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
Hey everyone, I need to update you on Steeler (per Bernie’s request). She just wasn’t improving, and Bernie decided to take her to a different vet for a second opinion. Turns out that it was a good thing she did, because unfortuantely, Steeler is dealing with far more serious issues than “just” the hyperthyroidism. Unfortunately, the original vet wasn’t thorough enough and missed a lot by not taking a look at the big picture.
X-rays showed that Steeler has an enlarged heart. There also appear to be some issues with her lungs, one possibility could be pneumonia. As a result, her breathing has been fairly labored. Her thyroid levels remain unchanged, so she hasn’t been responding to the medication. Her liver enzymes are still elevated. They took blood for a Cardiopet PRO BNP test, which measures some cardiac markers and can provide information as to whether there is heart disease (given the x-ray findings, it is likely) and what kind. The results take 2-3 days to come back.
In the meantime, Steeler was given steroids, antibiotics, and Reglan to help control her nausea (she had been vomiting more frequently). The thyroid medication was discontinued since Steeler appears to have had an allergic reaction to it (she was ripping out her fur).
Bernie was able to take Steeler home, and will check in with the vet again tomorrow.
Needless to say, Steeler is a very sick little girl right now, but the good news is that Bernie said she’s been talking to her since they got back from the vet (I’m guessing she’s giving Bernie a piece of her mind for all they put her through there!). We know how tough this little girl is, and that toughness will serve her well as she deals with all of this and gets better!
Bernie knows we’re all here for her, and she appreciates everyone’s support, but she would prefer that if anyone has any questions about Steeler’s medical issues, you send them to me. I’ll try to answer them as best as I can.
Bernie, you know we’re all here for you.
Yes, Ingrid, send her all my love and best wishes
I am not going into Steeler health condition, as all of you well know, I leave that to Ingrid. She is far more intelligent about how to present medical issues. Enough said here.
But just to let you folks know Steeler is as I have been saying, down but definitely not out. This AM I had to go for another Rabies (yes and 1 more to go) shot. When I awakened early this AM, which is against my principles, I noticed a number of items were on the floor from my nightstand. Well I don’t think well without coffee, than it is said to be questionable. I was ready to leave for the hosp. for the shot when I could not find my glasses that I prefer to wear when I go out. Well with time passing I decided to go with my spare pair.
After I arrived back I was thinking I must have had a very restless night to have knocked things off the bedstand. So I went to pick those things up.
Then lightning struck. I don’t think I would have only knocked off the smaller items there. uh uh You all know where this is going. CLEPTO KITTY is back at her old habits of thievery. Steeler following around the house like she is struck to me and talking. So of course I asked if she took mommy’s glasses? She wasn’t talking. So I went to where she usually hides her stash and sure enough there are my good glasses, behind a chair in the living room. Also a pen, I didn’t miss that.
So to repeat, she may be down, but she is still up to her old tricks. Makes my heart feel better to know she is still up to no good. That is the Tortie Toughness.
I decided to share this with you. I know you have read Ingrid’s post and have respected my wishes not to ask me questions. But that doesn’t mean I won’t still be telling you of Steeler and what is tries to get away with. No Way, quite the contrary. We all have our little ones pulling stunts on us, and sharing on this site is something I look forward to, not just mine Steeler’s stunts, but each of your furry little ones stunts. This is the very best place to be for all of us.
Couldn’t be happier! So glad to hear about the old Steeler, I just can’t tell you how glad! And for you too. I know how it is to watch an illness move in, but those first few brazen actions are like a miracle. I hope to hear more good news.
I am looking for her to do something dramatic. She is so good at pulling off stunts. I can’t wait for her to get one over on me.
I think some cats are kleptos just because they like neat things. When Sophie was with my mother and was the only cat, she grew very upset when my other would leave. My mother always had the habit of carrying her purse from the bedroom to the kitchen, set it down and get her coat. In the meantime, Sophie would do her best to empty it out. Later, Sophie would steal things that were obviously important to my mother, probably in the hopes of preventing her from leaving. I’ll bet Steeler has that in mind too. I’m so glad she’s back to it!
Sophie sounds like she had her Clepto act down pretty good. Getting things out of a handbag, that is a determined girl. It could be Steeler wants to keep me home, but the bad side of that is I need to use my spare glasses to see where the good one are. She has me. Just like Sophie, they instinctively know how to keep us home.
I’m really thrilled, too, that Clepto-Steeler is back at it. Hoping for more good news here, too.
As for stunts, Ruby’s latest involved, of course, food. I had a croissant inside one of those wax paper type bakery bags on my kitchen counter this afternoon. When I heard strange rustling noises from the kitchen, I thought I’d better go check. There she was, on the counter, trying to figure out how to get into the bag. The bag, covered in little kitty teethmarks, is now safely inside the microwave. If she figures out how to open that… well, let’s just hope she doesn’t.
Ingrid, I think you’ve had it too easy for too long. You’re in for it now. I also believe you have two working together, two torties nonetheless.
Except for the few years when my household grew fairly geriatric, I have never been able to leave anything anywhere or someone would eat it or turn it into a toy, climb into it or sleep on it, or, unfortunately, pee on it if Stanley was feeling anxious. They’ve opened every cabinet and even the refrigerator. On the other hand, it’s really entertaining to watch them interact with your stuff.
Now maybe Ingrid might want to check that pastry a little closer. Peeing on it, that would really ruin an appetite. Love it Bernadette.
Ingrid, I hope when you awaken in the early AM you check the smell of that pastry before eating it.:)
It takes a cat with a certain level of anxiety to pull that one off, and both of your girls seem to be pretty well-adjusted! I’d just look for tooth marks, or listen for signs of a food struggle. There were times when I checked everything; I dearly loved Stanley but I’m glad those days are over…remember, he lived to be 25. When I refer to my current “perfect household”, that’s one of the reasons!
I like Ruby’s taste in pastries. Had she had a little more time, you would not get your sweets for the morning. If Allegra and Ruby get their minds together, I have little doubt they, together, could figure out how to open that microwave. That would be a great thing.
The good part of this is if you had been a little slower to react, you may be down on your knees cleaning the floor and the girls.
I kind of wish I hadn’t read this before breakfast. Maybe I’ll have cereal instead. 🙂
Better yet, a strawberry smoothie, which seems to be Allegra’s new favorite. As soon as I pour it out of the blender, she’s right there taking a few licks from it. Clearly, nobody has told her that cats don’t eat strawberries.
Last night I was getting ready for camping last night and at 1 am cleaning out litter boxes and went out the side door to go down the steps. I heard a noise and figured it was B&W. It was Black and White alright – city kitty. He just came lumbering down the bank and towards the porch where the cat food was, Maybey the 300W light was to bright for him and he didn’t see me. I said hello little one and he stopped and looked towards me. Turned around and scampered up the hill.
I normally don’t have problems making friends but he did not want to stick around. Of course I did not have my camera on me.
Have to watch out for those city kitties. No way do you want to upset them. And it doesn’t take much to do that.
As you found out not too long ago.
Oh yea how well I remember.
I will be camping tonite till Sun evening. This is our 23 year for Fathers Day Weekend Camping trip.
Will miss all of you and have a lot to catch up on.
If you hear of any excitement above State College this weekend don’t worry.
It’s just me and some friends.
Have a great time, and Happy Father’s Day!
Brooke – the moth is gone. Really, I got it. And you wouldn’t have liked it anyway, they’re really crunchy and they don’t have much meat on them.
But Daddy, the moth that can be seen is not the true moth.
Yum, moths! Monkey approves!
finally subscribing to the tortitude blog, which is fitting, since I was the one who decided to bring the tortie home.
Welcome Julie, tell us more about her.
Whispers: Jay, the tortie Julie is referring to would be Brooke… 🙂
Excuse me , but it’s early and I had just woken up 30 minn ago and did not have coffee yet.
Did not remember Brooke’s Mom , Julie having been on here before.
Thanks for that “Stage Whisper” though. 🙂
I know what you mean – I call it “not enough coffee” syndrome 🙂
Julie, it is about time. Now we can all get busy on here. I am really happy your on here. Sometimes it gets a little strange, but then as you know Tortie servants are strange to start with. So welcome.
Hey! Welcome!
Best wishes Glenn!
A belated thanks.
I am concerned about what we might find out but have quite a bit of confidence in the new vets, based on my wife’s observations with Toby.
The visit is a week from today so I booked the day off and will take her in, Kasey likes it when I accompany her.
Well, we’re going to a new vet.
They seem to be quite thorough which is one reason we are going there.
Kasey is booked in to see them at 2:00PM on June 24th. I want their opinion on the blister or cyst-like thing on her chin that I wrote about last winter.
It is not causing her any problems and I was told it wasn’t a concern but I want to plat it safe and get another opinion.
Same her Glen. Wish you and Kasey the best.
Tell her not to bite the Vet on her 1st visit. Try to start off on the right paw.
Always a good idea to get a second opinion, Glen.
Catching up here this AM. Glen. I am glad to hear you are getting a second opinion on Kasey.
I know how much you care for her. I will be thinking of you guys. Good luck
Thanks
We decided to switch vets because we believe the critters will get a higher level of care.
Toby the silky terrier was the first to go there and the experience has been very positive.
Morgan is due for her annual “inspection” and it was a no briner to get Kasey looked at, at the same time. The last vet did not think the cyst-like thing was a concern but I would rather get it looked at, anyway.
I’m so thankful both of my girls are healthy. Peaches only throws up about once every month or two since I changed their food, (It used to be almost daily on Meow Mix…she’s a puker…never had a cat who was a puker, but I know it’s not that uncommon) and as long as I can contain Monkey I have no flea allergy problems. Monkey was getting pretty chunky, but now that she can climb up the mattress and run on the wall, she’s lost some weight, and Peaches, for the same reason (building muscles) has actually gained a little. Peaches is at almost perfect weight, I think, and Monkey’s getting there….although still slightly chubby…like about if a person was 10 lbs heavier than the ideal doc recomended weight
lol
Actually, vomiting may be common, but it’s never normal. Nine times out of ten, a simple diet change – to grain-free canned food – will fix the problem. In most cases, it will also help a cat lose weight.
My girls get Fancy Feast every morning, and Chicken Soup For the Cat Lover’s Soul dry food is out all day to snack on. Peaches used to throw up every day on Meow mix, but I tried her on every other food and she wouldn’t eat them…..finally I found “Chicken Soup”, she actually likes it, the ingredients are good, and she rarely ever throws up anymore…it’s gone from once a day to once a month or so…Monkey, she of the cast iron stomach never throws up no matter what she eats, so I don’t worry about her. If Princess Peach can eat it it’s okay for Monkey lol. Their fur is silky and great, both of them…You can see how silky smooth in the pics I’ve posted
I live miles from the nearest grocery store, and don’t have a car, so feeding raw isn’t an option for me…I’m lucky to live near a grain elevator that actually carries many high quality pet products including the “Chicken Soup” brand…according to the internet it’s really hard to find
Sounds like what you’re feeding is working for Monkey and Peaches. I’d encourage you to look for the grain-free varieties of Fancy Feast – some of them are.
Glen definitely go for it. Better care is the essential. Wish I had gone sooner for a second opinion on Steeler. Best of luck
Glen I may be a little late in posting this, but I just went thru this by getting a second opinion. I encourage you to go. It is worth the peace of mind.
I can’t believe so many people are so supportive! I was seriously expecting a posse of gun-toting rednecks………………
Those gun totin rednecks will be in the woods above State College starting tomorrow night.
I am going with my brother in law Doug (who owns 175 acres near Clearfield Pa) and Dave. Will have my 308 rifle with the silencer I receiver 2 weeks ago, one of my machine guns (not sure which one until tomorrow morning) explosive targets and lenty of beer.
3 years ago a bear stopped by the vehicles and tore the soft top off his SUV.
