10 Things You Can Do:

Contact or visit your local shelters and animal control organizations. File a lost pet report with every shelter, pound and animal control office within a 60-mile radius of your home and visit the nearest shelters daily, if possible. Get the word out to all veterinarians in the area. Sometimes people pick up a stray and drive it to a distant clinic.

Search your neighborhood. Walk or drive through your neighborhood several times each day. Enlist friends, family and others to help you. Ask neighbors, letter carriers, and delivery people if they have seen your pet. Hand out a recent photograph of your pet and information on how you can be reached if your pet is found.

Go door to door and speak with your neighbors. The more people know you have lost a pet, and that you are upset, worried and desperately trying to find your pet, the more people will call you if they see an animal in the woods or on the road, or in their backyard.

Place posters and flyers throughout the neighborhood. Post notices at grocery stores, community centers, veterinary offices, traffic intersections, at pet supply stores, and other locations. Also, place advertisements in newspapers and with radio stations. Include your pets sex, age, weight, breed, color, and any special markings. To avoid scams, when describing your pet, leave out one identifying characteristic and ask the person who finds your pet to describe it.

Post info about your pet on all pet recovery websites and services. Sites such as Craigslist.org, TheCenterForLostPets.com and FidoFinder.com allow

you to broadcast your missing pet info quickly. National pet care providers can be hired to assist you in your search for your lost pet.

Consider using a lost pet recovery service. There are now numerous lost pet alert services, such as FindToto.com, that will contact homes, veterinarians, shelters and animal control organizations for a reasonable fee.

Place food and water outside your home. Your pet may eventually return to your home when they get hungry or thirsty. Consider placing the food in a rented or purchased humane pet trap to capture them.

Tell everyone you see about your pet and ask them to keep their eyes open for her. The more people you alert about your missing pet, the greater the chance someone will recollect seeing your pet in their area.

Dont give up. Be aggressive in your search, get lots of help, get the word out right away dont wait a few hours to see if shell come home on her own you need those early hours to put up posters and start your search. .

I Love Cats would like to thank Paul Mann, founder and CEO of Fetch! Pet Care, www.FetchPetCare.com, for the information in this story.

My Cats MissingWhat Should I Do?

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Bumper was only 3 weeks old when he went to Elizabeth as a foster. As a

seasoned foster parent, she had no problem seeing to the care and feeding of this little tommy cat (he was too little to be referred to as a tom cat, yet). He grew, and flourished. Then his mother failed as a foster parent, was unable to give him up and adopted him right after he was neutered.

Bumper was about 7 months old when Thanksgiving rolled around. He was in kitten heaven, getting little bits of turkey mixed into his supper every night. He was rather disappointed when the turkey gravy train dried up, but he figured there was something in the air, because his mother was pulling boxes out of the closet in the spare bedroom.

One morning, Bumper came strolling out of the bedroom following his second mid-morning nap. He flopped down in the middle of the living room floor and began his morning ablutions. Just as he got to his nether-bits, he realized something in the room was different. That table was in the wrong place. It used to be over there by the window. He knew, because he always sat up there to watch the birds. Now it was in the opposite corner. He continued to study. Then he saw it. It was a green thing.

Bumper jumped up on the table. He butted the green thing with his head. It gave a little. But it didnt feel right. It looked like the trees outside. But it wasnt a real tree, at least he didnt think it was. Since he couldnt really remember being outside except in a cat carrier, he really wasnt an expert. But the house plants his mom kept around felt different than this did. He stuck out his tongue and licked it. Nope. It tasted like

plastic. He rubbed. It felt kind of like when his mom used her hairbrush on his tail.

He sat back and stared. The more he looked the more he was confused. But Bumper had more pressing business at moment. He had heard his mom open the refrigerator.

Bumper ran to the kitchen and joined his brothers in a light luncheon of crunchies and a little chopped up chicken liver, then they spent another hour washing faces, then napping in the winter sunbeam coming through the kitchen window.

Bumper awoke first, and decided to check out that weird thing on the moving table. He wandered into the living room and there was his mom, fussing over that funny green thing. What was it?

Mom had two boxes on the table next to the green thing. Bumper walked over and jumped on the table so he could look in the boxes. He didnt get to see, because his mom picked him up and set him back on the floor. She fussed at him a little, but he wasnt sure was she was carrying on about. After all, he hadnt done anything. He couldnt do anything but watch. At least for now.

Bumper watched his mom put yellow things on the green thing. They looked sort of like the yellow things he saw fly around outside when the weather was warm, but these were different. These didnt move. It was like they were frozen. Next, mom took out long strings of pretty gold and silver beads and hung them all around the green thing. Mom stepped back and adjusted one of the yellow things, nodded like she was satisfied, then turned to put the boxes away

He jumped back up on the table and looked at the green thing some more. He poked his nose into it, and took a long sniff. Nope. This wasnt like any of his

By Helen Chapman, the Crazy Cat Lady

moms potted plants, the kind he used to get into trouble for pooping in. This smelled like when his mom let him have the rings off the milk jug to play with, the kind he like to swat around until they went under the stove.

