Outside? OUTSIDE!

Topic that pisses off many people - and since I enjoy pissing off people with my beliefs ...

Why allowing your Cat to Roam Freely around the Neighbourhood makes you an Asshole

Why? Why would that make someone an asshole?

That's a bit harsh!

Do you allow your Dog to roam freely around the neighbourhood?

What about your 2 year old?

Ferret?

For those who answered yes to the 2 year old... may I interest you in some Goldfish? 

I'm not even talking about real Goldfish.. I mean the Crackers..

Because I wouldn't trust you with any living thing. 

We don't allow our Dogs to roam freely around the neighbourhood because ....

1. Dogs are dumber than cats ( Says Sebby)

2. People care more about Dogs ( Says Cat dislikers)

3. If a Dog bites someone, they can sue the family who owns the Dog

4. Dogs may wander off and keep going...Just ask the Littlest Hobo

Truth is...

I am not sure.

Ferrets look like Opossums 

I am not sure why they would add an O to Possum ..but apparently there is a difference. 

They would probably try to climb up people...

People would freak out over the weird probably consider them rabid Opossum. 

It would get ugly.

*

Yet...

Many think it is okay for us to allow our pet Cats to do what ever the hell they want to on anybody's property.

 ( I am not talking about Feral Cats yet)

Think about it..

Actually, try and picture it... pretend you are a cat roaming around the neighbourhood. 

What would you do?

Where would you go?

It would be great if all Cats were street smart. Looked both ways before crossing the street. 

They don't. 

Even if they are street savvy enough to seem to avoid crossing when cars come- this changes if they are being chased, or are chasing something. 

Not to mention the sadistic assholes out there that aim for them.

Do you want to see your cat as roadkill?

DO YOU?

The cat doesn't

I sure as hell don't. 

I also don't want to be the person to cause it to happen!

Or the cat gets injured by the car..and the car leaves. 

I came across a cat one day that was wobbling in the middle of the road.

It had been hit by a car. 

You really do not need for me to explain the injuries, and what this poor cat had to endure because nothing was open.

One would hope that a person would take an animal to the Vet if they caused the accident. 

(Unless it is closed)

Or at least to the shelter

(Unless that is also closed- and you have to contact the on call person and wait for them to drive back from 45 min away)

Why should that poor cat have to cross the street?

Why did that poor cat have to die. 

Because some idiot decided to let their cat out.

Not on a dead end street..not around a field ...On a busy street in the City. 

 

It's not okay that the cat had to suffer. 

It's not okay that I had to comfort a dying animal ( I was glad I was there for him, and would absolutely do it again..just wish I didn't have to)

A cat could just as easily cause a car accident. 

They don't do this on purpose.. but a person trying to avoid a cat on the road could hit something else..

Brake fast and get rear ended...

I consider that the pet owners fault.

*

Getting back to the neighbourood roaming..

Cats are notorious for looking at flower beds and seeing litterboxes. 

I adore cats, and that even bugs me. 

Not the cats fault...

Like birds?

Cats do. 

They think they are tasty.

The cats would like to thank those that arrange the bird buffets in their back yards. 

Thanks for calling them all to dinner with your bird feeders!

Wait.. 

You just wanted to feed the birds and watch them out your window?

My bad... nobody told the cats. 

What a cute little bunny!

THAT WAS THE MOST HORRIBLE SOUND I HAVE EVER HEARD 

Bunny death... not something you will forget quickly. 

*

 

New kitty on the block...

Lets kick its ass.. nobody comes on my turf without going through me ! ( says the cat)

DING DING DING

Round 1

 Que extremely annoying  meow.

Round 2

Pace back and forth and in a circle 

Round 3

The first punch..scratch

( with sound effects )

Round 4

The chase scene 

Round 5

Capture and rumble 

Round 6

More sound effects

Round 7 called off due to human interference

Even if you do not have a Tom in the neighbourhood.. fights happen. 

An unfixed female cat will get raped 

Repeatedly

Viciously 

What if your cat is the aggressor ?

What gives you the right to let out a bully cat?

A lot less people are using toxic chemicals on their lawns...

But it still happens. 

Yes people post signs. 

Guess what..CATS CAN'T READ

Fleas, Ticks, Worms, Parasites

Yes indoor cats can still come into contact with some of those things...

But the % is much much lower. 

Disease 

Do you know where your kitty has been?

Who it fought with?

Do you know if any of those cats had a communicable disease?

Virus?

*

People at times are not the smartest. 