Been a few sighting since then. But with the noise we make I’m sure he will be long gone.
Will not get to talk to every one till Sun nite so everyone have fun.
Sweet, make lots and LOTS of noise to scare them away before you get there…..play some Monkey music over a loudspeaker, okay? lol
Remember, I was raised half in farm-country Illinois and half in Alabama, my family’s chock full of Republicans…..I’m no stranger to gun-toting rednecks….I have an amazing talent for agreeing to disaggree lol
Oh snap! The whole reason I came here was to introduce you guys to my new neigbor! A guy I work with filmed this guy in his friend’s yard last night, about a mile from my apartment as the crow flies, and three different adult sightings were reported in a park about 2 miles away on Saturday. Not sure how big their territory is, but I think there is a very real possibility they could show up in my back yard…..all that separates me from where the little guy was spotted is some woods, a small shallow river, another small strip of woods and a railroad track.
http://www.annarbor.com/news/bear-sighting-confirmed-in-webster-township-with-picture/
He’s a cutie, but I’d be concerned Mom is lurking nearby……wouldn’t want to get between her and her kid! I’m glad they’re planning to leave them alone unless they cause trouble, though.
I was so amazed to read the comments, so many are supportive, I guess we’re close enough to Ann Arbor where the “educated types” are, If these guys had been seen in Stockbridge, Unadilla or Munith, they’d have a bunch of Yahoos after them…they’d be gone by now
I saw your photo on Facebook, that bear is so cute! Hmm, maybe not so cute if you see him through your kitchen window, but….
Every once in a while, a bear wanders down into the DC suburbs from the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it always causes a big fuss. The closest I’ve ever come to one was when one crossed the road right in front of me (in the Blue Ridge) – at first I thought it was a really big dog!
LMAO..That’s too funny Ingrid, when I heard about the three sightings in the park Saturday I said; “Right, somebodys Newfies probably got loose….” (there’s a dog therapy/masage/agility course in the building across the lot that attracts the most amazing array of dogs, and once a Newfie got loose from his owner and came loping down for some love….he looked SO much like a bear…..his gait and everything…..when he came up for a forehead smooch I told him; “Ya know, if we were in the woods and I had a gun I’d have probably shot at you lol
But apparently thee aren’t wayward Newfies……lol
There’s one been wandering around here too: http://chartiersvalley.patch.com/articles/black-bear-seen-roaming-in-bridgeville. I saw another notice that it had been spotted in Collier Township, which is just over the hill from me. They speculate it’s following the creek and just popping out of the shallow water when it sees a possibility of food. Carnegie is next, so if I hear it’s around I’ll try to run out and photograph it!
Ya know, they WERE here before we were and all. I say let them roam and be bears. I AM thankful my cats stay inside so I don’t have to worry about them being Mommy’s meal..they’re Omnivores, after all, they’ll eat meat if it’s presented to them while they’re hungry, and I’m sue a cat wouldn’t pose much of a problem for a bear…except maybe Stirfry
Stirfry was using a bear rib bone as a toothpick the other day.
I didn’t ask questions.
lol…I don’t blame you
lol I was thinking the same, I’d LOVE to get a picture of it! But then again, maybe it’s best just left alone. If it gets to used to humans, it’ll stop being scared of us, and that will be it’s doom. They’ll have to kill it
Kind of like this story–at a resort someone fed a bear pastries every day for years, then a hunter shot the bear, the largest on record in PA. He was an easy target, not scared of people and way overweight after eating pastries for years. I’m not against hunting as long as it’s a fair fight, and I am against people intentionally feeding wildlife garbage or food they shouldn’t eat, like pastries. http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10329/1106073-455.stm
Totally agree. I saw a horrifying Animal planet show, can’t remember what it was called, where this bear killed 4 or 5 people in a state park…they were so used to people feeding them, then there was a drought and they started approaching hikers expecting food…they were starving, and one of them attacked a kid…his mother grabbed a branch and started beating the bear, it turned on her, and as more people came up the path and started beating on her she kept defending herself by mauling them….it was horrible! They ended up putting her down, of course, but that whole scenario was so unneccessary if people would just use good judgement. I don’t think that they’d ever be a danger to people if people wouldn’t feed them…they are normally scared of people, they will avoid you unless they feel threatened in some way, or unless you take that natural fear away by feeding them
Update!
Apparently mom showed up in the early morning hours sniffing around the same tree the little guy was climbing yesterday. Maybe he’s a runaway and she’s hot on his trail?
Well, Bernie, you got your wish.
I woke up with my waterbed shaking by a 22 LB cat (he was 23 but said he lost a LB from the starvation yesterday) I look over and there is Pumpkin with a small mouse in my bed. I look at the clock and it’s just past 4 am,
I get up and get my camera. As I’m turning it on he drops it. I felt it run across my foot. Meanwhile Pumpkin is looking for it. I get in bed, tell him “Good Boy” and go to bed.
What a night…
See there you better make sure you feed him on time in the future. He brought you breakfast in bed again and this time fresh from the morning just for you. Alive and running. At least you had another furry little thing in your bed besides Punky. I think 4Am may have been a little early and not time for breakfast. Punky on the other hand can’t tell time. The other thing is they are still getting in and Punky is on duty. But she delivers in bed.
I think maybe the mice are in the laundry room. The door was always closed but due to the flood I have the door open to let air circulate.
Pumpkin loves to catch mice and I think I just gave him a full time job.
lol….Hatchet used to bring me mouse heads whenever I was away overnight. Only the heads. Sometimes they’d be at the foot of my bed, and sometimes on the doorstep so I’d know she was angry before I even went in. Kind of creepy and “Godfatherish”. Hatchet was my baby….or maybe Rosemary’s baby….lol She didn’t take any mess, even from me!
File this one under, “I still hate people.” I’ve been working all week with a family who is interested in two 7 year old cats (adopted from us as kittens, owner getting divorced, moving in with mother in place that doesn’t allow cats). I’m delighted, they seem like a great family, and they want BOTH cats and the cats are 7… So, after much discussion about meeting the cats at the foster’s home (shy, couldn’t be caught to be brought to the last event) I get a scan of an application to review and they’ve indicated that they might declaw. Well, at least it was “maybe” and I know that this is a teaching moment, but I just wish it would be prohibited in the U.S. like it is in Europe. (Except for situations like Stirfry, where if you don’t declaw, you ain’t gonna be able to live with the beast.) I am really suprised that so many vets will do it as a routine thing, “neuter and declaw” as a menu item…
Harry, I know you hate some people. The declawing is not something I wanted done to Steeler.
When she had her surgery, I went to pick her up and the vet told me they had clipped her claws while she was under. Now I know that folks do that. So I didn’t think about it to much. But then when Steeler was feeling a little better and tried to climb the cover on one side of the bed instead of using her ramp, her claws would not hold. So she wanted lifted up onto the bed. Why she didn’t want to use the ramp is beyond me. But she has clawed her way up the covers before. Not jumped, then when she got near the top, I would help her onto the bed.
So then I decided I wasn’t to pleased that she had her claws clipped. In her case they are a necessity. She claws the scratch pads, and the kitchen chairs for trimming. But hey the chairs are only antiques and she is allowed.
But everyone has to decide this one for themselves. I agree with you on Stir. Lord there would be no Jay or any other pet in the house. But I love the attitude of Stir. She is a don’t mess with me girl.
Harry, at my local vet he always asked if we wanted the cats declawed. We never knew that was a problem. All 3 of mine have the front claws removed. Pumpkin only ever scratched and bit me 1 time as I was trying to put him into a carrier when I went to the vet for his 1st check up. It was my fault as Samantha my Bichon and Pumpkin were in the car looking out. Neither in a carrier. Never having him in a carrier I put it down outside and attempted to put him in. As I did Samatha started to walk away on her leash and a car on the road 50′ away went by. Pmpkin got scared and fought me. Bit me to the bone and scratched both arms. I knew if he got down I would never see him again so I threw him into my Jimmy and closed the door. Got Sam as she had slipped off her collar. I put it back on but with blood running down both arms and her being pure white she was covered. I went into the Jimmy and opened the carrier. Punky went right in (should have done that first). I walked into the Vets office and they see the dog covered in blood. Pumpkin in the carrier covered in blood and me dripping like a zombie all over their floor. I said – don’t worry, there all right. They quickly got a towel for me. Pumpkins check up was fine.
So I am not sure why reclawing is so bad. And as you said Stir was declawed when she was fixed. Before that I looked like Bernie’s antique chairs.
Jay, I’ll repeat exactly what I told the other people. Having said that, though, in the case of Stir, I think it was necessary to make her possible to live with. And as one of our senior counselors says, declawing doesn’t stop a beating heart. At least the cat has a home, where someone who feels they must declaw would otherwise not have a cat.
“Declawing is not just removing the claw, but it’s necessary to remove the nail bed to prevent the claw from regrowing. In order to remove the nail bed, it’s necessary to amputate the last digit of bone of the foot. When you consider that cats walk on their toes, and that you’re removing the toe, you can see how significant the surgery is. Although many vets will still do it, many more have come to the conclusion that it causes considerable pain to the cat – and since cats hide pain so well, we don’t really know how much it hurts. In addition, declawing a 7 year old cat like Tinkerbell and Wendy is likely to cause behavioral problems, since the cat suddenly finds itself defenseless. It’s been our experience that older cats declawed often act out by becoming aggressive biters, and sometimes also express their discontent with inappropriate urination.”
Thank you Harry for that info. Did not know that and would not have if I did. All mine had the surgery when they were 2 months old (I think (when they were fixed. Stir was over a year and half to 2years when she was fixed. I was really worried about her getting out and either getting pregnant again or hurt by animals or car (not that she couldn’t take either one out) She was always fast with her claws and the band-aid stock surely rose before she was declawed.
I may seem like a hypocrite because I’m all about spay/neuter, but other than that I’d never physically alter any animal.
I mean, if I had a kid and it was suddenly fashionable to shave their little ears into points, I wouldn’t do it, so why the heck would I do it to a beloved pet?!?
Plus declawing makes a cat unable to climb, something they naturally love, and less able to defend themselves, which could be a disaster if they ever get out
Harry already covered all the reasons why declawing is inhumane.
Jay, I know how you feel , knowing now what the surgery involves. When I got my first cat, Feebee, in 1984, he was declawed as part of his neuter surgery. It was just what one did with indoor cats back then, and I didn’t know any better. Once I realized what the surgery involved, I felt sick. Thankfully, Feebee had no adverse effects from the declaw (except that even more than twenty years later, I still get sick to my stomach when I think of the pain he must have been in, especially since this was before the days when cats actually received decent pain control after surgery).
In my opinion, there are only two situations where declawing is acceptable (but only with proper pain control, and that means narcotics, and preferably, done with a laser): if it’s the only thing standing between the cat losing his home and being returned to a shelter, or if the cat’s owner is immunocompromised.
As for Harry’s statement of “we don’t really know how much it hurts” – well, I think we do. Imagine the first joint of all your fingers being cut off. Sorry to be so graphic – but that’s what the surgery is. And that’s why I still get sick to my stomach even more than 20 years later, when I think of having put Feebee through it.
Thankfully, fewer and fewer vets offer declawing as a routine service, and I believe there’s at least one municipality (in California) that legally prohibits it. In fact, I was delighted wen I heard from a friend of a friend in the DC area recently, that, when her brother wanted to have his two 12-year-old cats declawed (and don’t even get me started on how I reacted to that bit of news – I was ready to sick a humane investigator on the brother!) that they couldn’t find a single vet who would do the surgery.
I don’t believe declawing is a routine service in this area. It was not brought up with Steeler. And after talking here when I first started I realized that was not going to be for her.
I have no idea why I awoke at this ungodly hour of the day.
