Tortoiseshell cats are named for their distinctive coloring – a combination of patches of black, brown, amber, red, cinnamon and chocolate. The size of the patches varies from a fine speckled pattern to large areas of color. The term “tortoiseshell” is used for cats with brindled coats that have few or no white markings. Cats of this coloring with larger areas of white fur are called calicos. Sometimes, these colors present in lighter versions such as lilac or cream. Torties with this lighter coloring are called dilute torties. Occasionally, the typical tortoiseshell colors are also seen in a tabby (striped) pattern, and these cats are sometimes referred to as “torbies.”
Tortoiseshell cats are almost exclusively female. Tortoiseshell and calico coats are the result of the interaction between genetic and developmental factors. The occasional and very rare male tortoiseshell cat is the result of a genetic mutation.
In addition to their distinctive coloring, torties also have a reputation for unique personalities, sometimes referred to as “tortitude.” They tend to be strong-willed, a bit hot-tempered, and they can be very possessive of their human. Other words used to describe torties are fiercely independent, feisty and unpredictable. They’re usually very talkative and make their presence and needs known with anything from a hiss to a meow to a strong purr. These traits are stronger in tortoiseshell cats than in calicos – it seems as though these traits are somewhat diluted with the addition of more white to the color scheme.
As of the writing of this post, I share my life with Amber*, and those of you who’ve followed this blog for a while have gotten to know her in her Amber’s Mewsings posts. You will soon be able to read all about Buckley in Buckley’s Story – Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher. The photo above shows Buckley in the front, Amber behind her.
Prior to Amber and Buckley, there was another tortie in my life. Virginia was the first office cat at the animal hospital I managed. She was my introduction to torties, and my love affair with this particular type of cat began with her. She, too, had the “tortitude” I so love about these particular cats.
Do you have a tortie or calico in your life? Does she have “tortitude?”
*Sadly, Amber passed away on May 13, 2010, after a sudden, brief illness. I now share my life with Allegra and Ruby, two tortoiseshell cats who have their own columns here on The Conscious Cat, titled Allegra’s World and Ruby’s Reflections.
Photo ©Ingrid King, all rights reserved
Obsidian Kitten you are right. This little one has a very good home and people who really wanted her. How much better could it get.
Harry, you would run a close second to Steeler on that one. I was able to hold her and wrap her in a small baby blanket. At first she struggled then she looked at me and I just melted and she laid her head on my elbow, I almost cried. It was like she was saying I am so tired now I am safe. I think anyone who works in rescue like you do, could say it better. I of course called about 2PM and asked if she was ok. Sandra was busy with Snowflake, in the rocker. Dennis said they have decided to keep her as Snowflake. I guess they have been shopping for their new baby today.
She is well adjusted, by the sounds of it. Her parents are quite happy to have her. The strange thing is now that she is safe and in a loving home, I feel a little depressed(self pity). What a day.
SNOWFLAKE – UPDATE, WELL FINALLY TODAY THE THROWAWAY ‘SNOWFLAKE’ AS I HAVE CALLED HER IS NO LONGER A THROWAWAY. I FOUND HER EARLY THIS AM IN THE HAVE A HEART TRAP.
COLD AND HUNGRY. BEAUTIFUL GREEN EYES. BROUGHT THE TRAP INTO THE SUNROOM, FED AND WATERED HER AND PUT A BLANKET IN FOR HER TO LIE ON. Well she was only here for 45 minutes or so, and she had a new home. Friends of ours, who had seen her and tried to catch her before had said if I caught her they would take her. Well they were true to their word. Imagine a call at 8 AM asking if they really meant it when they said they would keep this white angel. Response yes. Well to shorten the story of today, Snowflake is now safe and with this couple will be living a pampered lifestyle for the rest of her days. No more outdoors for her. So today is a good day. Folks when I brought the pen in on the sunporch, Steeler was incensed. I have never seen that side of her. She literally went bonkers. Even if I had wanted to keep this precious cat , Steeler was ready to tear it apart.
That made my day, Bernie! The trap may be called “Have a Heart” but the heart involved is clearly yours. I’m so glad that it worked out that she had a wonderful home waiting. In fact, I’m probably nearly as glad as Steeler! Was Snowflake friendly, ok with humans? Do you think she’ll adjust to the pampered life? I sure hope so.
What great holiday news! So glad she will now have a warm home with plenty of food and love to call her own.
Bernie, I am going to work now. It started snowing at 2 and the ground is covered.
I know when I get home there will be lots to read on her.
But congrats on giving snowflake a new Christmas home.
Any pics of her ?
Be careful out there, Jay. The 2-10 inches Harry mentioned for us have, thankfully, turned into just a few flurries.
That’s wonderful news! I’m so happy Snowflake found her forever home, thanks to your persistence. And just think, Snowflake’s new family will forever be able to tell the story of the state troopers stopping the crazy cat lady in her nightgown in the middle of a cold winter night! 🙂
I’m sure Steeler is equally happy that Snowflake found her forever home, and even happier that it’s not in HER home! Sounds like if ever there was a confirmed only cat, Steeler is it!
Ingrid you are so right about Steeler. As far as she was concerned, we were invaded and she declared an all out war. Never seen that side of her to that extent. I could never be in the rescue areas. I had no idea how invested I was with this little Snowflake, until I seen her being carried out to the car to leave for her new home. I felt like I could cry.(selfish behavior on my part).
Yes there will always be the crazy old lady out in her bedclothes in the middle of the night looking for a white cat in the white snow. I hadn’t thought much about that, until now, and it dawned on me, there will be an incident report at the state police records for some time to come.
Oddly enough, this early AM when I looked out the back window onto the porch, I seen Snowflake, I hurried out to get her. I was barefoot and again in my pi’s and boy was that concrete cold on my feet. I think maybe I should quit wearing pj’s and switch to lounger sets.
Excellent news 🙂
We’re expecting 2 – 10 inches of snow tomorrow (how’s that for a well-hedged forecast??) and today was my wife’s day to feed the feral cats at the local college campus. We went armed with extra food in case the Sunday feeder couldn’t get there. We saw three of the ferals. Most, if they were around, chose not to reveal themselves when we stocked their feeding stations. At one station, we saw a big tabby off in the distance, waiting for us to finish filling his bowls so he could return to eat. Then, as I pulled into a parking spot near the last feeding station, we were yelled at. “Where have you been, you’re LATE!” I think she meowed. Yeah, that’s right – dilute tortie. I got chastized by a tortie today, and she wasn’t even mine!
Harry, you weren’t chastised by a tortie today. You were wished a Happy Hanukkah by a thankful Tortie. Your weather forecast is truly accurate. Where else could you work and be correct less than 25% of the time and still get prime time?
You may be right about what the tortie said, Bernie – Annie was pretty friendly, actually. The feral group doesn’t think that she’s a true feral, but a dump. She is actually probably adoptable, we petted her and my wife gave her a tummy rub. However, her brother (exactly same head shape, but a gray tabby) is too scared of people and too dependent on her for companionship for her to be removed. She gets lots of human contact, the computer lab where she is located lets her in during the time when it’s occupied. The feral group runs a good operation – some of the cats, including Annie, are 10 years old or more.
PS – I’m glad your children and grandchildren got your number 😉
Glen – I’ll shift my worrying to Tuesday.
Hi to all of you. I hope your holiday was safe and happy. I spent the holiday with my children+grandchildren. Gifts were exchanged, of course grandma’s was expected to outdo all others. Aside from the materialistic exchanges, Grandma (me) came home with a box of gifts. It appears that each and all remembered my telling them “do not buy for me their is nothing I want or need”. Well they finally listened. But they got me. Steeler has more toys and collars and feather thingy’s. steeler coat (which only Stirfry might be able to get on her). All the family bought her steeler gear and toys of one thing or another. So when I arrived at home last evening, Steeler got scent of the box, and loved the ribbons and papers. She to is a paper shredder. So her first family acceptance at this Christmas was huge. You see my family thought I was losing my mind taking in a cat with so much going on. She has won them all over, grown men and women, children and all. So I am very proud my little imp has won the hearts from my entire family. This is a good day. Oh grandma was given a Steeler calendar.