They put out rat poison .. you know.. for the rats and mice..

They don't put it where a Cat can get it. 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE CAT EATS THE POISONED RAT OR MOUSE??

Idiots. 

 *

You would think that your neighbours would be kinder.. gentler human beings. 

More than likely they are meaner ..crueler and jerkier. 

Purposely lacing food with poison and setting it out for the cats.

Putting nails in the gardens ( pointing up )

Creating a very dangerous environment for your cat...and other animals. 

Why?

Because they are cruel.. and think they have the right to do things to the cat because the cat is coming on their property. 

They don't have the right. 

But your cat also does not that the right to be on their property. 

*

Were  you expecting a visitor?

Fluffy.. there is someone at the window for you. 

Suddenly Fluffy starts peeing outside of the litterbox or acting weirdly. 

Outside kitty is freaking her out. 

Two cats that have been best friends for years and live inside suddenly turn on eachother. 

Oh look ... George the roaming kitty is outside. 

Frankie the fantastic kitty starts spraying

Why???

George. 

We have no idea how many animals are surrendered due to things they have done caused by a reaction to a cat hanging around outside their house. 

Way to go George. Why don't you just go home!

Human wont let you in?

Your human sucks. 

My point.. 

It is not okay for you to cause havoc in your neighbourhood with your cat.

It is not the cats fault. 

Your a jerk. 

Keep your cat inside

or 

On a harness 

or

In an outdoor inclosure made for cats

or

Move to a remote location where you do not have neighbours. 

But there are still wild animals... 

Just keep your cat inside.

 

 

Sisters

(Human/Coda/Willow)

*This is a foster kitty named Willow, not my Cat named Willow*

Our turn???

Geez, took long enough. 

I know, but now you can tell everyone about yourselves.

Me first!

Okay Willow, you first. 

K, firstly- I'm the better one!

Hey! Not true!

You are both fantastic, no talking like that. 

Fine. 

I'm Willow, 

I'm awesome.

Some say awesomer..

Willow!

What! I said some!

I'm feeling a bit censored here.

I'm not censoring you. It's just not nice to say you are better than another.

Besides.. It's not true. I'm clearly the better one. 

Coda, you're not helping.

I'm sorry...was I suppose to be?

Let's start over. 

Willow, tell me about yourself.

Fine.

I'm a beautiful young girl.

I have a spectacular coat of black hair. 

It's nice and shiny and long. 

Me too!

It's still my turn.

I'm aware.

I love to play, toys are awesome!!

I love to sit on laps, laps are awesome!

If you're not around, just leave a piece of clothing. I will just lay on that till you get back.

The following game is fun, I'm really good at it.

I'm not a fan of doors. At least when they are closed.

But I won't freak out about it. I will just lay  on the other side and wait for you to come to your senses.

You done yet?

No.

Darnit.. I forgot what I was going to say!

Good, my turn.

I'm Coda.

Way cooler name, cuz I'm a way cooler cat!

My sister and I look the same except I have had eye surgery. 

That's right.. I'm not perfect, if that bothers you then maybe you should get a build-a-bear! 

My eye was attacking me.

It had to be stopped.

Uhh, not exactly.

Your eye lid was turning inwards and without surgery it would have caused sever damage to the eye.

That's what I said!

So like I said my one eye was misbehaving. Due to the surgery my one eye looks slightly smaller.

Get over it.

I love toys.. More than Willow!

I carry them around in my mouth. 

I have a favorite one.. A blue and white mousie with a long tail.

Laps are cool, but the big kitty condo is better!

I love my sister so it would be awesome if we got adopted together.. But if not then pick me!

That was very nicely put.

Thanks.
I like the build-a-bear part. 
It was rather clever of me.

Can I get a build-a-bear?
Uhh..
Just kidding, but can we post a picture of one. 

Sure.

I want a build-a-bear.
Sorry meows.
These are kinda awesome.

Pft.. I bet they don't have dragons .

Fine.. but I meant to say Giraffe ...no a Bear in a Giraffe costume!!

I quit. 
You win. 
Build-a-Bears are awesome. 
Can I trade Willow in for one?

Hey!!!

No.

Can I trade you in for one?

Build-a-bears can't open cans. Or buy treats. Or toys.

I was just kidding............ Forget I said that.

See, told you I was better.

