21

Snoops and Angel: Peace in Our Time

Angel Katt here. I wanted to tell you some very exciting news. Cat and Blondie decided that it was time to let me out of the Sun Room to explore the rest of the first floor. (Actually I can go in the basement too, but it has some kind of leak so no one wants to go down there until that is fixed.) And you know what that means: I’m sharing space with Snoops, head cat around here.

Snoops: Yes, it’s true. I’m sharing the blog with Sgt Stripes, but I’m sharing the first floor with Angel. And I have been very gracious, if I do say so myself.

Angel: I’ve really wanted to get out for a while, but I was a little nervous. Every time Sgt Stripes tries to come downstairs, Snoops hisses at him and chases him away.

Snoops: He made a huge mistake when he first got here. He chased Kommando Kitty and scared her half to death. I had to jump on him to let her escape. I raised Kommando from a tiny kitten. That will not be forgotten.

Angel: They finally let me out two weeks ago. It happened over the weekend. Mom wanted to make sure Snoops wasn’t going to try to eat me or anything.

Snoops: Eat you? You are a LOT bigger than me. They were probably afraid you were going to sit on me. Everyone in the house knows that the reason Gypsy got to stay upstairs was because you were starving her.

Angel: I was not starving her. I can’t help it that I ate faster than her.

Snoops: You ate her food after you finished your own. You were intimidating her so you could eat her food.

Angel: I wasn’t intimidating her. I was just watching her food carefully so it didn’t go to waste. Anyway, that’s beside the point. She’s upstairs and happy. And I’m downstairs and happy.

Snoops: You’ll notice that Mom is making sure you don’t try to steal my food. Not that I couldn’t take care of you myself.

Angel: No one is trying to eat your food. Sometimes, Blondie forgot to feed us. It’s no wonder it turned into cat-eat-cat in the sunroom.

Snoops (appalled): You tried to eat her? That’s horrible!

Angel: It’s just a figure of speech. I wouldn’t have eaten her. She got too bony. And it’s against house rules.

Snoops is not amused.

Snoops: Anyway, once they let her out, I was very gracious to her. I didn’t hiss or growl. At least until she tried to take my favorite sun puddle.

Angel: How was I supposed to know it was taken?

Snoops: I was lying in it!

Angel: Okay. You’re right. But we’re getting along pretty well.

Snoops: Much better than expected. We haven’t fought at all. And we hang out together in the dining room at the same time.

Angel: Yeah. It’s just a matter of time before we start cuddling.

Snoops: Don’t push your luck. I am tolerating you.

Angel: What’s up with that anyway? How come you haven’t been territorial with me?

Snoops: I’m not really sure. I think it has something to do with you crying in the sunroom before they let you out. I kinda felt sorry for you. And when you got out, you pretty much ignored me. I like that in a housemate. I’m still kinda lonely without Kommando.

Angel: You didn’t really take it seriously when I hissed at you a couple of times.

Snoops: I figured you wouldn’t be dumb enough to attack me in front of the humans. I’ve got seniority.

Angel: Yeah. You even ignored me when I batted your tail.

Snoops: I am the empress around here. It works best when I ignore small things.

Angel: But I’m allowed to stay, right?

Snoops: I suppose.

Don’t forget to vote November 7th

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14

Cheeseland Election Update

Hello everyone. Angel Katt here. Thank you to everyone who voted in our primary election. As we expected, Thomas Tabby was the winner with 75% of the vote. The other three candidates split the rest of the vote evenly. To decide which candidate will run against him in the general election, we decided to have a trivia contest to see who knew the most about Cheeseland. Each correct answer is worth 1 point.

Here are the contenders:

American mink

Molly Mink

Rats: Facts about these thin-tailed, medium-size rodents | Live Science

Vinny the Rat

How To Care For Golden Retrievers | VIDA Veterinary Care

Remy the Golden Retriever

The position you are voting for is Liaison to the Humans. Who leads the humans in Cheeseland?

Molly Mink: I think her name is Mom. (1 point)

Vinny the Rat: Her name is Cat. That’s why everything is so cat-centric. But it’s kinda weird that we’ve never seen her.            (1 point)

Remy the Golden Retriever: She is Snoops’ Mom. (1 point)

What is the first rule of the house?

Molly Mink : All animals are equal. (0 points)

Vinny the Rat: Don’t do anything to others that you wouldn’t want done to you. (0 points)

Remy the Golden Retriever: No eating family. (1 point)

Where are the Cheeseland offices located?

