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The Cat SitterSM Tribune

Making "Cat Sense"

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Issue Number 11*P.O. Box 232, Roswell, GA 30077*Phone: (770) 594-1010*Fax: (770) 967-4962* December, 1999

1999 Winter / Fall Issue

We hope you will enjoy  the 1995 Holiday Issue of The Cat Sitter Newsletter

Read this newsletter from front to back, or go directly to the article of your choice:

                                     Articles

1. Franchises Available
2. Oh, If Irish Cats Could Talk
3. Senior Cats
4. Beezus, Queen of the Eighty-Eights
5. Tearing Upholstery, Carpets, etc.
6. Adoption Guidelines
7. Bring up Baby
8. An Adoption Success Story
9. Capturing Kitty on Film
10. Right Behind my Ears
11. Rose's Mom Needs a Home

Top of Page

Don’t Miss This !

Franchises for The Cat Sitter are available. We are offering franchises nationwide, as well as, in the already successful Cat Sitter areas of Northwest Altanta (Roswell, Alpharetta and Dunwoody), and the surrounding territories in Atlanta.

Oh, If Irish Cats Could Talk!

This cat has some great memories. And so, it seems, do the two sisters that have seen her gracefully grow older

by Maxine O’Donnel, A cousin of The Cat Sitter

Hi,

My name is Maggie Muffin O’Donnell. I was 20 years old on Halloween. My mommies (two sisters) tell me and all of their friends that I am the most beautiful and the smartest kitty on this earth. However, I’m really just an ordinary short hair black cat. But, I guess I am pretty smart. My mommies sure do love me. And I adore them.

I have so much fun! I have a cat bed in the bedroom closet and a neat window seat with a soft fur pillow. Best of all, I have a chaise lounge with my very own electric blanket (Santa brought that to me last Christmas). I love Christmas. I hang up my stocking on the fireplace and Christmas morning it’s filled with goodies. Then I sit to open my presents! My aunt Shirley and Cousin Linda send me wonderful toys. I have a snowman, a stocking, a mouse and they are all filled with fresh catnip. I also get an Easter Basket, and on my birthday I get more presents. This year I got my very own Beanie Baby Lion. My mommies get a cake with my name on it and they celebrate and eat it.

I love to sit on the window seat and watch the birds fly by. My favorite is to watch the snow fall. When I was younger I used to try to catch the snowflakes. Now I just watch their beauty. My mommies used to brush me four times every day. Oh how I loved it But now my bones hurt, so they just brush me to keep me clean and shiny. I can’t jump up anymore, so I just meow several times and my moms come and pick me up and put me on the bed or sofa.

Guess what, I love ice cubes in my water. So, I keep them busy getting me ice cubes. Sometimes I just sit and watch them melt. My mommies tell me I have diamond eyes and a mink coat, and the sweetest disposition. They say that I have enriched their lives and they call me their most precious baby. If I’m especially tired or just don’t feel good - they rock me and sing to me.

Well, it’s going to be 39o tonight! Mommie has turned on my electric blanket . My tummy is full and I’ve been kissed and petted. I think I’ll just curl up on my chaise, tuck myself in and dream happy dreams! Goodnight my friends. Here’s wishing you all - Happy Kitty Dreams,

Your friend,

Maggie  

  Return  to beginning of this Newsletter

Senior Cats

by Dr. Drew Weigner, DVM, ABVP

The Cat Doctor, Buckhead, GA

Older cats can be as enjoyable as their younger counterparts, but many have special needs.

Senior cats need a lower fat, higher fiber, lower protein diet to compensate for a changing metabolism. Sensitive to temperature, they often seek warm spots around the house. Some will develop arthritis. Dehydration is common in elderly cats, so it is very important to make sure they have easy access to plenty of fresh water at all times.

There are many diseases common to older cats. Kidney disease is the most frequent Early symptoms include increased drinking and urination, and will progress to include weight loss, poor appetite and vomiting. Many cases can be treated by administering fluids and changing the diet.

