The 11 Laws of Being a Cat!

1. Always give generously. A small bird or rodent left on the bed tells them you care.

2. Climb your way to the top. That’s why the drapes are there.

3. Curiosity never killed anything, except maybe a few hours.

4. Find your place in the sun. Especially if it happens to be on that nice pile of warm, clean laundry.

5. If you’re not receiving enough attention, try knocking over several expensive antique lamps.

6. Life is hard, then you nap.

7. Make your mark on the world. Or at least spray in each corner.

8. Never sleep alone when you can sleep on someone’s face.

9. Variety is the spice of life. One day you ignore people, the next day you annoy them.

10. When eating out, think nothing of sending back your meal twenty or thirty times.

11. When in doubt, cop an attitude.

This blog post was adapted from a PSR newsletter article.

Adopting an Older Cat

With kitten season coming up again, we would like to point out that, for various reasons, kittens are not for everyone. Adopting an “older” cat is often a better solution, although it usually doesn’t occur to people.

Some people define “older” as 1, 3, 5, 8, or 10 years old. To me, it is 16 years and up. Some people are afraid to adopt an older cat because they fear losing their beloved new family member too soon. Of course, there are no guarantees in life, but cats generally live much longer than most dog breeds, especially Siamese cats. Cats over 20 are not hard to find. With appropriate healthcare, just as with humans, animals are getting older. If you think about it a certain way, adopting a 10-year-old cat is not much different than adopting a large-breed puppy.

Adopting a cat past kitten age has many advantages. Older cats’ personalities are already developed and much easier to match than kittens. Kittens are sweet and adorable, but they grow to become big personalities. If you are looking for something specific, you cannot judge by kitten behavior. All of the adult cats waiting in the shelter for a new home were once someone’s kitten.

People often think it is easier to integrate a kitten and that an older cat may come with past baggage, making it difficult to adjust quickly. Usually, the opposite is true. Like many shelter animals, cats just want to belong. A cat growing up with amenities knows a good thing when she sees it and really wants to be a part of it. Older cats also know all about litter boxes and do not need a lot of training. They forgive you if you work late and will not be waiting to greet you from atop the curtain rod.

If your household is quiet and filled with nice furniture and decorations, or if you want a lap cat, consider an older cat. Cats of all ages are fun and loveable, but if you are thinking about adding another member to your family, don’t overlook the adults. Ask yourself if an “older cat,” one that is somewhere between 1 and 18 years old, may be the right match for your home.

This blog post was adapted from a newsletter article originally written by Andrea Stuewe-Lawrence.

16 Gifs Featuring Interspecies Animal Friendship

If you’ve been following our page for the past year, one thing should be clear: PSR’s blogger/social media manager enjoys interspecies animal friendship. From the cheetah whose best friend is a dog to the goat who decided on his own to guide his blind donkey friend, interspecies animal friendship is one of the greatest things in the world. It gets even better when our furry feline friends are thrown into the mix! Here are sixteen gifs featuring interspecies animal friendship to help you get through this week.

1. A Horse and His Cat

2. If you want your cat and bunny to be friends . . .

3. Start them early!

4. Cats are mighty hunters, they promise.

5. They really, really promise.

6. And they’re just as good with birds as they are with rodents.

7. Cats love foxes, both regular . . .

8. And fennec!

9. It turns out gorillas are as obsessed with kittens as we are!

10. This goat knows cat are the best groomers.

11. And this fawn likes to return the favor!

12. Even a difference in living conditions can’t keep these two apart.

13. All this raccoon wants is a hug!

14. And pigs know cats make the best snuggle buddies.

15. An owl waits patiently as his cat friend puts each feather in place.

16. And, of course, the classic interspecies animal friendship!

 

7 Cat-Themed Items to Get You Through the (Non-Festive) Winter

We’ve just entered the fourth week of January and, this year, that means one thing in California: rain, rain, rain . . . did we mention rain? While this weather is a much-needed reprieve from the years-long drought, it can start to have a negative effect on your mood. What’s something that can lift your spirits, no matter the weather? Cat-themed clothing and gear, of course! Having a reminder of the darling kitty waiting for you at home is 100% guaranteed to put you in a good mood in gloomy weather, we promise.