Molly Mink: Somewhere in a place called Zoom. That’s where all my calls come from. (0 points)

Vinny the Rat: Cat’s an American. Somewhere in the US. (1 point)

Remy the Golden Retriever: Somewhere in Cheeseland. (0 points)

Who is Uncle Stu?

Molly Mink: A relative of Cat’s.  (0 points)

Vinny the Rat: I have no idea. (0 points)

Remy the Golden Retriever: That alligator who keeps getting lost. (1 point)

How many felines live at the Cheeseland office? What are their names? (One point for the correct number and one point for each correct name.)

Molly Mink: There are five cats. Their names are Snoops, Sgt Stripes, Angel, Gypsy, and I don’t remember the last one. (5 points)

Vinny the Rat: There are four cats: Snoops, Sgt Stripes, Angel, and Onyx. (4 points)

Remy the Golden Retriever: Umm. Snoops, Sgt Stripes, Angel, and Gypsy.(4 points)

Which cat is oldest and which is youngest?

Molly Mink: Snoops is oldest, Sgt Stripes is youngest (1 point)

Vinny the Rat: Snoops is oldest, Sgt Stripes is youngest (1 point)

Remy the Golden Retriever: Snoops is oldest, Sgt Stripes is youngest (1 point)

Angel Katt: That was really close. Molly Mink had 7 points, Vinny the Rat had 7 points, and Remy the Golden Retriever had 8 points. The winners of the runoff is Remy the Golden Retriever. We’ll be back in the fall with the contest between Thomas Tabby and Remy the Golden Retriever.

Pictures courtesy of Google Images.

12

Angel Katt and the Cheeseland Elections – Part 2

Hi everyone! It’s me, Angel Katt. I’m pleased to be bringing you the first debate in the Cheeseland election for Liaison to the Humans. You may recall that we have four candidates. You can look here if you want to refresh your memory. Today we will have three questions for the candidates to answer. At the end, you will have the opportunity to vote for whoever you think is the best candidate. Remember, you are voting for the candidates who will best represent the interest of the animals to the humans. The top two vote-getters will face off in the fall for the position.

a rat sitting at a computer typing on an excel | Stable Diffusion

Question 1: Is the blog too cat-centric?

Molly Mink – I do think that the blog could be improved by featuring a wider variety of animal perspectives. On the other hand, it appears that most of the audience are cats. That might change if there was a wider variety of posts. I’m not sure that any of my fellow minks even know about it.

Vinny the Rat – Of course it’s too cat-centric. It’s like everything else around here.  I want to advocate for a better distribution of everything. I’m not blaming the cats, but it has to change. I’d recommend that only 2 posts per month could be about the cats. The other two should be about other animals or other topics of interest to the general public.

Premium Photo | A happy golden retriever dog looks at a laptop in front of  him at home

Thomas Tabby: Let’s not get carried away. The blog was started by a human who shares space with cats. I think we need to tread gently around any major change. I’m not sure telling her that the rats want more representation on the blog is going to be very popular. The cats are creating the content. We need to show that other animals can write well too.

Remy the Golden Retriever – I recommend that we all go out to the park and play in the fields. It won’t seem like such a big deal after we’ve been out there running around. Maybe we can get ice cream after that. Humans love ice cream.

Mink on a leash - YouTube

Question 2: Would you be in favor of curfews or leash laws?

Molly Mink – I’m confused about why we are even discussing this. What animal would agree to be put on a leash? I would never consent to being leashed or being told what time I need to be in my own home.

Vinny the Rat – I believe this is directed at the issue of young animals (mainly dogs) roaming at night. I would certainly feel safer at night knowing that I am not going to run into a bunch of over-excited hounds.

How To Leash & Harness Train A Cat - Benefits, Steps & Tips

Thomas Tabby – I think that most cats I know would prefer to have the dogs safely home before the beginning of the evening prowl. However, I also know that some of the humans want cats on leashes too to prevent the occasional snack of a favorite bird. I am truly offended by that idea.

Remy the Golden Retriever – No leashes, no curfews. Dogs should be free to do dog stuff whenever we need to do it.

Dog Park Etiquette Tips: Should My Dog Go to the Dog Park?

Question 3: Are too many places species-specific?

Molly Mink – I think this is an important issue for smaller animals. There are dog parks and cat cafes, but there is nothing for the rest of us. It would be wonderful if I could go to any groomer in my neighborhood to keep my beautiful fur shiny. However, most groomers won’t work on anyone smaller than a cat. I think it’s species-ism.