Thyroid disease also occurs frequently in geriatric cats. Elevated thyroid hormone causes an increase in appetite, restlessness, increased drinking and urinating, and frequent vomiting.

Cancer is more common in older cats. Many advances have been made in treatment from chemotherapy to surgery, radiation therapy, and experimental treatments such as hyperthermia.

Dental disease is another common problem. A chronic gum infection brought on by the buildup of tarter can damage the kidneys and heart. Since this involves anesthesia, it is essential to perform a thorough diagnostic workup prior to this procedure.

With early diagnosis and treatment, many cats can live happily into their late teens or early twenties with an excellent quality of life.

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  Beezus, Queen of the Eighty-eights

by Pat Davitt,The Rochester Minnesota (Mr.) Catsitter

Who has yet to read one of the Lillian Jackson Braun books? These stories, telling of the now legendary Siamese Koko and Yum Yum, regale us with such feline feats as to stagger our imagination. Of course, it is only fiction. Think about it, "The Cat Who Read Backwards", "The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare", "The Cat Who Played Brahms", can you imagine your cat filling any of these roles? My experience with cats has been more along the lines of "The Cat Who Sheds Copiously", "The Cat Who Hides LARGE Furballs", and "The Cat Who Always Wants My Food". If any cats have literary or artistic talents, they have certainly been hidden from me.

An encounter last week changed my perception of cats forever. I met Beezus, a virtuoso of the keyboard. Beezus is an unassuming four-year-old gray tabby with broad markings. She and her ‘sister’ were adopted from the outside at an early age and they are now permanent indoor residents. They are quite content to look at the birds and squirrels as they cavort outside the bay window. They have no interest in returning to the out of doors because they have found paradise.

When I met Beezus, my first question was "How did she select her name?" Well, it seems that she joined her household as a kitten along with her sister at the time that the household was under the influence of Beverly Cleary’s books. Naturally the kittens were named after the sisters, Ramona and Beezus (Beatrix). Ramona’s name was quickly changed to Quimby when it was learned that he was Beezus’ brother and not her sister. To this day, he is embarrassed over the mix-up and he tends to be a shy cat and remain apart from mainstream activities.

Beezus likes the mainstream. One day, sometime after her adoption, she was prowling the family room looking for a place to perch and she happened to walk across the piano. She had done this many times before but this time the keyboard was open. This stroll was the beginning of her ‘artistic career’. As we all do when our cat does something noteworthy, we lavish the praise. Praise was lavished on Beezus and she thought, "This is a good thing." She continued development of her skills (and receipt of lavish praise) by walking along the eighty-eights at different speeds and strides and in both directions. Having perfected the ‘four paws’ approach, she then branched out and began sitting on the piano bench and attacked the keyboard with only her front paws. Her style has matured and while she will probably not be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, she has developed a pleasant, New Age style of her own. Like any self-respecting cat, she does not perform on command. She will play when she chooses. Although her preference is to snooze on a handy lap, she will play for family and strangers alike.

I now look at our cats and wonder just what hidden talents lie behind their heavy lidded stares into space. Look at your own companions and if you have a piano at home leave it open and keep an ear turned to it.  

You may have your own Beezus, queen of the Eight-eights.

  Return  to beginning of this Newsletter

 The Cat Chat Corner

Notes from Linda, The Cat Sitter

 You will notice that this issue has a number of articles on cat adoptions. It just happens that Linda, The Cat Sitter of Roswell, has a wonderful black and white adult cat available. Her name is Taylor, and she is HIV and cat Leukemia negative and has had all of her shots. She has a lovely temperament. Call Linda at 770-594-1010.

Cat Tip. If you are having trouble keeping your cat from tearing up curtains or upholstery, try this tip. Place two sided carpet tape at the spots where the cat is clawing

The Cat Sitter had the clawing problem, and the tape together with "soft paws" solved it.

