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
Peaches actually came and head-butted me for this one, but in my experience this IS NOT Peaches music..maybe Peaches’ taste is changing, because this is DEFINITELY Monkey music.
No link to music (other than what’s in my head)
Tortie Jealousy
Sometimes I will lay on the floor to watch TV, mostly this is done to entertain the cats. Kasey likes these visits, so does Taz, the 20 pound orange guy.
This morning, Taz came and lay right up against me.
Kasey saw this and came over, she was not amused.
I tried to prevent this but she ran him off.
As soon as that was accomplished, she settled in in the same spot.
Years ago, I was told by a vet; “cats don’t compete for attention or get jealous”
I can’t believe, given his profession, that he did not have tortie experience.
Doodlebug also has “his” spot – wedged in next to me on the right side of my office chair. His sister Minnie occasionally slips in and takes his place while he’s gone to the food dish or the litterbox. Never lasts long – Dood jumps on the top of the chair then climbs down behind her and persistantly nudges her forward until she tips off the front of the seat and he’s back in his old position.
I’d like to say he does it to be close to me, but looking at it from his angle, that particular spot gives him (1) a clear view of the food dish (2) easy access to the planter stand that has catnip growing in it (3) multiple “toys” (phone cords, computer cables) within inches of his paws should he feel playful (4) an hvac vent blowing cool air right on him in the summer and warm air in the winter (5) a view of the back deck and all those interesting birds hanging around my feeders. Somehow I feel that my being there is probably the least of that spot’s attractions….
Sharon, the answer to that question would be: does Doodlebug hang out on your office chair even if you’re not in it? If the answer is yes, then I’ll have to agree with your assessment. If it’s no, then you’re the main attraction. 🙂
Not sure because the office is closed when I’m not in it. Too many things that can be destroyed by curious paws.
That vet clearly didn’t know much about cats, especially torties!
Buckley was an attention hog, and it took Amber a while to accept that if she wanted laptime with me, it would mean sharing my lap. I never thought I’d see the day, but eventually, they both wound up on my lap, together. I can’t even describe the feeling of bliss I experienced when that happened. Not much else in my life has come close.
That’s such a bunch of bull, I can’t believe a vet told you that, cats are SO possessive! Monkey’s place, when I’m asleep, (I sleep on my side) is my waist. She likes to be in that little dip. Peaches can sleep anywhere else and Monkey’s fine, but if Peaches gets on my waist, Monkey gets SO pissed! She will refuse to lay there,and WILL hold the grudge and attack Peaches later
Glen, the vet has to be kidding. Jealously is really strong in my Steeler. She gets upset and wants my attention even when I am on the phone. She wants me to talk to her. Cats are very jealous and possessive. Yours and mine. Need to advise the vet of real Tortie jealously.
That incident with the vet telling me that was 20 years ago, when we had Molly the silver tabby and Mitzi the tortie-tabby.
I didn’t believe it and those two proved him quite wrong, too. 😉
Of course you didn’t believe it. You knew better. We all know better. 🙂
I got to talk to Bernie on the phone.
Stirfry and Steeler carried on a conversation.
I think they like this better than e-mail while we are asleep.
I can see my phone bill next month 🙂
I think Steeler and Stirfry were saying the Cat’s Prayer over the phone. I know my phone bill is odd. paw prints on my keys. 🙂
You’re both in trouble now. Better get the unlimited kitty calling plan. I think Spurrint may be offering it. (This is why I’m not a stand up comedian….)
What Ingrid said……….NEVER let two torties talk on the phone! They’ll plot! Next thing you know they’ll take over the world!
I think you are to late, my Wild Child. Torties already rule. So let them talk and Pray together on the Phone. It may be the best way to round out their education.
I already have the PUUUURRRRRFECT free long distance calling plan. So as long as Steeler doesn’t get a hold of a credit card she can talk. 🙂
I got a phone call before work warning me that the leader of the Pagan motorcycle club was arrested and I better get ready to leave. Was halfway out the door with a cat under each arm before I realized I had nothing to worry about. Had to explain that in my Facebook profile Pagan refers to my religion and not my club association.
The Outlaws, Pagans, Sons and Angels fear almost nothing but the club I am associated with sends fear into the ranks of these guys. Anyone that has seen a pissed off Tortie knows you do not mess with them.
Jay, Bernie and I have more to fear–they are right in her neighborhood! Right down the road from me. Just put Stirfry in the window–and we all have our signs–we’ll be okay.