Vinny the Rat – I have to admit that I agree with Molly. There are virtually no popular places that will guarantee a rat’s safety. We really have to work on building communities that are inter-species.

Visiting the Biggest Cat Cafe in Japan | Cat Cafe MOCHA Lounge Shinjuku |  ASMR

Thomas Tabby – I understand the desire for full community. I don’t think that most places are intentionally excluding certain groups. Sometimes predator and prey animals would prefer not to mingle. We need to find some common ground where everyone is welcome. 

Remy the Golden Retriever – I’m pretty sure that most dog parts only specifically exclude cats. Anyone else is welcome. I guess maybe we could work on that. It’s just that it’s hard to share space with someone who likes to tease you.

Angel – Okay everyone. That’s our four candidates. Please click on the link below to vote. And remember to vote early and often.

Click here to vote.

 

Sgt Stripes – I wanted to thank everyone for being so complimentary about my calendar. The winners of the contest were Da Tabbies O Trout Towne and Ms. Ellen at 15 and Meowing;

Pictures courtesy of Google Images.

20

Snoops: Update from the Home Front

Greetings fellow felines (and your humans). Snoops here. It’s hard to believe that it’s been over eight months since the intruders arrived. They seem to have made themselves comfortable in my house. My human sister is okay, but those little humans need a volume control. Last night, the littlest one had a bad dream or something. At first he was upstairs, but then he came downstairs with his mom. Totally ruined my sleep.

He can be cute when he tries to feed me. I just wish he understood what cats like to eat. We really don’t like Mandarin oranges or fruit snacks. I think he might be trainable. His brother isn’t as loud, but he doesn’t really share. I think they could use some training to make them really useful.

The original arrangement for us cats was to have two of the visitors in our sun room with me and Kommando getting full run of the first floor. Then they would be gradually introduced to us.  Unfortunately, Kommando went over the Rainbow Bridge. Angel and Gypsy were not a good combination in the sun room. As near as we can tell, Angel was eating almost all of the food. Gypsy got really skinny before Mom said she should go upstairs. You’d never know she was so thin to look at her now.

That left me and Angel on the first floor. They decided to wait a little bit for the introductions because I was a little stressed out over Kommando, and the stupid fleas came back. Angel gets to come out once in a while now. I don’t really mind her. She doesn’t try to get in my face or sit with my humans the way some cats do. We pretty much ignore each other. And she is very attached to the littlest human so that’s a bonus.

I wish I could say the same thing about the cats upstairs. Onyx is my human sister’s therapy cat. So she’s been upstairs since the beginning. Of course, Sgt Stripes lives up there. And Gypsy has settled in up there too. No one is eating her food up there, so she’s filled out nicely. (Mom had been afraid that she might not make it because she had lost so much weight. But she looks good – for a dilute calico.)

Here’s the problem. Mom wants to open up the house so that we can go wherever we want. That’s supposed to be the step after Angel and I get used to each other. There are doors at the top of the stairs. They’ve been closed since Sgt Stripes arrived. It was a pretty good arrangement. Except the little humans know how to open the doors. (And apparently have not been taught how to close them.)

Gypsy’s been really good about staying up there. It’s the first time she’s actually had a specific human to care for, and she seems to be happy with the situation. On the other hand, Sgt Stripes and Onyx have been coming down pretty regularly. And they are not good at keeping to themselves. Onyx is the smallest cat on the household, but hisses at all the rest of us cats every time she sees us. It’s rather annoying.

Sgt Stripes is the biggest of all of us. He doesn’t hiss, but he wants to be friends with everyone. He’s always ready for a game of pounce. I do not want to be pounced on. He seems to be a little intimidated by me. I don’t think he has forgotten about how I jumped on him after he first got here. He had gotten loose and ran after Kommando. I had raised her from a kitten and wasn’t about to let him hurt her. He was probably trying to play, but he frightened her. That’s why we were segregated by floor.

I’m over the fleas and have gotten used to the boys. (I even let them pet me if I’m in a good mood.) Mom says all of us cats have to start getting along. I’m fine with that as long as they don’t try to interrupt my cuddle time or eat all my food. Or get in my space. They should probably have their own toys. And their own human. And I get first dibs on the best sun puddles. I’ll keep you posted.