Mindy, The Cat Sitter’s seven year daughter, has some petting tips she wants to contribute, so, here goes. The open hand sometimes scares cats. Try softly using your knuckles or pet with the back of your hand. Mindy learned this by herself; it works for her.

Congratulations to Ms. Valeria Wilkes. Valeria just completed eight years with The Cat Sitter. She has done a wonderful job of assisting us and in taking care of your kittens. Welcome to Karen Brown. Karen joined The Cat Sitter this summer. She has been a customer for several years and will be cat sitting in the North Atlanta area.

Toy distribution continues to expand. Carol Johnson is now representing The Country Catnip Toy line. She will be servicing veterinarians, boutiques and pet stores in the North Atlanta area. Trudy Huxtable is the new representative in Central Florida.

  Return  to beginning of this Newsletter

 

Adoption Guidelines

by Ruthann Yaeger

 Each spring, thousands of animal shelters across the country end up with many homeless kittens due to pet owners who will not neuter or spay their pets, and Paws and Claws Humane Society of Rochester is no exception.

Although Paws and Claws does not euthanize except in cases of extreme illness or extreme behavior problems, as many as 10 million cats and dogs are brought to shelters each year, and of these, up to 65 percent are killed because there aren’t enough homes. Obviously, there is an urgent need to make sure more people spay and neuter their cats to reduce the over population problem, and to find people willing and able to adopt these animals.

However, even though cats and especially kittens can be irresistible, the decision to adopt should never be made impulsively. Shelter cats can be perfect companions, but before adopting any animal, a person should consider these six questions:

Can I afford the vet care, food, and litter?

Can I make a commitment for the lifetime of the cat, even if I move?

Does everyone in my household want to adopt a cat?

Am I ready to take on the daily care required?

Am I willing to learn to understand cat behavior and commit to training?

Do I have at least an hour a day to devote to loving and playing with my cat?

If a person can honestly answer ‘yes’ to all six questions before adopting a cat, that person is likely to become a happy and responsible pet owner.

Ruthann Yaeger

Vice Chair

Paws and Claws Humane Society of Rochester

  Return  to beginning of this Newsletter

Bringing Up Baby

by Patrick Davitt, The Cat Sitter in Rochester, Minnesota

This is a rescue story.

The Cat Sitter thought she had heard it all, but she never thought that these kittens would have made it

It was a shock when the veterinarian told us, "The mother did not make it and there are four kittens for you to take home." My heart sank. We had absolutely no experience in the care and feeding of newborn kittens.

Guidelines for the care and feeding of newborn kittens could fill a book. We have only highlighted some of the some of our experiences in this article. Two fundamental rules form the basis for successfully raising any kitten. They are absolutely critical for newborn kittens with a human ‘mom’. The first rule is: Keep them warm. The second rule is: Keep them well fed.

Our training began immediately with detailed instructions from the veterinarian on feeding. Baby kittens are fed a special formula, a powder that is mixed with water. The veterinarian gave us the rules for calculating the concentration of the formula and the quantity to feed. The concentration is based on the age of the kitten and the quantity is based on the weight of the kitten. Add some measuring spoons and cups, a postal scale and the easy part is done.

The next step was a bit more daunting, that is, getting the formula into the kitten. Just imagine, a tiny creature, weighing only two ounces, only a few hours old, depending solely on you for all of its sustenance. Our fears soon faded. We had a good teacher. She taught us how to insert the small tube into the kitten’s mouth and carefully slideit to the kitten’s stomach. She taught us how to remove the tube and avoid getting any formula into the kitten’s lungs. She taught us how to determine the proper length of the tube. As the kittens grew, their stomachs would be farther and farther from their mouths!

Training program complete, we headed home with our tiny charges. Their first home consisted of a two-door cat carrier, the kind with one door on the end and one on the top. We lined the bottom of the carrier with a bath towel and placed a towel- wrapped hot water bottle on the bottom of the carrier. The kittens were placed on the bottom of the carrier, along side the hot water bottle.