Glen, I know Kasey will do well on Tuesday. She has so many of us pulling for her. Harry, I hope your back holds up, and it was nice to hear 2 adoptions on Christmas Eve. I know your devotion to helping the cats and dogs is ingrained in you and you have received your reward.
Jay, did Stirfry run the gauntlet on the other cats for Christmas Day. I can’t imagine any of your cats trying to be ahead of her.
Ingrid, paper shredders and Torties go hand in hand. I have picked up and rewrapped more gifts this year, because Steeler had a great time helping me.
We all seem to get to this forum quickly to see what’s new in Tortie land, as soon as business is taken care of. Glad you are all here.
Bernie – I’m sure your family realized that the best gifts they could give to you was by giving to Steeler. Her happiness guaranteed yours.
Stirfry had a great Christmas – catnip and tuna for breakfast. Kisses and hugs were given and I received growls and hisses back. Wish she could purr but her son makes up for that. Pumpkin ate his tuna, Tabatha’s (she didn’t want it) and what Stir left.
My best present though is when I come home and she wants to be in my lap right away.
And I think her and Steeler would have a ball with that sweater. Wouldn’t be wearable after though.
Jay, I thought of Stirfry as soon as the cat sweater was opened. Steeler would have torn the fingers, and arms off anyone trying to put that on her. Stirfry + Steeler = major takeover. I think Steeler was trying to say what’s with those people, I don’t even go outside!! I would like just once to have Steeler jump onto my lap. But she can’t and she doesn’t seem to miss it. But she purrs like a locomotive engine. When I came home all I kept getting from her was attitude,& now I want tuna. So she then had fun emptying the toys and things. Paper shredding and ribbon tearing. Toys, well not so much yet. I am happy to
hear you spent some time with your ex and spent some time with your son. There is nothing in the world to top spending time with our children.
I love that your family showered Steeler with gifts, Bernie. Clearly, they’re seeing how much joy she’s brought into your life.
Sounds like everyone in tortieland is having a good Christmas – especially the torties! Allegra had a blast opening presents. I think the paper and ribbons were far more interesting to her than her actual presents, but Santa was very good to her! I’m sure she’ll blog about it soon 🙂
Glen, I know you’re getting nervous about Tuesday – I’m keeping you and Kasey in my thoughts.
I can’t wait to read Allegra’s blog.
I know her version of the day will be real interesting.
After all – the holidays are all about her.
This is Kasey’s 3rd Christmas, having spent her first 8 year in basically an industrial environment.
We don’t get the cats a lot for Christmas, just catnip toys. This year they got those early because Taz, the 20 pound orange guy caught sent of them and there was no peace until they where handed out about 2 weeks ago.
No problem though.
Kasey is actually happier wiith just wrapping paper.
She was around when the presents were opened so I rolled a small piece woth gift wrap up in a ball and tossed it to her. It was pounched on, then held with both front paws and she uses her mouth to rip it into pieces. She is one of those cats that is a “paper shreader” (luckily she shreads but does’t eat it).
She did that a couple of times, then socialize while the last of the gifts were unwraped.
This whole episode must have been quite fatiguing because she then retired to her heated pet bed.
That’s how it is here, Glen. With my kids too, at least when they were younger. I could have just gotten the cats and the kids wrapping and empty boxes for Hanukkah.
Good luck on Monday with Kasey’s surgery. Please post an update, when you can – you know that her fan club here will be worried.
Harry
Thanks, just a slight correction, Kasey goes in on Tuesday, the “fasting” starts Monday evening.
I will be glad to get this done and over with. I ran it by a buddy of mine who has two cats, he is very thorough and even more paranoid than I am and he thinks getting the cyst remocved is the right thing to do, so that’s a bit reassuring.
Glen – glad Kasey had a fun Christmas.
I’m sure she has enjoyed her last 3 years wth you.
That is a wonderful gift that you have given each other.
I’m not sure which message I’m replying too 🙂
I’m up and about, not fully mobile, but functional. I was able to do an extra holiday adoption event last night (7 black cats, no torties, and no adoptions) and staffed up so that there were plenty of volunteers to cover my excuse for not moving tables or setting up crates. One more adoption event this afternoon, and then I’m home for the weekend.
Jay, Ingrid, Bernie – you don’t know what wrapping is like, until you not only have a tortie, but 5 other cats. Bad habits are learned quickly! Last night, we had been given a small gift bag of catnip toys hand made by someone for whom my daughter is petsitting. We tossed a few onto the kitchen floor, the cats were having a good time, and for a moment, I turned my back on the table where the bag remained. When I looked back, Brooke had her tortie head in the bag… THROUGH ONE HANDLE. So, quietly, so as not to startle her, I moved behind her, my wife moved in front of her, reached out to pet her head, she lifted her head to be stroked, the bag came with her, she didn’t realize it – and my wife grabbbed her and pulled the bag over her head. We’ve had that disaster before, and Brooke ended up inside the lining underneath the couch…
Jay, these days I spend a lot of time in the company of people who really love animals. For the most part, they are a wonderful group of people. It keeps me going some days, too.
Harry, glad your feeling a little better. And the adoption events even thought they are hard on your health are wonderful for your heart. Too bad no adoptions but if you don’t try there is no hope. Hope things go better this evening.
I know what you mean about catnip toys.
I bought a bag of balls and catnip mice to give to the local shelter.
Left it on the table and found it an hour later with teeth marks in the plastic. Don’t know who but Pumpkin or Stirfry were probably the guilty ones.
And Brooke running into the lining of the couch is the same thing I have with Stirfry.
When she had her 3 kittens that’s where she took them and we were constantly getting them out. And even now when she hides that’s where she goes. What a coincidence.
And I know what you mean.
Animal people are a much better group to be around. I can relate to animals better than people so that’s why I have so many.
Two black kittens adopted today – not bad for Christmas Eve. Two more events on Sunday, but not for me. Jay, I hope you survived the crush at Walmart. I let my daughter drive to the event today, but made her go into the shopping center on the end away from Wally World. Traffic today was like every driver was a tortie.
Way to go Harry. 2 kittens got a Christmas wish. And Walmart was a madhouse. I worked 4 – 8 and when I got there at 3:30 every checkout line was 20 deep.
The Deli was super busy. The hot case was filled but they shut down the friers as the Deli closed at 6. And within I hour I sold out most of it.
People would take 2 to 3 lbs of the chicken, tater wedges and macaroni and potato salad.
Shut down and clean up is 2 hours but since they had people cleaning from 5 to 6 it went fast. Stopped at my ex’s and we talked for over an hour till my son got there. He showed me his latest exam from school. 40 pages and he got a 93%. Highest in the class. All a’s in his classes and he made the Dean’s list. That was a good Christmas present to me. I exchanged gifts with them and Dominique (Stirfry’s daughter – a Calico- loved her toys and catnip mouse.
Then came home ad gave all my critters kisses and hugs. They are my favorite presents.
I hope everyone here had a Good Chrstmas. You are such great group of people – that’s why you were chosen by a tortie.
Merry Christmas all
Jay
Happy hollydays, torters! I love reading how many of us have rescues and work with animal rescues (I write grants for one here in Queens). I love adoption stories so much. It makes me especially happy to think of on Christmas.
Hope everyone has a wonderful day with all their animal (and human!) friends!!
xoxo, Shannah & Emma (purr purr)
Jay this has been a hard year for so many people. This forum brings laughter and enjoyment to so many who have the Torties and those who have any type of cat. We come together here and talk and you show great achievements on Stirfry and her photogenic appeal. I still reel at that one picture. So we love our cats. Steeler and all her quirks, who is now my best bud, you and Stirfry who shows all who is in charge. Harry with Brooke and Glen with Kasey. I am sending wishes to Glen and Kasey for their surgery on the 28th. We in Tortie land, I am sure, wish them the very best.
Harry I hope your back get better before the new.
Jay, I wish you better luck in the New Year. You and Stirfry have brought so much enjoyment to all Tortie lovers, it is time for something good to come your way.
Now all Tortie lovers, I have just finished wrapping gifts for the family. I had a lot of help. I chased ribbon all over the place, it seems Steeler wasn’t watching the football game, she was stealing anything that was low enough for her to take. I am not sure if it took more time looking for what she had stolen or replacing wrapping she had decided needed to be reopened. It has been an unusual evening with her. She must be tired. I wrapped, she unwrapped, and you Torties owners know what I mean. All in all it has been a fun evening with her.
