I’ve shared my life with a variety of animals and loved them all. But, in the end, I am a lover of cats.

Katie, Keith, Toby, Toejoe, Patches, Gidget, Enie, Sammy, Charlie (& Morris), Jesse James, Dusty, Merlin, Christmas, Grace, Molly, Murphy, Mouse, Bernie

Things I’ve Learned

• Food should be wet, air dried, or kibble
• Food should be high protein, no grain, minimal peas/lentils/potatoes.
• Food needs to be composed of human quality ingredients, whole parts rather than meal.
• Vaccinations increase the chances of cancers. If you have an indoor cat with little or no exposure, do not vaccinate.
• Do not get all your vaccines at the same time. Do not get them in the same location.
• Most vaccines, especially rabies and rabies combos, are effective up to 5 years. 3 years is a good compromise.
• Never declaw (unless you want to inflict trauma equivalent to cutting off your own fingers and toes to the first joint). Arthritis, joint deterioration, pain and balance problems result.
• Rescue when possible. Adopt specific breed rescues. Purchase ONLY from vetted and ethical breeders. (I had my heart set on a Scottish Fold.)
• Spay or neuter after 5 pounds … or as soon as feasible. Doing so, decreases the chances of many health issues.
• Don’t breed your pets. Too many pets still need homes.
• Commit to your pets. They are not disposable for any reason, especially inconvenience.

Finally, cats are individuals. You should understand their individual personalities, learn their histories, and honor their boundaries. My Scottish Fold Bernie is a joy, but I wish he was more of a cuddler. He isn’t, but he is companionable and affectionate. Most of all, nobody has mistreated or been mean to him EVER. I raised him from a kitten after having rescues for 30 years. I loved those rescues, but I’m sad for who they might have been under better circumstances. And, I’m amazed at how loving and lovable they remained.