Feeding was every three hours, 6:00 AM, 9:00 AM etc. around the clock. Each feeding session was an event. Mix the formula, wake the kitten, a minute or two for a little massage, then the formula, and finally some stimulation to encourage elimination. Baby kittens depend on mom for just about everything! Each feeding included a refreshed hot water bottle and a complete change of towels. We must have been doing the right things and doing them correctly because they grew rapidly.

When the kittens began to open their eyes, we were able to move to four-hour feeding intervals. Within two weeks of starting the every four-hour feeding schedule, we introduced the saucer. The transition to the saucer took almost a week. We found that giving the kittens a little bit of formula on a spoon got them accustomed to the saucer as their ‘feeding station’.

After moving away from bottle-feeding, it is vitally important to continue to hold the kittens for a while at each feeding session. They need to be handled, rubbed, scratched, and cuddled in order to socialize them. Besides, they do not have a mom to fuss over them and a baby kitten deserves a bit of fussing. In all honesty, it is impossible to be around baby kittens without becoming very involved in whatever activity is currently striking their fancy.

At the same time that they begin to eat from the saucer, we introduced them to the litter box, perhaps the easiest part of the entire program. Baby kittens seem to understand, in very short order, the purpose of the litter box. We used a small tray for the litter box. It was about 12 by 18 inches with 1.5-inch high sides. Easy access with moderate retention of the litter except when there was a little too much enthusiasm getting things covered up.

By the time that the kittens were drinking from the saucer, they were much too big for the carrier. We moved them into large enclosure, designed specifically for kittens. It is about 2 feet deep, 3 feet wide, 5 five feet high, and has two moveable, carpeted shelves. When the kittens moved into their new ‘apartment’ we added two more hot water bottles bringing the complement up to three. Each time they were out for food and recreation, we covered their floor with clean towels, replenished the litter box, and prepare three towel wrapped hot water bottles. We placed the bottles along two sides of the enclosure allowing each of the kittens to have good contact with the warmth.

At six weeks, we introduced canned food. The process was just like that employed when we moved from the bottle to the saucer, patience and a spoon. Because of their table manners, we feed them on a large bath towel. In the beginning, we spread the towel, arranged the four saucers, and placed each kitten at a saucer. At seven weeks, they had made the transition. We spread the towel and four kittens run from all parts of the house, skidding on the towel, loudly demanding their food.

In the eight weeks that we have had these little treasures, they grew from tiny, fragile creatures to the most delightful, rambunctious characters. We are still the ‘mom’. They run to us whenever we enter the room. Always underfoot, they follow us as we move about the house. If we happen to sit, they are immediately on us. And, when we pick them up, the motor starts. Was the effort worthwhile, the interrupted sleep, the many hours feeding, cleaning, and attending to? We wouldn’t have missed it for anything.

  Return  to beginning of this Newsletter

Rose’s Mom is Looking for
a Home

A few short months ago Linda, The Cat Sitter, was visiting the Oakwood Animal Hospital.. A beautiful little kitten was there just begging to be adopted. You guessed it. The Cat Sitter now has an adorable, well mannered kitty whose name is Rose. Now, Rose’s mom is looking for a home.

"Indigo" is about a year old, black, DSH, female cat. She has been spayed recently. She tested negative for feline leukemia and feline aids and has all of her shots.

The Adoption fee is $65.00. She has been a wonderful foster mommy for many orphaned kittens, and has the temperament of an angel. She deserves a home with people who will love and care for her since she is a very special kitty. Thank You!