A very cute level of insanity

Easter Weekend - Pet Valu is closed Friday and Sunday..This meant


3 kittens & 1 adult cat

Stella

Scarlet

Slater

Jackson

They are all very sweet and cute.
Active and wanting lots of attention.
Yay!
What is sleep?
My head hurts.
Stop trying to bite my feet.
Let my just finish this one post.
Please don't jump on my head.
Stop trying to walk on the laptop.
Slater stop biting Stella!
Slater stop biting Scarlet!
SLATER I SAID STOP!
That's it.. kitty time out. ( time out = amount of time it takes for kitty to find its way out from under the blanket)

Jackson stop jumping around, you are not a kitten!
I am trying to type, go jump around.

Here, chase the laser pointer!
( he has progressed from staring at the wall to climbing it)

Okay, that's enough for now.

Jackson get off the table.
Fine, more laser pointer.

Okay, enough.

Stop staring at the wall.
It's gone.

Snack time!
(for them)

Snack time over.

Scarlet just flew off the 4 foot tall scratching post, right onto Slaters head! It was epic. 

Scarlet, stay out of the drawer. Leave the bag alone.

Aww purring baby Scarlet time. So cute.

What a good girl, she is not walking on the laptop at all.
Slater? Stop trying to play with the laptop cord.
Stella... oh, you're just playing with the laser pointer..continue.

Scarlet please don't try to climb me. Just lay back down like a good kitty.

1222222 - Stella.. please don't walk across the keys.

Uhh what are you doing now? Chewing the corner? kicking the computer with your feet?

Break time??? A slight lull in the kitty insanity?
What should I do with all this free time!!
I must type as fast as possible. For it shall not last long.

All of that happened in about as long as it took to type it.

I love having foster meows, really I do.
Having 3 kittens and an adult cat in your room ..where you are trying to sleep...that is a bit like trying to to take a nap at a concert.
Sure it's possible, if you are tired enough.

Jackson that's to rough!
Much better. She is just a little kitten.
Okay you're squishing her.. Jackson! Lift up your paw!

He really had no idea he was squishing her..he was attempting to groom himself whilst Stella tried to snuggle with him. He had his paw and leg on her head... while he tried to lick his own back... Honest mistake.

Why are they in my room?

I had to watch their food intake and ...output? Yeah, they were experiencing a bit of stomach irritation prior to the holiday.
The kittens were, Jackson is fine but I am not allowing him to meet my guys.. there would be issues with Sebby...

I have other rooms... One had a clothing explosion.. and I really just don't want to deal with it.
The other is occupied by Melody.
She is new.
She was living under someones back patio - she is spayed and declawed.
Not able to find an owner for her.. so maybe someone just abandoned her. Jerks.
She is beautiful and very sweet.

The kittens and Jackson go back to Pet Valu tomorrow.

I will give myself a night with no meows in the room.. then I will probably bring Melody in here.
Right now she is content with random visits through the day.. but I am sure she will appreciate the company of having someone to chill with through the night.
Or she will bite my feet and sleep on my head... Only time will tell.


It has been a good 5 minutes without kitty interruption.
Slater is sleeping on one of the cat beds.
Jackson is eating.
Stella is playing with a toy.
Scarlet is playing in the kitty condo.
All is calm.. for now....

While adding the images for this post - Stella tried to climb onto the laptop from behind the laptop.
Scarlet just tried climbing all over me.
Slater decided to join the group.
Jackson was asking for attention.. he does this by standing right in front of me and cooing.
Or he will walk on the side table which I dislike..

I had to bring the laser pointer out again, it was the only way to distract the meows.

 I think they are getting sleepy... I know I am. 

LILIES ARE DEADLY TO CATS

Don't let their beauty fool you. 

They are killers. 

After years of being gnawed on by thoughtless kitties. 

Decades of being eaten.. only to be barfed up on the floor. 

They had enough.

The Lily decided they were going to seek revenge for their plant brothers and sisters. 

Their Flora Family.

They did not want to be so easily destroyed.

Armor was created, in Pollen form.

Hidden in plain site. 

Masquerading as what some may find a simple allergen. 

No, this Pollen had a plan. 

This Pollen became the Lilies first line of defense. 

 

Grinning, for it knows how destructive it can be. 

The Bees made a deal with Lilies. 

They are safe. 

Cats...no deal. 

The pollen from a Lily can very easily be transferred from plant to curious kitty. 

Once Pollen has managed to attach its self to its victim.. It has to await its final destination.

Pollen does not have to wait very long... Kitty only needs to start grooming for the pollen to be ingested. 

Then Pollen gets to work. 

IF YOU SUSPECT YOUR CAT OR KITTEN HAS LILY POLLEN ON IT - WASH IT OFF IMMEDIATELY!