May all of you have a safe holiday.
Bernie, seems like Steeler had an early christmas.
She just wanted you to get more exercise and after all she does have a reputation to live up to. All the other torties expect her to keep you on your toes and constantly guessing as to what she will do next.
I have never worried about life.
Had a close call back in 96 and spent 7 weeks in Hershey Med ICU2 where most people don’t come out. After that I enjoy every day and as something sets me back other things happen that makes lfe even better. After the divorce in 2000 Stirfry found me and then she gave me Pumpkin. And because of her I found all you here so that is a big plus.
Jay, I admire your attitude – I wish more people lived that way. And I’m really humbled that finding this site has been one of the highlights of your year. I sure am glad all of you found it!
Maybe Steeler thinks her name is actually “stealer,” Bernie!
Wrapping at my house has been an adventure this year. Amber and Buckley were “watchers” – they liked to be in the middle of things, but at their age, they were less interested in playing with ribbons and paper. Allegra is another story! None of the gifts coming from me this year have ribbon on it – it simply became impossible with her around, I would have had to lock myself into a room to accomplish anything, and I didn’t want to spoil her fun. She had plenty of fun taking off with preformed bows, crumpled up pieces of paper, and attacking empty gift wrap rolls.
This will be her first Christmas with me, and I can’t wait to see her open her presents tomorrow (yes, I went a little overboard, and so did some of my friends….).
Happy Holidays, tortie lovers! I never thought that my initial post about tortitue would create such a wonderful community, and I’m so glad that all of you found this site. May your holidays be merry and bright and filled with lots of tortie fun!
Hey Tortie family, Steeler and I want to wish each and everyone of our buddies a Happy and Safe Holiday Season. Give our little buddies an extra big hug (if you can catch them) on Christmas for Steeler. Be safe driving if you are traveling.
Thanks for the holiday wishes, Bernie. Same to you and everyone owned by a tortie. I’ve been quiet – flare up of an old back injury that surgery didn’t quite fix, and I’ve been flat on the floor. Couldn’t have gotten to the computer, even if I hadn’t had a couple of cats camped on my chest. (Reiki, Ingrid?) Everyone, if you haven’t seen Jay’s Christmas card or photo of Stirfry on the Conscious Cat’s facebook page, you’re really missing something!
Thank you Harry.
I was going to say it was nothing.
I sent the pic to a friend and he made the card.
And Stirfry did all the work of getting her picture taken.
But – belling a cat is not nearly as dangerous as hatting a Tortie.
Ask Ingrid.
And I too wish all the tortie fans (as you said “everyone owned by a tortie”) a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.
I’ve had ups and downs – losing my job in March after 33 years was not an up, but finding this web site and all the wonderful people sure was an up. I love all the stories and hearing how special our cats are. Constantly laughing while reading them really keeps my spirits up.
Sorry about your back, Harry. Sounds like the cats on your chest had the Reiki covered. Some say that cats are the original Reiki masters…. I hope you’re feeling much better!
I just checked out the picture of Stirfry with Santa’s hat. She does not show the Spirit of Christmas. Stirfry looks like you will give you a ho ho ho like you never imagined. Love her look.
While gathering christmas wrapping and supplies I found a dog/cat hat.
Stirfry was sleeping and I got some shots of it on her.
Then as she woke up (and before she realized what I was doing I got a few more.
The last one is on Ingrids Facebook page.
I am going to try to get a card made up of it.
With this caption.
The Elves make toys for the good little boys and girls.
Guess who makes things for the bad ones.
Awful quiet on here tonite.
Bernie – sorry for your loss. I worked Sunday nite till 11:30 but a customer told me the score.
I finished the book “Cleo: The Cat Who Mended a Family” by Helen Brown.
Was very good and suprising that it was a true story.
Only problem I wsaw was where she mentioned seeing a Tortie cat and calling her a him.
Guess non tortie owners don’t know how rare a Tortie or Calico male would be.
Currently reading DEWEY – The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World
Jay it has been very quiet for the past couple of days. Maybe everyone is all worn out. Holiday season can be very stressful. I would like to see Stirfry in christmas dress. I thought about doing the christmas dress with steeler, but I still like to use all ten fingers.So you and I are the Tortie watchers for the holiday week. I am sure we will be hearing from others soon. Thanks for you condolences. But they lost it themselves.
Honey does the tail twitching thing when she is excited about something. This is different than the “I’m pissed” swipes her tail will take at those times. No, this is almost a tail wiggle with just the end of her tail. I’ve never seen it in any of the others cats I’ve had. She puts the tail straight up and wiggles it. She does this when she’s investigating something, or when she knows I’m about to feed her.
~Michael
On a different note about Kasey, I was wondering if anyone else’s torties exhibit “wiggle tail” as described here;
“Another behavior, quite common in happy Maus, has been described as “wiggle-tail.” The cat, male or female, wiggles and twitches its tail, and appears to be marking territory, also known as spraying, but it is not actually releasing urine. Even veteran Mau owners are known to check after a joyous Mau does this little dance.”
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egyptian_Mau
I know that it is very unlikely Kasey has any Mau bloodlines at all, but she has this behaviour.
She does it when very happy, puzzled or if she is not allowed to do something she shouldn’t, such as enter and open, lower kitchen cupboard.
I noticed this shortly after bringing her home in May 2008, the first couple times, I did check for spray.
I used to call Amber “Miss Twitchy Tail” – she did this whenever she got excited about something. I’ve seen other (non-tortie) cats do it, too, though, so I’m not sure it’s a trait particular to torties.
Never heard of this Glen.
Stir does not I know.
Other than her tail lashing back and forth when she is disturbed or pissed.
And that is most of the time.
She hates her tail to be touched.
Harry, Steeler does the twitching when she has pulled something or when I tell her no. Earlier on on this forum I mentioned it, right after Steeler became a part of my family. Bernadette, a fellow Pittsburgher, told me it is the teenager in her, and the tail twitching is her way of giving me the international sign for the bird. Now this is what I was told, and timed with when she does it, I am inclined to believe it. Maybe Kasey is exhibiting teenager behavior. It is humorous, isn’t it.
Oh, yes, especially when they “turn tail” on you and before they saunter away they flick their tail once or twice. You’ve been flipped off by a tortie!
One thing I know Kasey won’t like about the whole process (and there will be more than one).
No food after 9:00 PM the night before she goes in. My girl likes her food 😉
No water after 12:00 Midnight, either.
You are going to feel soooo guilty that morning when you can’t feed her breakfast and she will give you the evil eye! I always hated that part of one of my cats having to have anesthesia. It’s especially fun in multi-cat homes because you’re either going to make the cat who can’t have breakfast feel even worse, or you’ll end up not feeding the others, and then everybody is going to be mad at you!
Yeah, that’s pretty much it in regards to the feeding.
Fortuneatley, she will be going in just after 8:00 PM so it will be up and out the door.
I’ll be happy when it is done.
Glen, Brooke is going to be ok. She survived those first 4 or 5 years in a brutal environment and then you took her home. So after the surgery you will be with her when she awakens and she will know her security blanket is with her and that’s all she will need.
Glen, I have been away for the last 15 hours and just saw your notes on Kasey.
Glad you have a good vet and he is taking very good care of your little friend.
I will be saying prayers for her.
I know things will be ok for her and you will be a nervous wreck till she is home and recovering.
Glen the anguish in your words is so prevalent. You have loved her and from what I understand you may be able to have her 10 or more years. I can’t recall which one of our Tortie family has had their Tortie for 18 or 19 years. I know Kasey will like having you with her while she heals. She won’t cry for you, as she would if you were going to work.
Glen, I know you agonized in making this decision. Only you and your vet can do this. Your love of Kasey is intense and the thought of everything she went thru before you rescued her, I know in your heart you never would want to do anything that would cause her pain. So your decision appears to have been a very long and painful one for you. But you really have to do what is best for her. She could not be with anyone who loves her more and will take great care for her later. I will be thinking of her on the 28th, because it is my husband’s birthday.
I feel burdened for Kasey.
I have known her for all but the first few months of her life.