1. Kittens on an Umbrella Boat Umbrella ($25.00)

Hate having to choose between displaying your love of cats and staying dry? Now you don’t have to! These adorable kittens will get you where you’re going without a drop of rain hitting your head.

2. Black/Pink Cat Scarf ($10.99)

Looking for something a little subtler? This cute chiffon scarf is the perfect choice. It comes in pink and black, so you can switch things up while still keeping your neck warm.

3. Paw Print Rain Boots ($24.95-$49.95)

Wear these paw prints everywhere while making paw prints of your own. The range in price comes from variations based on your shoe size.

4. Cat Ears Cape ($29.99)

If you’re in the market for a winter cape, this could be the one for you. This cape has its very own set of cat ears, comes in navy and gray, and could be the perfect way to spice up your wardrobe!

5. Cat Claws Gloves ($6.59)

Have you always dreamed of your fingers being mistaken for claws? Now all your dreams can come true! Keep things fierce and keep your hands warm at the same time.

6. Cat Tail Gloves ($24.99)

Why have one pair of novelty cat gloves when you could have two? The pointer fingers of these gloves not only double as cat tails, but can also be used to successfully operate your touchscreen devices!

7. Crazy Cat Sweater ($16.99-$17.49)

What’s better than a crazy cat sweater, are we right? You will be easy to pick out of a crowd, keep warm, and show off your love of cats – all at once!

Keeping the Holidays Happy and Safe – Part Two!

This week, we continue our exploration of holiday safety hazards. In case you missed last week, click here!

Christmas Trees

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, how careful we must be. Christmas trees and their decorations can create hazards for pets. Place Christmas trees in a stable stand and attach the tree securely to a window or wall with something like fishing line. We have known people who have hung their tree from the ceiling! To keep pets away from the tree, it may help to use a Scat Mat. Even though you are taking precautions, make sure your cat is always supervised when in a room with a tree.

Tree needles can be toxic and cause mouth and stomach irritation. Even needles and the wire of artificial trees can pose a problem. Be sure you cat is not chewing on branches or eating fallen needles.

Tinsel’s shininess is attractive to pets. When eaten, it can cause blockages, which often require surgery to remove. Leave it off the tree altogether.

Angel hair, flocking, and artificial snow are mildly toxic. If consumed in larger amounts, however, they could cause blockage of the intestine. Try decorating with something less likely to cause a problem.

Chewing on electrical cords can cause problems ranging from burned mouths, to electrical shock, to death by electrocution. Some larger lights can become quite hot and cause burns. Unplug decorative lights when you are not there, use pet-proof extension cords, and spray cords with a product such as Bitter Apple or Chew Stop. Cats may knock glass ornaments off of trees, which can cause cuts on paw pads and a trip to the emergency clinic.

Sharp ornament hooks can also become imbedded in your pet’s mouth or esophagus. Place ornaments that are shiny or could be swallowed or broken high up on your tree. Larger, less intriguing ornaments can go near the bottom. Decorating trees with food is asking for problems.

Candy canes and gingerbread people can be as enticing to your pet as they are to children. We know of a diabetic dog who ran into some problems with regulating her disease because she was stealing candy canes off of the tree; cats may try this too.

Popcorn, raisin, or cranberry garlands are beautiful, but can cause an obstruction when eaten, requiring surgery.

Because tree preservatives are often sugar-based (and inviting to pets) and because the water stands so long, the water in the tree stand often harbors potentially harmful bacteria. Fertilizers, insecticides, and flame retardants that were used on the tree may also get into the water. Cover the stand with a tree skirt or use other means to prevent access to the water.

