June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month and every month should be Adopt a Shelter Cat Month.

Many kitties and adult cats are surrendered by their owners, due to various reasons, or brought to the animal shelter as “found and unwanted.”

Who doesn’t enjoy watching little kitties play and scamper around, acting silly and providing total entertainment? Older or adult cats are also entertaining with their antics and just want to be “lap cats.” Coming home from a rough day and hearing the “meows” and “purrs” is very heartwarming, knowing they appreciate having a safe and caring home.

Dogs always seem to be the “preference” for adoption because they can be “trained.” But cats can be “trained” also. Personally, I have trained many of my cats, especially to “retrieve.” It just takes time and patience (and love), same as training a dog and the benefits are so worthwhile. When you can play with them, throw a tiny fuzzy or paper ball and watch them jump after it and have them bring it back to you, drop it and wait for the game to continue, is so rewarding. They definitely like the interaction and they benefit from the exercise. And don’t forget the laser toys, where they “chase” the light and play until tired or lose interest. I know kitties like the “moving” toys, where the ball goes around and they get to swat at it and make it move some more or dangling feathers that entice them to jump and play silly.

Scratch poles are a definite plus, so kitties/cats have a place to scratch and “manicure” their nails. These poles are much better than scratching on the furniture or carpet. Cats need to scratch and they always will, so providing something as simple as a scratch pole or scratch box, provides pleasure and no damage.

I’ve taken the advice of other cat caretakers, and always separate their water bowl from their food bowl. Putting the water bowl “away from” the food will entice them to drink more and reduce the chance of urinary infections.

Just like children, kitties need to go to their “doctor,” and have annual check-ups. I have a “special needs” kitty who’s 17 years young, and still going strong.

Please consider visiting the local animal shelter this month and adopt a precious little kitty or cat and you won’t be disappointed.

Sincerely,

Lorraine Bradley

Prosperity