I know what things were like for her from about 2005 to 2008 and they weren’t good.
She remained a very friendly cat through all of this which surprises me.
When I felt really sick from a migrane, around 2001, at the facility where she lived, she came and sat with me while is lay down for a couple hours to sleep it off. I woke up, feeling better, a touch of home, i.e. purring acat.
I should have taken her out of there in 2006 after we lost our other two “old girls” and not waited until May, 2008.
I have tried to make up for her past life.
I knew when I brought here home at approx. 8 years of age, that I would not have a long with her as if I brought a kitten home.
She could have another 4 to 6 years, at least and I want to give her that potential. So I don’t want to leave something un attended and wish I could have done something, when I could.
At least she will just be in for the day and then home. I am home, on vacation for six days after the procedure and since she is quite imprinted on me, that is good.
Kasey has been schedule to go the vet on Dec. 28 fior a procedure to remove a cyst.
I mentioned before that she was into the vet to have something checked out.
This was a cyst on the right, fore-most nipple which looks like a blister, about the size of a pea. The vet said it did not look cancerous, he drained the fluid from it with a hypo and sent it away for pathology. They confirmed it was not cancerous but could not identify it, they said there was a chance it was pre-cancerous.
She is happy, acting normal, the cyst doesn’t bother her, it is mobile with the skin.
We went through quite a process of questions with the vety and did not come to this decision lightly, basically, it went like this;
Want to do the right thing, dilemma;
Surgery best option; or over reaction to something that is benign?
Wait and routinely observe best option; or ignoring something that needs treatment?
1.) What would the procedure be, i.e., how complicated might it be? (no overly so)
2.) Assume general anesetic? (yes)
3.) If general anesetic, how much risk/issues for a 10+ year old cat? (they are confident it is a non-issue)
4.) She has problems with her back legs due to old injury, doesn’t voluntarily stretch them out to the rear, would this be a problem during surgery? (will be taken into account)
5.) How long would she stay away from home? (she goes in at 8:30, home in the afternoon)
6.) If she was under general anesetic, could her teeth be cleaned at the same time or would that be too tough on her? (yes, no problem. this is a a good by-product of the process, she could use it)
7.) If surgery is done, best to do after the holiday season? (I am home that week, the vet office is open on the 29th and 30th, for two days after the procedure)
I asked one more question that I always ask a vet; ïf this was your cat, what would you do?”, they said they wiould do it.
I am not onr to choose surgery lightly, as an option, all I can go on is an educated opinion and I have decided this is the right thing to do for her.
I’m sorry to hear Kasey has to have surgery, Glen, but from everything you’ve written, it sounds like the right decision. It’s always better to know, and even if, God forbid, it is precancerous, it’s just like with humans – the earlier it’s caught, the better.
You asked all the right questions. The only thing I’d add, if this hasn’t been discussed, is to make sure that they do pre-operative bloodwork (at a minimum, a blood chemistry, but it would be good to do a blood count and a thyroid check as well). This will ensure that Kasey’s kidneys and liver are healthy and can handle the anesthesia. There is always risk associated with anesthesia, but frequently, the risk of doing nothing is far greater than the risk of anesthesia. Vets these days can tailor anesthesia to a particular animal, such as an older cat like Kasey, to make it as safe and easy as possible for the cat. I’m assuming your vet has all the standard monitoring equipment (blood pressure, pulse oximeter, heart monitor) to use during the surgery.
The teeth cleaning is a great thing to do since she’ll already be under – dental problems can lead to so many serious health problems, and it’s important to stay on top of that.
You will be surprised how easily Kasey will sail through this – this will probably be much harder on you than on her! And you know you’ll have this entire tortie community sending good thoughts and prayers Kasey’s way and yours.
“The only thing I’d add, if this hasn’t been discussed, is to make sure that they do pre-operative bloodwork”
Thanks, good point.
I did forget to mention that, but it was arranged when I booked it this morning.
I think you’re right, this might be tougher on me than Kasey.
My morning routine involves 20 – 30 minutes checking email right when I get up, as many of my clients are in Europe and often want things from me when they return from lunch – my morning. Of course, the cats get fed before my first cup of coffee and any email checking can occur. Back in the pre-Sabrina days, Brooke would often sit on my lap during email checking, purring loudly, and swatting my hand if I tried to type. As Sabrina now lives in the bedroom/sitting room/bathroom complex where my home office is located, Brooke hasn’t had the opportunity for her morning lap sit in a while. This morning, however, we were all disrupted as there was a plumber in the house, and so I was sitting in a different place… Brooke seized upon the opportunity to jump on my lap (I hadn’t seen her huddled by the heat vent when I came into the room and closed the door.) She very carefully avoided digging her claws into my bare skin, though she was kneading my thighs. She settled down comfortably and commenced her huge purr, and I didn’t have the heart to toss her off my lap, even though I eventually finished what I’d come in for, and needed to leave the room. After about 15 minutes, however, the toilet seat really got uncomfortable, and so I had to dislodge her. 😉
Harry you piqued my interest in you lap story about the pre-Sabrinia days and having Brooke sit on your lap in the past after you had your AM coffee and checked client email. However this renewal of the former behavior that again surfaced was really a pleasant story, UNTIL, the end, then you got me, the visual of you/bath/cat/computer was more info than I can handle. You pulled one this time.
No computer in the bathroom this morning, I promise. Normally, I’m at the desk, and I guess to a cat, a chair’s a chair…
Harry, you are acting like Eric now. Heaven help me. Coming out with the unexpected when it appears to be plain normal!!!!!!!!!!
Harry , thanks for my laugh tonite.
Brooke missed her lap sits and was taking advantage of the oppertunity.
Not scratching bare skin was awful nice of her 🙂
I have a tortie and a diluted tortie and they are the two sweetest cats i have ever met. One of which is currently on my lap purring.
Welcome to our tortie community, Jen. Feel free to post photos of your torties on our Facebook page!
I just want to say, Free rabies shot clinics are AWESOME!!!! We took Buttons to one this past weekend, she was way overdue, and it was seriously like ten minutes, a voluntary donation (I gave $10, since I have two kitties even though one wasn’t there) and we’re good for three years.
Support your local free rabies clinics!!! 🙂
Nan, I have never gotten Stirfry a Rabies shot.
If she doesn’t go outside without supervision I don’t want to give her something that might affect her.
Same with me. Never gotten a flu shot (the fact that I hate needles might have something to do with that.
P.S.
Talkative bunch ya all are when I’m at work.
From 6 am till I left at 3 no one is here.
I come home at midnight and see 16 messages.
Jay, we all knew you would want some entertainment when you arrived home. Harry and Brooke punctuated the evening. Lucky for him, I agree, or he may have been writing something else.
It’s 12:48 and I have to go to bed. Up at 6am and probably will have dreams of Harry.
Not good.
Just got one of those water heaters you see on TV with them monkeys in the Sauna.
Got to install it tomorrow.
Maybe I can get a Tortie in the sauna.
nite all.
Doing a search I found this
http://knox.villagesoup.com/place/story/humane-society-12-strays-of-christmas/368080?cid=372709
Don’t forget every Tuesday is Atti-Tuesday in December. On Atti-Tuesdays the adoption fee will be waived for all adult tortoiseshell and calico cats. These tri-colored beauties are known for their unique personalities affectionately referred to as catitude and tortitude. They have been described as diva-like, independent, feisty, loving, playful and never boring. If you’re chosen by a tortie/calico, count yourself lucky. They will be a loving and entertaining companion. This is a limited time offer
And this one
http://vancouver.kijiji.ca/c-pets-cats-kittens-for-sale-The-12-Stray-Cats-of-Christmas-W0QQAdIdZ247788334
Torties are also know as ‘money cats’ and are said to bring good luck
I’d heard the part about considering yourself lucky if you’re chosen by a tortie – but we all already know that 🙂 I didn’t know they were known as money cats, though!
Ingrid and Jay, I know and agree Tortie’s are money cats. Steeler has cost me a fortune. Their the lucky ones on that end. We get to have them to keep up happy. LOL
I had always heard that torties–or tri-colors generally–brought good fortune. So far I’ve lived with five tri-colors long term, and several more as fosters, but I’m still waiting.