Fed Steeler and then opened the sunroom door for her to go into the sunroom and look about outside. She expect this as a normal thing when I awaken.
So Steeler is happy for now and I am wonder how to go back to sleep. This is like the middle of the night for me. I am not a morning person.
Before I would declaw a cat, I’d cut off the ends of all my own fingers. Considering everything I do is done with my fingers, I’d be just as disabled as I feel cats are when declawed.
Years ago my mother adopted my sweet gregarious hyperactive Sophie from me and had her declawed when she had her spayed. I didn’t know enough to tell her the adverse effects but knew it wasn’t something I’d do. Where Sophie had gone from one tech and vet to another giving hugs and kisses when I took her for visits prior, Sopie emerged shy and timid with most people for the rest of her life; my mother actually gave her back to me a few years after she had adopted her. That was enough to reinforce my feeling it was something I’d never do.
It is banned in San Francisco and also most countries in Europe. The AVMA “strongly advises against” declawing cats over the age of 2 because of typical behavior problems seen when declawing an adult. This is the strongest advisory they can give.
We’re forgiven for the decisions we made years ago before we were totally informed. Veterinarians never explain exactly what declawing surgery involves, and how is the average person to understand that it’s not just cutting off their nails? Way back at the beginning of building your own web page a friend of mine–the one who taught me HTML in 1997–built her own site with tons of cat information including lots of links to information about declawing. I can only include one link in a post or Ingrid has to moderate it, so I’ll choose this one particular article, the one I used from that time on, to convince people what declawing surgery actually was, and it worked fo rmost of them. There’s nothing gory in this one, but a very clear description of a cat’s paws and claws and exactly what the surgery does. http://www.maxshouse.com/Truth%20About%20Declawing.htm
“De-barking” dogs, or cutting their vocal cords, has been declared inhumane; a cat’s claws are no less important.
My friend Andrea from work is married to an army man, and they lived in Germany for years. While they were there they bought an honest-to-God REAL German-made Dobie, Kaiser….he’s the cutest, sweetest thing, long tailed and floopy eared….he can still stand his ears up when he wants to, if he’s excited. She says docking and cropping is illegal there, but even if it wasn’t, she wouldn’t have had it done. Dobies here look so dangerous. I had one, Buck….he was the sweetest thing ever, but people were automatically scared of him because he was cropped, docked and scary-looking. Kaiser gets such a totally opposite reaction from strangers than Buck did, although the personalities are very similar. It’s sad that where they were originally created, people are more enlightened than they are here.
On a side note, shortly after I adopted Buck, he came in and laid down beside my chair like always…..about 20 minutes later I got up to go to the bathroom and saw about a foot wide pool of blood under him. I freaked out and rushed him to the emergency vet who looked him over and found a tiny nick on one toe. Turned out he had something called Von Willebrand’s (sp?) disease, passed along by bad breeding practices, that inhibits normal blood clotting. The vet said he couldn’t understand how Buck had even survived his puppyhood mutilations. From then on he had to wear booties to go out and do his buisiness. Poor guy freaked the first couple times I put them on, and ever after acted SO embarrassed when meeting strange people or dogs…lol
Update on flood control.
Using a shop vac to get the water off the carpet does not work to well.
Decided to just tear out all the carpet and go down to the concrete.
Also, if you carpet the basement use thin padding. We decided years ago to go to the deluxe, plushy feeling expensive padding. Feels great dry but sucks up tons of water.
Bernie wrote me on FB about using sawhorses. Works good to keep things off the floor.
From now on, all items on basement floor will be in plastic tubs.
Hard way to learn a lesson. But I learned the hard way also. Really feel bad when flooding hits anyone. My friends especially. I bet you aren’t getting any help from Stir, Punky, or Tabitha!!! They aren’t going in that mud. 🙂
Not only no help but they are all locked together in the bedroom.
My house is round and the only rooms with doors are bedroom and bathroom upstairs, From the basement to 2nd floor is connected to a spiral staircase with no way to keep a cat out. Baby gates are fine for dogs but a cat who can jump 5 feet easily and 7 if determined – forget it. Pumpkin as big as he is can go 4 feet easily.
From now on I will tell everyone to use plastic bins for valuables/clothing.
It is good advise for everyone to know. Water can back into anyones home. Up thru the storm runoff lines, and systems of the sewage lines when they get backed up. It does not necessarily have to come from the common idea of flooding.
So the advice that Jay is giving everyone about in the basement for storage, it would be wise to keep it in plastic storage containers or raised heights.
That is the best advise you can get. You never know when things back up. No real flooding necessary.
Jay, I was on to that years ago, along with the fans and dehumidifier. My foundation is built from tile block, pretty but ineffective, a little underground stream from an old illegal mine runs right past the corner of my house, plus my neighbor’s driveway finally tilted far enough down hill that it dumps all the runoff into my yard. I call my basement “Carnegie’s Fallingwater”. Good luck with yours.
Always planned on visitng Fallingwater, expected it to be bigger.
If it was more attractive perhaps I could do something with it, but it certainly amuses the cats.
So sorry you have to deal with this. I’ve only had two minor floods in my basement (sump pump problems), but it was still royal pain to clean up and dry out (and taught me to store things in plastic containers!). I can’t even imagine dealing with what you’re dealing with.
Got the whole carpet outside on my front yard
Hardest so far was the skeeball machine – had to use my car jack to raise it off the legs so I could cut the carpet out from under each leg.
Just have a large table, TV/Stereo Entertainment Center that weighs 200 lbs. and a Gun safe that empty weighs 1400 lbs. and it ain’t empty. 🙂
About 5 boxes of lead for making bullets at 150 lbs. each were a pain as the bottom 2 fell apart from the water.
The weight bench was 400 lbs. but was easy to lift 1 end and brace it while pulling the carpet out. Could have used help but none of the cats liked the wet floor and donkey’s don’t listen.
Had all 3 cats in the bedroom and Pumpkin acted like he hadn’t eaten in days (it was only 8 hours)
8 hours? You are a harsh taskmaster. 8 hours without food, no wonder no offers of help. Watch your back tonight, too.
As for the donkey, I hear if you train them from little donk-ettes, they can be useful. Or, they will stand around and laugh at you, one or the other, can’t recall exactly.
Had a few floods too. Even a small one is a major disaster.
Ah, SkeeBall machine?? That’s interesting…
Strange but things Jay has in his basement are not what one would ordinarily have in basement. But seeing how Jay likes to target shoot, that easily explains the skeet ball machine.
These is no dumb Ass outside. Smart fella there.
This is an interesting array of how men decorate.
Not feeding the family until late, not that is unacceptable. Dinner has to be served or Jay will be dinner.
Bernie, I can see you don’t frequent the Jersey beaches. We need to get you there for some boardwalk pizza, Italian water ice, and SKEEball – not skeet. If you can win 20,000 points at the arcade, you have a great choice of Valuable Prizes including a fabulous avocado green electric skillet.
An update on my evening.
All cats went to eat and I turned the TV on. All fuzzy. Looked downstairs and cable seemed ok but I just moved the wire. Came up and TV was fine. Went to call my friend Cindy as she left a message that she cut her grass last night and if I wanted it for the pasture I could come get it. Well my plans today were shot and I never got there. I picked up the phone and got static. 2nd phone – same thing. Went downstairs and checked all wires. Saw a entension wire was on the ground so I disconnected it. Upstairs and phone was working. Called her and told her about my water problem. Just then I see Pumpkin on the bed. He drops something then grabs it. Jumps down and I see it’s a mouse. I tell Cindy – got to go, and followed Pumpkin. He is laying next to the kitchen door and 1 dead mouse is a foot away. Told him good boy and gave him treats. Threw the mouse outside.
Guess if I don’t feed him he gets his own meals.
Harry I am so used to using skeet machines a while back, I thought that was what I read. I think a skeeball is that the one with the circles that you have to throw a ball up to try to get the ball in the small center circle.
Harry, I spent many vacation weeks at the Jersey shore. Only I was in Ocean City. Drove down to Cape May and have pics on the the stone breakers and enjoyed the Victorian architecture.
Also enjoyed the drive up to Atlantic City before and after the Casinos opened. However, after the Casinos opened, I only went to them. The boardwalk was not longer a place you wanted to walk.
But one day I will return to the Jersey shore. Just not in the near future. I most likely still have the leftovers from the kids playing some of those games. I will give any avocado green electric skillet to someone who would appreciate it. Someone who has strange things in his basement might use that. 🙂
Well maybe your lucky you seen him at the door. If all went with them as you said, that was probably going to be put in your bed, to making dinner late.
You are correct Harry. Years ago the local Ephrata Fair had games and rides. One week we spent about $100 on Skee Ball (roll a wooden ball up a ramp and try to hit the circles at the top, smallest one is 50 points. 6 balls for a $1. Get 200 points and win a small prize. Win more and trade up to bigger prizes. Josh wanted a big stuffed horse. we got him one.
A year later Sam’s Club had the large Skee Ball machines. Bought it and put it together Xmas Eve. I finished at 5:30 am. Josh came down as I was wiring it. Told him “Go to Bed” as I had a bad toothache. 6 am he wanted to see his toys. Don’t remember much as a week later I was in Hershey Med and in a coma for 3 weeks.
So now in my basement is an official Skeeball machine, coke machine and a 2 person video arcade game called Altered Beast. Got that when a local arcade went out of business 10 years ago.
The Dumb Ass was inside. The Smart Ass was out there laughing at me. And I know you heard that on FB.
Well now that you mention it, is that when Harry said something like that? I do recall someone saying something similar, but that isn’t what I thought when I said that. But you said it better than me. By the way do you have you wouldn’t happen to have a beautiful avocado green electric skillet in the basement?
Well I guess I will quit giving Jay a bad time on here for the night. He has had a lot to handle this past week. But maybe he smiled tonight, just a little.
Bernie, you know me. My cooking skills are the food is done when the smoke alarm goes off. I do all my cooking in the microwave.
I had a lot to smile about.
Glad tonite was a day off.
Bernie, Ocean City is one of my stomping grounds – lots of family there, Somers Point, Egg Harbor. My grandmother spent the last 20 years of her life in Atlantic City, and died the year the first casino opened. When we started to vacation in Cape May, about 20 years ago, we drove up to Atlantic City. Her grand old art deco building was an empty sandlot, and I was afraid to get out of the car anywhere near the Boardwalk. Nice urban renewal. To keep this on topic, more or less, Atlantic City has a very successful TNR program:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nk4LhMHd1Gw
Harry, I at first thought what walks the boardwalk after the casinos came in when I seen the link. I kind of thought oh oh Harry didn’t. I was pleasantly surprised.
The slums off the boardwalk and the boardwalk itself are not someplace to enjoy yourself since the casinos got there. Financial benefits for Atlantic City were just a smokescreen to get the casinos there. You see what benefits they ended up with.
I went just to the Casino entertainment and gambling. Take certain $ amount and if it is lost leave. Also set myself a time to leave. Since Casinos don’t show any windows or time in the gambling floors. So Ocean City was always very nice to go to. I have wanted to go back many times, but we had the house at Atlantic Beach and finally sold it off. That trip was 13 hour drive. Now I would like to return to Ocean City and relax. But that will not be right away.
I always like to go in early September. That way most families are back home for school and it is less crowded.
Jay it dawns on me about your cooking skills. Now I remember why you said that. You had to have hot sauce with you in VA and you drink straight from the bottle. You do that at home on whatever you eat. Now I know what you meant. I was a little bewildered by that one. 🙂
My cooking isn’t the best and sometime I have food a little over the experation date (7 year old veniision in the freezer last year – so hot sauce always helps. And drinking it straight isn’t so bad. Try it. 😛
Jay, I can say I can’t handle hot stuff.
Even Steeler would run at the smell of that.
This is just my view on the rabies vaccine that I am undergoing. Ingrid will keep you posted on the medical side of that.