Contact Stephanie, fax: 770-503-1036

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An Adoption Success Story

by Kathy Unger

 Soon after my arrival in Rochester, a co-worker, Seamus, told me about his wife Sally’s volunteer efforts at our local cat shelter, Paws and Claws. I felt I would have nothing to lose by taking a look at the little kitties, and maybe find one to take home. Sally met me at the shelter after hours, so we had the place to ourselves. I had to dress in a jumpsuit, as the shelter had a ringworm outbreak, but I was still able to meet and greet the kids. Behind one closed door, was a kitty who did not have ringworm, but nevertheless isolated to treat the pneumonia he had when he was found. He immediately caught my eye. I think it was the sad way he looked up at me when I opened the door, knowing his home was a bathroom, even thought it was for his own good! Instantly, I knew he was mine, or I was his, however you want to look at it. I didn’t get to take Higgins home right away, as we had to wait until he had a clean bill of health, but within a few weeks my little Higgy had become a very active, playful, and healthy kitty.

My job changed, I began traveling quite a bit, and I began to feel very guilty about leaving Higgins home alone. I thought a companion for him would ease my concerns but I wasn’t sure how Higgins would act around other cats and, due to the solitary confinement he was in at the shelter, no one could really say if he would want a buddy. So, once again I looked to Sally and Paws and Claws, and inquired about being a foster mom. Another shelter volunteer, Annette, had a foster kitty at her house, an ‘unadoptable’ little girl named Scamper. Scamper spent a great deal of her time at the shelter visiting the local vet due to upper respiratory problems, but Annette knew that she was a very spirited girl, and could probably get along with Higgins. Was she ever right! Scamper walked into my house as if she owned it, and after Higgins finally came out from under the bed (6 hrs later), the two began the process of getting acquainted. Yes, it was a little interesting at first, but they were eating side-by-side after two days, and are now fast friends.

Initially, Scamper did have some problems but with help from a GREAT cat sitter and the local vet, I knew that her respiratory problems would not be overwhelming, even with my travel schedule. What she has given to Higgins and me in return is well worth our efforts. I’ve since moved to St Paul and am very happy to say that the city is agreeing with both cats. Scamper now has almost no respiratory problems. With the help of friends and associates of Paws and Claws, my experience of fostering and adopting shelter kitties has been very rewarding. I would recommend adoption to anyone!

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Capturing Kitty
On Film

by Kay Frederick, Animal Portraitist

Mee-how is the best way to photograph your cat? Choose a time when your pet is happiest and her actions are the most predictable, for instance, nap time or mealtime. Although it is more difficult and takes a lot of patience to catch your cat in action, like when she’s prowling her favorite garden, the eventual result will be rewarding. The luckiest cat watcher may even capture a pounce on film.

Consider the cat’s perspective and take your photos from your cat’s eye level. Don’t be afraid to get down on the floor. Photographing your cat’s perspective gives the animal dignity rather than to take the photo straight down, putting your cat in a subservient position as she looks up at you from the floor. Focus on his eyes, and if possible, meow or offer a treat to get him to look up at you, or wave a favorite toy or feather wand and he’ll reach out his paw.

If you are having difficulty with your shy kitty, have someone hold your cat, or hold her yourself and stand in front of a mirror.

Consider the background and wear something plain that contrasts with your cat’s coat color. Choose to place your pet in front of a solid background, in an interesting setting, on his favorite blanket, or even on your oriental rug. These hints should make your session enjoyable and provide some surprisingly good photos, even for the most inexperienced photographer.

Remember to make your photo session fun for both you and your cat, and reward her with treats, petting, and a play session when you’re finished.

It is also a good idea to have a good, clear photo of your cat just in case he ever gets lost.

These no fail tips are bound to get you on the right track to creating a portrait of your kitty that is sure to be the cat’s meow.

   Return  to beginning of this Newsletter

Capturing Kitty
On Film

by Kay Frederick, Animal Portraitist

Mee-how is the best way to photograph your cat? Choose a time when your pet is happiest and her actions are the most predictable, for instance, nap time or mealtime. Although it is more difficult and takes a lot of patience to catch your cat in action, like when she’s prowling her favorite garden, the eventual result will be rewarding. The luckiest cat watcher may even capture a pounce on film.