IF YOU ARE NOT SURE IF KITTY HAS INGESTED ANY OF THE POLLEN - GET THEM TO THE VET!

 Pollen doesn't work alone. He has friends. 

EVERY PART OF THE LILY IS TOXIC

The flower is the most toxic part of the plant 

Cats pissed off the wrong plant. 

So beautiful, so fragrant...

They aim right for the kidneys. 

 *

The first signs usually develop 6 - 12 hours after ingestion, and may mimic the signs seen with grape and raisin toxicity and antifreeze (ethylene glycol) toxicity.

The first signs seen are:

• vomiting
• lethargy
• loss of appetite
• tremors
• seizures

Kidney (renal) failure follows usually follows, and the signs seen are:

• increased thirst
• increased urination initially, followed by lowered urine output, and finally, no urine output
• dehydration
• death

Kidney failure occurs as early as 36 - 72 hours after ingestion.

**

Lily has kept quiet - never revealing what causes this toxic response. 

Because of this - there is no antidote.  

Treatment involves IV Fluids - SubQ fluids are not effective  

Your cat may be on IV Fluids for up to 48 hours

It is very important to get your cat to the vet as soon as possible. 

After 18 hours with no treatment - THE MORTALITY RATE HAS BEEN REPORTED AS HIGH AS 100% 

 DON'T PUT YOUR CATS LIFE IN DANGER BECAUSE YOU RECEIVED THE PLANT AS A GIFT

• SAY NO
• GIVE IT TO A FRIEND WITHOUT CATS

(THOUGH THE PLANT IS NOT DEADLY TO DOGS - IT CAN CAUSE GASTROINTESTINAL UPSET ) 

• GIVE IT TO A CHURCH
• DROP IT OFF AT A RETIREMENT HOME THAT DOES NOT HAVE CATS 
•  DO SOMETHING OTHER THAN BRINGING IT INTO YOUR HOME

REPEAT AFTER ME

NO LILIES FOR FOR CATS 

 

(or cats pretending to be bunnies)

OR 

CLICK HERE

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY EASTER 

Litter Box

(AFTER RULING OUT MEDICAL REASONS)

I don't like this box

I don't like this litter

I don't like this location

I don't like that new thing you brought into the house

I don't like that

or that

Not sure about that...

 What you can do to stop the litter box problems

 First things first...DO NOT IGNORE THIS BEHAVIOUR

• Address the problem promptly. 

The longer the behavior persists, the more likely it is to become a habit.

Second..Identify culprit

• This only applies if you have more than one animal 
• You may need to separate them to find the responsible party. 

 Alternatively, your veterinarian can provide you with a special non-toxic stain given by mouth that will show up in the urine.

Third..Is the cat urinating or spraying?

• You’ll need to distinguish between spraying and other forms of house soiling. 
• Watch your cat for signs of spraying 

Or set up a video camera to keep an eye on the situation when you’re not around. 
That would also be helpful in identifying the kitty culprit.

( I will assume you have already taken your kitty to the vet to make sure there are no medical issues- if not..TAKE KITTY TO VET..The cost of a visit is much cheaper then the feeling of helplessness and frustration a person feels upon finding yet another puddle)


Identify the Cause

Time to play detective. Not as fun as it sounds....

I would suggest before you delve into the list...
Try this product - It is a litter called Cat Attract
If that is not of any help -

• Does she prefer a certain type of surface? 

If so, it may be possible to modify your litter to match it.

Kitty likes soft?

• There are different grains of litter - smaller, softer.
• There are different types of litter - Walnut, Corn, Wheat, Paper, Crystals ( It's a booming business)

Kitty using the carpet as their bathroom?  

• Take a trip out to the carpet remnants store - You can buy scraps, testers, samples, end of roll - all rather cheap
• Put the carpet in the litter box as a liner - I know it sounds kinda counter productive - but it may be the first step in getting the kitty to use the box.
• Obviously you will have to toss and replace the carpet ...I have no idea on a time line
• Slowly add litter- then more litter - then more - then remove the carpet and just have litter 

Kitty seem to like shiny surfaces? 

• Take a trip to the hardware or flooring store.
• Grab a few pieces of tile
• Maybe a few different items that match some of the surfaces in your house
• They have odds and ends and samples that may be discontinued
• Start with only a small amount of litter.. then work your way up as you would with the carpet.