But this is what just dawned on me. I am a little slow on the uptake of things, but here goes.
I don’t have to nibble anyone, I can actually bite someone and not pass the rabies around. I will be rabies free. Never know when I could decided to the bite someone. LOL 😛
How about that. Watch our if Bernie shows her teeth.
I think your neighbors they were giving you problems might be in trouble.
And just think of the call to the locol police. That will be on the nightly news for sure.
But if you need to, Stir will show you how to flash those teeth. She does it to me daily.
I can’t respond to this. No matter how I answer this one Trouble looms. I can hear it all coming at me now. Let’s just say I will let Stir give me lessons. I don’t want have the Police here any time soon. It wasn’t the neighbors I had in mind. But that’s a story for another time. 🙂
Not going to let you off the hook that easy.
As Harry would advise, “Take the 5th as to not to incriminate myself.”:P
Hey folks, Jay and others on CC have made teasing me about things I say and do a funny, but good time.
I always knew somehow, if you wait and be patient, something will pop up about folks to enlighten all of us.
Well I recently wrote Jay on his message board about hearing on our locate news about a HS in his area graduating 7 sets of twins. Date: Fri, 10 Jun 2011 00:48:53 -0400
http://ephratareview.com/2011/06/seven-sets-of-twins/
So this is the school that has graduated.
NOW Here is the best of that posting. Go to tell on you Jay. Not meant to be mean but to let folks know:
Jay also has a twin brother: uh uh Jay is a TWIN. Think about it. 2 of Jay out there.
So I would advise any one going into Jay area take your own water. I think there must be something in the water.
I always knew this info would come in handy. I think it’s Great that there are 2 Jays. How about you folks. Jay been holding back on us. uuummm 😛
Bernie, not as scary as it sounds. Yes I am a twin, but my brother is normal.
He lives with my Mom, they both are Democrats and neither is interested in weapons.
Very disappointed in them both, but I still love them.
And having a sister that is a “Lawyer” really twists the knife in my back. 🙂
Oh brother, Harry is going to have your for a snack. I can hear him now. Lawyers jokes again. I think he had given you fair warning once before. Now he is going to turn Brooke on to you. 🙂
Oh, I like Jay too much to be too hard on him. Why not be unfair and play favorites like the rest of the lawyers do?
I’d like to meet his brother though, just to get a baseline measurement on what he thinks is normal. We could probably fix that with a Tortie, though.
I have been standing barefoot in water tearing up carpeting. Could always use a laugh.
Making fun of lawyers is too easy (not going to stop me though).
And I have seen the good side of Brooke. Typical Tortie – fake them out then pounce when they least expect it.
Harry I think that is ok. I don’t want anyone to be hard on Jay. Just keep a list like I do.
Hey fair warning, if you do go to meet his brother, DON’T DRINK THE WATER, ESPECIALLY DON’T LET JULIE OR RACHEL NEAR THE WATER. LOTS OF TWINS THERE. 🙂
I’m starting to wonder what they put into this rabies vaccine you’re getting….. 🙂
It may not be the rabies vaccine !!!!!!! 😛
I have a guest in the office today, a longhaired torbie and white cat named Sapphire. I retrieved Sapphire this morning from a temporary foster in Reston and am dropping her off with a longer term foster in Alexandria at the end of the day. Sapphire nursed 4 kittens of her own and 8 adopted ones and when she was spayed it was found that she had a pellet embedded in her stomach. She’s now had surgery for that, and is recovering well. She’s a sweet office cat, very calm. I posted a photo of her at the Conscious Cat.
She is beautiful. I would say you have a VIP in the office as your buddy for the day. I know you will work diligently to find her a forever home. 🙂
Sapphire is safely delivered back to her foster, and I’m on the porch catching up on work. I actually got more done than usual today, since I had to keep my door closed. The office manager did eventually figure out that there was a feline in the office, but didn’t get too upset. Friday the 24th is “take your dog to work day” and even our grumpy managing partner emeritus asked me if I was going to stage a protest that we weren’t inviting cats. I told him that today was my get even day.
Well, hey, if Fri 24th is take your dog to work day, tbe take one of the Torties and just them know the Boss is in the house (the Tortie of course). All dogs will shudder. Office manager will retreat back into the privacy of the office with door closed.
I just realized that we passed 5000 comments on this thread. You guys are amazing!
Nah, just annoyingly chatty 😉
I am glad you said it. 🙂 But it is fun. Think this calls for another get together to celebrate the 5000 mark? 🙂
When did I become chatty ? 😛
Somewhere around #3462.
LOL 😛
Hey, it was past #3506 I’m sure
Ingrid, give credit where credit is due. Don’t be so humble. You created a site that is easy and fun to go to. You ended up giving all of us a wide berth, as we do with our Torties. So you make this site amazing. We are just a group of various folks form everywhere enjoying the interactions.
Thank you.
*nod* What Bernie said
I couldn’t find the post where Ingrid was saying the rabies vaccine lasted for life, but that’s awesome news since I’m always doing stupid stuff like picking up random animals lol
I’ve always said I’m not smart enough to be scared lol
Maybe you are smarter than you give yourself credit. At least you were good at it. I was successful, 1 (Steeler) out of 3 attempts.
If you are so smart you don’t try thing because you could get hurt then you miss out on all the fun of animals and life. Better off not knowing and having fun adventures. You read the book of Homer, the blind cat. He would climb up on a bookcase and jump off not knowing where he would land. People who discovered the USA did that. Went places and found all sorts of wonders.
What a great time back then.
It was here earlier. But I am so glad to hear that. It is not an easy path to go down. So if you can prevent getting bitten by an animal do it. This treatment is not something anyone would really feel good about. I really feel rotten with it. around the clock sick. It better last a lifetime.
Harry, Bernadette, I don’t know if I will be doing any attempt at rescuing, but can’t guarantee it.
After all, I wasn’t trying to rescue Big O. I just tried to stop him from coming into the sunroom. So he reacted like any animal, that wanted a home.
But time will tell.
Many of the ones I’ve rescued didn’t come from a conscious attempt or organized effort. They just fell into my arms from one source or another. Some just showed up at the front door. I know you well enough to know that you won’t stop rescuing. Too big a heart.
As for the tax stuff, this is way over my head. My law school roommate is a high-powered tax attorney in Houston, and the most important thing I learned from him was to not do my own taxes.
Harry right now I could not catch a kitten. But I can’t say I disagree with you on the attempted rescuing. After I thinking about it, I will try again, because I am rabies proof after th 24th.
As for taxes, I have only did my taxes one year. I did last years for this the first time in my life and so far no responses. All the other years were done by our CPA. So I just decided to see if I still had the mental ability to follow directions and writhe the checks. Of course I did mail the tax forms to the IRS with Tortie teeth and claw holes, where she tried to steal and play with the papers.
I don’t think I will do that for this year. I was going to get Steeler a SS# and claim her as a dependent, but I don’t have a birth certificate———YET.
I’m so sorry you’re having such a hard time with the treatment, Bernie. At least you’ll be done with the antibiotics in a few more days. My guess is that they’re causing the sick feeling, more so than the rabies shots.
Peaches really IS anti-social, and mostly has been since I got her. She’s always chosen a special elite few to be…not friendly, but….let’s call it un-hateful to. When my ex Musa and I were together, she liked Musa, his step-mother LerPhan (pronounced Le Fahn) and his friend Harris. His friend Abee who was deathly afraid of cats (he told me once they turned into witches at night in all seriousness) she used to harass unmercifally, sneaking up and batting him in the back of the head and such.
She never even liked me. When me and Musa split she was supposed to be his, but after about 2 weeks he brought her to me…we slowly started getting close, but then Monkey showed up, so…well….I love Peaches, and she’lll always be my girl, but me and Monkey are SO much closer, I almost sometimes feel like Peaches is missing out on having that special bond that every cat needs
love the story on Peaches. Cats can tell who is afraid of them then lock onto them to torment (I love cats – what a gift). I got Tabatha (my Calico/Tortiw w White) the same way. Was my ex’s cat but when we split she didn’t want her so was going to give her away. I said Tabby got along great with Samatha my Bichon so I would keep her. Everything was fine until Stir claimed my house. But luckily Pumpkin and Tabby get along great. And you know how anti social Stir is.
That’s awesome! I wish I knew how Peaches was health-wise…..when I took her for her first vet visit she got SO freaked out, was shaking uncontrollably, started spontaniously losing all her hair……the vet gave her initial shots, spayed her, and told me as long as she was to be an indoor-only cat, don’t bring her back unless she got out (no chance, she’s never even tried) or had contact with another animal (none but Monkey, and Monkey went to the vet before she met Peaches), or had health problems. He said she was so scared of other people and anti- social that it was more harmful to her health to go to the vet than to just stay home and be that cat, basically…..Anyone else here have a cat like that?
Monkey, on the other hand, walks out of her carrier like she owns the place….she just wants everybody to love her
Everybody just saw the vet, who only makes house calls. It’s been years since I’ve been able to afford annual exams for everyone, but this summer I can.
All the young ones are fine, healthy as rocks except for an extra half pound or so on the ribs though they already lost a little they had needed to lose; they will be four next month. Mimi claimed the scale, “expensive bed”, she, like me, can choose the most expensive thing in the room, she is between six and eight. She and Kelly kept trying to help with other exams.
The tortie girls are wonderfully healthy at 17 and 19, though Kelly is still bothered by a little “inflammatory bowel disease”–she’s really stressed out by the Big Four, she has no tortitude–we increased Cookie’s dose of Tapazole.
No one got nailed, no one made horrible noises, peed or did anything else unseemly. I asked if cats in other houses treated their annual exams as a social engagement, no, they were usually watching their backs for attack. Gone are the days when I had cats of all ages with all sorts of health complications who might not take your face off but make a heck of a lot of noise.
I’m just glad the girls are okay. I’ve been watching Cookie grow somewhat frail and Kelly has lost some weight, but it’s not out of the ordinary for their age.
Bernadette you had some really good results at the vets. To have so many and have not sibling or other problems at the vets says a lot about well behaved (just threw that in) kitties. I am glad they are all good. Cookie is the matriarch of the family and as she shows a little adjustment is made for her to stay with you and keep you and she happy. Job well done kits.
I’m so glad the check ups went so well, Bernadette! I’m especially thrilled that Cookie and Kelly are doing so well for their ages.
Good news for animal rescue volunteers!
http://philanthropy.com/blogs/philanthropytoday/animal-rescue-volunteer-allowed-to-write-off-expenses/36266?sid=pt&utm_source=pt&utm_medium=en
That is great news for animal rescue volunteers. I hope it is not overturned by a higher court. I know the expenses can be huge for volunteers to do this. So Harry and Bernadette and all the others who rescue, I hope this stands up in the courts for you folks.
Sometimes there is nothing nicer than to see the Tax Court lose a case. Makes my day.
I’ve always been on my own, so I can’t claim anything. I just wish I could claim them all as the cost of art materials–after all, if I had to pay models, that would be an expense. Here, I jsut feed them and give them veterinary care.
Just add them to your list of employees. Food and medical expenses will be covered. Catnip and toy mice might be questioned.
Bernadette, if you housed, fed and paid medical for models, in lieu of salary, would those expenses be deductable? I think, in theory, the models would have to declare that as income, and it would be deductable. Of course, your cats probably aren’t filing returns. Maybe this ain’t such a great test case. Giuseppe wo’t even wind up in an adjoining cell to Bernie, because he’ll be in a Federal pen.
I actually did discuss it with a tax attorney at one point who looked for any statute that might allow it, but it was no go. The only time you can claim expenses for animals is when they are considered livestock or merchandise. Eek!
Giuseppe will be deported as an illegal alien
Not sure how the names Mewsette, Mr. Sunshine and Jelly Bean will show up. Aliases for drug dealers no doubt.