     

Sgt Stripes here. I want to thank everyone for the nice things you said about me being a calendar cat. I’m going to choose the winners this weekend.

25

I Love My Calendar Cat Contest

Greetings fellow felines. I, Sgt Stripes, have some very exciting news! I have been chosen as Mr. October for the PawPrint 2024-2025 Calendar. It features the picture at the top of this page. They are based in Dallas, Texas. A portion of everything they sell goes to animals: donations to animal shelters, animal food banks, assisting families with medical expenses, supporting spay/neuter clinics, and adoption/foster expenses.

With apologies to Neil Sedaka, my family has adapted his Calendar Girl into a song about me:

I love, I love, I love my calendar cat: 

Yeah, sweet gray tabby cat

I love, I love, I love my calendar cat

Each and every day of the year

(January) up to my paws in snow

(February) adoring stares where I go

(March) Cat TV returns and I smile

(April) the Easter Bunny comes and brings me treats

Yeah, yeah, I have tabby fur! 

I love, I love, I love my awesome calendar pic! 

Every day (October) every day (October)

Of the year

(‘Specially October)

(May) Cat TV is on at night, all right!

(June) the glow of the moon lights the plants in bloom

(July) loud sky booms make me hide from the glows

(August) it’s hot and muggy but I don’t mind heat

Yeah, yeah, I have tabby fur! 

I love, I love, I love my awesome calendar pic! 

Every day (October) every day (October)

Of the year

(‘Specially October)

Yeah, yeah, I have tabby fur! 

I love, I love, I love my awesome calendar pic! 

Every day (October) every day (October)

Of the year

(‘Specially October)

(September)Autumn comes and leafs leap from all the trees 

(October) I’m October’s Calendar Cat Supreme! 

(November) We’ll give thanks that the humans have me

(December) I get presents ‘neath the Christmas tree

Yeah, yeah, I have tabby fur!             

I love, I love, I love my awesome calendar pic! 

Every day (October) every day (October)

Of the year

(‘Specially October)

I love, I love, I love my calendar cat

Yeah, sweet gray tabby cat

I love, I love, I love my calendar cat

Each and every day of the year

To help celebrate, we are going to send a copy of the calendar to two lucky winners. All you have to do is rewrite one verse of the song. I will pick the winners myself from the entries.  (They’re going to put the entries on the floor, and the two that I step on first will win.) You can either respond in the comments or email it to cat9984@ymail.com. The deadline is Friday, May 31, 2024, at midnight. Unfortunately, it is only open to humans with USA or Canadian addresses.

25

Google: A Cat’s Perspective

Snoops: Hey Sarge! I have a bone to pick with your buddy, Mr. Google.

Sgt Stripes: I don’t know if he eats bones.

Snoops: It’s just an expression. I mean that he’s messing something up really badly.

Sgt Stripes: Mr Google? I don’t think so. He knows everything.

Snoops: Well, he doesn’t know cats.

Sgt Stripes: He most certainly does. If you ask him to show you stuff about cats, he comes back with lots of articles. I bet it’s millions of them.

Snoops: All I know is that when Mom gets a “Spotlight on Snoops” in her pictures, there’s always at least one picture of another cat.

Sgt Stripes: Ooh that is weird. Someone else must take pictures of a different cat named Snoops.

Snoops: Are you being intentionally annoying? It’s not another cat named Snoops. It’s the other calico that Mom takes pictures of.

Sgt Stripes: You think Mr. Google can’t tell the difference between you and Gypsy? That’s ridiculous. He’s smarter than that.

Snoops: You’re right. I don’t understand it either. We don’t look anything alike.

Sgt Stripes: Well, you are both girl cats. And you both have three colors.

Snoops: We do not look alike. I’m a beautiful traditional calico with black, white and orange. She’s dilute – I’m pretty sure she’s grey, beige, and white. And her face is mainly one color all the way across. My face is split between all three colors.

Sgt Stripes: That doesn’t prove that Mr Google doesn’t know what he’s talking about. You guys must just look the most alike of all the cats Mom has pictures of.

Snoops: It’s embarrassing. I do not look like her.

Sgt Stripes: Let’s see what Mr Google has to say about calico cats. The first article says, “The calico cat is most commonly thought of as being 25% to 75% white with large orange and black patches; however, they may have other colors in their patterns.”

Snoops: So Mr Google says that I’m a true calico. It doesn’t say anything about cats with beige faces.

