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
Hello, everyone, I’m back (since 8:00), and finally dare to look at the computer since my travel headache is just about gone. Not that I got it from everyone I met yesterday! It was truly a joy to meet this special group of people and share stories and hugs. Now I have about 200 photos to download and post here and there!
It was an awesome couple of days. I can’t even really begin to explain it. Finally dragged all the cats in from the porch a few minutes ago. Sabrina is playing like a wild stealth tortie in her new tube 🙂 I’m sorry she wouldn’t join us, but I lack words to say how grateful I am that all of you did. Tomorrow, back to reality and back to the office.
Well what can I say. Yesterday and today I spent time with the most compassionate and talented group of wonderful people, I have ever encountered. Harry and Julie your southern hospital to me was just wonderful. I feel very fortunate to have actually met and spent such a good time with you. Then to be invited to your lovely home and meet the kitty family, felt as though I had know each of you for a very long time. Rachel you are a very beautiful and compassionate young woman and I enjoyed the time we have to spend together just talking and laughing. You just felt like another on of my grandchildren. Mike, you are a very delightful, handsome young man. Your friendliness and the little orneriness you showed while we talked on Sunday was a breath of fresh air. I hope you get your game working.
Jay you were the ultimate gentleman, and a very good person to talk to. Although we have all been on here talking, meeting you, and talking just proved that Ingrid does have a very special Tortie family here. I am glad to have met you.
Bernadette, what can I say, we finally met and you rode shotgun for me. What a delightful trip we had. Our time to talk and laugh was truly memorable. Never let that camera out of your grip. Your pictures are and will be extremely wonderful. I wish you great success in your artistic gift.
Last, but not least, Ingrid finally meeting you and having time to spend with you is something I will remember always. I am still in awe of you and your writing ability. You exhibit a special person, with a heart to go with it. I wish you overwhelming success.
Now to sum this sum: All of you independently and collectively, are an amazing group of loving and caring people. Your love and concern for the Torties and all cats you have or “foster” defines you as special people. I am honored to have been a part of the gathering. I will think of this very happy event often in the weeks and months to come. Hopefully we will one day see each other again.
What Bernie said. She summed everything up perfectly.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who can’t explain the last couple of days – they were truly very special.
I’m glad Sabrina is enjoying the new tunnel!
I’m glad you made it home safely. I can’t wait to see the photos!
It’s 6:30 Monday nite.
Just got in from the long ride back.
Ingrid, I had a wonderful time at your book signing.
Meeting, you, Bernie, Bernadette,Julie, Harry and Rachel and alll the others was all I expected and more. Thank you for getting us all together..
Harry and Julie, thank you for Brunch and for introducing the cat family to me. Brooke is a doll and the sweetest Tortie. They were all so well behaved. I am just not used to that.
Now to get settled in and tomorrow I will go to the doctors and find out what I have.
I’m glad you made it home safely, Jay. Meeting you and Bernie and spending time with everyone was just the most amazing experience – I loved every minute of it. Thank you again to Harry and Julie for having us over and giving us a chance to really spend time together.
I’ve met online friends before in different settings – but I’ve never experienced anything like this. This was truly very special.
Has Stirfry forgiven you yet for leaving her? Get some rest and feel better!
Stirfry forgave me as soon as I got in.
She jumped in my lap, and softly growled and she pushed her nose into my hand for cat rubs. I told her all about Harry’s cats and how well behaved they were. She just sniffed and said “Don’t expect that from me”
I saw her food dish was empty but the other 2 dishes were mostly full. As soon as I filled it Tabby came other and Stir smacked her and hissed. Torties never change.
Glad to hear you’re home safely, Jay! Meeting all of you was absolutely wonderful, too. I truly hope that’s not our only time together. The cats and I spent most of the day working on the porch – we’re all still here, in fact. It was hot for a while, now cooling off and threatening to storm. Sabrina did eventually come out from under the couch, hung out outside, and just was returned to her room to eat. I’m not sure how we’ll get everyone inside tonight – the rest came in briefly to eat, but insisted on going right back out. Brooke was just too good for too long, she smacked Piper around a few minutes ago, and then stalked back inside. Hope the doctor finds nothing more serious than a hairball.
Harry, glad to hear Brooke is back to her old self. You can only be good for so long. She must have thought “I was on my best behavior for our guests, but don’t any of you cats forget who’s the Boss around here”
I’m just trying to shovel a path through the small stuff so that you can walk into the house.
Give Julie a break. Throw out the shovel. Better yet take it to the Stray Cat, I am sure we will need a shovel before that evening ends.
Just posted a photo of Piper and Brooke on the Conscious Cat’s Facebook page.
There was never any doubt that Piper was going to be #7. Good for you. Now to look at pic.
Only one that doubted was Harry. Everyone else knew she was a sure thing.
Ok Great pic Harry. They seem to be comfortable with each other. After Ingrid’s event, do you plan on having an event to raise funds to buy catfood. Your fostering system is the very best I have ever seen. 🙂
Maybe a Chip-in to defray the Prozac bill. Unfortunately, in the hours since that photo was taken, they’ve been chasing, stalking and hissing, and the rest of the cats are very unsettled. Piper has finally been decamped back to Rachel’s room, so Rachel can get some homework done, and I can straighten up the house for impending company without being on top of them.
I do believe all impending company is not coming to check out the house. We are accustomed to the antic of cats 1 or even 7. Don’t sweat it. Let them get it out of their system. Piper is just posturing now that she is free at home and well Booke is just being Brooke. I think we can all live with that. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
Some good news (unless you’re my mother) and some sad news.
The sad news: Amiga had to be put down yesterday. Her kidneys were stable, but she still needed fluids twice a week, which our board member could manage – but she got a URI, stopped eating, and the antibiotics for the URI put her over the edge into kidney failure. At least, she didn’t die alone in the woods, as surely would have been her fate had our board member not discovered her.
And the good news (it’s all the way at the bottom):
RESULTS: Friday April 8 2011 (Fair Lakes)
Dogs Adopted:
Tommy lab/ cattle dog mix 4m
Mama C collie mix 1 y
Flip Husky mix 1y
Laney cattle dog mix 3m
Sammy cattle dog mix 4m
Portia hound x 1 y
Todd Cattle dog x 4m
Jackie terrier x 7m
Wilbur chi doxie 3m
Dogs Returned:
Intake:
Annabelle doxie bl/ br 10 y
Cats Adopted:
Sandpiper- Shubin foster failure
—
So sad Amiga did not have a longer life.
But after being found she was given every oppertunity and better yet Love and attention that she never would have had in the wild.
Still sad.
And I did hear that Piper founf her forever home by getting 6 cats on her side.
You were out voted.
I’m so sorry to hear about Amiga, but at least she had some happiness and someone to love her during her final weeks and days.
That’s a lot of dogs adopted in one night! I sure am glad that you did your part to keep the cat adoptions in the black…. 🙂
Well hey hey there listen to the song on the url above. Good things are going to happen. Sunday is arriving and hey, maybe 80 degrees, well we sure won’t have to borrow that VADOT snow plow and park it in Harry’s drive. Darn that would have been a first for me. Things get to quiet here sometimes. Glen and Harry, Sue and Jay have kept things going well. Well sure I threw my 2 cents in.
Well Her Majesty, Steeler, had her own haddock sandwich, minus the bun. She is one happy kitty now. And, yes, I bought extra for her so I could have a day or two of quiet from her. Who am I kidding peace and quiet, + Steeler, that is like dreaming of waking up at the Emerald City in the Wizard of Oz. In other words, it’s not ever going to happen.
Maybe, if, when, the gov’t shuts down, people will roam into the stray cat and help out with Ingrid’s book signing. I don’t have any pull to post notices in the FDOJ offices since Eric is going to be in the furloughed group. If the tourist have no way to visit the gov’t monuments, then we might post on the hotel room doors about the book signing. Yep, I would do that.
OK, now I see my goal is to get down early and post signs at The Washington Monument, Smithsonian Buildings, and Lincoln Memorial and on the White House gate.
Come to the Stray Cat, meet wonderful people and listen to stories of their unique cats.
The Zoo may be closed but these Torties are are what Lions, Tigers, Leopards and Panthers are descended from.
Descended from? You mean, “want to be when they grow up.”
They could only wish.
In order of evolution
Sabertooth
Tortie
And those other so called cats.
I appreciate the enthusiasm to promote the event, guys, but, ahem, the National Park Service frowns on littering at national monuments….. 🙂
I can’t wait to see all of you tomorrow!
Now who would do that? UM
Kasey, split personality; fierce “warrior
I don’t know what happened there…………………..
Kasey, split personality; fierce “warrior queen” but part dependant “kitten”
It is warming up and the rains are washing the tons of road salt off the roads so I should get to put the new motorcycle on the road. It is new with 1 kilometre (1/2 mile) on the odometer, so I am waxing it up, before it sees its first dirt and bugs.
This is being done in our attached garage.
Kasey knew I was out there tonight.
She did not like “momma cat” being out there so she sat with her nose pressed against the door.
The outside doors were closed, so i let her out. This was OK for a bit but I think memories of a hard life got to her and she asked me to let her in the house, which I did right away.
I then got a few more bits of the bike waxed before I was made to feel guilty by the eeps and squeaks coming through the door.
I will have to wait for another day, when she is fast asleep in the heated bed to finish waxing the bike.
I know what you mean about getting the bike out in good weather.
But caring for Kasey was 1st in your mind.
Bikes don’t have feelings – our Torties do.
You did the right thing.
Yeah, I couldn’t leave her to squeak at the door.
The funny thing about her is, if I am gone as in leave the house, she’s OK with that, so I am told.
The problem occurs when she knows I am on the other side of a door or just outside a few feet from the house.
Apparently, she doesn’t have to be with me 24/7 but has to know she can access me, but if I leave and am gone, that is acceptable; IMHO, that’s a good thing, i have to, or want to, leave the house and I am just as glad she isn’t distressed when I do.
Oh the lay the quilt trip on her/him. Get it all the time. Steeler does that to me all the time in the house. Last Friday I brought home a fresh fish sandwich for my dinner and those golden eyes and that paw and wimper, well, I got the coating off the fish and cole slaw. Even now she still going to the fridge every time I do for more fish. Tomorrow is fish day again so this time it will be for 2.
I can’t handle that quilt either.
Good for Steeler. She has Mom well trained.
Fish on Friday.
Can’t resist those golden eyes.
Those are Pumpkins.
Stir on the other hand has evil green eyes.
I know she loves me. But her looks are demanding never pleading.
“Good afternoon, Stray Cat Cafe. Yes, we can package an order for take out. What’s that? You’re coming from Pennsylvania, and want two Siamese Says sandwiches to take home? We can do that. Do you want salmon, mahi or tuna on the Siamese cat? I’m sorry, could you meow a little louder? It’s very noisy in here. No, we’re not renaming it the Tortie Says.