Bernadette, their are many interruptions for good fortune. In history past, some cultures referred to good fortune when they had a male child. Others when they were able to receive bounty from future son-in-laws for marrying their daughter. So your fortune if I were to predict, is your good fortune, is the happiness you have had from Torties and Calies that have shared your life.
Bernie, certainly, and I am very fortunate in many other ways too, but this specifically meant money. I kept asking the girls when it would happen, but I got only innocent, confused looks. An innocent, confused look on a tortie is not only an abberation but also a sign that they are hiding something. I’m convinced there is buried treasure somewhere here.
Bernadette, you are a die hard. If you would however, find that hidden money, let me know.
We western PA’s will start digging.
Digging indeed–and Cookie insists on going outside with me when I fill the bird feeders, even if it’s 12 degrees, though she doesn’t stay out too long in this weather! You got more snow than me, good luck!
Bernadette going out in 12degree weather is not so bad. Last evening in the wind and snow when it was -2 windchill, I went outside to try to find the little white cat. I seen cat footsteps in the snow, but they went under a very large pine tree here where the branches come down to the lawn. I had no way of getting down in the snow to see if she was there, 1 I am to old to crawl in the snow, 2 I was freezing my backside off. I will be in your area of the country Friday. I am hoping for a better driving day. Let me know when you and Cookie find the fortune.
“On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me: a tortie in a pear tree.”
As seen on the homepage of my local animal shelter in an advertisement for they’re 12 Strays of Christmas sale. 😉
I love that.
Do you have the link to the shelters page?
Glad Tippers getting into the Christmas spirit.
Don’t use tinsel on the trees.
My ex’s cat (Stirfry’s daughter) ate some 2 years ago and it got stuck in her throat.
Luckily my son was able to get it out.
http://wanderersrest.org/
We didn’t put tinsel up, because we knew it was bad for kitties… But thanks for the reminder. 😉
Love it!
Stickers and I are now taking applications for our accapello group. I always meow at her when she meows at me, but yesterday I started howling and she started howling. I then tested it by making different meows and holding them for a long time. She copies everything. She sat right in my lap and we..”sang” lol.
I need a video camera, all 3 of my cats rip around my house. They go from the cat posts to the bedroom to the other bedroom, down the stairs, all over the place. They are just blurs. Sometimes you think you seen a ghost..They have become a very happy cat family. Yesterday Stickers actually grabbed the kitten and started licking her head. That is amazing. I briefly had a black kitten here for a week, and the second Stickers saw that little kitten, she treated it like she was the mom. It was amazing. The kitten continued on to her new home, and I got the tortie kitten. Over a month now, and Stickers is just warming up to her. This little kitten is amazing, she loves Stickers, even though she’s been swatted, attacked, chased away, bitten, you name it. Do you think the kitten will grow out of her friendliness? She loves EVERYBODY. Dogs, other cats, people, everyone she comes in contact with. She is a true tortie, there’s no doubt about it. All caramel, blonde, orange, bronze, gold colouring, not one speck of white.
Glad to hear that Stickers is becoming a more social cat. Very mature of her.
And I don’t think the kitten will grow out of her friendliness.
Pumkin is 8 and he has not changed at all.
A hour ago Stirfry was on my lap (as usual) and Pumpkin came in the room.
He walked over and gave a quiet meow.
Then he jumped up and tried to first sit on Stirfry (didn’t go over well – he was swatted for that) then settled for laying behind her. Stirfry would never think of sharing a lap.
And Amber – youtube is always looking for musical talent. Go for it.
Jay that sounds like the Battle of the Light Brigade. How low did you have to duck?
Stirfry would never hurt me intentionally, even when I play with her (and know that it will result in teeth and claws) she still holds back. My hand ends up in her mouth but never more than teeth touching my skin (usually). But I can tell that change in her eyes and thats when band-aids are needed. I stop then. And Pumpkin as scardy cat as he is, ignores her and I think she respects that. But Tabatha is a Calico and the friendliest cat but her and Stir at best hiss at each other. Or she turns and runs with a demon at her heels..
Sitting at the computer with Pumpkin sleeping on my lap. Stirfry came into the room, looked up and saw him and gave me a dirty look. She jumped up on the headboard of the bed for a few minutes, juped down,looked at me and hissed and stormed out of the room. Poor Tabatha was sleeping in the hall and got the full brunt of a Tortie attack.
Now that’s a perfect totie hissy fit 🙂
Glen, it’s good to hear from you. You have been absent for awhile. Kasey wants you with her and that’s all there is to it. She depends on you. Security blanket is more like it. She is safe when she knows you are around. Christmas will really be good for her. It’s good to know Kasey will respond to your wife when you aren’t there.
Jay, the only thing close to a Torti would be a cheetah. Extremely fast and accurate. I wish you all the luck finding a male, I really do.
Ingrid & Jay, I would like to think Steeler is generous with her blanket, but you both know that might be iffy for this Torti!!
Bernie, it’s good that you put Steeler’s blanket in the box – it’ll get some of the smell on Snowflake, and might make Steeler less hostile. Nah, who are we kidding. Cheetah, indeed.
PS – Brooke and Sabrina in close quarters again tonight, with no severe hostility, just much wariness. Right now, Brooke is on the other side of the French doors to the kitchen, staring at Sabrina. Our behaviorist says that’s bad, but I’m too tired to engage in serious distraction – headed to the sack shortly.
Harry, kidding indeed. Just take another look at Sabrina and say that with a straight face.
Put blinds on the French doors, maybe Sabrina will learn to associate just a little. (Stupid pet idea)
Does a behaviorist understand a Tortie?
If Brooke and Sabrina are in the same room and not fighting thats a good sign.
G’nite
She understood well enough to say, “oh, a tortie. Well, this might not work.” I just posted a photo of Brooke on the Conscious Cat’s wall (you have to click filters and then Conscious Cat + Others to see it). That photo gives me hope, because you see, Brooke used to have a friend she loved.
I was off work on Friday, on a vacation day, so Kasey had me at home for three days, she gets used to this
I left for work this morning and I was told later that soon after I left, Kasey was at the back door, squeeking.
She does not like “mother cat” to leave the nest.
My wife called her and gave her a bit of food and then Kasey settled down.
This really strange, but if I pet Kasey and tell her I am leaving, we don’t get that behaviour.
I’m off for 10 days over Christmas, I wonder how the first day back at work will be greeted on Jan. 4th?
I’m sure she will miss you terribly. Hard to explain the long time away.
As always lots of love before and after should help.
Glad to see ya back on here.
Male Tortie cat
I sent this to my local Humane League today
Have you ever gotten a male Tortoiseshell cat ?
I know most are female and the males are sterile but I have 1 female Tortie now along with 2 other cats.
I have a friend who is looking for a male.
I know these cats have an attitude but are the most lovable cats when they know you.
Thanks
Jay Davenport
———-
Just got this message now.
Hello Jay,
Our kennel manager Jenna has been working here 10 years and she has only seen two male calicos but no male tortis.
Its very rare for them to be at our shelter.
If you have anymore questions or comments please feel free to give us a call at 717-393-6551 or email me back.
Sincerely,
Aida Aquino
Customer Service
Humane League of Lancaster County
Jay, now you have your work cut out for you. 10 years no male Tortie. How many good years do you have left to look for a male Tortie? Steeler would not want the cat to freeze, but she is not happy that her old blanket got used.
With Amber on the West Coast and me on the East Coast we should find one.
I will do a search of more shelters and leave word if one is found to call.
Sounds like a worthy goal.
Jay, you may be up against some really strong odds. Are you just wanting the male Tortie because they are rare, or do you think you could breed to get another Tortie (It doesn’t work that way)? Use the net and list as looking for, send pic to you at a different email acc’t. See what response you get. Can’t hurt.
I know they can’t breed them. Read all the sites and Stirfry was fixed years ago. But having a male counterpart to Stir would be a real challenge.
Don’t think I’d ever see Stirfry meet her equal (sabertooths went extinct a few years ago) but this would be close.
Thanks Jay, I have adds running on kijiji looking for a male tortie but I don’t expect to have any success. I read about a lady who had a male tortie as a “stud” cat lol. No lie. But he doesnt produce torties. He doesnt have the gene.