Is there a certain location she prefers?
She may have developed a preference for a new area because something bothered her about the old area.
Know how sometimes people don't like change? KITTIES DON'T LIKE CHANGE.
Unless it's their idea.
The litter box may have been in a certain location for months or even years - and now kitty refuses to use it.
What she may not be able to tell you is -

• There is a new smell
• There is a weird new chair
• There is an odd new pair of shoes
• You moved the couch
• You added a glade plug in and it's right by her box  ( she prefers Hawaiian Breeze and you bought Apple Cinnamon!)
• There is a creepy neighbour watching her through the window ( or creepy neighbourhood kitty)
• That old fridge is making a weird buzzing sound
• You got a new fridge and she misses the old buzzing sound
• Or a million other kitty thoughts that we will never understand

Try placing a litter box in her “preferred” location. ( where she seems to want to pee now)

• Once she reliably uses it, gradually move the box just a few inches a day back to the desired location. 

• Stop moving the box if she stops using it; instead simply move it back to the spot where she last reliably used it, then gradually begin moving it again.

It's a process.
Just my thoughts...  if her new preferred location is not horrible ( not under the kitchen table for example)
Consider a site you can both live with...

Do you have a bathroom bully?

• If you have multiple pets, does another animal terrorize your cat while she’s in the litter box or as she exits? 

This may make your cat afraid to use the box.

• If you currently use a covered box, replace it with one that gives her a 360-degree view. 

This will give her more confidence while she’s in the box and make her less prone to ambush.

• Don't block the exit

Position the box so that she has more than one way out
It may be simpler for us to place a box in the corner, but that eliminates 2 exits
By moving the box over slightly you gain another way for kitty to escape from the bathroom bully

• Multi Cat = Multi Box

Some say you should have 1 box more then that amount of cats you have
I say at least have more than 1 box ( most of you don't have a plethora of cats)
If you have more than 3 cats - you need at least 3 boxes ( it doesn't hurt to have one on each floor and this also allows for various types of boxes)

Kitty using the area beside the box as her bathroom? 

• Your meow may be trying to tell you something. CLEAN MY BATHROOM

Some cats are  much more particular than others. They want their box cleaned right after they use it.
Thankfully that is not normally the case - But you may be the lucky owner of a kitty like that.

• Buy doggie poop bags and keep a box by each litter box. Along with a scoop.

This allows for easy and quick removal of waste. You can also toss it in your green bin!
Depending on the number of cats ( and if you  have a weirdo kitty) You may be able to clean your litter box every few days.
I clean every day because I have my cats and foster kitties ( it needs to be done)

• Your cat may dislike the litter you use, especially if you’ve recently and suddenly changed brands.
   

Remember - kitties don't like change! If you must switch brands, do so gradually, adding small amounts of new litter to the old.

• Scented litter vs unscented litter - considering the fact that cats have a much better sense of smell than we do - and those scented litters can be rather strong to us...choose wisely.

• Clumping vs non clumping - I only use non clumping litter for small kittens who are just learning how to use the box ( and tend to sample the litter with their silly mouths- clumping could be dangerous )
  Clumping litter allows for removal of urine and feces - this keeps it cleaner and keeps the smell down.
  I have never had an actual conversation with a cat about it - but I would assume they would choose clumping.

Kitty got a bit more junk in the trunk? Maybe a little older than some? Legs not as long?

• The box itself may be the offender. 

Larger cats need bigger boxes
Kittens and elderly cats need boxes with low sides.

• We humans may find a covered box to be more appealing ( less visual , less smell)

The meows may see it as a port-o-potty from hell - you know the ones... that you have to hold your breath the entire time to keep from vomiting...
That can not be fun for kitty to visit.

• Kitty claustrophobia? Who knows.. if all it takes is removing the cover - try it!!

How are we to know what goes on in their little kitty minds.

• Don't forget the bathroom bully - a covered little box leaves the poor kitty trapped

 Trial and error - or trial and exclusion
It may take a few different litters and litter boxes.
It may take a bit  of time.
Kitty needs you to remember- She can't talk, if she could...she would spend the first few hours complaining... but then she would explain what is bugging her.