Hey Stray Cat Cafe, yes two to go to PA, but they have to be Tortie Says. No just pretty kitty sandwiches for us. We are meowing loud and clear. Yes NASA it’s just the PA Torties meowing at those cats at the Stray Cat Cafe.
NASA Has posted a notice to Tortie family about a countdown for Major Tom. See Bernie’s FB page for latest news, folks in VA take note. The countdown has begun!!! 🙂
Sharing this for Bernie
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFks9A9TCF0&feature=share
Bowie
Major Tom
A Tortie would have only allowed 1 hit before ending it.
I know Kasey used to do this according to Glen.
http://thechive.com/2011/04/04/pesky-bird-finds-out-the-hard-way-that-you-dont-mess-with-cats-video/
With Kasey, it would more than likely be no hits.
Kasey, while being very friendly to people, would not let something like that get that close to her without full out attacking it.
When she was at the compressor facility, before she was injured and couldn’t jump any more, one of her “protectors’ happened to see her take a bird out of the air that was just flying past one of the buildings at about 4 ft. off the ground.
That’s what I remenber Glen. Kasey was a killer to anything that walked or flew. And with you so gentle. Shows what love can do.
Kasey has about the strongest desire to defend territory and catch things that I have ever seen.
The closest I have seen to her behavior was a cat, years ago, owned by a buddy of mine.
She wasn’t a tortie but was sort of a grey tabby with the tabby coat mottled with white, like a Holstein cow. She was a big cat at 17 pounds, who would run any dog off their place, catch all kinds of things and yet be friendly and gentle with people.
Glen Kasey is my kind of cat. Why mess around. Take care of matters quick and be done with it. It is always good to hear of her life even before you took her home. But when you took her home she sure has paid you back for that with all the love she brought with her. I hope one day she will catch another bird or mouse and maybe bring it to you,like Jay’s Pumpkin, in bed, and alive for feeding.
There is actual research that a cat’s purr has healing powers – it has to do with the frequency. Here’s more: https://ingridking.com/2009/09/14/the-cats-purr-a-biomechanical-healing-mechanism/
That is so interesting.
Proof to what we all believed to be true.
I always call myself Nikita’s pin cushion. I have so many claw marks on my arms and legs I look abused. Lol.
Sue that brings back memories of when I surgery shortly after I decided to take Steeler in. My arms were so scratched and bruised, the social worker and nurse talked to my granddaughter to find out how I came to be so marked up. She told them how it happened and believe her no one would have the guts to hurt grandma. I am still trying to break her of using her claws to get my attention. So I know how you feel. They are lovable in the strangest ways.
Nikita bites then licks the spot she bit. I call it her hugs and kisses.
Sue they say love should never hurt. That sounds a little painful. Jay’s sounds similar to your Nikita bites and licks also. I already look like her scratching post.
Sue, Nikita seems like the typical tortie.
Love Hurts
I think Nazareth was singing about our kitties.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=soDZBW-1P04
Sue, Allegra sometimes does that, too. But they’re very gentle bites.
Hey Tortie family, i guess I will be you into my life with Steeler. I am beginning she may be from another planet. She seems to pull more stunts than the others.
So here is the latest. I came home from the Dr. today and followed his advice to lie down and rest. Well I was lying down and pretty soon Steeler came into the bedroom and got up on the bed with me. Well she walled slowly up to my face. She got very close, I laid very still thinking of my God she is going to give me a kiss. Well she put her nose right down almost to my lips, sniffed a few times and left. This little stinker was checking to see if I had eaten anything and I’m thinking fish.
This little girl is a brat. I thought she was going to give me a kiss. Well another time, maybe.
Sounds to me like that was Steeler’s version of a kitty kiss 🙂
Get lots of rest and feel better!
Ingrid, now we all know she was looking to see if I had eaten fish. She’s been giving me the Tortie yakking ever since she had that fresh fish. She is really a stinker. Since then she is back out in another room doing only who knows what. But if I live long enough, maybe one day!
A Tortie kiss is unlike a “Normal” cat kiss. Being bitten and not drawing blood is Stirfry’s version.
I know Steeler will eventually give you s kiss.
Took Stir many years to give me one on the hand and that is every other month.
Everybody OK down there?
I don’t have a good idea where everyone is, geographically but it looked like there was some wild weather going through some parts of the eastern U.S., according to some of the news I have seen.
Glen, Bernie and Bernadette are in western Pennsylvania, Jay in east central Pennsylvania, Ingrid and I are slightly west of Washington, D.C. in northern Virginia. We had some pretty heavy thunderstorms this morning, about 5 a.m., sent Sabrina scurrying for cover in the drawer under our bed. Tornado warning until 10 a.m., but as far as I know, none sighted.
Bernie and I survived the bad weather but we are both under the weather health wise.
We have 5 days to get better. Steeler is giving her healing purrs and I slept most of the day. Pumpkin did not leave my side. My car is in the shop and hopefully fairing better than I am.
I hope you and Bernie feel better fast! Only four more days!
I think Bernie may have to trade in the plow on a medical transport vehicle. Bernadette can drive, Bernie and Jay strapped to gurneys in the back. (You folks better get well fast!!)
Supposed to be 80 on Sunday – no joke.
Get set gang we are coming down one way or the other!! 🙂
Ingrid I don’t know how 2 people on opposite ends of the state get sick at the same time. But I am coming if I have to wear a surgical mask and gloves and I know Jay will be there if he has to crawl. Right now I don’t know for sure what a neutershooter is, but I could probably use one. 🙂
Thank you for asking about us Glen.
This morning was nice for a while then the rains started. Hail mixed in. Now just chilly.
Have to throw another cat on the bed. Won’t be Stirfry cause throwing her would get me hurt.
Glen Come on down.. no much going on. Snow storms lots of lightning rain sleet hail. by the way did I mention the tornado come on down to VA for Ingrid’s book signing It’s a log way, but we are expecting a great time will be had by all
We’re fine. Allegra wasn’t happy about the storms, especially the one brief hail storm. Thankfully, they passed quickly.
Good to hear everything is OK.
In this area, we just wish real spring weather would arrive. It is colder than it should be, statistically, this time of year.
Otherwise, things are pretty calm right now.
Hey Glen, when you find spring, share it. We are fed up with all this sleet/rain/mixed with snow and then wait to see the sun. There is a Sun isn’t there. Haven’t see it in a while.
Same over here Glen. Way colder than normal,
But as long as things stay warm for a week I will be happy. Counting on feeling well on Sunday.
Feel better, Jay!
Thank you Ingrid. Bernie and I are getting plenty of rest. Steeler is cuddling up to her and Pumpkin to me. That really promotes healing.
You’re not making that up, Jay – there are studies that show it. And it’s certainly been my experience – a couple of years ago I was knocked flat for several months by a bad disc, and Henry spent a great deal of time laying on me. Every time he did, I felt better. (Except for after surgery, when he didn’t understand why I couldn’t have him on m back…)
I agree when Steeler lies on her pillow next to me, and I hear her purr or snore, it does make me feel like she is watching over me. If I lie down for 4 hours she will lie down with me. So I think Jay and Harry have something there. I know I am feeling better.
Harry, it seems like your Henry and my Pumpkin are so much alike. Gentle cats that don’t like conflict and also healing cats for when we are sick.
Jay, Henry’s what my mother would call an “old soul.” Sweet, gentle, kind, with the wisdom of the ages – except when there’s a male cat in the house, and he has to express his discontent by pooping on the couch. There’s a reason we only foster female cats…
Harry, you can tell I have been behind the eight ball, I almost missed this one from you. I read how gentle and wise Henry is. Then of course I ready why you and Julie no longer foster males. Now I cant’ just let that go by without a zinger. Here goes, ready, Are you, Harry, saying some males are just to full of it? 🙂
–Are you, Harry, saying some males are just to full of it? —
No… just that Henry’s full of it, and chooses not to keep it inside if there’s a dashing orange tabby expressing some interest in his girlfriend Pearl.
Harry, now I get it, only jealous males exhibit unseemly behavior, to object to other males showing attention to their girlfriends. Right, good interruption. I really am feeling better. Brain matter getting back on track.
Harry, we are in trouble. Bernie is getting back to normal which promises Sunday will be full of suprises.
And I can see how Henry would be jealous of a dashing orange tabby. Pumpkin is a cute cat that would catch a female’s eye.
Major progress today – Piper’s been loose all day, and Brooke has tired of following her around. They’re sleeping in the same room, Brooke on the couch, Piper on a cat tree. Earlier today, Rachel accidently let Piper into the master bedroom – I was working at my desk in the adjacent sitting room. Sabrina followed her around, hissed when she got too close, but otherwise seemed ok. Henry, that ambassador of oblivion, kept walking in between them. Maybe he’s not as oblivious as we thought… could he have been playing the part of the referee? Anyway, it went very well. Piper will visit Sabrina again soon. And I THINK we can leave Piper out with Brooke, now.
Fantastic.
And Henry knew exactly what to do.
Sounds like I can see a new bowl and collar being made.
Jay I hear a bowl and new collar for Piper. She is now family and needs to be treated so. I think she passed her probation period admirably. Brooke is ok, Sabrina is so so, but hey considering the size of her new family, I think all will be well and Julie’s rear window will remain at 7.
Actually, that was MY rear window.
Gee Harry don’t take it personally. Ok I stand corrected, Harry took the car back off Julie and laid claim to it now. It that about it Harry?
Uh, no… my point was, they stuck those cats on my car, not Julie’s. (At this point, if she wants to risk getting yelled at for not doing her homework, Rachel will chime in that I’m the one who put the first six cats on the window, they just added #7 when I wasn’t looking.)
Doth does protest to much!!!! Rachel don’t say anything, you have to protect your interest, remember how much gas cost. Right don’t disagree with Dad now. I’ll just let him think his explanation is ok.
Harry, looks like there is plenty of room on YOUR rear window for more cats. You should either get a much smaller car or buy more cat bowls. Looks like 7 can turn into 10 or 12 real fast. 🙂
This sounds wonderfully encouraging! I’m thinking Henry knows exactly what he’s doing.
Today was an interesting day.
Got home from a gun show yesterday and went to work. Only 2 of us and it was super busy.
Was up late on the internet with a friend till 1:30
Woke up at 6am and put the critters out, then watched TV for an hour then took a cat nap.
Was awokened by a heavy orange cat on my chest with his face in mine. Ended up with cat hair Then Stirfry on the headboard whet into one of those scratching fits she has. (she will scratch her head and ear then jump down and run off). Well she shook her and and I ended up wth cat slobber on me. Later I’m talking to my Mom on the phone and hear Tabatha. She just threw up on my clothes I had set out to wear today.