Sgt Stripes: Let me keep looking. It also says, “Dilute calicos have the same tri-colored coat that calicos have, but the dilute gene causes the colors to be muted and appear faded.”

Gypsy: Did I hear someone mention dilute calico? Here I am.

Sgt Stripes: Snoops was saying that Mr Google doesn’t know anything about cats because he mixed one of your pictures in with Snoops.

Snoops: Obviously we look totally different.

Gypsy: I agree. But I think he’s biased against dilute calico cats. I’ve been here for months and there’s never a “Spotlight on Gypsy.”

Sgt Stripes: That is a little bizarre. He loves me. I’m the chosen cat a lot.

Snoops: That explains why you like Mr Google so much.

Sgt Stripes: I guess that might be part of it. But I can find all kinds of great stuff with Mr Google. Like I found all kinds of cat videos. I like the rabbits and the string, but I could watch the birds all day.

Snoops: The rest of us don’t watch cat videos.

Gypsy: Actually I’ve never seen one. I might like it.

Sgt Stripes: And you can find toys and cat trees and all kinds of food.

Snoops: I think Mom might use Mr Google to help her with directions sometimes too.

Sgt Stripes: And you can find pictures of almost anything.

Snoops: Okay. Mr. Google might have some good qualities. But he really needs to learn how to identify cats. We are each unique beautiful creatures.

21

Sgt Stripes Looks for a Few Good Cats

 

Hello! Sgt Stripes here. Recently, I was looking at all of the open jobs posted by where Blondie works. There are a lot of them! (She works for a large healthcare company, so she isn’t too affected by these openings). But all of these jobs seemed really boring, and definitely not designed for cats. Which was really disappointing, since I like to keep my options open. So after some digging, I found some more feline friendly help wanted ads. 

Attorney 

We at Ears and Tails, PLLC, are looking for an experienced Attorney at Paw to join our team. While experience is not necessary, the proper candidate should be able to do the following: 

  • Stare intensely at the opponent until they are too uncomfortable to continue
  • Be okay with refusing to compromise or back down
  • Be prepared to fight with claws and hissing, if necessary 

 Benefits include two paid naps per shift, a cozy office with plenty of sunspots, and treat bonuses monthly. Salary will be paid in mackerel, tuna, and sword fish. Please email your resume and cover letter to earsandtailscatresources@catmail.com

Mental Health Provider

Management at Therapurrs are seeking to add a new therapawist to our team. In a rapidly growing field, Therapurrs is expecting to expand our client base by over 40% in the upcoming year, and we’re seeking the purrfect cat to help us do this. The right candidate will be able to:

  • Sit (or lay) for extended periods of time
  • Pretend like they are listening and like they care
  • Can keep their judgements silent and somewhat contained out of their facial expressions
  • Will only make, at maximum, 50% of a client session about themselves

Benefits include lots of comfortable blankets and furniture, team lunches, and a positive environment. Salary will be paid monthly in treats. Please email your resume and cover letter to doctorpaws@therapurrs.com

Why Do Cats Like Fish?

Nutritionist 

Tired of seeing humans cooking the same yucky foods over and over? Join PounceNutrition as a nutrition consultant, and help put an end to the spinach and lentil dishes! In this fast paced job, you’ll work with different humans 5 nights per week to help them establish a healthy, yet tasty, meal plan! Say goodbye to spinach pies and lentil stews! With your guidance, humans will learn the benefits of chicken, fish, ham, and so much more! The ideal team member will be able to: 

  • Eat a minimum of 3 pieces of protein (plant based excluded) in one sitting
  • Properly turn their noses and tails up at any vegetable, fruit, or legume
  • Swat offending foods off the table
  • Meow in appropriate dialects to indicate approval of a prepared food

Benefits will be based on protein preference, but will include performance based bonuses of preferred proteins, a membership to BirdShack, your local poultry club, and a large bed to lay in (after you complete 10 days of work). Salary is based on experience and will be paid in preferred proteins. Please email your resume and cover letter to pouncecatseat@catmail.com

Premium Photo | A cat sits at a desk in front of a drawing of a cat.