I’m not trying to breed them lol, I would have him neutered, but I am very very curious. A male tortie?! Comeon people, don’t you want to know what they are like 🙂
Thank you Bernie for thinking of poor Snowflake. I was out just a few minutes ago and the news said the windchill here is 0 degrees. And we don’t have the snow you do.
I know Steeler doesn’t like to share but I’m sure she would not like that kitten to freeze.
Keep us up to date on things.
Well Tortie family, Steeler and I have not caught the little white Snowflake cat. The bitter cold and snow is almost unbearable here. I did not see this throwaway today, no footprints in the snow on the porch. So this evening I found a large cardboard box, and put a blanket in it, with dry food, because wet food will freeze in minutes , and put it out under the swing on the back porch. Well if there is a smile in this sad tale, it is this: When I first rescued Steeler, I put her in the basement and used the same blanket. She smelled the blanket when I put it in the box and crawled in and laid down. Those of you with Tortie’s know, when a Tortie decides to do something, we mere humans cannot change their minds easily. Well I had to pick Steeler out of the carton, (few claw marks). Tortie’s are really territorial. I thought those of you who have followed this story would like an update.
Bernie – OF COURSE we want an update! Don’t dispair. My wife does some volunteering for the organization that manages the feral colony at the local college, several of which ferals are over 10 years old and all of which survived our week long “snowmageddon” last winter. What I’ve been told is that they will hunker down somewhere, their metabolism slows down, and they don’t need much food or water. If it’s really cold and miserable, she’s probably not going to come out. But you’re doing it exactly the right way.
Even though Steeler probably wouldn’t admit it, I think she’d like the idea that the blanket that was used when you first rescued her is now being used to maybe help keep the little white Snowflake cat warm.
I think so too.
Torties will love you with all their heart but they have a reputation to uphold and don’t want to ruin it.
But she would like Snowflake to be given the chance she got.
Ok Torters **deep breath**…
I may have found her tonight. I may have found Edie’s new playmate.
MAYBE!!!
Her name is Velma & she’s at the local humane soc. (the local one closing end of this yr). She was surrendered on Nov 5 but due to an eye infec., she’s been isolated til today. She was sitting quietly, by herself when my mom noticed her. Initially, when I saw her, she looked like a light orange tabby. (I’m not looking for an orange and/or any variation of orange tabby bc my first cat was one & it’s too painful).
The volunteer took her out for me & she’s GORGEOUS!!! Hands down BEAUTIFUL. I’ve never seen a cat like her before…She’s predominatly grey & black striped tabby but has light tortie/calico-ish markings all throughout her coat, it’s hard to explain. Her body is pretty lean, long & sleek so she almost resembles a bengal in that regard…same w/ some of her spots & swirls too.
She’s playful, approachable, non-skiddish, cuddly, brave & a lover. My mom fell in love but I kept my guard up.
I have until Tues 4pm to make a decision (I put a holder fee on her so no one else can adopt her bw now & then. If I don’t adopt her, the holder fee is a donation to the shelter, otherwise it goes towards her adoption).
I’m lame at comps., so I don’t know how to post her pic! I can’t stop thinking of her…
Torters, what do you all think?
Follow your heart.
And I think you have..
Can you send a pic thru e-mail ?
Sounds to me like you’ve already made a decision 🙂 Go back to see her, and follow Jay’s advice. Your heart will tell you what to do.
Calgary is clear skies as well 😀 Jay is PA like Louisana, I watch that show, Billy the Exterminator, my god there is a ton of dangerous animals/critters there.
Not as warm as Louisana (Wish it was) but we do have the coyotes, skunks, possum, fox,turkey and deer. Plus plenty of chipmunks,groundhogs, rabbits and squirrels for the cats to watch. No gators but a Tortie can be even meaner. Never trapped any – they don’t bother me and whatever foor I put out is for everyone.
Now the temp is in the 50’s but they are calling for it to drop tonite.
And I work till 11 at Walmart so hope things are ok when I leave.
I watch Billy too. I think most is glorified for TV (of course all those shows are) but he does deal with some pretty wild critters (Wildcats/gators/bees/snakes etc…) so it does take guts.
Plus I learn a lot.
Would love to see how he reacts to a Tortie in her natural state. Would be quite a show.
Might be a CSI episode.
LMAO I agree! Billy would be bewildered. It’s a cat…but looks like its a lion?!?!
Does anyone else’s torties beg for food? I left a chicken pot pie on my stove and Stickers helped herself to HALF of it. If I have chicken, she will beg and meow at you. The kitten is even worse! She jumped onto my roommates lap and stretched herself up to reach his plate of pizza. Whatever you are eating, the kitten is all over it.
Has anyone ever seen the rare male tortie? I am on a new hunt. I read they are very very rare and now I want one. It took me a month to find my tortie kitten, I can wait forever lol.
I just don’t understand how everyone doesn’t have a tortie. Everyone I talk to, has never even really heard of the traits of the tortie. I have become what I said a would never become….the crazy, dorky cat lady who runs around showing everybody pictures of her cats and gushing over them.
At least we have a public gushing place 🙂
I agree Amber. I am so thankful for Ingrid and her Tortitude site.
Found it when doing research on Stirfry and made so many friends because of it. And I show pictures of my cats like grandparents do of their grandkids. 🙂
My cats will check out what I’m eating. Anything crunchy (chips/pretzels) Pumpkin has to check out and sample. But Stir is the only one that will check it out and eat wth me.
But I try not to let food sit out cause she can’t be trusted. What she doesn’t eat will have paw prints in it and I have seen her litterbox and know where she’s been.
I’ll ask around at the Humane League/Paws etc if they have ever gotten a male Tortie.
Does sound exciting but wonder who’s dominant personality would win.
That would make a Great Reality show.
Allegra was into everything I’d put on a plate when I first adopted her, whether it was salad dressing, toast with honey, cereal, a sandwich – nothing was safe. I couldn’t eat without her sitting on the table next to me (never did have the heart to shoo any of my cats off the table) and even reaching a paw for my plate. Interestingly enough, this stopped about two or three months after she came home with me. I’m guessing that she’s secure now in knowing that she’s fed two meals a day and the occasional (cat) treat in between. She doesn’t show much interest in human food anymore. She still loves cheese, though. I like to snack on cheese, and when she sees me taking a slice out of the fridge, she’s right there and wants her share!
Ingrid, that’s a great pt about being a newbie beggar vs. being settled in now. She was more aggressive than a dog when it came to food. I was floored. I was like, Um, excuse you, get off my table, get your paw off my fork & last I read, Italian is not good for cats! But now that she knows when/where her next meals coming from, the begging has almost stopped completely…
Ambular (ever see Clueless?)– So ironic you mention the search for a male tortie!!! I have been inquirng about one too! The rescue ppl I’ve asked look at me like I’m nuts & inform me torties are female. Yes, I know that, THAT’S why I’m asking if you’ve ever come across a male!!!
And, if one does exist, if it’s sterile, do you still need to get it neutered?
Check this out…http://www.messybeast.com/mosaicism.htm All about the “rare tortie tomcat”
Amber, it depends where you live in PA but it’s far and away from Louisiana! Jay in SE PA gets the coastal weather like NJ and MD and I presume the terrain is pretty flat. Midstate are mountains and in the WE half we get more mid-western weather, but even that is different. I am right outside Pittsburgh and it’s very hilly, Bernie is about 40 miles south and the hills are higher and it’s more rural. If anyone watches the Steelers play that’s what’s happening to me, but Jay and Bernie are likely getting something quite different! We all share wildlife–even here near Pittsburgh we have all the small mammals plus bears and white tail deer and wild turkeys, and they are not at all shy about walking down the alley to visit people’s garbage cans with the raccoons and coyotes! No gators but we do have wild pigs and even the elusive big cat now and then–we’ve seen some awfully big claw marks in oak bark, not made by felis domesticus for sure, even an angry tortie on the warpath!