Today I go to work and it will just be the 2 of us again till 11.
Should be intersting.
Wow, busy day here today! I was at a veterinary symposium all day and my brain is dead at this point, so I’m not even going to attempt to respond coherently to anything.
This time next week I’ll be getting ready to head to the Stray Cat Cafe – I can’t wait!!!
That makes a lot of us.
Weather should not be a problem this time.
WEATHER WHAT WEATHER. NO HOLDING BACK NOW. WE ARE COMING IF WE HAVE TO RENT A SNOW PLOW.
I can picture Bernie driving down in a 2-ton snow plow, too.
I can too.
Headlines in Pittsburgh paper
Woman holds up State workers and takes Snowplow.
Weapon used was a described as a dwarf leopard.
It let out a piercing scream and worker took cover. When they ere done shaking and came out the woman, animal and plow were gone. No one wanted to follow.
Swat team has been alerted.
Hey remember I am the grandma. I can claim insanity. Few would doubt it if I were driving down in a 2 ton plow. Age has it’s benefits. 🙂 The other side of the coin is I would be parking in your driveway.
Jay you need to become a commentator on current events. Your imagination if flawless.:)
What imagination?
I can see this is going to be a weekend to remember. You fellas know what payback can be.
Latest forecast for next weekend: upper 60’s. I think we can safely put the snow plow away. Although it would have been quite a sight to see…
Please Ingrid, these guys have been a handful today, don’t give them any more encouragement. Like they need it, I know. Hope you get rested up.
Bernie – take the plow and PLEASE park it in my driveway. I will use it next year. Beats a cat powered plow.
And yes, it will be a meeting remembered by all.
See now where this is. Now Jay has is encouraging me “borrowing” a state plow so he can take it back to easter PA for his drive. Now, I earlier said I would “rent”, now I am “borrowing” a plow from the State. Ingrid I said don’t give these guys any encouragement. They don’t need anymore.
Will the driver of a large, yellow snow plow, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation license plates, please return to your plow, you’re blocking the fire lanes.
And your cat will not stop honking the horn.
I can see it now. Grandma plowed thru local atty neighbors, trying to park in driveway. It was determined Grandma was persuaded to “borrow” said State DOT snow plow for trip to Stray Cat Cafe to have a Neutershooter. All involved can be reached at the local dept of psychiatry at VA Mental Facility. All parties involved were imbibing in drinking substances unknown and food of mice and cats. No one is claiming these individuals as their own.
Recent admittees to VA Mental Facility are claimed by a pack of wild black and gold creatures with snarling growling noises being heard coming from the room.
Doctors were glad to see the whole bunch leave.
I give up. Either Harry or Jay have a comeback for each remark. I guess we will just have to talk this strategy out on the weekend.
“When we first took in Sabrina (black #2) we thought her purrbox was broken, but later realized if you put your ear against her, she’s purring inaudibly.”
Our tuxie-girl, Morgan is like that.
“One thing I have noticed with cats in the rescue is that deaf ones purr louder – sort of like grandma and the TV volume. Maybe Kasey’s a little hard of hearing from being around all the heavy machinery?”
I wondered about that a few years ago but the my observations indicate her hearing is pretty good.
At night when she is “singing” at the other end of the house, all I have to do is make a very low volume noise and she is there in about 30 seconds, she can also hear the Temptations treat bag from an impressive distance.
Her closest purring rival in the house is Taz, our 20 pound orange guy, he’s is loud too, but he’s a big boy; not a Maine Coon but the next closest thing to one.
Steeler has a loud purr like an train engine. But her snoring rivals a lumberjack.
Make me wonder how Bernie knows so much about Lumberjacks 🙂
I know I will pay for that next week. Maybe she will forget.
Maybe Torties will turn into loveable lambs.
Jay, my buddy, my friend, my compadre, be forewarned. Like my Tortie, my memory runs deep.
If you order mouse tails, beware, you may just get exactly what you ordered.
They have been served to me before. Some very very fresh and some day old. By a very nice waiter. Redish hair.
Hi, my name is Pumpkin, and I’ll be your server tonight. Our special this evening is mouse sushi, served warm, on a bed. No, not a bed of lettuce, on a bed.
A little shaken, not by Stir 🙂
Thou shall be remembered and go forth into the night. author: BERNIE
Yea and maybe the sun will rise in the west. 🙂
Makes me wonder too. 🙂
I might also add that the “stirfy” I had last night was vegetables and tofu! No danger to a certain kitty of the same name.
It kind of sticks with you doesn’t it? Stirfry automatically triggers other images.
No wonder she was tossing and turning last night 🙂
Good morning all! It’s been fun to sit back and read all the messages; every once in a while things pile up here and I cut back little by little to what I have time for. Aside from taking in the orange kitten last week–he’s going home with his new family today, a longtime friend and portrait customer and excellent home–I also had a pile of work, and I’m not complaining. In addition, my sister had brain surgery on Tuesday–no I’m not kidding, she was diagnosed with a brain aneurism in early March and I’ve been taking her for tests and treatment in preparation for the surgery through the month. The surgery went well and she’s coming home today, so no more running back and forth to the hospital, and I have a little more time.
I hope to see everyone next weekend–I’m really, really behind in work now, but if no other stray kittens show up and no other family members need dire assistance I should be able to get it all done!
So good to hear your sister’s surgery went well. The very thought of brain surgery is freighting. In my case I would want to be sure there was a brain there before they operated. I wish your sis a speedy recovery.
So the orange kitty found a home. We enjoyed the pics while you had him.
Looking forward to next weekend. I think we all need a break.
Bernadette, wondering when you were going to mention that orange kitten. Getting a home of his own is a great thing. All animals deserve that.
Glad that your sister is coming home. Hospital are good for curing people but recovery and rest ase best at home with loved ones and quiet.
And REALLY looking forward to seeing you, Bernie, Ingrid and Harry and Family next week.
What is the orange kittens name going to be?
I know they don’t get named until they find their forever home. Ask Piper.
Torties and purring.
We have a lot of stories about tortie’s sometimes eccentric or aggressive behavior but I thought I’d post something a bit different.
I was reminded this morning about how loud Kasey can purr, it is louder than our other two cats.
Even when she was at the compressor facility, her “protectors” remarked on her loud purr.
I expect purr volume is not set by coat color but I wondered if anyone else has a loud tortie “purr machine”
Amber purred more and louder than any other cat I’ve ever known. She’d purr if you so much as looked at her.
Brooke has a pretty significant purr, with the “on” switch being stroking the sides of her face. However, Henry (black cat #1) is one of those “look at me and I’ll purr” cats, and can out purr the rest of the house together. When we first took in Sabrina (black #2) we thought her purrbox was broken, but later realized if you put your ear against her, she’s purring inaudibly. Not sure purring is a tortie thing. One thing I have noticed with cats in the rescue is that deaf ones purr louder – sort of like grandma and the TV volume. Maybe Kasey’s a little hard of hearing from being around all the heavy machinery?
Harry, what’s this reference to “Grandma’s Hearing”????
The second year I was in my house, the year that Cookie came to me, I was transplanting daylilies and accidentally stuck my hand in a yellow jackets’ nest inside of a clump of foliage–I was fine and I’m not afraid of bees or any other insect, but I was leery of the sound of bees buzzing for a while.
Sometime the following spring, Cookie, about a year old by then and integrated into the household but decidedly the kitty with the least seniority in the household, decided she would start to sleep on my other pillow. I am a very heavy sleeper, but in my dream I heard bees all around me and I laid down to get away from them. They progressively grew louder though I didn’t feel threatened, even when I felt a big cold wet dot on my forehead and some tickly touches, the buzzing was deafening and I awoke to find Cookie purring loudly and looking right into my face. She does purr loudly, and loudly enough to wake me up!
She has had a long list of nicknames through her life, and for a period after that she was “Cookie Bee”.
I might have mentioned before that Stirfry doesn’t purr.
When she was just an outside cat that followed me around she had a strong purr. As soon as I went out to see her in the morning and when I came home from work.
A few months later when I took her in she did not. Months later she had the3 kittens.
Her son Pumpkin must have got it from her. He is my purr machine.
Like Henry all he wants is the excuse.
Now I might get a soft growl from Stir and when she runs into the room and jumps on my lap a Hiss. And not just 1 hiss but continuous hiss so you would think you are on a steam train. Hiss – Hiss – Hiss – Hiss – Hiss.
Be when I reach down she pushes her face into my hand so to her a growl or hiss is just a Tortie purr.
Like Bernie and Glen wishing Steeler and Kasey could jump but can’t, I accept Stirfry as she is and love her even more.
Jay has a good point only extend those thoughts to others not just our pets, and if we just learned to accept others as they are, instead of what we think they should be, we as a society would be better by far.
Jay
I’. not seeing that on the link, unless I don’t know where to look on it; which has happened before on other sites.
Try copy and paste.
Bernie already told me she doesn’t like snakes.
Male Tortie Discovered ?
http://iowntheworld.com/blog/?p=68728
Now all Tortie family you know why I hurriedly wrote back and send I didn’t drink that scotch. Forgot about Jay’s wit. He got me there. We all will meet in VA and I hope all remember I need help keeping Jay wit in hand.
Before you all ask, no I did not drink the scotch.
Well Tortie family, we are getting into spring here slow but sure. Well the season known as Lent for the Catholics has started. Not that in and of itself is not my point. Well every Friday they have what is called a fish dinner. Well it is open to anyone so I decided to go yesterday and buy a dinner with an crab cake on the side. Sounds good, uumm. So I thought this is enough to have for at least 2 dinners for me. Well I forgot to add into the equation as to how long this dinner would last. Needless to say I will not have any fish or crab cake today. It seem a Tortie called Steeler liked the flaked fish and the crab cake. I spent most of the morning saying no to her overtime I went to the fridge. Well after those innocent looking eyes and the crying, I guess I will be eating scrambled eggs for dinner today. Steeler on the other hand is washing and cleaning herself after eating all the fish. So if I decide to get a fish dinner next week, I may buy 2.
Steeler is expanding her menu choices. Don’t forget the milk before bedtime :-)!
No more milk before bedtime. I decided to put scotch in her milk bowl, she took one sniff. Now won’t go near her milk dish. That worked. No more wanting milk.
Glad Steeler didn’t like the scotch. Can you imagine a Drunk Tortie. Or worse yet – one with a hangover !!!!!
So it’s Fish Friday from now on for Steeler.
Yes, Bernie, the fish fry is not as critical as communion so even non-believers can partake–and their cats! I think you may need to eat it in your car.
I first have to break her of still going to the fridge expecting fresh flaked fish. Talk about quick learner. But those fish are so good. No leftover fish with this girl.