Visitors

Some pets love visitors and behave very well; Others may be fearful and aggressive. Plan for how your cat will react to visitors. A quiet room away from the commotion with water, food, and a litter box available will help fearful cats be more comfortable. Brushing up on obedience training before the holidays may help a pet who has become a little rusty. Be sure to inform your visitors of any household rules or problem behaviors concerning your pets, e.g. sneaking out the door, jumping up on the couch, getting food from the table, etc. For pets who may not behave or could be aggressive, placing them in a separate room, using pet gates, or having them stay at a friend’s house during a party may be necessary. Sometimes boarding a pet in a kennel is the safest alternative.

Cleaning products such as disinfectants get a lot of use during the holidays as we spiff up our homes for visitors. Remember, many of these products can be toxic to your pets. When inviting visitors, make sure they know you have a pet. If these people have allergies, you could help them by using a product such as Allerpet to decrease the dander in the house. If you are traveling during the holidays and need to leave your pet(s) at home, start to make accommodations for your pet(s) early. Many boarding facilities fill up very fast. Responsible pet sitters are a good alternative. If they are unfamiliar with your house or pet(s), have them come over and get acquainted before you leave.

New Pets

New pets are not good holiday gifts. If someone is thinking about getting a new pet, give the new prospective owner a variety of cats toys, food, or books on cat care. You may also wish to give a gift certificate so the person can choose his or her own pet after the holidays. Similarly, if thinking about getting a new pet for yourself, remember, pets need routine and time to bond with you. With its noise, commotion, and special hazards, the holiday season is anything but routine. Think about getting your new pet after the holidays. We guarantee you will not have an after-holiday let-down!

While you’re at it, why not make the holidays more enjoyable for homeless pets? Contact your local animal shelter to see if you can donate food, kitty litter, toys, or time.

Pet Gifts and Treats

When choosing a holiday gift for your special friend, make sure it is safe — no small pieces that could come off and be swallowed. Choose healthy treats for your cat and give them in moderation. Spending quality time with your favorite companion during the holidays will help keep your pet calm. With all of the festivities, do not forget to relax and spend some quality time with your pet. Your cat will think that is the best gift of all.

Holidays are a time to be joyful and thankful. We hope all of yours are beautiful!

This blog post was adapted from a newsletter article originally written by Marty Smith, DVM and Holly Nash, DVM, MS, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Keeping the Holidays Happy and Safe – Part One!

The food and decorations that make the holidays so much fun for us can be dangerous for your pet. We do not want this blog post to dampen your holiday spirits, but we do want you to be aware of the dangers and plan carefully to avoid these potential hazards.

Food and Food-Related Items

Holiday foods we enjoy cooking and eating can be a problem for your pet. Rich, fatty foods, like gravy or grease, can cause problems ranging from stomach upsets to pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas resulting in pain, vomiting, and dehydration. Cats with this serious condition often require hospitalization for treatment.

Alcohol can cause serious intoxication for pets, and many pets are attracted to it. Clean up glasses after holiday parties. Cats are often attracted by the sweet taste of drinks, especially eggnog.

Chocolate, coffee, and tea all contain dangerous components called xanthines, which cause nervous system or urinary system damage and heart muscle stimulation. Although chocolate ingestion is more of a problem in dogs, cats may also have signs ranging from diarrhea to seizures and death. Unsweetened baking chocolate and dark chocolate are the worst culprits, but all chocolate, fudge, and other candy should be placed out of your cat’s reach.

Uncooked meat, fish, and poultry can contain disease-causing bacteria, such as E. coli, and parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii. These uncooked foods should not be given to your cat. For your own health, as well as your pet’s, wash utensils that have been in contact with raw meat, and cook meat thoroughly.

Bones from fish, meat, or poultry can also cause problems if swallowed. Even small bones can splinter causing lacerations (tearing) throughout the intestinal tract. So, no matter how big or how little they are, be sure to keep bones (other than those that are specially sterilized and treated) away from your pet.

