- April 24, 2024
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Samantha may have been a dog in a previous life. She comes when called (sometimes), and she craves attention. Evenings are spent curled up on my husband's lap while we watch TV.
Cats are typically described as being aloof, but don't confuse this show of independence as a lack of need for human contact.
All cats rely on their owners for food, water, a home, medical care, a clean litter box, and, yes, love. It's just they, like their owners, have different personalities.
My daughter called last week, worried about her cat, Robby. The problem? Robby was being affectionate, and well – acting like a cat. Robby's previous owner passed away, and there's a possibility that Robby was with him for a bit afterward – no one knows for certain – but he gets nervous when my daughter sleeps. He checks on her by nibbling on her face, if she ignores him, the nibbles get more pronounced. Not conducive for a good night's sleep. But when he stopped this behavior -- she began to worry.
She and Robby have been together for two years now. He is not fond of change. His doctor makes house calls so he doesn't have to travel the “T” to go to the vet for checkups, nail trims, etc.
Some may say she's too tolerant, maybe a bit. But she is a responsible pet owner and takes her position as caregiver seriously. I wish more people would.
There are simple ways to develop a rewarding relationship with your cat.
1. Keep them indoors – Outdoor cats have a shorter lifespan. As long as they have things to keep them busy inside, and a nice window to look out at the birds and lizards, they can adjust.
2. Microchip your cat – This is handy in the event they do get out, or if you have to evacuate. Some cats will wear a collar, if so, use a breakaway collar.
3. Regular vet checks are a must.
4. Spay or neuter. This will also help resist the urge to go outside. If you adopted, your cat should have had the surgery, if not, there are low cost options available. Call your local shelter.
5. Feed your cat a nutrional diet that includes fresh water. Ask your vet for amounts so you don't overfeed.
6. Clean that litter box, at least daily. There are disposable litter boxes that are inexpensive and can be replaced every month or so. This prevents the urine from soaking into the plastic.
7. Brush your cat, even short hair cats. This helps them with their grooming, and reduced hairballs.
8. Play time – Regular play sessions, even with older cats, keeps them mentally and physically healthy.
Angel “adopted” Maria and Herb Klug at the Halifax Humane Society. She was four years old when reached out from her cage in 2007, and tapped Herb on the shoulder – tag you're my new owner.
She has what the Klug's call the “Angel Shuffle,” sliding down Herb's leg, head first and landing at his feet for him to rub her with his foot. As her body shifts back and away during the rub, she leaps back to the optimum spot – the Angel Shuffle.
Angel is also an avid bird watcher, on TV, and out the window. An inside cat, she never gets to “meet” the birds.