“You update on Clipping Kasey’s claws, well how much blood was lost?”
Actually, none.
Kasey has some contradictory behavior, for a tortie that was raised in less than ideal surroundings.
She is fierce with other animals and things outside the house, she makes a lot of scary sounds but I sense (and observe) that she doesn’t want to hurt me.
I always felt bad for her in her past life because she craves attention and seemed like she really wanted to be a pet cat and she was in the wrong place for that.
So she struggles a bit and protests but that is the extent of it. She does pretty well for a cat that has had some abuse, who was introduced to the concept of claw trimming at about 8 years of age.
Other critters are a completely different thing………………………..
We were watching the Dog Whisperer last week and the subject was a VERY nasty and barky Chiwawa.
There was some discussion as to how long that would last here.
Consensus was about 5 minutes with Kasey, at the outside; and, she wouldn’t consider it a worthy or honourable opponent, it would be strictly business to restore peace and quiet.
Glen if I tried to clip Steeler’s claws, I would need a transfusion. She doesn’t like her paws to be touched let alone clip. So she can just wear them down.
As for other animals, if she sees them out the door, she shows no other animals allowed. With her noise they just go away. Smart critters. Although the skunk left behind a little perfume to remind us of what Steeler did.
Yeah, I remember the skunk story; classic tortie interaction.
Hey Glen now it’s spring and soon Steeler will have more opportunity to meet the outdoor critters than ever. Since she can’t jump, I am having a commercial grade top to bottom glass storm door put on the back entrance. Then she can see all the grounds and animals coming into the grounds.
I expect by evenings she will make the back entrance unavailable to all visitors. The skunks like to come out of the tree/weed lines and stroll around. It’s going to be an interesting summer here.
Torties and glass doors, an interesting mixture.
Our house has a four season sun-room with three exterior walls.
The west wall has double, glass patio doors, the north wall has a single.
Kasey can’t jump, either, due to an old injury that occurred before I brought her home.
She loves the sun-room, the sun comes in there in the afternoon, she enjoys the breeze through the screens when we can have the doors open, and, she can keep watch on everything in the back yard.
Occasionally, there are some VERY scary noises coming out of that room.
Glen you and I are in the same boat. Steeler can’t jump either from abuse. Well my sunroom has long windows all around but not low enough for her to see out. Her view is the top of the trees. So I am replacing the storm door, with glass that is 1/2″ thick, the same used on commercial store doors. This way she can see all around from the floor. I don’t know of any other way to let her enjoy the outdoors. But like you I want her to be happy. An unhappy Tortie means living dangerously.
Steeler sure is one lucky girl. I can’t recall that I’ve ever heard of a cat who had her very own glass storm door installed so she could have a better view of the outside. She’s going to have so much fun!
I think that’s very impressive, considering that she was 8 years old when you first started trimming her nails. I still can’t trim Allegra’s without assistance, and she was 8 months when I started trying!
In regard to the nail clipping thing with Kasey, the only thing I can attribute that to is a particular quirk in her temperament. It is funny how that worked out, if she was just a bit different about it, there’d be no way she’d get a “manicure’.
Glen, Steeler will not ever get a manicure from me. No way. I need my arms.
5 minutes with Kasey – no more like 5 seconds. SWAT. Quiet scared dog.
And that was with the claws in.
A little dog is not much of a challenge for her. Have her watch Gentle Ben and I think she would see something that would take her no more than 4 minutes.
Well, that’s probably right about the 5 seconds.
When she first arrived and after we had started to integrate her with the other critters, Toby the Silky Terrier learned about that.
He is good with the cats but he was used to bluffing Morgan the little tuxie-girl and even the 20 pound, orange Taz. The rush and the barking would generally have those cats giving way.
One day he thought he should contest the right of way with Kasey in a confined space.
Very bad mistake.
A tortie, and one that was used to fighting a lot bigger things than him. I have said before, she doesn’t react with any fear, doesn’t back up; she just attacks whatever it is, immediately and totally.
He yelped and ki-yied, tried to get at her (not enough sense to back off). She worked him over quite well in the few seconds before I intervened (I really don’t want our animals to be fighting each other).
Now he completely avoids any conflict with her. He even makes sure he doesn’t look at her directly for too long.
I don’t know how she can be so pleasant with people and yet be that fierce at the same time.
Glen your Kasey is in a mix of pets and you wonder how she can be so pleasant with people and ready to tear up anything else. Easy answer: Tortie
My problem is opposite with Steeler. She has no other pets in the house, so I wonder how she can be so pleasant with me (most of the time) but ready to tear others apart. Last incident was Bob, the Vietnam vet visiting with his wife. He reached down for the pretty kitty and well, everyone on here knows where that went. I guess it is just the same answer: Tortie
Well, its a good thing they aren’t any bigger, if they were, they would be hazardous to keep 😉
Glen funny you said that, because I often tell people that Steeler is a dwarf leopard in disguise. That snarl is not a cat. Her voice is not of this world. So I just joke that she is a dwarf leopard and no one should go pretty kitty with her. Not good.
I see Bernie has pics of Steeler on her FB page.
And Eric had a comment about her.
A closet Tortie fan.
Harry, what is the progress on Piper and has a cat vote been taken yet?
Does she have a bowl with her name on it yet?
Huge progress. Piper was sleeping on a chair in the family room this morning, while Brooke was sleeping on the couch nearby. Brooke still would like to swat her, when no one’s looking, though. So, no decision this week.
In our house, the equivalent of a bowl with your name on it, is a collar tag with your name on it. So far, Piper does not – just a tag with my name and cell# which all the fosters wear.
That sounds like major progress as far as Brooke goes. What about Sabrina?
Sabrina is on hiatus, until we’re sure Piper can stay. Then back to her. My plan was to get her thoroughly on the Prozac before resuming, but as you know she’s resisting that. Next stop, the compounding pharmacy to make a flavored liquid, and if that fails, then the ear gel.
I know that when I needed medicine a few years ago the Pharmacy had a few dozen flavors.
Grape.cherry, watermelon,lime,banana, chocolate and many others.
Love to see the look you get when you ask for “mouse” flavor. 🙂
I’ve already checked – they have sardine and tuna flavor!
So you have all your medicine’s flavored.
Ever make a mistake?
Which is Rachel’s favorite ?
(Sorry Rachel – could not resist)
I am thoroughly enjoying reading these posts today. Harry, it’s time to bite the bullet. Give Piper her a bowl with her name on it, she already home, give her her own collar and tag. If Brooke is just attempting to swat at her when she thinks no one is looking,well that sounds about normal for a Tortie. Steeler will thing she is getting something over on me, but forgets her backside is showing that she is up to something. Sabrinia on Prozac, sardine and tuna flavored. Maybe a bird or mouse flavor, or feathers. This is great fun hearing you still saying you are still deciding. Julie’s car says, the decision is made. I can count.
To Jay: I typically just have cherry because I don’t like cherries and that’s what I associate with medicine flavor. But I finally got to the point where I can swallow pills and that made it easier!
Figured that. A bowl with “Cat” means visitor.
A bowl with your name means your there forever.
” Brooke still would like to swat her, when no one’s looking, though.”
What do you expect – she’s a Tortie.
I’d say major progress has been made.
Living dangerously;
Tonight I clipped Kasey’s claws, there are several factors that make this a challenge
1.) Tortie
2.) Unfortunate previous life’s history where treatment was not always the best.
3.) Never had the claws clipped until she was about 8 years old, our other cats grew up with having this done.
She is actually pretty good about it, there is some kicking and the typical sci-fi vocals.
After the clipping, she got a good combing, not a problem in itself, but I did try to comb the “undercarriage” and I got about 10 passes with the comb, then I was not allowed to continue with that but combing the back and sides were totally acceptable.
Hey Glen, it’s good to hear from you. We need to have more info from all our Tortie family. We were going strong for a while, but things slowed down.
You update on Clipping Kasey’s claws, well how much blood was lost? When did you decided to take that chance. I still haven’t tried that with Steeler. I need all my digits. And giving blood is for the Red Cross. I admire your courage. Sci-fi vocals is those sounds that send grown people running. I love it.
When it comes to brushing, Steeler will let me brush her for a long time, including undercarriage, as you put it. She turns over when she’s ready to have her tummy brushed. So send directions how to trim claws and how many people it took to hold her down. Did you need a prozac when finished. Harry is almost ready for that.
I know we all like knowing how Kasey is doing. I know I do. Her start from the worksite, is stuck in my head. Now hearing you talk of how well she is doing with you makes for a good day.
I have never done Stir’s claws and would never even think of attempting to. I have done a lot of dangerious things in my life but that would be the scariest. Her front ones were removed when she was fixed but she has the back ones. Her bunny kicks are painful and when playing she gets that look in her eye I let go.
Love hearing about Kasey.
Did you hear about the new addition. And orange kitten thats a friend to some Torties
Let’s see… play with live grenades, take a nap on the interstate, or clip a tortie’s claws… tough choice. Where did I put my grenades?
I can’t clip Brooke’s claws, even with someone holding her – and I’m the designated clipper for all cats that come to the rescue event so I’m pretty good at it. Brooke is too strong, and fights too hard. Our vet does a four-paw claw trim for $15… it’s money well spent.
Harry those are tough choices. I wish I had a vet that clipped for $15 instead I have a vet that clips for $55. So she can lose her claws and just grow new ones. One of the days when I am much older I may decide to try to do the trimming. At least that way, I won’t have to suffer to long.
Only $15 to go thru all that seem like a bargain.
He must have a couple hundred dollars in protective equipment alone.
Combo of a shark suit and bomb demolition suit. And that would only last for 1 paw.
Like Bernie, I let Stir’s wear down naturally. And NOT on me.
I can only trim Allegra’s nails with the assistance of a friend – I restrain, my friend clips. It takes 30 seconds, and Allegra does fine. Amber and Buckley weren’t thrilled about having their nails trimmed, but I could do it by myself, even though there would be lots of growling from Amber, and wiggling from Buckley.
OhOH Sounds like out Tortie family and friends are growing. Wonder who has the orange cat?
Sounds like Harry has competition.
Someone has another cat
A cute little orange kitten…..
Fits in well with all those black cats
Well folks, this is just another day in Western Pa. Is it really spring? I am not so sure. Right now it is snow mixed with rain and heavy flakes. Now I can’t wait to head south. I am so done with this stuff.
Well, don’t forget your booties when you head south… sleet here today.
Well now that is disgusting. I was hoping for at least 70 and dry. I guess for now I have to contend with this messy weather. You folks better shape up your weather down there soon.
10-day forecast looks more promising – heading toward highs in the 60’s.
Light a candle and thank the Weather Gods. Sounds good to me. Keep it there for us.