I’m sure Cookie, Kelly, Mewsette and Mimi sound like a bunch of you-know-whats, and maybe Mr. Sunshine is the nice man who gives them their paycheck, Giuseppe and Jelly Bean are the muscle. See, if I did a little graphic novel about this, or even just one illustration with this as the theme, shouldn’t I be able claim at least a day of food and litter?
Are Harley and Buell livestock or family ?
Hitch them up to a plow and take a picture. Or better yet you could just claim the cost of their food as a “landscaping expense”.
No Bernadette, you can’t come with me to the Fed Pen., arrangements will be with Rachel Joining me.
I think if Jay is zoned agricultural, and planted a crop of something besides catnip, he might, could qualify for the farmers tax breaks. Harry would have to find someone to advise on how to qualify for farmers deductions. I know some of the farmers get paid not to seed their land. Who knows, something may be there with a little alterations, and done legally.
“landscaping expense” – I like that. Any crop planted gets eaten. Put in clover, grass and chicory last year.
Bernadette write that book, cats + pimps (excuse me folks for this one I don’t feel well) . I that book were written do you have any idea how many people would be on that. Like fleas on a dog.
Written in narrative, with pictures, and talking cats, and bossy money collecting cat pimps. Man I could go with that. Do an outline in your spare time 🙂 and you may have a top selling R rated kitty book.
Fantastic news.
Guess I have to keep receipts now for B&W and Bernie for Big Orange.
Actually, it only applies where you’re working with a recognized charity, and incurring unreimbursed expenses in connection with that charity – it’s basically the same as donating money to that charity. So, I could deduct food and cat litter for foster cats that LDCRF asks me to foster – but unless you’re working at the request of, for example a rescue group, B&W and Big Orange’s costs aren’t going to be deductable. You also need to get a letter from the charity, if it exceeds $250 in a given year.
Not a tax lawyer. But I used to live with one.
Well, I know Bernie and I would do it for free anyhow.
But we couldd have given higher class tuna if we could deduct it.
Higher class tuna. U r kidding right. Big O had the best tuna. Not to mention fresh salmon. And I don’t like salmon at all. Steeler doesn’t like it either. She likes her own food, with the exception of an occasional PB&J taste, and a teaspoon of French Vanilla ice cream.
Big O is eating better than us. I brought home a CARE package from the graduation party on Saturday. I have leftovers. Works for me.
Haven’t seen Big O. today. Although my grasscutter is outside doing the grounds.
No uh uh not me. I have been audited by the State going back 10 years, yep the State can and will go back 10 years. Don’t throw away your PA tax forms. I was ok there. The Fed IRS has audited us 3xs. Finally quit. I don’t understand how random audits are done, but it seemed to appear we were regular random picks. It was with the last IRS audit the State pulled the 10 year audit on us. Actually the IRS had to refund a very small amount + interest. Trust me not enough for a trip to the vet.
I am not about to file for Big O. Then the medical cost for him. Nope I am not going there. Fed Pens don’t allow for good behavior time off. Remember that folks. 10 years is 10 years. In the State Pen 10 years could be 3 months.
I think I will just quietly go along and keep Steeler. But if Steeler were given an SS# maybe I could claim her as a dependent. Nah, they wouldn’t buy that either.
My very good Tortie family of friends. Today is an update on myself and guess who, BIG O.
I am lousy with the antibiotic, but only 8 more days of it. Get another rabies shot tomorrow. I can get thru those now. 6/13 6/17 and final 6/24 then I am done with the shots.
Now to Big O. He just showed up on my porch again. I have removed my trap, it is just to old and it’s isn’t catching him. He cried outside the door. I decided to feed him and give him cold water. So he ate, he didn’t leave a morsel. Even tho he is back, I will complete the shots just to be safe. I hope he can be trapped next week. I am not telling on him. Not now. I have already gone thru the worst of the treatment and I can deal with three more shots.
He needs help more than I do. I do hope he can get it. I will not tell anyone he bit me if he is trapped. Not now. I put pics on my FB page for you to see if you want.
Steeler stayed back from the door. But as I was downloading his pics she started to give me hell. Yes she did. I was amazed and extremely happy to hear her give me the dickens. She seems to say ” no way does my Mom help that cat”. It was funny. So now she has taken up guard in the sunroom. He did go, but he will most likely come back.
That is all I have for you now. Big O is alive and I will finish the shots to be safe. I would not have him killed.
It is a good day.
The fact that he came back means he feels safe with you. And the BB’s are not life threatening. Don’t blame you for not telling on him. Poor cat just wants to live and be safe.
Sorry you still have to get those shots.
Better me than him. Steeler does not want him here any more. She let that be know today.
So sorry to hear you’re having such a hard time with the antibiotic. Are you taking it with food?
The good news on the rabies series is that you’ll never have to do this again – the immunity will last.
And I love hearing that Steeler is feeling well enough to “defend her turf” and claim her mom for herself.
INGRID, first let me make sure I understand this. If I ever get bitten again, I am already vaccinated for life? Won’t have to go this this again? That would be great. But I know bites require antibiotics.
The antibiotics have been taken with food yesterday, this am without and same nauseous result. Tomorrow is another shot day. then the 17 the the 24. That will be the end of the shots. 8 more days on the antibiotic. But I see how I really do need that.
Steeler finally had enough. She actually started talking at me. Her voice is hoarse but she showed her stuff. I loved it. Then later I looked out and watched her at the door looking out. I guess no cats are going to be welcome anymore. But I have to keep her excitement level down.
That was the fun part of the day. Seeing Big O. alive and eating made me feel good also. He actually was meowing at my door. After he bit me. Poor soul, I hope they can trap him this week and help him. The TNR group Harry found are going to set traps. He deserves to live.
Bernie, yes, typically, immunity from the rabies vaccine lasts for life. Should you ever get bitten again, they can just run a simple titer blood test to verify protection.
This makes having to go thru this easier, just knowing never again. Gosh I hope that stays true.
Yeah, that’s bad.
I sympathize, it is always a possibility here too, in the “swamp”.
It seems there is way too much water around, this year.
Thunder and lightning. And a total downpour
Pumpkin just came up from the basement. He was soaked.
About 6 to 8″ of water in there. A muddy pool.
Guess I call the insurance co tomorrow.
Oh no – so sorry to hear that!
Jay I wish there was a way to give you a helping hand. I know from past experience how terribly hurtful and frustrating it is to be flooded. If there’s anything I or we can do, just let me or us know.
Get clorox when you are ready to finish the washing down to kill any mold or stains left by the mud.
I am so sorry to hear this.
Is it just rainwater or did some actual creekwater come in too? Once you get the water out, and even before, get a big fan or two down there along with a dehumidifier to keep the mold and mildew from developing. We’ve had a really wet spring and my normally damp but manageable basement has been out of control. Good luck!
It was rain water washing down the hill from the pasture to the back of my house. Came up from the foundation.
Muddy water.
I turned my dehumidifier off as there was no way it could keep up.
Now have a new 12 Gal shop vac as my old one just died.
Thanks for the offer to help. Just knowing you would makes me feel better.
Jay, I am behind on these post a little. Having said that any water coming from the pasture into your home will be contaminated with e coli from the waste on the land and soil. So you should wear rubber gloves and a mask to clean up the mess. Waterproof boots also. I can lend you my pink and while high rain boots, if you need them.
That might get you more help than you want.
Nothing better than a purring cat beside you. Steeler is making sure you rest – glad to hear it. And yes, there is scientific evidence that the frequency of a cat’s purr has healing properties.
And a Feral Hiss is not just a drink 🙂
Stirfry has a calming effect on me.
Just starting to rain with thunder now. Going out to watch it.
Jay, I wil check with the farmer and see if he knows where to get powdered antibiotic for animals.
I stopped at the local animal hospital. Asked if there was anything to be given to a feral/outdoor cat thatt was injured. The said a ointmen or antibiotic spray if possible
They said Acepromazine Sedation medicine which will make him drowsy enoungh to pick up and put in a carrier
Bernadette/Harry/Ingrid/Lianimal/anyone – ever hear of this? Is it safe? A good idea ???
I think on a yahoo site or somewhere a antibiotic powder was sprinkled on food to help an injured feral. This might be good to keep on hand.
I don’t think ointment is realistic – how are you going to apply it to a feral cat? I think the best way to treat a feral with antibiotics is to mix it in with the food you’re giving them. It doesn’t have to be a powder, it can be a liquid, or crushed up pills. That being said, I’m not a fan of randomly giving antibiotics, and legally, they have to be prescribed by a veterinarian. Obtaining them any other way is illegal.
She did ask if the cat was able to be touched. In my case with B&W – yes.
In Bernies case of Big Orange – no.
That’s why I asked about a powder. She said the local Vet might approve.
Most vets will work with you if you want to help a feral/stray.
I’ve gotten all my assistance from either vets who know what I’m doing or are sympathetic or groups who trap and rescue cats. If you have trouble finding a vet let me know.
Hi folks. I am ok a little worse for the wear, but doing alright. I see Jay didn’t raise cane yet, with me, and he did tell a little of himself.
This afternoon, I am going to go to my granddaughter’s graduation party. In the fall she will be attending WVU on a scholarship. Really proud of her accomplishments. It was planned for anyone that wanted to go ATVing through the bike paths at my son’s place. 62+ acres. It looks like the rain may have washed that idea out. But I will see. Taking my boots and helmet just in cast we get to go. The only thing to worry about on the ride is not the black bears or coyotes or wolves, but it is those darn rattlesnakes. Each year WVU plans and coordinates a rattlesnake hunt on his land and the state game lands that abut his property. They catch this horrid creatures to get the venom for antivenin serums for, yep snake bits. I hope the trees umbrellas kept the paths a little drier for riding, but I doubt it. So I will take my Smitty and we will go target shooting. I shoot with my right hand so I am good to go there. We do not shoot any direction to hurt anyone. There are more than enough trees to shoot for. I know I will be doing that.
After the party, and most have gone home, and it is just family, I will tell them about the cat and the series of rabies shots.
Then I will have to be lectured at by them for a while and let them feel better. I will be back this evening. So I hope to have a lot to read when I get back. So long for now. Steeler says get off this thing.
You can tell them that sometimes, when you’re trying to do something good, it isn’t easy and you have to sacrifice a little bit of yourself, withstand a few injuries in the name of reaching a laudable goal, and know in the end your suffering was for a noble cause. It’s hard to look into the eyes of a suffering cat and not try to help. Harry backed into this volunteer rescue thing accidentally, after having a beloved 8 month old kitten die in his arms. It comes on us in different ways, and it’s never easy.
And then tell them that any complaints about your behavior and lectures can be delivered to me, instead. I’m happy to receive all unpleasantness on your behalf. Warn them though that I’m also NRA certified with a .22 (You didn’t see that coming, did you Bernie?)
You got me there Harry. But a 22. I have 357 + 38.
So I told the family before I left, we were just unwinding and Terri (daughter-in-law) asked how I hurt my shoulders. I had said as anyone went to hug me, please don’t touch my shoulders, they are sore. So I then told them I am being treated with the rabies vac and then, it was HOW. WHEN.
So I gave them the short version and said my friends on this site kept after me to seek medical help so I finally did. Told them called into dr. for evisit and explained that I needed antibiotics for stray cat bit. Then the way I told by the Dr. to get to the hospital. Of course the normal you should have called. uh uh they would have found that cat. uh uh They would have shot it. I said nope. He was only trying to get help. I just hope he is ok.
So of course i heard the same old story about mom when are you going to move closer. I jokingly said which of you what to give up your rooms. That usually ends the conversation.
The graduation party was very successful and had a good time. We even had Mother Nature put on a fireworks show for us with high winds and rain. But they had planned that could happen so the garage had been transformed into a party room with long tables and folding chairs from the rod and gun club. Lots of badges there and we did get to do some target shooting. No ATVing.