Marketing Manager

How many advertisements have been ruined by human ideas? Now is your chance to create the next best advert! Main Coon Markets is looking for a business savvy kitty with experience in the industry, and willingness to grow with the times! A good fit for our team will: 

  • Create cute, yet slightly snarky, slogans 
  • Sell what they have without effort 
  • Boost sales and views

While experience isn’t required, it is recommended, as this is a very claw to the top industry. If you are accepted for an interview, salary and benefits will be discussed then. Please email your resume, cover letter, and 3 examples of work to maincmarketcats@catmail.com

Can I stop my cat from hunting? - BC SPCA

Mouser

The city of Weeping Whiskers is in urgent need of a new mouser to keep our streets clean. We are willing to train the right cat, although a natural talent for hunting will put you at the top of our list. Hours vary based on need, although are typically from 10p-6a, 7 days per week. Breaks are permitted as needed. Our municipal mouser must: 

  • Be able to stalk and wait patiently 
  • Pounce and kill when the time is right
  • Dispose of any body or mess created

Benefits include having all of the mousie bits your heart desires, and being beloved by all of Weeping Whiskers! Interested parties may contact Mayor Purrball at purrball@weepingwhiskers.com

Model

If you’re a cat, you’re already beautiful (or handsome, for our man cats out there)! Now get paid to show off! Fluff Model Management is always looking for beautiful new talent. All sizes, shapes, patterns, and colors accepted (although gray tabbies may have a slight advantage due to some casting director biases). Pay is based on the job you are given. Please email at least 5 pictures and your stats to fluffcatmodels@catmail.com. If you do not hear back within 90 days, please email us again, as we are always looking for new models, and we may think you look better the second time around. 

 From Vim to the system clipboard in one command - DEV Community

IT Worker

CompuCat, Inc, are looking for kitties to add to our growing team of IT workers! Humans are notorious for not using their technology properly; join us as we show them how to flop on the keyboard, open up multiple tabs at once, dim the screen, and close whatever they had open, making it vanish forever. Training will be provided. Benefits include a warm workspace. Pay will be discussed at the interview and is contingent on experience and education. Email your resume and cover letter to CalCompuCat@catmail.com

Security Guard

An alarming trend of stray hair ties, loose rubber bands, rogue tissue rolls, and dangerous fluff balls has been plaguing our area. Be a part of the solution with a great team in a growing industry! Sassy Cats Security is looking for bright, high energy guards to help keep our houses safe from these menaces. Each cat may keep what he or she captures at the end of each shift. Techniques should include stalking and pouncing, leaping and capturing, and rolling and nibbling. This job is appropriate for all ages and skill levels; training for our youngest kittens will be provided. Salary will be paid in catnip or silver vine. Interested applicants should email the head hunter, Borris, at borriscat@sassycatssecurityco.com

Why Do Cats Knead?

Massage Therapist 

Kneading Paws is seeking a strong cat cat for deep tissue massage services. Our ideal cat will have wonderful kneading skills, deep, penetrative paws, and a healthy weight to support their skillset. Tips will be a part of your salary, which will be paid in kibble variations. All interested candidates should send their qualifications, resume, and cover letter to kneadingpawstalent@catmail.com

And there you have it! These look much better for cats! If any of my feline friends are interested in a job, or know of a job that needs filling, let me know and I’ll be happy to help out!

Pictures courtesy of Google Images

16

Dear Tabby: Cheeseland’s Favorite Advice Columnist

 

Sgt Stripes here. I was talking to my cousin the other day about my new job as a writer on the blog. She said that she writes a blog too. She said that she gives advice to other kitties. She said that she had even posted here one time. I was looking through the archives, and she was right. My cousin is Dear Tabby! You can see her earlier work here.

I asked her to answer whether she’d like to answer some questions for our readers. She said that she would be happy to help. She offered to post some recent answers here so you’d know the kind of thing she’s good at.

Here's how your cat experiences the world

Dear Tabby – I’m a 4-year-old lady cat; I would describe myself as pretty shy. I spend most of my time watching Cat TV and chasing the red dot. My human decided that I needed a playmate. I don’t really understand why. I thought that we had a pretty good thing going, Last week, she brought home a kitten. Why? I have no idea. The little guy is pretty cute, but all he does is run around. His favorite game is Pounce. I do not want to be pounced upon. How do I get him to leave me alone? Alone by Choice

Stalking And Pouncing In Cats: Reasons And Solutions, 59% OFF

Dear Alone – Have you thought about pouncing back? At this point, you are probably bigger than he is. Perhaps he won’t be so enthusiastic when he is the pounce-ee rather than the pouncer.