Hey what is happening here. All the Tortie family on a hiatus. How about some news on the happenings in this Tortie family. I got nothing. Steeler has not destroyed anyone’s confidence lately although the month’s not over yet. Maybe we are experiencing a spring fever kind of thing. If that is the case someone better tell the weathermen that it’s cold out and snow mixed with rain is not spring.
So I will just check back later to see if you folks have awakened or if spring fever has gotten to you.
I have nothing!!!!
I’ve been wondering the same thing – I figured everyone was too busy to be online. Not very springlike here, either – but it’s coming. And only two more weeks until the Stray Cat Cafe event, which I’m getting very excited about.
Not much new here, either. Allegra will blog about her latest fun game on Friday, so I won’t steal her thunder here.
Ingrid it’s good to know I am not the only one wondering where our family is. The countdown is on for me. It’s 11 days to be exact. Maybe then this blog will go wild. Hoping for an enjoyable evening.
Just a busy week, here. All available efforts going into normalizing Piper and Brooke, and getting Sabrina to take her meds.
Piper’s been out and about a good bit this week, and when she is, Brooke shadows her everywhere. They’ve hissed and swatted a few times, but it doesn’t seem to escalate. Mostly, Brooke just seems to need to keep an eye on her – has watched her use the litter box, eat, wash herself, play… Piper ignores Brooke, unless she gets in her face, then hisses and swats. And goes about her business. Not sure if I trust them to be alone, yet. And I do wish Brooke would disengage and relax. We’re not getting pressure to make a decision on Piper yet, but it’ll come soon.
Sabrina, meanwhile, has a talented tongue that can eat around a 1/4 pill of Prozac in an entire bowl of cat food. Next step, crushing the pill and mixing. Step after that, taking the pills to a compounding pharmacy to be made into flavored liquid, to be mixed into her food. Last resort will be the ear gel – what our vet and I have read is that Prozac is not well absorbed that way (only about 10%). So, if that’s the best we can do, then we’ll do it, but it’s worth trying more efficient dosing methods first.
Considering that you’re introducing a tortie and a calico, I think you’re doing incredibly well!
Drats on the Prozac not being absorbed well transdermally – I was afraid of that. Fingers crossed on the liquid.
Ingrid, I think the transdermal will help Harry. Maybe not Sabrinia, but Harry for sure.
Harry thanks for the narrative on the ongoing events. Piper sounds like she is going to be a girl to be taken seriously. Brooke is now ripping into her and vice versa, so that sounds like progress. Sabrinia, and the prozac, whoever took the intelligence of a cat lightly has a lot to learn. The gel would do you well. I don’t know about Sabrinia. Maybe a bite of a martini. Maybe she is a classy gal who wants a martini, dry with her pill. I can’t help on meds but you could enjoy the martini or the gel. But your family keeps going strong with all these babies. A decision on Piper may already have been made and someone is in denial. Like I told Ingrid, I am counting down the days to the signing and meeting all of you. 11 days
Snow or no snow this time, we are coming thru.
Sound like Broke just wants Piper know who is “Top Cat” and Piper is saying “OK but don’t be pushy about it”
The Sabrina and pill is a challenge. Have you tried showing her how good they are by taking one yourself? Works with kids don’t it.
After a few pills you won’t really car how things are in the house. Maybe even take Rachel for a drive on the DC beltway at rush hour.
Jay don’t get Harry on the beltway after that. We want to meet him on the 10th at a signing not in the hospital.
I think they all are waiting for April 1st.
I think that is the official Tortie day for mischief.
Today it was nice out so I did some chores I had put off. Yesterday was too cold.
I patched a wole in my garage roof. The roof is flat and the roofers ladder had punched thru a soft spot. After that I vacuumed out my car. Where did all that straw and hay dust come from?
When finished I asked Stir if she wanted to go out. A few meows and a run to the door signaled yes. She would not go out when I called her but wanted to be carried. I put her down and she explored her Turf. Checked out the cat feeder and walked down to the front yard. About 19 minutes later I told her it was time to go in. She went to the front steps, up across the deck and sat by the kitchen door we had come out of. Great progress as for the last few years We would play “Chase the Cat”.
She would go from the basement door up the steps, across the deck past the living room door and around to the kitchen door. When I’d catch up to her she would jump down and run to the basement door. This would continue till I was out of breath, out of 4 letter tortie words or eventually I snuck up on her and made a successful grab. Sometimes leaving all the doors open and she would go in one.
Jay that is a great story. But everyday is mischief day for Torties. I would like to know how 1 cat can make so much mess that I am running a sweeper almost everyday. Steeler likes to tear up cardboard and paper. But she has not learned to pick it up.
Four letter Tortie words, and out of breath. Sounds like Jay needs a road trip.
Hi folks I have been watching the posts here and man are you guys busy. Harry, Ingrid, Glen, Bernadette, Jay, all of you trying a way to outfox a Tortie.
I just sat back and said uh uh ok. Well finally Harry got the right mix for Sabrina to take her meds. Finally success. But as I was reading objectively, I decided Sabrina Had enough and took her meds.
I know it was not funny but here’s the sum up. Harry on and off the beltway with Rachel (way to go Rachel). Sabrinia not cooperating with Harry after driver training. Harry ready to take Prozack and meowtini or two to end his day. He had Jay, Ingrid, Glen, and Bernadette in his corner trying to help with Sabrinia.
Best part of the sequence of the day was Kasey, the little Tortie who belongs to all of us, peacefully enjoying the heated kitty bed, stretched out relaxing and not having a car in the world. She sure did not have a care in the world. Legs hanging over the sides to keep her paws cool.
So I just sat back thinking I had nothing for this med problem, because I went thru this once with Steeler and I was here getting advice on what to do next. Only I was dealing with liquid.
Gel in Sabrinia’s ears, that is not available, but Harry is ready to use it on his own ears. I am not making fun, I am just smiling at all the ways you were all trying to outwit Sabrina.
Well today, I hope Harry is able to get the med to her without his need of Prosac for himself. But there are many options you all have given him.
All I can add is to Sabrina. Young lady you better take your med because your daddy can’t take much more Stress.
Here’s another suggestion for cats with a reluctant appetite or those who have some difficulty with canned food rather than running out to get more canned food they might or might not eat. A friend gets a can of Kitty Kaviar for the household every year, and one can goes a long way, though any reluctant appetites in this house are usually kitties who are ill, but sometimes the seniors get a little picky about their food.
Kitty Kaviar is shavings of dried bonito salmon and nothing else. It smells so strong that just popping the lid will get salivary juices flowing. It looks like wood shavings and I take a small pinch–really, not even a measurable amount, don’t overdo it–and sprinkle it onto the food, pressing it in just a bit so they have to eat some of the canned food in order to get it. This adds a whole new dimension to their food and often once they start eating they just keep on with it.
It’s something I keep for special needs, not something I use all the time. It’s something you get in pet stores or order on the internet. My customer, friend and favorite cat stuff store My Three Cats sells it, and is the person who donates it to the household along with far too many catnip toys–really, I think she’s a catnip dealer.
Teaspoon of Fancy Feast did the trick. She consumed the whole serving of Wellness, adulterated w/FF. I swear, sometimes I feel like just buying them all a big box of Meow Mix.
Harry and Glen.
Please explain more about the ear gel.
Can it work with all medicine ?
Antibiotics?
Whe Punpkins ears and Stirs ear got infected I was to give an eyedropper of antibiotics to them.
Pumpkin disappeared for 3 days and all I gave to Stirfry was blood. MINE !!!!!
The ear gel only works with medications that can be delivered transdermally (through the skin). In humans, it’s usually used as a cream, or as a patch (for example, hormone or birth control patches for women). In pets, since the ear is the one area where there is the least amount of fur, it’s usually applied there. Not all medications can be made into the transdermal gel or cream form. Some antibiotics can, but not all. And even though it may be easier for some pet owners to apply the gel to the ears rather than give ear drops or oral medication, as both Sabrina and Pumpkin and Stirfry prove, not all cats readily accept the gel, either!
Jay
I haven’t had any experience with those med.’s, fortunately.
” I’ve heard really great things about Weruva to get finicky gets eating again, and it’s got much better ingredients than Fancy Feast, so you may want to consider giving that a try, ”
Weruva “Paw Lickin Chicken” is Kasey’s favorite canned food.
She gets this around 10:00 PM, it is an expected event; she starts reminding me about this at about 9:45 each night.
Of course, with her, stimulating the appetite is a non-issue 😉
It’s amazing what progress can be had with love, Glen. We saw that with our Vickie. And I think I mentioned before that Julie volunteers with the Mason Cat Coalition, who manages the feral colony on the college campus about a mile from our house. A veteran cat – 15 years a feral – was injured and needed some surgery. One of the volunteers trapped him, got the surgery done, and let him recover in her spare bedroom. He now gets along with her house cats, and comes to her for belly rubs. He won’t be going back out.
Great news Harry. Another Feral finds his forever home.
Shows that cats are never too old that love and attention won’t win them over.
Glen, I will look for Weruva “Paw Lickin Chicken”. Is this a speciality store item ?
I don’t remember seeing this in any supermarkets.
Love hearing about Kasey. With all that she has been thru she is certainly getting the attention she deserves.
I get Weruva “Paw Lickin Chicken” from the pet shop that is located a few minutes from my office. It is a Petsmart store, I don’t know if they have them in the U.S.
Right now, Kasey is “hanging legs”.
She gets in the heated critter bed, as she is right now.
This is great, as far as she is concerned but there is a problem she faces.
The bed is made purposely so it can’t get warm enough to cause harm, but she gets too warm.
However, it must be very comfortable and her laziness over-rides the urge to get out for a while, so all four legs get hung out of the bed at all angles to radiate some of the excess heat.
Pictures! We want pictures!
As for pictures of “hanging legs”, I will have to see what I can do.
Cats can be uncooperative photo subjects.
If I get some, I will email them to someone, here.
I was mistaken, it’s Pet Valu where i buy the Weruva., I always mix those two store names up.
Kasey’s picture is up on the Facebook page.
Excellent description to go with the picture, that sums it up completely.
Jay, you asked for a Sabrina and Piper update. It’s been quite a day. Started out with Piper and Brooke loose together. Piper is unconcerned, Brooke alternates between scared, hostile, and oblivious. At one point, she walked up to Piper, smacked her and hissed. Piper hissed back and walked away. I think they’re able to negotiate coexistence. Later this afternoon, while Rachel and I were sharing a father-daughter bonding experience (learning to merge on and off the Beltway) Sabrina was having a near-death experience of her own. Pearl had been in the bedroom with Sabrina when we left. When we got back, she greeted us at the door. I was immediately concerned as to how she got out, and sure enough when we raced up the stairs, the bedroom door was open. And Brooke was sitting in the bedroom. No sign of Sabrina. (Pearl apparently was able to shake the door open. She often tries, but this is the first time the latch has failed.) Eventually, we found Sabrina hiding under a bureau. I talked her into relaxing enough to come out, and she and Brooke warily observed each other. But then, Sabrina started growling and Brooke moved like she was about to attack, so we shooed her out. Sabrina needs her Prozac – managed to get it into her tonight with a treat and a little dough from a slice of Wonderbread. Got to get the stuff compounded in ear gel – I can’t fight her over a pill for months on end.