Mom came out of the bedroom and picked Bumper off the table again. She set him on the back and the sofa, then walked back to the table where the green thing sat. He couldnt figure out why she shook her finger at him and she bent down to do something. Maybe she wanted to tell him he wasnt allowed to help this time. That was okay. Bumper would figure out how to help next time.

When it got dark, Bumpers mom surprised him again. She walked over to the green thing, bent down and fiddled with something, then straightened up. Suddenly, the green thing started flashing in colors.

Bumper spent the rest of the night staring at the green thing, while Mom and his brothers looked at the box up against the other wall. Normally, Bumper would be watching with them. But not tonight. Tonight he had to watch that green thing. There was something about it he didnt like. Something dangerous. And Bumper knew it was his job to protect his mom and brothers from the dangerous green thing that flashed colors and made tables move around the room.

Finally, Mom moved his brothers off her lap, then stood up. She turned off the box by the wall, did something to

the green thing so the colors didnt flash anymore, then went into the bedroom. His brothers followed.

Bumper stayed right where he was. He might only be a little cat, but he had a family to protect.

Bumper stayed in the living room, staring at the green thing waiting for the colors to start again. They didnt. That made Bumper think it was even more evil, that when it got darkest in the house the light wouldnt flash. He waited until the moment was just right, then Bumper sprang into action.

When Mom got up in the morning, she went straight to the kitchen. She pushed a button on the machine that made that hot stuff she liked to drink in the morning. Bumper didnt know what it was, but it smelled pretty good, and it was hot, and his mom always seemed to feel better after she had some of it, so it must be all right. Once she had a cup filled, she walked back into the living room. Bumper couldnt wait for her to see what he had done during the night.

Mom yelled at him. He didnt know why. All he had done was to take those yellow winged things and those strings of things off the green thing. Since they seemed to give the green thing its power to flash light, maybe that was enough to keep the lights out. But Mom didnt like it one bit.

While he watched, Mom put all the yellow things and

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the string things back on the green thing. When it got dark, and was time to settle down to watch the square thing, Mom did something again that made the lights flash in the green thing. But when it came time for Mom to go to bed, she did something different. She went into the cupboard and took out a bed sheet. She flipped it open and put it over the green thing after the lights went out like last night.

She pointed her finger at Bumper and talked to him in a very stern voice. Then she picked him up and carried him into the bedroom with her.

Once Mom was sound asleep, Bumper knew he needed to act quickly to protect his family. That green thing was evil for sure and certain, and Bumper was determined he was going to take care of things. After all, he considered himself the man of the house.

When Mom had her warm cup of good smelling stuff the next morning, she went looking for Bumper. The sheet was still over the green thing, so Bumper must have been a good kitty. She sat on the sofa and started to relax.

Mom was just taking a sip from her cup when the sheet moved. She put the cup aside and walked over to the table. She put her hand down to pull back the sheet when it moved again.

Out popped Bumper. The sheet had not deterred him one bit. He had one of the yellow butterflies in his mouth, looking quite proud of his accomplishment.

Mom put her cup down, picked up Bumper and hugged him. There wasnt much else she could do. Once she was finished laughing, she uncovered the Christmas tree, picked up the decorations and put them back into their box. This year, she would have just a plain, fiber-optic tree on her table. The lights shining through the branches would have to suffice for her holiday. .

Helen Chapman, the Crazy Cat Lady, has written for I Love Cats for many years.

Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Thinkstock

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Pat and Penny sent by Lindsay via the Internet.

34

35

Jeffrey Dysinger sent several photos of Sebastian and Sabrina, both tabbies although they are not related.

Both kitties were rescued as kittens and they love to spend their days lounging in the sun room and their nights terrorizing Mr. Mousie (the favorite toy) in Minneapolis, MN.

continued

36

I washed this vegetable drawer for the garage refrigerator and had it upside down so the kitties would not get in it, says Susan Anderson, who added, Coffee Cat tunneled underneath and hid out there for an hour.

The kitty also decided to see what was in the cabinet since the door was left open, and swing from the chandelier.

37

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Helping Cats in Your Community WebinarLearn about feral cats and the basics of Trap-Neuter-Return from the experts.

Susan Anderson-Khleif sent this series of photos of sisters Sheba, the black and white, and Coffee Cat that came to her from a barn when they were 3-and-a-half months old. They have always been close friends and nap together, she says.

continued

38

Sir Douglas Feffer MacLoud with his bottle of Guinness

and another photo of him posing on one

of his many cat beds. Submitted by

M. Vone Bowly.

39

If you would like to submit a clear, color photo for

Cats in the News, please send it to

CATS IN THE NEWS,Grass Roots Publishing Inc.,

I Love Cats,1040 First Ave., Suite 323,New York, NY 10022-2902

or send .jpeg photos to

ilovecatseditor@sbcglobal.net

Carla Orozco sent a photo of Pookie,

who was adopted in November 2013 from

Petco. The cat had been rescued by The Bark and

Meow Foundation in California. Hes a 6-year-

old male catpossibly part Maine Coon and

Norwegian Forest.

Max, top shelf, is 19 pounds does not fit into the bottom cubby hole, but likes to be near Sam, a svelte 11 pounds. When not relaxing here, they are usually on our laps say Linda and Frank Balco of Waterbury, VT.

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