Too muddy. Then my grandson Zach did the unthinkable and bought out the head of a copperhead snake in some king of preservative. I was out of there like lightning. A neighbor of there also did not care much for the visual came outside and told that’s what it is. I of course didn’t care. Then he really added fuel to the fire and said I was parked on the stones where he had killed it.
All the way home all I could think of was a snake had gotten under my hood. Finally got home and thought no, my luck can’t be all that bad.
Harry I was behind a vehicle, on the way home. I had my camera at the ready. At the red light I took a pic of it. I think you will like it. I am going to post it on FB. Just for you.
I’m so glad you had a good time. Now get some rest!
The boss has spoken. 🙂 I am resting the rest of the evening. Steeler resting right beside me.
Mom Ingrid has Spoken.
It’s her blog and you have to listen.
In the rules somewhere.
Will get a Lawyer on it.
A purring cat beside you speeds up recovery
I will not give up but as Torties go I, heck how do they listen. But I will talk to Steeler and see what she wants me to do. That is after she finished her ham.
I love to hear the purring beside me. Then the nice deep sleep Steeler goes into as if to say life is ok. You have no idea how good it feels to see her like this. Of course she takes up a lot of bed for a little girl. But she can have the bed. I will take the sleeping bag for her.
Well, so much for my wish for a peaceful and relaxing weekend for Bernie & Steeler. But it certainly sounds like you’ll be having a great time!!
Sharon I had a great time today. I am sore but that I can deal with. Thanks for you good wishes. I can’t be gotten rid of that easy. You folks are to good to let go of. I’m sticking around and so is Steeler.
Here’s wishing you good weather for the party and ATV riding. May your paths be dry and clear of anything that slithers.
Have fun shooting. I know that is relaxing.
Would love to be there when they try to lecture you. But they might know better. Any animal lover will be glad your OK but understand why you did what you did. As Harry said – part of the risks of caring more about them than of yourself.
Had pretty good weather for most of the afternoon. Could not go AtVing to wet and muddy. Things that slither were around. Hopefully The patch will dry and I will have a lead rider so if there is something on the trail, I can get out of there. 🙂 I did do target shooting with a number of mens and women with badges. We had a great time. Megan said she is the only grad who had a target shooting range on her day. None of her friends parties would have that. Yes Megan and Zach also participated.
I love all kinds of animals. I was an only child, and my dad wasn’t actually a farmer, but he always had different kinds of animals around. I wish Jay had some goats. I think I love goats more than anything besides cats. My mom always said when I was a toddler I
would go missing and she’d be frantically looking for me…9 times out of 10 she’d find me in with the goats, curled up sleeping using one as a pillow. One of my first memories is feeding a little abandoned black sheep with a glass coke bottle with a nipple on it, and also taming a grey and white spotted feral cat named Morris
My mom said the goats hated her though. She claimed every time she’d come to get me from the goat pen they’d try to chase her off…can you imagine a stand-off between a mother and half a dozen goats, both protecting what they percieved to be “thier kid?” lol
Lianimal, I do have a goat. Nutmeg is a Boer goat I aquired in 2000. Before Stirfry became an indoor kitty she was living somewhere outside. In a bitter cold week in Feb of 2002 I found her sleeping in the polydome with Nutmeg. One of the first pics of Stir iis with her and Nutmeg labeled Nutmeg and kitten Dec 22 2001.
Then she was just a black colored cat that followed me everywhere.
After that cold week I decided to take her in (Stirfry – NOT NUTMEG).
But she ran off that day. I though an animal got her of cat accident. 3 days later she came back and I took her in . Months later 6 kittens were born. 3 survived the night. My Pumpkin is the only male and my son, Josh has the Calico. The other gray fleff ball went to a friend at work. Bioth females have attitude problems but Punky is the sweetest cat. Never hissed in 10 years.
I’m going to have to go check that out, like I said, the only thing I like more than goats are cats….goats have so much personality…true, much goat personality seems to be obnoxious to most people, then again, so are a lot of torti trairts. It takes a special person to love a goat, and it takes a special perso to love a torti lol
Here is another story Jay has on Stir FB page about how Stir seen the butt testing the electric fence. Enjoy. He is going to get me for this. Then check out his FB his and Stir’s.
Stirfry Davenport
Was a slow morning and was sleeping at the window. Dad went out to play with those big furry critters. Got a laugh cause Dad and Harley danced and jumped around. Both made funny noises. Hope he does it againStirfry Davenport
Was a slow morning and was sleeping at the window. Dad went out to play with those big furry critters. Got a laugh cause Dad and Harley danced and jumped around. Both made funny noises. Hope he does it again
Hey tortie family I stole this off Jay’s FB page for all to read. You should go see some of the good stories he has there. I told him to put some on here. So I am putting this one on for him. Maybe he will start to share his great stories with us. Than again, I may have to go into hiding. So here’s Jay’s story:
Jay Davenport
Fence testing this morning. Hooked up Buell and Harley to put them out to cut the grass. As I bent over and was putting the 2nd clip on Harley’s halter I verified the fence was on with my butt. Yes – it works just fine and as I had my hand on Harley he found out too. NOT A HAPPY MINI !!!!!
June 5 at 8:53am ·
lol….I managed to catch that one on my wall the other day…I didn’t comment because I didn’t feel there was a need to add insult to injury…but I still got a good laugh lol
Wild child, Jay has some funny tales with as I refer as his two sets of 3 musketeers. I asked him to think about sharing them here. He always supports everyone here. He almost never post his stories. So I am probably going hear from him, but there are some great and funny stories on his FB. and on Stirs. They should be hear so everyone can see the fun he has with his furry friends. He loves living on his paradise of land with the musketeers. So lets all keep after him to post his tales here. If not, I will keep borrowing them and putting them here for all to see. There are so many good ones. These two put together were hilarious. Like to have seen this when it happened. But he write it so well you can visualize it happening. me too LOL
I really wish there was a way to choose which FB posts to read first. I want to read what Stirfry and Piper and Brooke and everyone else have to say (and you guys), but I’ve been saving a lot of real and actual headaches from eyestrain by NOT reading FB. I spend so much time on the computer already with everyday design work then my own posts it’s just too much. I guess I’ll just have to check your sites individually. I know I’m missing a lot of stories!
Bernadette, you can create lists in Facebook. That will allow you to only view status updates from that particular list. Go into “Edit Friends” and there’s a “Create a List” button toward the top right of the screen.
Ingrid, thank you! I thought that was only for sending, not for receiving. Now I can catch up on you guys and a few others–especially to see those photos and videos!
Ugh, I felt bad when I had to get out of Pitbull rescue because I couldn’t afford a place to keep them anymore, but I do NOT miss dealing with the public….ignorant people, misinformed people, people who don’t think a dog can be “fulfilled” unless they have one litter of puppies, never thinking about how many dogs get euthanized every year…hell every DAY! People who think certain breeds of dogs (like pitbulls) are born evil, backyard breeders who blindly spread all kinds of wierd genetic problems…..
I really don’t like most people very much, can you tell? lol
I feel bad that I can’t foster anymore, but I’m also glad, in a way. I donate money to the ASPCA and go walk dogs for my local vet….that’s what I can do right now, and I’m glad I no longer have to deal with ignorant people.
My life is so much less stressful now. I never had a pittie who was aggressive toward humans, no matter how badly they had been abused or neglected. They were all big muscular sweethearts, but I had a few that were dog aggressive. I had to do the whole crate and rotate thing. Anyway, I loved it, it was necessary, but I’m almost relieved that I can’t do it anymore.
Bless you, Harry, for having the patience to deal with people
Two pairs of kittens adopted tonight – one pair was a black kitten and a brown tabby from different litters (tossed them in the same crate and they got along in the way that most kittens instantly do) and the other pair was a 6-month old tuxedo cat and a 10 week old brown tabby girl. I was glad to see the b&w cat go with a kitten- he’s just a kitten himself, but he mothered the entire litter that his foster had, grooming them, showing them the ropes. Whenever he’s been in a crate with the litter, someone always asks if he’s their mother. Unfortunately, on the whole we’re barely better than netting out – two kittens returned tonight and a cat being returned tomorrow.
Good news on the adoption, and the returns are better than being in a not acceptable home. They will have another chance.
Glad we have you out there showing others how great cats are.
It wasn’t an adoption I was happy with, but was overruled by another counselor and decided not to force the issue. I was right in the end, but I look at it as having done a service – the adopter realized they couldn’t care for kittens, and they had a place to return them, rather than having obtained free kittens and dropped them off at the pound.
Harry you and yours have heart of gold. Always trying so hard to get forever homes for these little ones. So proud to know you, and people like you exist.
OMG!!!!! This is so perfect….Tortie singing metal…..I can’t flippin’ believe I found this! LMAO…..Bernie, even you have to click on this one, it’s hilarious!
http://youtu.be/8e4VQ7yN6DA
Ok Wild Child I did click on this one. This is the first one in a long time. You get my stamp of approval. I think everyone should see this. It is really funny. But I need to tell you Steeler reacts the same way when groomed. Love it.
lol…you should post a video, Bernie!
See, Monkey’s not so strange! lol
Monkey approves, Peaches is just amazed that a torti metal star showed up on You tube. Peaches thinks Metal is overrated
Hey I just thought I would trust you this time. It was funny. Maybe someday Steeler will talk to you folks by video. For now we are going to rest.
Glad you’re back home AND you got treatment. I also hope at some point you can catch Big Orange, but I think he’s the least of your worries now.
Welcome to cat rescue.
Bernadette thank you for your kind words. I am not very good at this rescue business. But at least Big O gets a chance. I am looking to see if water pours thru all the 5 needle holes in my body on all four corners. Anyone laugh here, I will deal with you later.:)
I am as good at rescuing as Harry was at fostering. 🙂
You get an “A” for effort, and you still have all your fingers. Not bad for your, well, second try. Steeler made it seem easy!
Bernie, you are very good at rescuing. The 1st thing is to have a good heart and want to help. Putting out the food and water is more than most would have done. And you did rescue Steeler.
I won’t laugh about the needles as you know how I feel about them.
Jay and Bernadette, let me just say I gave it my best shot, and he returned the attempted rescue 5 shots back. Yes they hurt.
That is hysterical! (referring to the heavy metal tortie)
Did you guys check the orange death metal kitty? I think that’s what Bernie’s dealing with out there!
It is only bigger. That is the same thing I thought. How did he get on a video that fast. Litter bugger 🙂
Bernie has had one heck of a day. She just got back from the hospital. The human one, not the animal version! She had to get a tetanus shot, and the rabies prophylaxis vaccine, which is a series of four shots over a period of 28 days. Poor Bernie had a total of five shots today, and she does not like needles!
The bite was reported to the health department as a bite from a stray cat, but nobody seemed to care about details, so Big O is safe.
Bernie, I hope you and Steeler treat yourself to a very special dinner tonight, and I hope you both can relax now that this awful day is over for you! Both of you, feel better fast!
Glad to hear everything is okay, both for Bernie and Big O.
And Bernie, ditto what Ingrid said, treat yourself!
Just catching up – very worried when I read about the bite, and so relieved and glad that Bernie will be ok!!
Hey everyone, Bernie asked me to update you on Steeler, and on her cat bite.
Steeler went to the vet’s this morning. A few days ago, Bernie had noticed a chance in Steeler’s eye color. It went from her normal gold to a green color. This can sometimes happen with thyroid disease, but it can also be an indicator of other issues, including high blood pressure. Unfortunately, Steeler was not a cooperative patient when it came to having her blood pressure checked. She was pretty upset and shaking, poor little girl, and any reading the vet would have obtained would not have been accurate.