Consider the cat’s perspective and take your photos from your cat’s eye level. Don’t be afraid to get down on the floor. Photographing your cat’s perspective gives the animal dignity rather than to take the photo straight down, putting your cat in a subservient position as she looks up at you from the floor. Focus on his eyes, and if possible, meow or offer a treat to get him to look up at you, or wave a favorite toy or feather wand and he’ll reach out his paw.

If you are having difficulty with your shy kitty, have someone hold your cat, or hold her yourself and stand in front of a mirror.

Consider the background and wear something plain that contrasts with your cat’s coat color. Choose to place your pet in front of a solid background, in an interesting setting, on his favorite blanket, or even on your oriental rug. These hints should make your session enjoyable and provide some surprisingly good photos, even for the most inexperienced photographer.

Remember to make your photo session fun for both you and your cat, and reqard her with treats, petting, and a play session when you’re finished.

It is also a good idea to have a good, clear photo of your cat just in case he ever gets lost.

These no fail tips are bound to get you on the right track to creating a portrait of your kitty that is sure to be the cat’s meow.

   Return  to beginning of this Newsletter

Right Behind
my Ears

by Fran Stewart, CNMT, NCTMB, is a

nationally-certified Neuromuscular Massage Therapist

Do Cats like massage?

Yes.

Do they want to admit it?

Probably not.

I should know. My ten cats all receive massage on a regular basis. My cats all came from "the street". But, even if I had a purebred fancy-cat, I’d be willing to bet you that cat would love a massage. Any cat can benefit from massage, since it increases circulation and stimulates the flow of lymphatic fluid (just as it does in people), but kittens and elderly cats especially need your healing touch. There are some good books available that can teach you about massage for your cat (or dog). But, here’s a little bit of "starter" information:

The easiest way to massage a cat is during a regular petting session. Place the pads of your first two fingers behind an ear and gently, gently begin to make tiny circles. The cat’s skin should feel like it’s "rotating" softly across the underlying muscles. The cat may give you a pointed look, as if to ask what is going on. Let her sniff your fingers if she wants, then try again. There’s no such thing as too little pressure. If you use too much pressure, however, kitty will just jump down. Go slowly and try a "mini-massage " each time kitty is on your lap. Gradually she will get used to your touch and will begin to arch her head into your hand asking for a massage. Purr, purr, Thanks, Mom!

  Return  to beginning of this Newsletter 

Good Mews Animal Foundation, Inc., Atlanta, Georgia

Stray, abandoned, or abused they may have been, but the cats fortunate enough to reside at Good Mews have a safe haven and lots of love and attention.

Good Mews is a cageless, no-kill, nonprofit cat shelter. It is home to approximately 90 felines that might otherwise not have survived life on the streets. They are cared for by Good Mews’ Executive Director, Jeff Roberts, several Atlanta-area veterinarians, and our dedicated volunteers.

When a cat comes to Good Mews, it is vaccinated, tested for diseases, and spayed or neutered. After a short "quarantine" period (to ensure it is healthy), the new resident becomes part of the family, running free in the storefront shelter. "Shy" cats are segregated in smaller rooms, unthreatened by other cats. Ill or injured cats are kept in clean, bright cages until they are well. Volunteers "feed-and-clean" twice a day and often stop by simply to play with the cats.

In 1998, 421 cats were adopted into good homes through Good Mews. We screen potential adopters to ensure they select compatible feline companions and will provide a safe, healthy environment. Our policy is to ensure cats are spayed or neutered, are not declawed, and are kept indoors. If a new home doesn’t work out, we take the cats back into the shelter.

The shelter is at 788 Sandtown Road at the corner of Powder Springs Road in Marietta. Adoptions are held every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; appointments can be made for other times. We also hold off-site adoptions at the PetsMart in Alpharetta.

Call us at 770-499-CATS (2287), or visit our Web Site at www.goodmews.org. We are always in need of good homes for feline leukemia and feline aids positive cats. If you can help us, please call. Go to Top of Page  

 

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