I can’t decide whose afternoon was more stressful – Sabrina’s, or yours! And she had the added benefit of Prozac, you didn’t….
Seems pretty huge to me that you were able to talk Sabrina out from under the bureau even after everything that happened. From what I remember about the early days of the tortie vs. stealth tortie wars, that would never have been possible.
I think Sabrina had a more stressful evening, Prozac notwithstanding. Rachel’s been driving for 9 months, and the Beltway was just the icing on the training. She should get her license next week. I agree – it’s huge that Sabrina came out of hiding. Observing Brooke and Piper, who is much like Pearl in her reaction (why are you bothering me, I don’t really care about you) I can see that the problem is very much Sabrina growling. Brooke sniffed, hissed at and swatted Piper, Piper hissed back, and they were pretty much done. Brooke wouldn’t have tried to jump Sabrina, I think, if Sabrina just weren’t growling. We are going to have to work out another delivery system for the Prozac, though – she’s not easy to pill, and not eating pill pockets. Last night, I tricked her with the pill stuck onto a treat. I think we’re going to have to do ear gel. I’m also a little concerned about Sabrina – she hasn’t eaten very much (maybe hardly at all) since yesterday. I think that all the changes in food – Wellness to Pinnacle back to Wellness – have disrupted her. Going to buy some Fancy Feast today, since she has always liked that, and some baby food – and see if we can get her eating. If not, may have to take her to the vet Monday, for fluids.
Poor Sabrina – she’s really stressing herself out over this. And poor you, too – I know how upsetting this is. I hope the Fancy Feast gets her eating. I’ve heard really great things about Weruva to get finicky gets eating again, and it’s got much better ingredients than Fancy Feast, so you may want to consider giving that a try, too.
I’m pretty sure that Prozac can be compounded into a transdermal gel.
I just tricked Sabrina into eating a little Wellness by sticking her favorite treat – Friskies Party Mix Beach Crunch – into the wet food. she ate a little of the wet food, and then drank some water. Still not nearly enough food, but it’s a start.
Sorry, have not been on much.
Harry – what is the progress on Piper and the family.
And Sabrina – Brooke truce?
Glen – Kasey update ?
What has she gotten into?
I love reading about Bernadettes kitties and Obsidian Kitten’s Emma on FB but enjoys hearing their exploits on here too.
Bernie lets me know what Steeler is up to and gave me food advice. A food cat’s will not pass up -Steelers favorite – Meow Mix Market Select Tuna and Shrimp.
Stirfry sniffed and tried a little, Tabatha would not even look at it and Pumpkin ate his and then theirs.
Will get a Wide Load sign for him next.
Looks like a Suma Wrestler next to a midget when he sits besides Stir. No wonder he doesn’t (well hardly ever) fear her.
Well, Kasey loves the weekends because I don’t have to rush out the door.
This morning, she played here popular “Go ahead, reach for the toy, I won’t try to grab you” game.
This involves going to any toy that happens to be on the living room floor, after breakfast.
She rolls on her side with the toy by here head.
One eye watches me intently, she will roll and squirm a bit, if that doesn’t draw me in, she will make little squeaking sounds.
I reach for the toy, only to be hit or grabbed. She knows I will give the toy back to her, usually by dropping it in a fashion that lets her catch it, then this has to be repeated.
She does not tire quickly of this game.
However, it may seem uncharacteristic for a tortie but she doesn’t try to hurt me when playing. She hits with her claws in. She grabs my hand and drags it to her mouth; she makes bighting motions by does not bit down hard enough to cause any harm.
She played the game this morning, she will want to play it around 10:30 tonight and for sure tomorrow morning, it is a popular game.
Glen, it sounds like Kasey is a very happy Tortie and all well. I like the way she plays. It seems they have a way to get us into their game, not the other way around. Steeler will play what game she wants, of course when she wants, but if I initiate the game, well it’s game over.
I really enjoy hearing how she is doing. Your little girl has been thru so much, that hearing happy tales about her make the world seem a little better. Just tell her “you go girl”.
Kasey had a great morning, thius Sunday;
1.) A good game of “reach for the toy….etc”
2.) Play with the string on a stick (cat fishing)
3.) A good combing.
“Your little girl has been thru so much”
On the combing part, is is quite something. I need to comb her every 2 or 3 days because of the thick fur growth. This is the cat that I brought home in May 2008 with patches of fur missing because it fell out from poor diet and stress. Now on Royal Kanin dry and Weruva canned food, and a happy environment, she’s a regular fur factory 🙂
Glen, thanks for the laugh. Kasey plays Tortie style.
Stir does the same thing as far as biting. When playing she will grab with the teeth but they only go in far enough to not pull back but hardly ever draw blood. But if she gets that look in her eye I will not play anymore.
And I can play grab the paw with her, Try to grab either paw without getting hit. She has no front claws but for a little cat has quite a wallop with them.
We can do that for quite a while. I guess when you win 7 out of 10 times it’s more fun.
She can get over excited and the teeth come out but if I chin rub she will relent.
Allegra always keeps her claws in when she plays, but she still hasn’t quite learned how to control her teeth. She’s made amazing progress for a kitten who never had littermates to teach her that it’s not okay to play rough. She’s still young enough to play when I initiate it, for her, anytime is playtime!
It’s been a while since I’ve been here, a lot going on. Wierdly enough, my main hope came true…Once Monkey and Peaches got into the new apartment…..neutral territory, plus they’d been through a traumatic experience together….they started getting along better. Peaches still gets hissy sometimes, but she’s old, she’s allowed. This is going to be hard to explain……my apartment is an efficiency, and has a vaulted ceiling. the bathroom is right in the middle, under the vault, but for some reason they put standard height walls, so my bathroom walls lack about 2 feet reaching the ceiling. So,the other day I was sitting on the toilet and I had a creepy being watched feeling…I knew nobody could be watching me…I finally looked up, and Monkey was sitting on top of the wall staring at me! lol
Since then she’s almost made me stab myself in the eye putting on my eyeliner when she runs across the wall behind me and I see her in the mirror….this morning I leaned my head back to put the toothbrush in my mouth and about jumped out of my skin when I saw two huge green eyes in a little monkey face staring down at me….lol
I’m not going to discourage her because she’s been getting really chubby, she seems to be slimming down a little recently, and I figure the more exercise she gets, the better. But I told her….the day she jumps down on me while I’m on the throne is the day she dies lol
Lianimal, that is so funny. Monkey is keeping you on your toes. A suprise kitty attack gets the heart going. Nice to see Peaches and Monkey getting along.
And really nice to see you back here.
Good to hear from you, Lianimal! I’m so happy to hear that Monkey and Peaches are now getting along. The bathroom set up is going to take some getting used to :-)! I bet Monkey thinks it was built that way just for her amusement.
Been a busy day for me. Still trying to figure out the error code on my Saturn.
Hate when you ask a mechanic what he would do and every thing he mentions I’ve already done.
Last thing he said he would do is replace the Crankshaft sensor. Only $16 part at Advanced Auto Parts and a pain to get to. Jacked the car up and took out the bolt holding it. Had to pry it up but no screwdrivers would fit in there. Used my coffee spoon as a pry bar. Finally got it out and put the new one in.
Car started and ran fine. 1/8 mile later the lite came on again.
It’s been a fun day.
Cat wise I am now feeding 2 cats outside and they are both friendly wanting belly rubs and scratches. Was going to ask Harry what I should do as he is our Foster expert.
But his fostering temporally always seems to become a permanent addition to the cat family so I will not. Pumpkin likes watching them so I might ask him instead.
Bernie, I’m glad you got your power back and that you and your house are safe. My heart goes out to the people who’ve lost everything. Thank God all you have to deal with is some yard clean up.
We’re in the clear here, the worst of the storms passed through south of me. Allegra is breathing a sigh of relief, and since it’s almost past our bedtime, we’re heading to bed!
That sounds like the best idea of the night to me. I would go to bed, but I need some wind down time. And Bernadette and I both are just looking at the different areas of damage. I don’t recall seeing anything so ominous in my lifetime. I will see the tomorrow. It is pitch black here and I am not going out.
I am glad you weren’t in this storm. So you can sleep well and Allegra can curl up and be safe.
Goodnight.
Well Tortie family, Steeler and I must be doing something wrong around here. We have just had a tornado rip thru Hempfield Twp., where we are. It was horrific noise. It took out the HS roof and other structures then hit Arona area and then the Swede Hill. The school and swede hill is within walking distance from me, maybe 1/2 mile to Swede Hill and 1 or 2 miles to the HS. Arona area id about 5 miles. I have my roof on and will go out tomorrow to see how much needs fixed. I know there are some strange things in my trees that blew around. Steeler and I went to the basement. Well as soon as I opened the basement door, took my laptop, we headed down there. Steeler thought this was great. She likes going to the basement so she is ok Our power went out, but I have a standby generator, so I have full power. Folks when I was younger, I never had this kind of excitement. My phone has been ringing off the hook from friends and family to see if I am ok. I answer the phone and the first thing is “are you ok”. Answer very simply respond “I am talking to you aren’t I”. But I did appreciate their concern. Bernadette I believe had bad storms but there was no tornado there. So, Steeler and I will still be here to keep you folks up to date on her adventures. This is one we did not really want to experience. Hope everyone else is ok. Don’t know where this storm went it is very fast moving.
Bernie, I was going to warn you after it went through here! Tornado didn’t touch down, but we had golf-ball-sized hail and the trees were thrashing around! I figure what hits me in terms of storms gets to you about a half our later. Glad you and Steeler are safe–and that she gladly goes into the basement. Imagine if you had to try to get her down there by force!
My daughter-in-law called me and told me about the warnings. I didn’t have then TV or radio so I had not idea what was coming. I thought it was just a bad storm. I looked at the TV then things turned black and it sounded like a stealth bomber just passed and I grabbed the phone, computer and opened the basement door. Steeler was the first one down. She enjoyed our time there. I am really glad Steeler does her guard duty daily which includes the basement. So for now we are ok. Power by generator. Hempfield HS hit really bad. Even guard rails are twisted and bent off the post. I never want to hear or see this kind of storm again.