Tobacco products can be fatal to pets if ingested. Signs of poisoning develop within 15 to 45 minutes and include excitation, salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pets may develop seizures, collapse, and die from cardiac arrest. Keep cigarettes, cigars, tobacco, nicotine gum and patches, and ashtrays out of the reach of pets. Empty ashtrays frequently since cigarettes butts contain about 25% of the total nicotine in a cigarette.

Uncooked yeast dough can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.

Grapes and raisins contain an unknown toxin, which can damage the kidneys.

Remember, cats have an exceptional sense of smell – juices on plastic or aluminum foil left on countertops are very tempting. If ingested, plastic or foil wrap (cellophane candy wrappers or food wrap) can cause choking or intestinal obstruction. Meat-soaked strings from rump roasts are also enticing. Ingestion can be the cause of a surgical emergency called a “linear string foreign body” in the intestines. To be safe, put away food immediately and pet-proof your garbage.

Garbage contains all kinds of other hazards for your cat such as plastic wrap and bags, 6-pack beverage holders that can cause strangulation, fat trimmings, bones, and pieces of ribbon or tinsel. Feed your pet(s) before a party so they will not be so apt to beg or steal food.

Poisonous Plants

We all like making our homes more festive for the holidays. We enjoy the green foliage and colorful flowers of plants. Unfortunately, many of the plants we have in our homes during the holidays can be poisonous to pets. If ingested, holly (leaves and berries) causes stomach upset and can be potentially fatal to both cats and dogs. Mistletoe upsets stomachs and can cause heart collapse, while hibiscus may cause diarrhea. Poinsettias have an irritating sap that can cause blistering in the mouth and stomach upset. When you brighten up your home, place these plants well out of your cat’s reach, or use imitation holiday plants.

Decorations and Wrappings

 All that glitters is not gold – and it could be dangerous for your pet. Ribbons, yarn, and string can cause intestinal obstruction and bunching of the intestine along the length of the string. These conditions require surgery and can be fatal. Ribbons around your cat’s neck may be cute, but they can also be dangerous.

Adhesives and glues can be toxic and are often attractive to animals.

Potpourri contains oils that can be toxic to cats if eaten. We may not think of eating it, but some curious pets may.

Candles can cause burns and fires. Never leave lighted candles unattended or within reach of your pet.

Gifts Under the Tree

Edible items left under the tree can be very tempting. Remember that companies (even Drs. Foster & Smith!) often package pet gifts wrapped in ribbon. Make sure to remove ribbons or ties before you present gifts to your cat. If played with and swallowed, yarn, ribbon, or string on gifts can cause intestinal obstruction, requiring surgery. Perfumes and adhesives contain ethanol (alcohol), and perfume also contains essential oils which can be very toxic to cats if ingested. Batteries for toys or other gifts can be toxic and cause intestinal obstruction. Keep them in a safe place until they are ready to be inserted in the gift.

This blog post was adapted from a newsletter article originally written by Marty Smith, DVM and Holly Nash, DVM, MS, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Are You Looking for the Purrrfect Companion? Let Us Help!

So you’ve decided to welcome a new furry friend into your life? Congratulations! If you have taken the time to consider your circumstances and know that a cat is truly what you want, we can guarantee you will never regret it. The important step now is picking out the purrrrfect companion for you. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Do you want an adult cat or a kitten?

It’s hard to walk past a cage of kittens and not want to snuggle them all to your body. Kittens are wonderful, adorable, enthusiastic, and playful. They are also full of energy and a lot of work. If you have a full-time job and plan to leave your feline friend alone for long stretches of time, your kitten might get bored and have an adventure with your furniture and your drapes. If you feel like you are ready for this, though, a kitten can be a joy to have in your life.

Adult cats are very different from kittens, but no less fun. With an adult cat, what you see is what you get. Once cats pass kittenhood, their personalities are pretty firmly set in stone, and it is easier to tell what you’re getting yourself into. Adult cats are also better at spending time by themselves and are considerably calmer. There are plenty of wonderful adult cats populating shelters and rescues, so it might be a good idea to consider this route.