Amber, Bernadette, I am closer to the mountains and I am getting pounded with freezing rain mixed with snow. My vehicle is completed wrapped in ice. As for wild life, yes I have seen and caught unwanted critters including red fox. Steeler just watches from the safety of the inside. As for snakes, I do not like those creatures, not a little bit, but I do get them from the Mtns. and stream and springs on my property. Rattlesnakes moved in a copy of years ago after some blasting and roads being put in about 2 miles away. Animals had to move to get new cover, so they are here. Deer walk around my property like they own it, day or night. I no longer put in a litter garden because the snakes were under the black week cloth. I never let Steeler out. She is now watching football with me. So I will let Jay carrryon.
Bernie, I was watching the game with you and Steeler. Not much of a football fan but with those colors. GO STEELERS !!!!!!!!!!!!
Got to go to work so won’t be home till 11:30
Jay, Steeler and I are still watching the game. Steeler’s have it in the bag. It is a really good game. Sorry you have to go to work.
Oh yes, living on an acreage, my dad and I have trapped everything from feral cats to skunks and porcupines, squirrels, rabbits. I think skunks are cute 🙂
Yes baby skunks are cute and I have them outback.
But keep Stirfry well away from the door. A startled skunk is not something I want.
We are not getting any snow hear in S/E Pa but I think Bernie is.
Jay, and Amber, Steeler and I are hunkered down, there is a timeout on the game. Get set Jay for what’s coming. Right now, my vehicle is encased in freezing rain. Now getting the oh so pleasant freezing rain mixed with snow. Steeler is going from room to room trying to figure out what that noise is that is hitting the windows. Not looking good. No cat yet. Thank God no skunk either.
Catch you guys later.
LOL if you catch a skunk, best thing to do, is approach very slowly and cover the trap with a tarp. I have caught numerous skunks for trap and release away from our animals. They won’t spray if you do not startle them, so make sure they see you approaching. No sudden moves. Skunk trapping survival tips lol.
Amber, you sound very well educated on this topic and very much at ease at catching a skunk. I can tell you I will be petrified if a skunk goes in there. All other critters I can handle. Even caught a red fox in the trap. That was tricky for more reasons than the skunk. Thanks for the help.
Well folks the white cat is back. I fed her but she runs. I think I will set the animal trap today to see if I can catch her before Amber’s snow hits here. (Thanks Amber) I am sure it is a real cat, for those who doubt (sometimes I doubt me.)
Alley Cat Allies recommends warm, de-skinned, de-boned KFC to bait the trap for ferals…
I am delighted at that Alley Cat Allies recommendation for catching Feral cats, however, I I make a trip to KFC it will be for this human. I have set the hav-a-heart trap with canned cat food in it.
If this cat is hungry she will go into the trap. My real concern when I set this trap up is that I will catch an unwanted visitor. If I caught a skunk, what in the world would I do.
Bernie, the only way I managed not to catch the groundhogs, raccoons and skunks was to only set the trap when I put the food out, or during the day into early evening just after dark. Most nocturnal animals forage beginning at dusk and through the night, but the cats you feed will get accustomed to your feeding schedule even though they may be living on a nocturnal schedule and active mostly at night. If you feed them in the morning, set the trap in the morning and put out several plates with a small amount of food around and in the trap. If you do leave it out at night, or if you’ll be away for several hours, make sure it’s in a sheltered place. You probably know that, but you don’t want any animal to have to sit in an exposed cage. I caught plenty of my neighbor’s cats too, but not much to be done about that. If you do catch a skunk or groundhog or anything else you can usually stand behind the cage and simply open the door and they’ll hightail it for the woods away from you, but always be sure you are wearing heavy clothes and gloves in case they are upset enough to come after you. This has never happened to me. Good luck!
Bernadette, I have had the trap set since noon. So far nothing. It is in a protected area,(under the swing on my back porch). If a skunk goes in there, well I don’t know! Thanks for the info. Will let all know if I catch the white cat.
Bern, if you put pizza in that trap you’ll catch this woman from MN!
Em you and Harry must compare notes. He recommends KFC and you recommend pizza. Well Jay is ready to get in the trap for the KFC and as for pizza, well no one here would allow a good piece of pizza set out all day (smile). I really hope I can catch this cat before the storm tomorrow.(PS) Also before the Steeler’s game, because Steeler and I have football plans. After the game we could go back to trying to catch this little snowflake.
For KFC – I would be in that cage.
Hope ya get the white cat – and not the black cat with the racing stripe.
Harry must try KFC. We all would keep that for ourselves. Jay, I can picture you squeezing into a trap just to say you did. I with you on catching the white cat and not the city kitty. Well Steeler and I are going to rest up. We have a football game to play today.
Your animals look very content. My cats are babies. They will not leave the step, let alone the yard lol. Stickers would rather die then leave her mummy and treats and warm bed lol.
If your in the country, I don’t see an issue with letting them outside. Just not in -30 (celcius (sp?) you guys use farenheight I believe..)
I am in the country but Pumpkin was born in this house and Tabatha was a shelter cat and wuld not know how to survive. Stirfry was a feral and who know how long she was out. Im guessing she was 1 year old when I brought her in. Months later she had 6 kittens but 3 did not survive the night. I kept the male (Punky). But there were nights when I found Stir up a tree from who know what.
Too dangerious with coyotes, Raccoons, dogs and mean people – not to mention rabies and lyme disease that they will ever go out.
And my horse, donkey and goat go in at dusk (or when I get home – tonite 4 – 11 at Walmart).
They get grain, water and hay.
They all are ready for winter – long coats and fat.
But the temps are getting into the 20’s F and thats too cold for me.
Nie all.
See ya at midnight.
Jay
I envy the land I imagine you live on, in order to accomodate your array of critters.
It kind of made me laugh bc I told my sis I was considering a kitten & she freaked out/is against it. So I decided to take it to the n’th degree & replied that not only was I getting a kitten, but also a horse, alligator, etc.
Em, don’t get the gator. Would not be fair to it.
How would it ever face another gator and explain how Edie kicked it’s butt.
Yes Jay, but what other cat could boast that it caught, killed, and made her mommy some genuine gator shoes and purse?!
Keep your pets inside 🙁 I lose sleep at night thinking of people that have “outside” animals.
Mine are aways inside (too much danger out there, but going home at night (11 – 12 pm) I am always watching the side of the road for eyes.
Last night along a barn fence post I saw 2 eyes lite up and saw it was a cat.
Blowing my horn as I saw her/him.
Don’t want the cat to run onto the road.
I was told that rabbits run back and forth during car headlites because their eyes are so far apart they get confused as to where the car is.
But their hear can tell what direction it is so they run away. Now sure of cats but I figure it can’t help.
Don’t care if I wake the neighbors if I save an animal.
Em: She’ll do it for as long as I’m sitting in one spot, if I get up and move, she follows me. One of her favourite spots is on a chair where she can watch everybody run around.
Jay: All those ponies and horses were mine. The sorrel pony, the sec. a welsh stallion, I bought for my daughter when she was 6 months old. The rest of those ponies were ones brought in to be bred with him. He was an amazing little pony. I do not have any horses anymore, I sold them all when I was 17 to concentrate on my daughter more. MY favourite horse, the dapple grey arabian, is still around. She is used for a lesson horse in edmonton, alberta. She’d be about 15 now, amazing horse. I used to jump on her back in the pasture, and ride her around. After school I would take her out along the subdivision, no saddle, bridle, halter, nothing. She responded to my voice and legs. Next horse I get, will be for my daughter. She’s starting riding lessons soon, and I’d rather watch her enjoy and have her own horse, then me.
IT must be the same for cats as dogs, when they suck on something as though they are kneading? Taken from their mums too early because Sticker’s favourite past time, is to lay on my tummy and suck on her tail. Every morning when I get up and sit on the couch (sounds so bad, I like to have a coffee and say morning to my zoo) she waltzes right over, plops herself on me, purrs away and sucks her tail. She is a pretty cuddly cat. I have noticed I can do ANYTHING to her, piss her off to the max, and she still loves me. I have tried putting a harness on her, to tie her up outside so she can go for a romp in the yard, she bit me, scratched me, growled like never before, it was a complete fail to say the least. But she held no grudges. Shortly after I gave up, she saunters over, and invites herself right into my lap. I am proud of my kitty, she is tolerating the small dogs so well. She has 2 puppies to deal with, and I purchased a daschund a month ago, so on the 22 I can bring him home. Yep, Stickers has realized that we have a zoo here, better to accept it then to be as bitter as she was a few months ago.