I can take just about anything Mother Nature can dish out, but tornadoes aren’t one of those things I’d choose to take. When I think about the possibility of losing everything and what I might need to grab if I had to, I think of my cats. I have all kinds of plans for getting them safely out of the house if necessary. I hope it never comes to that.
Bernie, Channel 4 has a lot of coverage on the tornado, and more keeps popping up: http://www.wtae.com/index.html
I have been watching some of it. I can look up at Swede Hill and see some of the damage. They have the road closed here and up Fosterville Rd. that goes to the HS. There is a lot of damage.
Down Irwin and on Arona Rd. the damage is severe. My power has been restored. So I know people up the hill have their power. It seems there are a lot of roofs in places they shouldn’t be. There insulation in my trees. I will have to get someone out here to clean things up. I hope not to see this ever again.
I feel so bad for the folks whose homes are completed destroyed. The one man interviewed is over the hill and he has lost everything. He sounded more like he was still in shock than anything. I really felt they should have cut that interview. Emotions are just to exhausted for those who have lost so much.
Bernadette you seen the two u local uploads of Fort Allen(a residential development) and Youngwood. To get to either of those places you have to go past my home. Fort Allen is also where Hempfield HS is. So I was in the middle of the thing. Everything that happened is within a 1/2 to 4 mile radius of me. So you can imagine the impact. I didn’t take pictures. I just headed for the basement.
I’m so glad you and Steeler are okay, Bernie, and you, too, Bernadette!
We’re under a severe thunderstorm watch until 11pm, storms are just starting to move in from the west. Allegra is already dosed with Rescue Remedy, I think I might take some while I’m at it. I hate severe weather. I expect Allegra will be hiding out in her safe spot behind the shower curtain in the downstairs bathroom.
I’m sure she’ll leave enough room for you too.
Ingrid, Steeler was ok with this storm. She loves the basement so she had a party for herself there. Just be very cautious this storm that hit, like Bernadette said, her area got the hail and high winds. I am glad she is safe. The tornado was so loud and moved so fast. Watch your news, I don’t know where this storm is heading. It has cleared out of here. Tomorrow I will go see what damage I have. Thanks guys, now the rest of you be careful.
We’ve gotten off easy so far, but Allegra is currently camped out in “her” shower. Heavy rain, and they’re saying we might get some hail. Thankfully, no tornado warnings, just high winds and some lightning. I’ll be glad when this is out of here – I always feel so helpless when Allegra is so scared. It doesn’t seem to make a difference even if I sit in the shower stall with her (and don’t think I haven’t done that!).
Ingrid I hope you don’t get the high winds with the hail. I seen on the NOAA that this storm is huge and you are a part of it. Poor Allegra is probably so confused as to what is happening that she is staying put. I can see you in the shower stall with her for comfort. If the hail comes you will most likely be there with her. That noise is nasty. Keep us up to date on what happens.
I think your right Bernadette. Allegra will bring Ingrid with her. How did your little one react to all the terrible noise.
We don’t like to admit it but The Goddess is as deaf as a post, but she’s been safely curled on my lap all day so she couldn’t care less. Kelly hopped around talking about it, but she always looks out the windows like I do–I like to see what’s coming–until it gets too scary, then she jumps behind the computer. Mimi, who used to simply vanish at the slightest thunder, stayed on my desk, near me. The others kind of ran around every time it got loud.
I had visions of you and all your 6 little ones in the bedroom with the door shut all curled up together on the bed. I sat on the bottom of the basement steps while Steeler explored. I really am glad you are ok.
Wow, that sounds nasty, glad it wasn’t any worse than that for everyone.
Here, we are getting a late dump of snow, everyone here (including me) is pretty whiny about it, it has been a long, dreary winter, even for this area.
The snow beats the tornadoes, though, I guess I’ll stop complaining about it..
Glen, to add insult to damage, we are now at 50 degrees and dropping fast. Tonight and tomorrow calls for snow. Bernadette and I have had it here. We are both thinking spring and mother nature says not so fast. That tornado was just one to many.
It’s about over with here – just heavy rain and thunder. Even Brooke, who very un-tortie-like is afraid of thunder seemed ok. The only incident was when May, who was, well, sitting on the kitchen table, got a post-it note stuck to her tail and started running in circles. Sabrina took her first Prozac tonight, Brooke spit out her Buspar. I think the pill pockets are stale – will have to get more tomorrow. Tornados really scare me – when I was a freshman in high school, fortunately on a Sunday, the school and the neighborhood behind it were destroyed. I now live in the neighborhood behind that neighborhood – it wasn’t there then. But tornados tend to repeat, and 6 years after there was another severe tornado in the same spot, so I’m always very concerned. Then again, it’s been 32 years since the last one here, so maybe the topography has changed with all the building.
Bernie, I’m glad you’re ok. That sounds like a close call.
Harry we had one 2 years ago. This one had me surrounded. Have lots of stuff hanging in my trees.Looks like insulation from someone’s home. Lots of damage. But it is over. Now snow commune.
Harry I just checked the NOAA national radar and zoomed to your area. You may want to check it. You might not be out of the woods for heavy storms just yet.
Bernie, it looks like the last of the heavy rain is about 30 miles south, in the Fredricksburg area, and headed east. I think it’ll stay below us. I don’t see any more coming over the Shenandoah Mountains on the radar. Right now, I have Henry curled in a tight ball on my lap, Sabrina on the table washing herself, and Brooke upstairs in our bedroom – I thought I’d give her a chance to sniff Sabrina’s turf. Piper’s sleeping with Rachel, Vickie’s sleeping on the couch, May in a chair. Did I leave anyone out? Oh, Pearl. No idea where she is. How can you misplace a 12 pound, fluffy white cat?
That does sound like a close call, Bernie! We are definitely tornado prepared around her. tornado drills in school and at home with dad if there is sever weather. I can probably think about 4 or 5 times we’ve been in the basement during tornado watches/warnings. Needless to say, I hate that kind of weather! I only recently can tolerate thunderstorms. Used to be so scared I wouldn’t sleep by myself.
@Dad: Pearl is probably stuffed herself in the shoe box! Oh wait, no mom had to close it because we thought when Brooke was in it she was getting ready to pee.
Harry sounds like the little furry ones have everyone under control. Glad to know that storm is past.
Rachel, now that Pearl is accounted for all is well. I am not afraid of storms, but tornados in my area is out of the norm. Steeler and I went to the basement and of course as soon as the basement door opens, anytime, Steeler is the first one down. She goes down everyday during her guard duty. So we camped out down there until the sound of the Stealth Bombers was gone. Really a scary sound.
I am safe and sound, Steeler just enjoyed being in the basement. Many people around me are not that fortunate.
Tonight was a good night. Brooke and Sabrina were together for 20 minutes, after not seeing each other for a couple of weeks. They’re back to wary coexistence. Next, we sprung Piper from Rachel’s room, and she claimed the kitchen as her own. I turned my back on her for a moment, and she was on top of the perch. Then, sprawled out on the kitchen table. She met Vickie and May, and Henry was in the room the whole time. Zero issues. Vickie sniffed her quite a bit – maybe she remembers the pregnancy smell? Tomorrow night, Piper sees Pearl again, and meets Brooke. If that’s ok…
It sounds like Piper is making a pleasant transition into her new home. I guess sooner or later Brooke and Sabrina will call a kitty truce, at least until they get fed up with the other. Soon hopefully you will have 7 very friendly felines in your home. On second thought nope, that is a pipe dream.
I’d settle for North and South Korea. Barely concealed hostility, occasional flares of weapons, but the never-realized threat of total nuclear annihilation.
Been watching a lot of new have you. So you think North Korea will have to act up to get attention with all the attention of the world elsewhere.
Well now that you have put it that way, that is what is going on in your house. Right, the fallout is coming, you just don’t know when.
By the way, I would not trust to take Steeler on any more outings. She is just not trustworthy.
Who knows, maybe Piper will rebalance the household and make Brooke and Sabrina realize that the drama of their ongoing standoff has served its purpose (ie., teach the humans who’s in charge)? Stranger things have happened. And I’ve been accused of worse things than being an optimist…
Ingrid you are truly an optimist, so am I, but I think Harry needs a DMZ zone set up. Piper may be the party to keep an uneasy peace.
Hey Tortie Family things have been a little quiet here so today Steeler had a whole new encounter.
First let me tell you she has really turned into a chatterbox. My son surprised me today, with 7 of his works assoc. They were passing thru my area and he brought them here for coffee and to meet Mom. Well Eric is the one that “didn’t like cats” (wink wink now). Well Steeler immediately started talking to Eric. His friends could not believe they were meeting the Pgh. Steeler Cat, as she is so called. I am not so sure that was my Steeler. Eric had told them not to reach for her, she didn’t like to be touched. The guys paid heed. So they were all 5 men talking to her and by gosh she was talking back They took pics to show their kids they met Steeler the cat. While now here is where my true Steeler came back. The 2 women thought she was so sweet and you guessed it, one reached down to pet her and all heck broke loose. Steeler snarled and humped her back, everyone moved back. Eric said I warned you. So then the fun began. She hissed, over time the women talked after they got over their heart attack.
. The guys decided this is not a real cat. This cannot be a cat. So they came to the conclusion that this is a dwarf leopard in disguise, because they had never heard that sound or seen that mesh of coloring. But they were happy to get pictures of Steeler the Cat. One wrote down Tortisshell to look up later to see about them. So once again this very pretty, unassuming Tortie backed up 8 folks at one time. No blood was shed, but I doubt that there will be any reaching for someone elses cat in the near future. Once again the Torti showed her colors. They left and are now somewhere in Pa. I am sure the one woman is still shaking and counting her fingers. Never trust a Tortie. Steeler went right to her bed after they left and went right to sleep. She appeared very pleased with herself. I hope this little story brightens your day a little. As for me, I still smile when I look at her. She is not to be trusted. uh no way
First, I think it’s too cute that Eric brings his buddies home to meet mom. Second, I’m glad Eric finally wised up. Third, Steeler is just too much, she greets the lead guy, talks to everyone else, poses for photo ops and keeps them all in line, then takes a nap when her work is done.
I wonder how many of them will one day own a Steeler cat.
The men I don’t know . Bernadette but there is one one woman who just may have nightmares. Torties and men. I don’t understand her. I don’t think she would have gone at Bob when he was here except he reached to touch her. No touching.
Bernadette, it is not unusual for Eric to stop by unexpectedly with assoc. when he is close and take a break. This time I had Steeler. I may be getting old, but Eric can be a jokester. I wonder if he wanted to show Steeler or let Steeler scare someone. It worked.
Great story! It’s like that quote by Jean Burden: “Prowling his own quiet backyard or asleep by the fire, he is still only a whisker away from the wilds.” I bet she wrote that about a tortie. Well, except that she used “he.”