Steeler’s bloodwork showed some elevated liver enzymes. This could be a side effect of the medication. It didn’t seem anything the vet wanted to address at this point, and Steeler will have to have her bloodwork redone in another couple of weeks anyway to see if the thyroid medication works. Those results will determine whether she’s a candidate for the Radiocat treatment – so let’s all think good thoughts for that!
Meanwhile, Bernie also had her cat bite to deal with. It was a little red and swollen this morning, and the vet, who I’m sure has seen her share of cat bites, urged her to get medical attention and get on antibiotics. So Bernie is on her way to her doctor.
As you all know, Bernie was woried about having to report this bite because of what it might mean for Big O. We all want Big O to be okay, but I know I’m not alone in saying that we want Bernie to be okay a heck of a lot more! Hopefully, Big O will be fine if Bernie just reports this as a bite by a stray, but that’s out of anyone’s control. What matters is that Bernie gets on antibiotics before this bite becomes infected. So rather than speculating what this might mean for Big O, let’s focus on Bernie’s hand healing quickly and Steeler getting better.
I have been following these events pretty closely, I even check them at work, something I don’t normally do (my own policy).
Unfortunately, I cannot offer any wisdom on any of these issues, all I can say is that I am concerned and hoping for the best out comes.
Still sending positive thoughts for Steeler, it’s good to know that the vet wasn’t overly concerned
Here’s hoping Steeler’s elevated liver enzymes are just a temporary side effect of the meds, and that her bloodwork shows that she’s a great candidate for the Radiocat treatment! In the meantime, here’s wishing both Steeler and Bernie a very peaceful and relaxing weekend – they’ve certainly earned it.
I’m glad Harry talked to Bernie, so she’ll know what to watch for as far as infection. I’m more concerned about the fact that we don’t know Big O’s rabies status. There’s no telling from just looking at a cat whether he has rabies or not, the foaming at the mouth only happens during the final stages. Bernie, you may want to call your family doctor and discuss the possibility of you needing rabies prophylactic shots. Not fun, but rabies is not something to mess with.
Thanks everyone for your help tonight concerning my cat bite. I now have all the information and care that I need and will watch and take care of it.
My heartfelt thanks go out to each and every one of you.
Goodnight now.
Bernie, even if you’re asleep…
Bites and bad scratches have happened to me many times from rescuing cats. If you say the cat was your cat they won’t do a thing.
If he broke the skin with his teeth you need to get to an emergency room. Washing with soap and water, alcohol, iodine, antibiotic ointment don’t work for puncture wounds. One of my bites I thought wasn’t too bad but I ended up in the ER the night after the bite getting IV antibiotics and my hand soaking in iodine, all night long. No fun.
They will NOT take the cat if you say he is yours, even if he is not. Make sure you take care of this.
Everyone – I’ve spoken to Bernie tonight. It’s not a deep bite, and she knows what to look for. I too have been in the ER, watching the bag of IV antibiotic go in, so I’m not treating it lightly. I will talk to her again tomorrow.
I think her bigger worry is what will happen to Big O if she goes for treatment. Just reassure her that if she says he belongs to her they cannot take him no matter what he does to her.
Won’t they ask for a rabies cert?
They never did with me, just advised me to keep the animal confined and observe the animal’s behavior for at least ten days. If it bites someone who doesn’t own it, that’s a completely different story.
If he’s foaming at the mouth….if he appears to be hypersensitive to sound, If he avoids water, If he refuses to eat…he may be rabid.
Otherwise he’s probably just a scared, hurt cat who needs some love
He is not doing any of the above. He is starving for food. I have it in the trap, but he was trying to get into the house.
He just wants someone to take him in. I want to help him but he can’t come in here. He needs to go to the cage.
What if you left out some old towels or blankets in the cage or a carrier so you can close him in and get him?
And I know Steeler wouldn’t like this, but if you can lure him into your house (into a separate room or bathroom) or a garage to house him over night until you can get in touch with the Mt. Pleasant people?
He doesn’t deserve to be kiilled, but your health is very important.
Rachel. I don’t want to have him in the house. I can’t risk that with Steeler and her condition.
I don’t want to go into that. The trap is on the back porch with fresh tuna in it and water. he has to go into the trap. The trap will close as soon as he steps on the plate. But so far he hasn’t gone in far enough to step on it. He backs out to fast. He is very long. If you look at the pics of him on my FB you can see how long he is when he ventured into the trap. Thanks
If I was there I would take him in.
He was like Steeler when you first saw her.
These cats can see into your heart that you will protect them.
Unfortunately the Tortie go in 1st and it became a 1 cat house. In my case Tabby was already here before Stir.
Is Bernie foaming at the mouth ? 😛
Highly doubtful that a cat that was shot with BB’s days ago and want food will have rabies. But those cops are trigger happy and would kill him if they suspected.
If you could get him into a seperate room maybe Bob could help you. or a friend that doesn’t mind risking his arm.
Did you catch him?
I’d get a tetanus shot if you’re not up to date, other than that, if he’s not showing rbies symptoms you should be fine
No I didn’t catch him. He was trying to get into the door. I didn;t see him along the wall.
Are you still bleeding, how bad are the cuts? Dad just got home if you want to call the house to talk to him about what you should do.
I am calling.
Tell Dad I left a message on his cell. Don’t have home #.
I will tell him. I facebook messaged you our house number
That’s what I was told after I got bitten by a mole….they’re not known to carry rabies, but I should definitely get a Tetanus shot…..especially if I’m going to be doing stupid things like picking up moles and other wild/feral animals and petting every random stray creature that I see
RED ALERT HELP
Hey guys HELP. I was just bitten by Big O trying to stop him from coming in the house. When I opened the back storm door he was along the wall where I couldn’t see him. I pushed Steeler back and pushed at Big O to get him back out of the door. He managed to sink one tooth into my finger and clawed my palm before I could get him out of the way so I could close the door.
What do I do now. Do I have to report him to the police. Do I have to go get help for the single bite that drew blood.
Someone have some answers for me.
Bernie,
I found this online.
A. In addition to basic first aid, which includes stopping the bleeding, cleaning the wound with soap and water, and applying an antibiotic ointment and bandage to the bite, you should call your local animal control agent, health department, and/or pediatrician to see if your child is at risk for…http://pediatrics.about.com/od/weeklyquestion/a/0407_cat_bite.htm
We are on the phone with my dad and he said definitely to clean the cut. If you want to call I will message you our house number.
Mom said first wash it with soap and water. If it gets red or swollen you will probably need to have anti biotics and that a tetnus shot isn’t the right thing to get.
Mom also says maybe you could get the organization that you were working with to trap and quarantine Big O so that they can ensure he doesn’t have rabies since he’s been around for a while he probably doesn’t. but if you report it to the authorities they will probably euthanize him but that your health is top priority.
Dad will be home and if you want us to call her to let us know. and again I’ll just facebook you my number.
I can’t reach the Cat Connection in the evening. I will call tomorrow early. I have a vet appt with Steeler in the early AM.
I don’t want to report him to the Police. They will kill him. He just wanted to come in and I stopped him, so he didn’t attach me, he just wanted to come into the house. I had to react to keep Steeler in and him out.
Never a dull moment here. If your Dad can get a hold of someone at the cat connection in Mt. Pleasant tonight it would be great. I only have a # on my phone but it is not shelter #. It is a personal #. I will post it on your message on FB. Maybe your Dad will be able to get a hold of someone.
This cat doesn’t need killed. I am sure of it. I certainly don’t think he should be, he has been so mistreated.
Rachel I have poured alcohol on the bite and the claw. The claw really bled. If I call anyone I have to call the State Police and the cat will be shot.
I was concerned if I should do anything else. Never been bitten by a cat before. Thanks Rachel. I don’t want to have to call the State Police, I would hate to see him shot.
So what’s up with Big Orange? Have you tried sitting on the porch singing Patsy Cline songs? I’ve tamed every feral I ever tried to tame singing Patsy cline. Ferals REALLY seem to love the rythm….obviously not the voice, because I can’t sing…but I don’t think animals really care if you’re talented or not, for one they just like certain rythms, and for 2, they like the fact that you’re giving hem special attenion…..But I DID have a giant yellow Tom who would curl up around the speaker and purr whenever I put Patsy on
They seem to like Walking after Midnight the best. That’s why I think it’s more about the rythm than anything else…that’s no-where near her best song, but it’s the only one that has that rythm, and it’s the only one my ferals have ever responded to. they REALLY seem to like that song!
Now if they like Walking After Midnight, then they are my kind of Cat. I will go walking after midnight myself. Ok Harry and the rest of you guys, no Snowflake jokes.
Hey Wild Child if I sat on the porch and sang the whole county would pack up and leave. You really don’t ever want to hear me sing. I will let Harry and Rachel do the singing. I haven’t seen Big O since yesterday. I put a stronger fish in the trap late this afternoon after the storms went thru. Hope he comes back again. I don’t want him to be lost. But no singing our here. I would be the only one left in the County.
Trust me Bernie, I can’t sing I am SO horrible….it’s legendary how awful a singer I am. But it doesn’t keep my cats from liking it! They just like the rythm and that you are paying attention to them!
WILD CHILD Look at my post. it’s new. Then get on here and help me get some answers. Thanks.
I haven’t said anything until now, but about a week ago I came home and found this really country-looking pop up trailer set up in my yard (well, the yard of my apartment building) and I said to my friend…”Oh…yay….gypsies” lol……a couple days later there was a huge pimped out grill, then, the next week, THERE”S A FRIGGIN’ DEER DECOY!!!!! With bullet and arrow marks!
I posted the Hillbilly-ness of it all on my facebook page lol
I need to get out of here….help?!? lol
Hey looks like Country folks have moved in. The decoy is in bad shape. Grill in front yard classy. What are you having a landlord war. Turn the Monkey on them.
Just for fun, you metal-heads, sharks mellow when they year AC/DC, rubbing their shark snouts against the caged speakers and smiling. They’ll be trying a few other metal bands: http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2011/06/08/137059984/5-songs-for-sharks-that-like-ac-dc?ps=cprs
Sharks = torties? Torties = sharks?
Thanks Bernadette. guess I have a lot in common with Sharks also.
Loved it.
Added these groups to listen to more of ther music.
Monkey will be happy to.
Jay, they’re all some of my favorites too–those old-timers! They sound tame now. Cookie doesn’t mind it, but Kelly just doesn’t get the power thing.
Torties = landsharks?
I’m old enough to get that…
The other night, Sabrina and I were in the bedroom, and Brooke was outside the door, sticking her paw under and shaking the door. And indeed, all I could think was, “Candygram.”
Oh yea. Call the candyman. Sammy Davis Jr. Who can forget his songs. But don’t sing Harry. Please don’t sing.
Ah, not Candyman. Candy GRAM.
http://www.spike.com/video-clips/gytf2i/land-shark
Candygram is at about 1:50. Told ya I’m old.
Harry that’s not even mature. I know before I write this one, don’t everyone jump on me, I know, I like the Village People, remember Macho Man and YMCA. I play that and Steeler doesn’t leave the room. Among other of course. I have to keep her cultural experiences growing.
lol…AWESOME skit! My cousin Brad (also the one who named me Lianimal) used to do that at those all night parties I used to have when I was younger…he’d wait until everybody went to sleep and start knocking on the door hollering “Candygram!”…hmmm, ok, Pizza Delivery!”
CANDY MAN! Who can make the sun rise? Sprinkle it with dew? Something…wrap it in two? the candy man can, candy man can.
Sorry Bernie, couldn’t resist
Thanks Rachel
here you are This will help you with the lyrics. No music
http://www.lyricsondemand.com/s/sammydavisjrlyrics/thecandymanlyrics.html#.TfFIDB4Tu2I;email
Bernadette you are one of my favorite people. But I am still not into metal. But nice try. Jay and Lianimal and the others will go for that. Get me some nice mellow Perry Como, Vic Damone, some Sinatra, Presley (lots) and others rock & roll. But no metal. Steeler is all the metal I can handle.
lol…I saw that on the news a while back…I posted about it, but I don’t think anyone saw it…love it!