How to Make Your Kitten and Cat Become Friends | Everypaw

Dear Tabby – I am a stay-at-home mom with three adorable kittens. There are a few of us moms who have gotten close and we like to get together to let the kittens play. We are also available to kitten-sit if someone has an appointment or whatever. The issue is our neighbor. I’ll call her Eve. She works outside the home which is fine. However, whenever she has an issue with childcare, Eve just drops her kitten off with one of us without any notice. She says, “You’re home anyway. What’s one more kitten.?” That’s true, but she takes it for granted that we don’t mind and never offers anything in return or payment. We are starting to resent her attitude. How do we tell her nicely that we’d be happy to help in an emergency but we don’t want to be her back-up daycare? Stressed Out Mom

Kittens and Their Development - FOUR PAWS International - Animal Welfare Organisation

Dear Stressed Out – Have any of you ladies learned the word “no”?  You need to explain that your days are not just filled with sharing a saucer of cream and letting the kittens play. If this situation is occurring regularly, perhaps you could help her find more reliable childcare.

Does your dog or cat like to lounge in the sun? | NutriSource Pet Foods

Dear Tabby – I share a home with two other cats. We get along well enough except for one small issue. Where we live, it’s pretty gloomy during the winter with a lot of overcast skies. When spring finally arrives, it’s a battle for the good sun puddles. The prime spot shifts during the day. We’re pretty much okay with whoever gets there first having the spot. We are arguing over whether the cat that claims the spot should get to keep it if they get up for a kibble break. What is the proper etiquette? Sun Lover

188 Cats Who Love Sun More Than Anything | Bored Panda

Dear Lover – I recommend you get a timer. When the lucky kitty gets up, they turn on the timer. If they get back before the timer goes off, they get to keep the spot. Of course, this relies on you all agreeing to how long the break should be. I would advise something in the neighborhood of how long you usually spend at the litter box. Or you could find a larger sun puddle.

Can Cats Eat Carrots?

Dear Tabby – My wonderful boyfriend was told by the doctor that he needs to drop a couple of pounds. So he has started a new food. It seems to be giving him stomach issues. The litter box smells awful. I’m getting nauseated by the smells he’s passing. Should I tell him? Stinky Guy’s Girl

What's That Smell? - Perth Cat Hospital

Dear Girl – I imagine that he is aware of the issue. You can either stay someplace else until his body adapts or start wearing a gas mask.

Sgt Stripes here again. I can’t believe my cousin is so good at this. Does anyone have a question for her?

Pictures courtesy of Google Images

19

Catbook Marketplace: Where Smart Cats Shop

Greetings Fellow Felines! We don’t know about you, but we get really frustrated trying to shop in human stores. They really don’t carry the stuff that we’re looking for. Then we found Cat book Marketplace. It’s run by cats, for cats. Below is a sample on what you can find at the Marketplace.

Chonky Cat: Consider Your Cat's Health - The Tiniest Tiger

Plush Blanket

You won’t be able to tell where your fur ends and the blanket begins! It’s soft and warm and oh-so-comfy. You’ll be ordering all your meals in bed with this extremely plush blanket. Comes in a variety of colors. Get one to match your fur or collect the whole set. Orders shipped by Royal Cat.

Your Daily Cute: Two Cats Tuesday: Vote on Pimp & Moo's Halloween Costumes!

Alligator Halloween Costume

Must sell immediately. Thought my boyfriend would be adorbs, but he hated it. Must be out of the house by Monday. Will accept best offer. Contact Lydia at Catbook mail Princes$$ Lydia.

6 Cool Catsicle Recipes for Your Feline Friend – Neater Pets

Catsicles

Delicious frozen cat treats in a variety of flavors. Choose from Tuna Surprise, Poultry Delight, Mice Medley, and Beef Supreme. Buy one flavor or get a variety.  We only use the finest ingredients. All orders are made to order so you know your treat is fresh. Guaranteed delicious. Order from Cats’ Pleasure.

Wind & Weather One-Way Mirror Window Mount Bird Feeder | Bird feeders, Window bird feeder, Window mounted bird feeder

Cat TV Receiver

Beautiful window-mounted structure is guaranteed to give you hours of enjoyment watching cat TV. All you need to do is fill the side compartments with bird seed. Then sit back and wait for the birds to find it. Once they find the food, it will be a never-ending show. Get one for every room in the house. Bird seed sold separately. Sold by Birds-R-Us.

Premium Photo | Cute ginger cat listening to music with headphones on bed at home

Music for Cats

Tired of being forced to listen to human music? We have just the thing for you. We’ve compiled recordings that appeal specifically to cats. Selections include Music to Hunt By, Purred Poetry, Midnight Yowls, and Duets for You and Your Human. You can find our full selection at Kitty Mews.