Cats
Domesticated for 1,000’s of years.
……………………..and, the process is still ongoing 😉
Glen I don’t know about 1000 years, but if that is it, the tradition is alive and well. 🙂
The author must have meant a she and it had to be about a Tortie. To many similar traits.
You know Ingrid, these folks were all involved in the Steeler for Steelers Superbowl fun. They did want to see her, so they took the pics. Of course her look was something they were really surprised at. I don’t know why. I like that look.
These are a group of highly educated people. I just love it when Steeler shocks people. Fair warning was given.
Once more Steeler’s fame will spread because of her actions.
Those guys and girls will always remember this day and like Bernadettes says will probably someday be owned by a Tortie. Especially the guy that took notes.
You should have told them about Bob and his one arm.
I’m sure they would have thought Steeler was the cause. Especially the girl.
And after all that to Steeler this was just a normal day. Those compliments and photo’s are just part of the job of The Steelers Mascot.
Now to rest and get ready for the Press tomorrow.
Glen –
Cats
Domesticated for 1,000′s of years.
……………………..and, the process is still ongoing
Not even close for the Wild Tortie. Not even close.
“Not even close for the Wild Tortie. Not even close.”
Yep, Kasey is proof of that, every day.
She seeks my attention out, loves to be combed, plays with a string like a kitten, she actually is friendly with visitors, greets me when I come home from work, then, there is the…………….
– unworldly noises at night
– guarding the house and being very aware of what’s outside’
– don’t show fear, don’t hesitate; just attack
– catching “big stuff” when she lived at the compressor facility.
– Attacking the other animals in the house, when it suits her
etc., you know she’s NOT fully tame 😉
Glen you just described Steeler to a T. Man she can clear a room in a hurry when she wants to and it seems she wants to, frequently, and she seems to enjoy her own behavior.
I am thinking I really need to put that Tortie sign on my stormdoor. Have to get some people to understand (Beware of Tortie) not a joke.
I am going to look into another sign.
Don’t touch Steeler !!!!!
Eric would love that.
I think Beware of Tortie should raise alarms, especially when Stirs expression is there and people don’t know what a Tortie is. I think Eric and his crew will not be stopping by for coffee soon. No matter how close his work brings him to home.
Personally I kinda think Eric knew something would happen, because it was he that told them not to touch Steeler.
Bernie, you are so right. Eric know Steeler and guys always like to show off the fastest car, biggest loudest stereo or BADDEST CAT.
He knew what would happen and I’m sure that was the talk in those cars on their way to work.
In would not be suprised if those guys and girls did not ask to go back to visit.
Jay, I would have liked to have been a fly on the wall when they had dinner. Knowing Eric he milked this for all it’s worth. For those who don’t know of Eric, his stress relief, is joking around. This would not surprise me as a Gotcha moment for him.
I’m really rolling on the floor over this one. Take no prisoners, Steeler – they’re too much trouble. Berta used to be like that at events – she’d be sitting in her chair at an adoption event, or on my shoulder, and before I got much further than “don’t” she’d swat someone reaching for her. She never used her claws, though.
Harry then you know what she did. But they had been warned by Eric. But one woman thought she looks and acts so sweet. Then BAM. Sweetness all gone. Berta sounds like an older Steeler. Don’t touch me.
Piper met Henry this afternoon. We hadn’t intended a meeting so soon – she’s still on pain killers and not really that active – but Henry got in (he’s been trying for a week). She was eating and didn’t notice him at first, in fact, didn’t notice until she had curled up in her bed. He checked out her stuff, she sniffed him, and growled a little, but so long as he didn’t get too close to her after that, she didn’t seem to care. Henry, well, was Henry. He settled down and made himself comfortable. Eventually, Rachel scooped him up and carried him out. Next – Pearl.
Later this evening… Brooke had her paws under our bedroom door, so I sprayed some Feliway and cracked the door open. She sat down, peering in, Sabrina came over, sat down, pretty relaxed and they looked at each other. I felt as if I should speak in calming tones, so that they weren’t just staring at each other , so I talked to them for a while, then realized that they were both looking at me with that look my kids would give when they wanted a bed time story… couldn’t think of what to say (and couldn’t move because I was propping the door open with my foot. So, I said the first thing that came to mind… The Daddy Tortie said, someone’s been eating my Wellness Core grain-free canned food… the Momma Tortie said, someone’s been eating MY Wellness Core grain-free canned food… the baby Tortie said someone’s been eating MY Wellness Core grain-free canned food, and they ate it all up. Sabrina totally relaxed, and Brooke yawned and walked away. I think boring them to death with weirdness may work. (Clearly, a fairy tale, since Jay hasn’t found that Daddy Tortie yet.)
You just keep behaving that way and Julie will be calling the therapist and not for Brooke and Sabrina. Someone is letting tortie talk get into the brain. But with the variety pack you have that is not always the language of choice.
Many years ago (in a land far away – well, in California) there was a patent case involving a woman and her cats and her claim to have invented a cure for FIV. At the time, I had two cats (it was a Very many years ago) and told one of my partners that the reason the woman lost the case was that she was crazy. My exact comment was, “the scale is, one cat, two cats, crazy.” She has never let me forget that… and clearly, it must be true.
Harry where does 7 cats stand. UFO leftover by mistake. But hey, well like our resident outer space alien. Crazy was 2 cats, 7 cats, well that’s a whole new ballgame.
You may have uncovered a whole new behavior modification technique.
I’m so happy to hear that the initial meeting went so well.
Silky terrier slips into the alligator pit!!!!!!
Actually, it was worse, it was the tortie pit.
I was home along and decided to take Toby out for a walk.
Got myself geared up, went to leash him and realized my wife had removed his collar.
No problem, I thought it would be in the living room so I went in and got it. he followed me, so I put it on him and leased him up there.
Should have been fine BUT, we had to pass the Kasey roasting pan (Heated bed) on the floor.
He good all excitable, flailed around, slipped on the laminate floor and skidded right into the side of the bed, which woke up Her Majesty.
Oddly, Kasey did not like being awoken in this rude fashion and started to punish him severely (hard to believe of a tortie, I know), I dragged him away and settled things down quickly.
At least the rest of the walk was uneventful.
The dreaded tortie pit – few escape unscathed. Just ask Sabrina.
To forgive and forget…………………………………..is not a tortie thing.
Forgive is not in their nature.
Like a force of nature. Hurricane, Tornado, Earthquake.
Devastation is the result.
Poor Toby just had the bad timing of setting it off.
The results could not be prevented.
Sounds like Toby will begin to think twice before he tries to pass Kasey’s territory. Good girl Kasey.
This proves once again that dogs are slow learners when compared to cats :-). Poor Toby – he probably didn’t even know what hit him.
I bet he does not. Won’t take that path again.
“They now have a lovely kitty teeth stencil pattern….”
Safety first!
She is just giving the soles a non-slip tread pattern.
Good one Glen. Ingrid should be like she has one of a kind.
Ha, Glen! That’s funny. Who knew she was so thoughtful.
Weather is finally turning nice. 70’s today.
Tabatha went out with me to enjoy the sun.
Stir did not seem interested …. yet.
It was gorgeous here yesterday, too – Allegra enjoyed the warm breeze through the screens. Still nice today, but a little too chilly to leave the windows open.
Allegra helped me prepare for spring by chewing up several pairs of my flip flops while I was cleaning out my closet. They now have a lovely kitty teeth stencil pattern….
Only one on the beach this summer with cat stencil pattern flip flops.
Better get a patent on that.
Hire an honest lawyer. And if he isn’t available get a regular one 🙂
Waiting for a Harry reply.
Allegra was helping though. Got to give her credit for that.
I know an honest lawyer happy to file for a design patent on kitty stencil flip flops. Regular ones are less expensive, however.
I’ll add the pair of glasses on which she chewed a stencil pattern on the edge of the lenses to the patent application.
Well sounds like Ingrid might have something there.
Ingrid Allegra is just making sure you don’t have to purchase new ones. She just decorated the old one for another year. We do have a beautiful sunny day here also, but it is only 40 out. But I will enjoy that.
That’s kind of like the kitty “stamp of approval” on the corner of a book page or a paperback cover.
Giuseppe and Mr. Sunshine stamp the corners of nearly every page that comes out of my printer. The printer is on a shelf under my desk and they just sit there at the end of the tray, which is just a little slider not full paper width exactly the height of their noses, and watch the little laser move back and forth inside, then bite the page they’ve been watching when it reaches the tray.
They feel so important.
Sound like so many of our furry friends have jobs.
Steeler does nightly patrol before bedtime.
Henry greets each new arrival
Giuseppe and Mr. Sunshine give kitty approval on your printed work.
Pumpkin deposits live mice onto my bed.
No wonder they sleep most of the day.
Worn out from all these duties.
According to Julie’s cousin: Just adopt the damn cat. Then, when people ask you how many you have, tell them FOUR. They won’t think you’re freaks, and you hardly ever see them all at the same time.
I’m a little punch – just returned from the all night vet, having had some bloodwork done on Piper after noticing her gums were very white. Blood’s fine, she’s on the pale side, and younger than we thought she was – maybe 9 months.
Poor Piper, no wonder she had problems. Kittens at 9 months.
And I saw Rachel’s photo.
Looks like Piper has taken the Shubin name.
Harry you are one heck of a guy. Sleepless nights and deep concern for your cats in addition to all else you do, makes you one heck of a good fella. Hope Piper perks up quickly for you folks. You have really invested your emotions deep into this little girl. Way to young for her to go through all this. She would be dead had you guys not been there.
Then, when people ask you how many you have, tell them FOUR.
What do you tell them when they notice your “FOUR” cats keep changing colors? 🙂
“What do you tell them when they notice your “FOUR” cats keep changing colors?”
Same thing we said when my father first noticed Pearl (a month or so after we adopted HER)… “what white cat?”
Maybe you could just say that’s just a big bunny. That is what Francis called Steeler. No one questioned that. Just a thought. Anyway, clairol comes in many shades. Just be happy with her.
My neighbors used to say to me, “Oh, you have a cat!” because they have always sat in the windows to look out or wait for me to come home. I have a nearly monochromatic house now, but that was never so before, and I’ve had as many as 13 in this little house and seen cats looking out of nearly every window when I come home. Don’t worry, most people aren’t too observant!
Our personal vet used to have four black cats, and a brown tabby. She lived in a condo that only allowed 2 cats. No one realized there was more than one black one…
Have another cup of coffee Harry. Your family is just growing up by leaps and bounds. How much better could life be? 🙂
Poor Piper (and poor you) – sounds like she lost a little too much blood. I’m glad everything was fine. I think, as the saying goes, the ship has sailed on this one, Harry – you might as well accept that Piper is part of your family of seven, um, I mean, FOUR.