( I used 'her' just because I didn't want to keep saying 'it' or 'them' Obviously I mean both Male and Female cats)

Other tips

• Sheets of plastic, newspaper, or sandpaper, electronic mats that deliver harmless, mild shocks, or a carpet runner with the nubs facing up can be used to discourage your cat from entering a soil-prone area.
• Try changing the significance of a soiled area. Cats prefer to eat and eliminate in separate areas, so try placing food bowls and treats in previously soiled areas. Playing with your cat in that space and leaving toys there may also be helpful.
• Try denying your cat access to a given area by closing doors, or by covering the area with furniture or plants. Baby gates will not keep a cat out of a room.
• Catch him in the act. A bell on a breakaway collar tells you his whereabouts. If you can catch him within the first seconds of his elimination routine, startle him with a water gun or shake a jar of pennies, so that he associates being startled with those actions. It is important that you startle rather than scare him; fear will only worsen the problem. Moreover, if you catch him after he’s eliminated, your window of opportunity is gone—you must catch him just as he’s about to eliminate.
• Consulting with a veterinary behaviorist may provide important insight into the cause of inappropriate elimination and potential strategies to address this common problem.

I TRIED EVERYTHING IN THAT LIST AND SHE IS STILL PEEING OUTSIDE OF THE BOX!!



Well that sucks.
Time for kitty retraining.

• This entails confining kitty to a cage or room.
• She can only come out for supervised play sessions and for cuddle time. 
• Do your best to make the area entertaining - but limit the places she could use as a bathroom. 
• Having a bed ( a people bed) in the room will probably not be a good idea. 
• Litter box, food, water, cubby, toys, scratching post, box, blanket ( if she pees on it, she looses it)

Doing this gives kitty very little choice where she can soil.
Generally animals do not like to soil where they sleep.
How long?
Depends...3-6 weeks sounds super long. - but what are the options?

• After the first week you can let her stay out longer...but still supervised. 
• After the second week you can give her a little more slack ..but not all day, and not when you are away.
• After the third week - trial run. 
• Let kitty out, leave the cage or room open for her to use the litter box there if she wants to. 
• Put another box where you would normally have it.
• No accidents? Excellent! 
• Keep her our and make sure she uses the litter box. 
• If she has an accident - back in the cage or room.
• Try again the next day.

 You may find out that she likes the room or cage to sleep in.
A routine can be helpful.
She can absolutely have a bed time.

If after all that she still keeps peeing outside the litter box...
Kitty Behaviourist ?
Kitty Psychic?
Don't give up - Kitty needs you. 

DIY

I tend to find some cat toys a bit on the $$$ side. 

When I am not sure if they will play with them at all, it is hard to fork out the money..just for it to become another misfit toy. 

So,  what about making my own?

That involves planning ahead.. which I am not all that good at. 

How about I just look stuff up and post pretty pictures?

Then the pictures will have links on How To

Then other people can make them... and maybe I will be inspired to make one or two myself.

Cats like cardboard.
It's a fact.
They like to gnaw on it.
Play in it.
Bat it around.
Scratch it.
Cardboard is super cheap.
Well ...until someone decides to make it into something then adds a pretty label.
WE DON'T NEED NO STINKING LABEL.

Cardboard Ball

After you make that ball, I suggest tossing a bit of catnip on it.


Box O Fun





The 'how to' for this one is lacking...basically ..get a box and cut holes in it.
Then staple some toys to strings inside.
The picture seems like a lie.
That looks oddly like wood or MDF
If you can cut a circle that good in cardboard with scissors - you are lying!
MDF isn't that expensive.
Glue gun or maybe nails... depending on the thickness.
Before putting it all together.. find someone with one of those tool thingies - I have been informed it is called a Hole Saw

So I guess you could make a throw away one.. or one that should last.

Kitty on-a-roll

Not only is this really cute..
Lowes gives you all the item numbers and names of everything you need to make it!
I personally would add a bit more to it.
Maybe because I have a bit more meows to amuse.
Very cute idea.
Nice job Lowes!

T-shirt tent

The dollar store sells these tents... they are made of cheap material that tend to rip at the seams.
Not a big deal.. since they are under $2...but ...there are only 2 different colours to choose from.
And they are both tacky .
A tend made from a t shirt?
That could be any colour!
Maybe you have a shirt from an ex.. maybe that ex hated cats...
Naw, save that one for cleaning the litter boxes.
Use a random shirt with a nice colour or print on it that you like.
Simple to make.
Cheap.
I think kitty would love it.


Perch-n-scratch

This may not be all that apartment friendly.
Kitties love to look down on us.
They are hunters by nature and having a higher vantage point keeps them happy.
It also utilizes vertical space, which in turn saves space!
No more clunky cat climber needed... just make a bunch of shelves at various levels.
The scratch pad is also a good idea. They can use it to stretch, scratch, and climb from perch to perch.
If you have a cat that seems to like corners of walls for stretching... maybe this can be a corner scratch pad.
Once kitty has its own scratching area- it tends to use random ones less. 