2. What are you looking for in a companion?

Are you looking for a playful cat who will chase feather wands all day long? Or are you looking for a soft snuggling partner with whom you can binge-watch that new Netflix series? Or do you want both? Take some time to really consider what you want your cat’s personality to be like. While all cats tend to be independent and operate on their own schedules, one cat can be very, very different from the next.

In addition to making sure you have some one-on-one time with potential cat-didates, make sure to ask the cat’s caretakers about the cat’s personality when strangers aren’t around. You probably won’t be able to get a complete picture of what your kitty will be like in your home until he or she is actually there, but it is important to acquire as much information as you can.

3. Do you have other animals living in your home?

It’s very possible to add a cat into your already established ecosystem in a healthy way; however, you have to make sure the feline in question does well with other animals. Make sure to ask the person in charge of your future furry friend about their interactions with various types of animals. Often, cats in shelters and rescues have had early negative experiences with other cats, dogs, or other critters, and this is something that is difficult for them to get over. Making sure you know your cat’s preferences ahead of time will make it easier for you to figure out how he or she will fit into your household.

 

Choosing a Boarding Facility for the Holiday Season

With the holiday season here, many people are traveling out of town and need to place their pet(s) in a boarding facility. Here are some considerations when choosing:

Veterinary Clinics – Some veterinary clinics will board clients’ cats. This may be ideal, especially if your cat has a certain medical condition, such as diabetes, that requires medication.

Boarding Kennels – These kennels may be at someone’s home or at a separate business location. Make an appointment to have a tour of the facility and talk with the staff.

For your pet’s health and safety, ask the following:

• What are the sizes of the kennels or runs? Do they have solid partitions between them? Are there both indoor and outdoor facilities?
• Are the cages clean and free from excrement? Does the kennel area smell?
• How often are the cages, dishes, and litter boxes cleaned, and with what? How are the cages cleaned between boarders?
• Will they bathe your cat if he becomes soiled with urine or excrement?
• What is the regular feeding schedule, and can it be adapted if your cat has special needs? Can you bring the cat’s regular food? Can you bring a cat bed, toys, or your sweatshirt to put in with your pet?
• Who actually works with the animals?
• What are their admit and pick up hours? What if your return is delayed?
• Which vaccinations are required and which are recommended? Are vaccinations that you administered acceptable or do they need to be given by a veterinarian?
• Do they require testing for certain diseases such as feline leukemia (FeLV)? Are there solid partitions between cats, and are the cages far enough away from each other to avoid close contact between cats?
• Is there a veterinarian or emergency clinic nearby?
• Is there a time you can call to check on how your cat is doing?
• What are their security provisions? Do the cages have good latches? Do they check identification to prove ownership when picking up?
• Is the facility accredited by the American Boarding Kennels Association?

Ask your veterinarian, family, and friends for their recommendations when choosing a boarding facility. Make reservations far in advance, especially for Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Knowing your pet is in good hands and being well cared for will make your trip less stressful.

This blog post was adapted from a newsletter article originally written by Susan Mangels.

DOUBLE Foster Feature: Alpha and Delta!

It’s Tuesday again and that means one thing: our biweekly Foster Feature! This week we are featuring TWO of our lovely foster kitties, Alpha and Delta.

Our boy Alpha!

Alpha is male and Delta is female. Alpha and Delta are littermates and both love to be held; however, if you’re looking for a cat to carry all day long, Alpha’s your guy. Once you pick him up, he doesn’t want to be put back down.

Both cats are friendly and chatty, without being loud. When you get home from work, they will take turns telling you about their respective days until you are all caught up.

Delta looks on.

While they look like they are the same size in their pictures, Alpha is actually about twice the size of his sister. What she lacks in size, though, Delta makes up for with personality and love.

Want to find out more about how you can meet Alpha and Delta? Click here!