Just nominated CC for an award
https://ingridking.com/2011/06/08/help-the-conscious-cat-win-the-2011-pettie-award-for-best-cat-blog/
You deserve it Ingrid (with help from Ruby and Allegra)
Done! Feel the tortie roar!
I just heard a very loud Tortie Roar. Very loud.
Nominated CC for an award. All you Torties friends. Let’s get this thing rolling for Ingrid. Roll fast and then faster. She deserves this honor. After all, she let’s us take over her blog and doesn’t say a word. Just let’s us have fun.
Go to: https://ingridking.com/20ll/06/08/help-the-conscious-cat-win-the-2011-pettie-award-for-the-best-cat-blog/.
Stole the above from Jay’s post. Thanks Jay.
OK TORTIES FRIENDS AND ALL FRIENDS. LET’S GET THIS AWARD FOR INGRID.
Thanks, everyone! Bernie, maybe you could enlist the help of all those college kids who got Steeler the 50,000+ views on the tv station website 🙂
Will work on it. Darn kids are out of school. But will see what I can do with friends to go after their friends. and anyone else. I will get a hold of a college student to see if she can get the ball rolling. Will try. Anyone else know a college student. Write or call them get them to get their dorms and fraternities to get on the site and vote. That is how the snowball works.
OK Ingrid. We will try.
Done here too….multiple categories!
Lianimal now you send the link to all your friends and ask them to help Ingrid, then ask them to send on to their friends and keep it going. THat is how we can win this for Ingrid.
Already did it! Y’all know I love this place!
Thank you, Lynn!
I have a tortoise shell cat and she is the sweetest thing! she meows a lot and wants your attention all the time. I love her. She recently had kittens. One of them is a tortie just like her. I want to keep her but since i am in a place that doesnt allow pets that arent caged i have to leave her with my parents. But hopefully my parents wont give her away and wait until i have a place that allows kitties. Im sorry to hear about Amber i bet she’s waiting for you at the rainbow bridge in kitty heaven =)
Hi Katie, glad to see ya here.
What is your Torties name?
Tou wil learn a lot here and make wonderful friends.
Torties may be anti social but they bring their partents closer together.
Katie, thank you for your kind words about Amber. If you’d like, you can post photos of your tortie and her kitten on the Conscious Cat Facebook page.
Katie, welcome. You have chosen the best blog ever about Torties and others. You will truly enjoy the conversations and humor we have. Please post pics of you little ones on the site Ingrid gave you. You will find pictures of most of our Torties there. That way your Tortie will be among some great company. Join us often here.
Welcome! Can’t wait to see pics and learn more about them!
I’m so glad to hear Big O is still around. Hopefully, he’ll come out again tonight when it cools off. Fingers and paws crossed.
I am hoping also. Sleeping is hard. Keep getting up looking into the trap. Wish he would come for cold water. I have it in the trap with food. Will put tuna in after the sun goes down. THere is EVO there now. But with the heat, I held off on tuna until the sun goes down. Wish me luck. I might get to sleep a full night one of these days. Got cat duty now.
Jay, most torties “just react”….that’s why I said” Peaches (The Tuxie), being the more sensible one” lol
‘Cause Monkey would just be happy to go along with the crowd….Peaches would be more likely to plan it well enough to keep them all from getting busted! lol
We definately have to get Monkey to pick the music for the jail break.
Please just let me stay in jail. I beg of you. If you are a true friend please.:)
Bernie, I’m so glad he’s still hanging around! If he hadn’t reappeared, likely his injuries or an infection were life-threatening, but he should be in good enough shape to hang in there until he can be caught. Try tuna in the trap, only during the day, just a little bit on a plate at a time so the smell is fresh.
I know this sounds crazy, but if you have a little decorative fountain of any sort, put that outside and have it running because the sound of running water is much more attractive than still water. It will also stay cool, clean and aerated.
Are you still in touch with the organization that would help you trap? If an animal is too big or too small for a trap, I often used a drop net to throw over them, something they’d get tangled in. Of course, they are really p—ed when you do that and you need something else to get them into because they are really thrashing, but it usually works.
Keep us tuned.
Bernie, also – if the tuna doesn’t work, when working with ferals my friends use warm, deboned, de-skinned, KFC. Steeler requests that you bring her some, as well. Ok, it wasn’t exactly a request.
Harry, if I go for KFC it will be for me. I am dieting and that would never make it to the cat, maybe Steeler could have a taste. But I have little will power if it is in the house. Even gave up turtle pie. I have to run past the freezer dept in the store so I don’t buy it.
I am going to go with the tuna for this evening. Big O showed up as the sun lowered yesterday. So I will put that out about that time . I have to be careful because that tuna or any food for that matter will spoil really fast in this heat. I hope if I do catch him they will take him right away.
Bernadette I meant to address the size of the trap for a cat. When I asked if they had a bigger trap than I do for trapping a cat they said no. That is the biggest cat trap they have.
On the KFC for Steeler it wasn’t exactly a request.
It was a DEMAND !!!!!!!!!
A demand for KFC come on now, Steeler already places orders by phone. She doesn’t need andy more good treats. (But it sounds good for me).
If your nice, Steeler might share.
Steeler + share = someone is letting the heat cook their brain.
Same with Stir. No sharing.
And loving this heat !!!!!
Do not like this heat. Steeler is in the AC. Very comfy and cool in here. Never share, Steeler will take your hand off if you try for her food.
For now we need to keep Bernie out of jail until she gets Big O!
Bernie, there are larger traps–mine could trap a 25 lb. dog, but someone borrowed and didn’t return (kind of a suggestion from the universe, stop this for a while). My Agway loans traps and they can be fairly large. Anyway, you can also use salmon or mackerel, it’s cheaper than good tuna and just as smelly. Hopefully he’ll set the trap if he’s a little weak and not reacting as quickly. Sometimes that’s what it takes.
Oh for sure! lol…poor Bernie
Remember, the Torties are breaking out their sister, Steeler. Bernie just happens to be the unlucky jail mate.
Absolutely. And any good jailbreak needs Monkey music to accompany
Brooke and I are a little unclear on how Bernie ended up in jail… but Brooke says, she’ll just hang out here, and when the dust all settles she’ll call you all a bailbondsman. Please try to end up in the same facility so that you don’t require extra time. Today is Wicked Wednesday, to make up for being extra good and not hassling Sabrina yesterday, so she has a lot on her plate.
So Brooke had an off day yesterday. Stirfry says that she doen’t understand that and don’t let it happen again.
Harry these guys have me there. I am not sure myself how I got there, but if it means Turtle pie, I will stay awhile. Steeler will stay also.
Maybe I can find out just how I got there. Sometimers your know!!!!
Otherwise I would have to say someone framed me.!!!!!!!! Know any good lawyers, not a patent lawyer who helped to get the better lock thru the patent office!!!!! 🙂
Just to update on Big O. He appeared her toward dusk last evening. I have my trap set, thank heaven there are no critters in it. Sadly tho neither is Big O. He looks thin and tired. So I will put fresh food and water today, the heat is going up fast and I hope he comes looking for water. That’s all I have for you on him for now.
Bernadette I think your right about the tuna. The food in there is the Evo. High priced food but so far no interest. I will put tuna on a small cottage cheese lid this PM He showed up around 6 so I will have it ready for him. No way to have running water for him. If I attempt to throw something over him, What would I do with him after that. This is a big cat. Look at his pic when he did go into the trap and didn’t set it off. It is on my FB.
Bernadette I am not giving up easily on Big O. Knowing he is still out there is promising. So If it talks more expensive fish I will try. Right now I will go with tuna. I have salmon here, but even Steeler doesn’t like that. Thanks for the suggestions.
Hi friends: This is what I know/don’t know about Big Orange. I have not seen him again. I am putting out food and water for him, keep hoping he is ok. Today I received a call from a group that was recommended by a very good friend here. They are going to come asap when traps are available and try to catch him. Then he can be treated and they use the TNR avenue.
Now let me tell you about my warden, Steeler. During this period of illness with Steeler, I have stayed very close to her and she to me. Now she is becoming a little more active, and I am now a prisoner of my own making. If she sees me put on shoes or pick up my wallet she starts whimpering and following me around all the way to the door. She does not want me to go out. No where. I talked to her today and all I got was a tail twitching and we all know what she said with that. So send me the orange jail suit, or preferably pink, because Steeler is holding me prisoner in her house.
And turtle pie with a file 🙂
I am so glad to know you have my best interest at heart. Steeler and I will protest while in jail. She has to go with me and then they will say get them both out of her. That animal is tearing the jail down.
Steeler would not stay in a jail for liong. Stirfry, Kasey, Brooke, Emma, Nikita and Luna, Honey, Callie and Doodlebug, Allegra and Ruby, Cookie and Kelly, Monkey and Peaches and the rest of the Torties would either post bail (yea – right) or a jail break.
,
Hey that sounds good to me. I prefer the Torties Power for JAIL BREAK. LOVE THAT IDEA.
Is SABRINA AND PIPER GOING TO STAND GUARD????
Sabrina can protect Cookie, Kelly and Doodlebug as even though Torties don’t have the fighting spirit and she does. Piper is young and has to prove herself plus she is a lowly Calico. Same as Tabatha – they can fight but don’t have the killer instinct. Stirfry knows who she wants at her back.
OK FOLKS, anyone that objects to Jay’s response, please send all emails to him. I tried to get him to add more. But Stirfry will pick and I am not going head to head with Stir. No Way.
Peaches, being the more sensible one, would initially argue for posting bail, but eventually she’s get tired of arguing and wholeheartedly embrace the jailbreak plan…and again, being the more sensible one, insist on being in on planning it.
Lianimal, even Steeler will bow to Stirfry. Have you seen Stirfry? No cat that wants to see tomorrow will go against her. No smart human would either. Even her human gives way to Stir.
Peaches, Cookie and Kelly can do the planning. Stirfry never really plans but reacts
Lianimal see, no time for planning with Stir. She just attacks.
Allegra and Ruby are lovers, not fighters :-). They’re also too young to get an allowance, so they can’t post bail. But they will send moral support!
I think I will opt for the jail break. I can get moral support later. Thanks for the thought.
I think of all the Torties and Stirfry would stand shoulder to shoulder with Kasey.
She has proven herself that against all odds she will not back up. Not that any of the other would as that usually Tortie nature. But after the fight seperate them quick.
I was gonna say…Stir may be albe to whoop Peaches, but she’d never back dow…..Peaches would take a whoopin’ and keep on tickin’ lol
Monkey’s a lover too, but she’s just crazy enough to go along…She’s a metal chick afterall, always ready to rebel for any reason or even no reason lol, and she has a torti streak. I just got bitten an hour ago for stopping her from eating my camera usb cable
A medical question
As everyone knows, Bernie has Big Orange that was injured and I have a Black and White cat that has a healing wound on her back side. It there a antibiotic that can be bought for putting in their food to prevent infection.
If so is it store bought (Walmart) or from a Vet?
Bernie….I’ve been looking for your post on “slithery things” to answer, but I can’t find it. I wanted to further your impression of me as a wild child by telling you I used to have pet snakes, I still love them and think they’re awesome,I had a Rock Python who had to be force fed with a turkey baster…… but then I bought a Ball Python who was normal, and a pair of rats, on the way home from the pet store I made friends with the rats, went back and bought them a rat condo…this went on for a couple of weeks until I felt sorry fot the snake laying ther watching me play with his food and gave him away….I had the rats for 4 years until they died of natural causes
Remember – natural causes can be a snake or a Tortie.