Super simple ideas for lazy humans

Crumpled Goodness
1. take random piece of paper
2. crumple it up
3. find container, put catnip in container
4. put crumpled ball in container with catnip
5. Shake container
6. repeat crumpled paper with smaller sheets
7. add them to container with other crumpled paper and cat nip
8. shake again
9. take out one of the crumples and toss it in kitties direction
10. kitty like? good - now put the container in the freezer - it will keep it away from kitty and help keep catnip fresh.

Lids-o-plenty
1.Open any drink or liquid that is safe ( seriously if you are dumb enough to give the lid off a bleach bottle then stop reading this now.. you are an idiot..go crawl in a hole)
2. Pretend you don't want kitty to have it, and place it on the coffee table or side table.
3. Wait.
4. Or toss it onto the floor when kitty is watching.

Jackass-lids-o-plenty
1. poke a hole in lid
2. insert string and tie knot to keep string secure
3. toss lid while holding string
4. pull lid away just before kitty gets it
5.repeat.

Misfit Socks
1. Locate your socks with no mates..lonely socks :(
Give them a new purpose !
2. grab a handful of catnip - I really like Cosmic Catnip and you can buy it in a rather large container
3. put catnip in sock
4. tie the top like you would a balloon
5. throw
6. pre washing sock is not needed. Kitties like unwashed socks. Unless you have super smelly feet.. then just throw those socks away.. its not nice to make kitty deal with that.
7. Kitty may slobber all over this - no worries - place up on something to let it dry then throw it down again.. all good

TP roll
There are so many things you can do with an empty toilet paper roll ...
Like throwing it down the stairs.
Seriously, that's good enough for a kitten.
Let them use their imagination...
Now go watch tv.

Jackson

Human

Jackson

**

I realize you no longer need your winter coat.

Yup, you can have it. I'm an indoor kitty now. 

Yes you are, but I really don't need your winter coat.

But I like you, and I want to share. 

But I don't want your coat.

Okay, I lied. 

I can't stop myself. 

I am shedding like a mad man. 

This has never happened before. 

Yes I have shed before, but never like this. 

You could make a second me!

Don't though. 

I don't want to share you. 

Yes, you are shedding like a mad mancat.

Since you are inside, you no longer need all the fur you had when you lived on the streets.

So now it's on your bed, and your sweater, and on the floor, and in the air, and ...

EVERYWHERE!

Tell me about it!

I just did!?

Uh.. ya.. anyways... I hope it stops soon.

Good thing I am white.. cuz you can see it all.. so it will be easier to clean. 

Fabulous.

For a kitty that has a lot to say.. you sure try and limit my typing time.

It interferes with my hugging time. 

I can't type if you are laying on me and hugging my arm.

How is that my problem?

Because seriously.. I am okay with nobody reading this. 

Yeah, well that's not part of the deal.

When was this deal made?

Was there catnip involved?

I can't be held accountable if I was under the influence.

'If you give me 10 treats, not 9, 10 treats.. I will let you write a post.'

You said that.. those are your words.

But...

Then I said that I would give you treats regardless.

And you said..'What about catnip? Do I get catnip too?'

See!

So I said that you needed to agree or disagree prior to receiving any catnip. 

You agreed.

Then I gave you the catnip.

I recall none of this. 

I suspected that might happen.

So I took back the catnip before you had any. 

Gave you the treats and told you that I will give you the catnip after we were done the post.

Are you saying I get catnip?

No.

You stole the catnip that I had set aside for you. Then you ran off with the bag of treats.

I would do no such thing!

But you couldn't get the treats open.

Oh.. oh yeah.. stupid bag. 

So new deal.

I will give you some treats if we finish this post.

Can I have them now?

No, we are not done.

Oh. 

Well what are you waiting for... post it!

You are getting rather bossy.

Sorry. Give me some catnip and I will let you finish.

Bribery will not work.

How do you know if you don't try?

How about you let go of my arm?

Never.

Kitty Bad Habits- Lid stealing & Toy Hiding

My Willow is a criminal mastermind.

 Don't let her cuteness fool you.

Her ability to thieve pop lids, water bottle lids, milk pull tabs, and any other plastic lid she can find is amazingly annoying.

If she would wait till I was finished with them then it would be less of a pain.
No, her little paw will sneak up and snatch away the lid before I can even say meow.

Then she hides them.
Along with any toy she gets her paws on.