Read a Book to Benefit Yourself and a Furry Friend! | ASPCA

The Truth about Tom and Jerry and Other Hollywood Tales

Does it annoy that the stupid mouse always seems to get the better of the poor cat? Do you ever wonder if Puss in Boots was really that lucky? Or why Tweety Bird was able to outsmart Sylvester every time? Find out the truth about them and many of your other favorite Hollywood cats. The Truth About Tom and Jerry was written by a rat named Simon who witnessed it all and is sharing it this fascinating book. Available through Kitty Mews.

My cat just noticed the fish tank. We like to watch the fish together now :) : r/Aquariumsl

Fish Tank

It’s the perfect way to keep the kittens entertained. Our fish tank will be the centerpiece of any room it’s in. You’ll be amazed at how relaxing it can be to watch fish. Be sure that all the fish you put in it are safe for cats. (You never know when someone might get a little too excited.) Fish and accessories sold separately. All products are sold by Aquatics Limited.

Pictures courtesy of Google Images.  

19

Snoops and Sarge Look for the Perfect Protein

Sgt Stripes: Hey, Snoops! I need to ask you a question.

Snoops: I suppose. What’s up?

Sgt Stripes: I really like the person you call Blondie. But I think she might be lying to me.

Snoops: She is a human. You can’t really trust them.

Sgt Stripes: Yeah. I have kinda noticed that. Anyway, do you think they’re ever going to get me a vole?

Snoops: Why do you want a vole?

Sgt Stripes: They were the tastiest treats when I lived outside. But they are NEVER on the menu here.

Snoops: That’s true. I’ve never had one. What is it exactly?

Sgt Stripes: It’s like a larger, plumper mouse.

Snoops: Ooh. That does sound delicious. We have some pretty big mice around here when the seasons change.

Sgt Stripes: I’ve only seen a couple upstairs.

Snoops: Yeah. We don’t have as many as we used to. Kommando and I were a great team. She’d flush them out, and I’d finish the job.

Sgt Stripes: Anyway, Blondie said that she would talk to the other humans and get vole on the menu. But it never happens. Do you think she’s lying?

Snoops: I don’t think she’s lying exactly. I think she doesn’t want to disappoint you.

Sgt Stripes: That means no voles, right?

Snoops: Unfortunately, not.

Sgt Stripes: Rats!

Snoops: We don’t have any of those either.

Sgt Stripes: Hmm. Well I need protein to survive. What are my other options?

Snoops: Mom said you don’t like people food.

Sgt Stripes: You mean food made from humans? That sounds disgusting!

Snoops: No, silly. The food that humans eat.

Sgt Stripes: Well. They gave me some goose. That wasn’t bad. But I didn’t like the chicken they gave me.

Snoops: You need to be careful with food that our human brother cooks. It usually is mixed in with other weird stuff like tomatoes or beans. It’s really sad how badly he can mangle a chicken. He makes something called tikka masala. You can’t even tell it used to be chicken.

Sgt Stripes: He brings leftovers upstairs sometimes. They always seem to have a lot of beans or noodles or something burying the meat. Sometimes there isn’t even any meat.

Snoops: I know. It’s appalling, isn’t it? Do you like fish?

Sgt Stripes: I’m not sure. What’s a fish?

Snoops: They swim in water. They are pretty tasty.

Sgt Stripes: Maybe Blondie could get me one of those. I’d be willing to try it.

Snoops: Or maybe you’d like turkey. They only get the full turkey once a year, but you can get it from the store in slices. It’s pretty yummy. But my very favorite from the store is ham.

Sgt Stripes: What’s a ham?

Snoops: I’m not really sure. But you can get it in slices or a big hunk. I like the slices best. It’s the only edible part when the humans get pizza. I don’t get it very often. It’s like a treat.

Sgt Stripes: Before I moved into the house, I got to share some ice cream. It was extremely delicious. I haven’t seen any since. Do they still have that?

Snoops: They only eat that in the hot weather. But that’s coming up. Make sure you ask for it. The humans are okay with sharing, but they don’t always think about it.

Sgt Stripes: Okay. I want to try ham, turkey, fish, and ice cream. Thanks, Snoops! You were a lot of help. This might even make up for no voles.

Snoops: Glad to help. Now let me get back to my sun puddle.