So glad to hear that Sticker is accepting things.
Torties seem to let us know when they are not happy with us (usually blood is involved) but they love us with all their hearts and don’t hold grudges (I hope).
Same here. Coffee in the morning and usually Stir on my lap.
Glad I’m not the only one with a zoo.
Loved your pics on FB.
Are all those horses yours?
If I had more land I could really expand but only a 3 stall barn and 3/4 acre of the farmers wooded lot are all I have.
Aww, I’m having coffee too w/ my kitty on my lap! She has been watching the snow plow w/ great interest. It’s so endearing to watch her see her “firsts”. Like the first time she saw a ceiling fan, vacuum, scratch post, etc. The best part is that she’s not scared, she’s curious.
I’m currently homebound beneath 12+in snow. I pray all strays found shelter…
Don’t personally know if a Tortie can show fear. Cautious yes but back down – NEVER.
Jay, that’s Kasey to a “T”
In her case, I think it is tortitude boosted by living in trying circumstances and going out in a rural area where she caught larger prey than normal and likely having run ins with wild animals.
Our other two cats will retreat from something, show caution and react only if need be.
Kasey skips all the intermediate steps and just attacks whatever it is, head on, 100%.
Fortunately, she is an indoor cat, now and doesn’t have to react to much, although whatever came to the screen window at about 5:30 AM one morning, last summer likely didn’t stop running for quite a while, from the awful thing that tried to get at it through the screen.
We heard the unworldly noise of the angry tortie, followed by a very loud noise when she hit the screen trying to get at it.
Fortunately, Kasey doesn’t extend this behaviour to people that visit, she is quite friendly with them.
Me: Brooke, you have no idea what’s out there you’re hissing at – it could be an elephant! Brooke: Dude, I’m a TORTIE. I can take down an elephant if you’d just let me out there!
Ok Em, listen up. I envy you your coffee with your kitty on your lap. I have had my coffee, but no Steeler on my lap. That would be unheard of. She doesn’t want picked up, but stays at the chairside purring like a train engine. So hey, do we mid atlantic folks a big favor, send that white stuff far far far north. Looks like it will hit me this eve.
Em, would you please help this granny out What does & mean?
Harry, uh uh.
Bernie, if you’re reading comments in e-mail, and the commenter uses the & sign instead of typing “and,” the software adds “amp” behind it (for ampersand). I don’t know how to make it stop doing that.
Ingrid, Bernie, et al–about the coding: we all receive our e-mail in plain text, not HTML, so that it can be read on any operating system. In HTML code, certain freestanding characters or punctuation marks are used as part of the coding system, and when they appear in running copy they are converted to code so they aren’t confused with an HTML command. For instance, within coding, quote marks are frequently used, and when they appear in running text they appear as ". An ampersand is used to indicate a special character as you see there, so that when an ampersand itself appears it shows up as &. That’s probably more than you need to know and more confusing than it needs to be, but I’ve been writing code for years and didn’t realize others may not know that!
Bernadette, you are my new best friend. I thought maybe it was new to the short writing that is so prevalent with the kids today. By, the way if we need computer help, we now know who to call.
Thanks to both you and Ingrid.
Ya, you totally had me stumped. I knew “ampersand”, but didn’t know Bernadette’s explanation. I learn so much here!
The suckling & kneading are cute. Yes, I’ve heard when the suckling continues, it’s an early weaning thing but it could be a comfort/security thing too. Edie still kneads & she’s almost 4yrs. I’ve read it’s a comfort, contentment thing to knead.
My sis’ new kitten left the litter too early (he wandered off on his own) & his fav blankie is a velour type fleece that prob resmebles mom’s tummy. He latches on, kneads & suckles. It’s adorable & sad.
Suckling the tail reminds me of a kid w/ their thumb!
Tell her she’ll get buck canines if she continues, haha.
I also adopted a tortoiseshell cat, she is by far the strangest cat I’ve ever owned, and I’ve had dozens. She’s very loyal, she loves my wife and me, but us only. When friends come over she is sociable enough, she’ll come hang out, but she hates being touched and will become violent if somebody else tries to pick her up, but she doesn’t run away, she stands her ground with teeth and claws bared. I can pick her up and pet her, and she loves it and purrs, but then something snaps inside her and she chomps down on my nose, hand, foot, etc… without warning. She isn’t angry with me, it’s just that sinking her teeth into my flesh is her favorite thing to do. But she is gorgeous, her orange is in stripes that make her coat look like an inverse tiger, and she’s got the siamese colorpoints so her face, paws, and tail are all solid. I love her so much.
Welcome to our tortie community, Keegan. If you’d like, post photos on our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/consciouscat – we love seeing tortie photos!
Keegan welcome. What is your Torti’s name? She sounds like she has laid down her ground rules with her new family rather quickly. My Torti doesn’t want me to pick her up for more than a couple of seconds. However she has not chosen to taste my blood, yet. If you can, please post a pic or two of her. We all like to see each others cats.
Welcome Keegan. Check out a link Bernie posted a few days back about tortie color, cloning, attitude, etc.
Hi Torters,
Ok, anyone else having web page issues or is it a user issue (aka: me)? I couldn’t find our wall of comments. I must’ve moved suddently bc Edie rolled right off my lap onto the floor–so much for the whole landing-on-their-feet theory.
New tortie kitten arrivals at the humane society. Two that are 8 wks & two that are 3.5 mo. I held three of them, fell in love, came home empty-handed. Like Ingrid’s post about Allegra’s adoption, I will not be hasty.
Amber, bless your heart for fostering! Esp w/ a lil diva ruling the roost. Edie (former outdoor diva) gazes at the snow when I let my rat terrorists outside & I can almost see the relief on her face; she no longer has to deal w/ frozen paws, icicle whiskers, un-thawed food, etc.
Em, the page has changed.
Right above where to leave comments are places to click to see older or newer comments.
Plus you can reply to the persons comments dirrectly.
Different but easier.
I am glad Edie is an inside cat also. I feel sorry for any cat out in the cold.
And I have trouble going to the shelters.
Love seeing all the kittens but knowing I will be going home alone hurts.
And I don’t want to give hope – then disappointment to those cats when I leave each cage.
And I too have noticed that cats don’t land on their feet.
But they try to walk away hoping you did not notice.
Ruins the whole image thing you know.
I’ve found that with a lot of former strays – once they’re rescued, they have no desire to be outdoors again. Anyone else had that experience?
Absolutely, yes, Ingrid. Victoria, a former barn cat, who joined the family after hiding in the basement for almost a year, feels that way. Two years ago, our front door blew open, and several of our cats walked out. Our neighbor, who fortunately came by as this was going on (we weren’t home) saw Vickie look out, turn around and go back in. Been there, done that, got the kittens. She won’t even go out on the screened porch.
In the summer, Edie wanted out in the worst way. If I didn’t let her out, she took to self-mutilation, I’m not kidding. She ripped out her neck hair, bit her nails & howled incessantly. It was quite the tantrum. She gouged huge bloody holes in her neck, it was bad. The vet thought it was some random allergy, bacteria but in true Tortie fashion, she was having a diva meltdown.
I got her a harness, leash, collar & we ventured outside. She was amazing. She listened better than the dogs, stayed w/in the yard & sunbathed. I’ve never seen a cat pant until her. She rolls onto her back when dogs walk by too. I grew catnip so she’d take a mouthful & tweak out.
Alas, the winter & she’s shown NO interest in outside. Sure she looks out the door/window, but doesn’t have the fit I described above.
Good for you Harry. And glad an cat with attitude was adopted. They have been thru so much that they don’t know kindness. He will now have a loving hope and bring joy into their hearts.
And Brooke knows that but being a tortie cannot let you forget who the boss at home is.
I just have to say this. I’m trying to take a nap on the couch, I have a pomeranian on my side, a cat on top of my head, and a tiny puppy and the kitten wrestling behind my butt. It’s very hard to sleep sometimes lol.
Life doesn’t get much better than that 🙂
You have been added jay, anyone else that wants to be fb friends and exchange photos, I’m under his friends list! Mobile uploads is where all my pictures of animals are. There is some very cute ones of the kitten with a 120 lb dog.