Silly me, I keep buying toys.. what I should be doing is limiting her.
She should get a certain amount of toys and if she hides, loses, or gets them stuck somewhere.. that's her problem!
Except it's my problem.
Bored kitties do bad things.
They turn other things into toys.. like cords.
Or they turn on each other.. like Sebby.

So what do I do?
Nothing.

I allow her to steal the lids, hell I even toss some to her.
I keep buying toys, because I can't find the ones I gave them.

Until today.
Today I found one of her stashes.
I never think to actually take out the bottom drawer of the stove.
A broom should be good enough to located a wayward toy.
This time I took out the drawer.
It was surprising.
I was surprised how many toys could fit under a stove.

 Yes, that is Willow sitting beside her loot.
Way less lids then I suspected.
I'm not lifting the fridge.

Do I have a kleptomaniac feline?
or
Is this normal kitty behaviour?
Could she be suffering from a fear of toy drought?
Did someone steal her toys in a past life?
Was she attacked by lids?
Am I reading into this a bit too much?
Maybe the location of the stove makes for a great reservoir or toy receptacle?
She is Canadian, maybe the under the stove is actually like getting a hockey puck in the net?
Can I deny her right to play hockey?

Am I just slightly slow on the realization that I could block the entrance to under the stove?

I found a rather interesting blog called Way of Cats
They speak of a cats environment, and their need to create their own space.
This makes it easier to hunt, hide, spot their prey.
What we may find annoying.. like having to remove over 30 toy from under the stove.
or
Constantly finding toys in their water bowl.
or
Having to pick up random articles of clothing off the living room floor that have been relocated by Sebastian!
or
Almost twisting your ankles when stepping oddly on a toy that is hidden under the throw rug.
The blog calls this Terraforming.
 Basically making our home- their home as well.
Which it is.
Slowly becoming more of their home and less of mine...

Reading more of this blog, I came across Pretending
Do your cats pretend?
I wonder what they are thinking... what they would pretend about.
Why they  have not banded together to kill the vacuum?
Probably not enough of them to take on the beast.

Willow pretends.
She knows that I am the creator of the red dot.
She knows the sound the laser pointer makes when I pick it up.
She still tries to catch or kill the dot.

The foster kittens try to save the world from this

 

They run at it, pounce on it, try to get the ball out. 

They lay on the ball and look at me.. possibly letting me know that I am not safe from the evil creature?

I absolutely believe that Sebby wears this bag as a cape.
He always looks like he is proud when he walks around with it.
Super Sebby.


From stealing lids, to hiding behind see through curtains...cats are clearly hilarious.
Hold on.. I need to add in Jackson.
He doesn't steal.
I am not sure if he pretends.
He just knows.

If he lays on the computer mouse, I have to pay attention to him.
If he tries to eat the mouse, I have to pay attention to him.
If he walks across my laptop, I have to pick him up and move him.
If he stares at me while I type this.. which he is.. I will wonder if he can read.

Night

Human

Night

***

Today I will be interviewing Night. The dapper feline shown below.

I am rather dapper.

What is dapper?

A stylish gentleman.

The name is Night. Dapper Night.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Um, well I'm a boy.
9 and a half months old.

I'm super cool.

Super fun.

I'm not fat! I'm big and strong!

I never said you were fat. 

Just making it clear. 

I have a brother and three sisters. 

They have all been adopted. 

But I am waiting for a certain someone. 

I will know when I find them. 

Then I may yell at them for taking so long.

I mean really , what is more important than coming to adopt me?

Nothing!

Though I am having fun with you human. 

Eating cat grass and treats. 

Hanging out on the counter at the store. 

Making new friends.

Polly and Carrie are rather cute.

But if they get adopted before me.. I may smack someone. 
Probably you Human.

Gee thanks. 

You're welcome!

So, what else do you want to know?

Likes, dislikes?

Likes:

Attention 

Toys

Treats

Cat grass

Catnip

Being carried 

Being petted

Being hugged

Dislikes:

Being ignored 

Being put back in the cage

When you leave

When you stay but pay attention to other meows

When someone else eats my treats

Really loud dogs

When the store closes

When people take forever to come adopt me!

Okay then.

What would you like possible adopters to know?

I'M NOT FAT

Also, hurry up. I'm starting to think nobody likes me.

Hey, I like you!

Sorry human, you don't count. 

You love us all. 

Gee thanks.

Aww, don't be sad.. You know you're my favorite human.

That's sweet.

For now. Hee hee hee