Bernadette well said. Ditto. Jay is a pushover. We both know that. We trusted him with our lives. He is a good guy, with some great furry friends and he is also a great friend.
He didn’t have to post this, but he is a man of honor and he felt it necessary to make sure we knew who Jay Davenport is. I don’t know how many folks would go that far.
Jay D. you are ok in our books.
I feel pretty safe, considering I live all the way in Michigan, and am a former biker chick myself lol. Plus I have a tortie for protection
Musa’s been trying to get me to let him keep Monkey for a while, because Peaches isn’t friendly to him anymore when he comes over.
She was supposed to stay with him (Peaches, I mean), but he gave her up and now she doesn’t like him anymore…..who can blame her? No way in hell my baby Monkey is going with him. Not that I don’t trust him to take care of her…he’s a good guy and I know he would, but Monkey’s my girl, my soulmate, my little Metal chick lol…..what would I do without my Monkey?
Once a Tortie takes your heart you do not give them up.
Monkey is one of the family and we are glad she claimed you.
lol…my ex, Musa just appeared randomly to friend invite me on facebook….I was getting some good chuckles remembering things we went through, and I thought I would share some.
He’s from West Africa, so there was a HUGE culture clash….that’s why we’re not together, because he really IS a good guy, or rather, would be for someone less independent and outspoken (and, let’s face it, ORNERY!) than me lol.
Anyway, I was remembering when I first brought Peaches home. She was about 4 to 6 months, just a little thing, and you guys have seen how sweet she looks even now at almost 10, so you can imagine what a sweet looking kit she was. So, I brought her home in a cardboard box, lifted the top, (she was just laying there giving a sweet look like in my Monkey pics)…..he stepped WAY back and said; “Does it bite?” I was all; ” No she’s a sweetie!” and he was all ; “You touch it first!” lol…she ended up being his baby. Apparently in the part of Africa he’s from they don’t keep cats as pets, there are all kinds of wierd fears and superstitions.
And then there was his friend Abee (pronounced Abe-ee) who was terrified of cats. He told me once in all seriousness that they turn into witches at night. Peaches used to terrorize him so bad when he came over. If him and musa were on the computer and Musa got up, she’d sit on Musa’s chair and just stare at him. Once he was on the couch…she snuck up behind his head, stared at the back of it for a while, then swatted it. He screamed and ran from the apartment! I told Musa we should shut her in the bedroom when Abee came over….Musa said; “No, Abee’s an ass, it’s funny to watch her mess with him”
It was wierd, a lot of other African people came over, Musa’s Mom, his Step-mom, several friends….Abee was the only one who was scared of her, and the only one she’d harrass. She was only friendly to certain people, the rest she’d hide from…but she seemed to have a vendetta for poor Abee lol
I got home at my nornal time (around 11:25) and as I pulled up the driveway I saw B&W sitting in the middle. She ran off as I pulled up.
I put the critters in the barn and gave them their oats. Went into the house and put out some dry good for my outside kitty. Within a minute she was up on the porch and wanting scratches and pets. I yelled into the house for Pumpkin and said “outside kitty”. He ran over to the door to watch. I went back out and scratched her and gave her belly rubs. Pumpkin was at the door watching intently.
I went in and asked Punky if he wnted out. Left the door ouen 8″. Pumpkin actually went to the door and slowly went out. B&W had gone under the grill cover and watched him. Within a minute he got scared and ran in. The Stir went to the door and looked out. Dualing Hisses fora while until I closed the door.
I was really suprised that Pumpkin was brave enough to actually go out.
Pumpkin has a girlfriend!!!!!!
1st Harley and now Punky.
Hey that is great. Stir did her thing and said go. Punky said wait a minute this is interesting and goes out and meet his new girlfriend. Harley has several girlfriends across the fields.
Darn Jay, sounds like your jealous. Your furry friends are doing better than you.
Okay, some cats DO love you……
Hey, your cats do love you, or they would have run for the hills a long time ago. If I were Peaches and you played that music and said I liked it, I would bite you on general principal.
Cats do love. They love intensely and possessively. My Steeler is passionate about being near and with me.
I know the way you talk about Monkey and Peaches you feel the same way. You can’t fool us on here. We know cat folks pretty good.
Yeah….Monkey gives me that look, and hard-core metal chick that I am I melt. Monkey’s my girl
lol..Peaches is no-where near soft and gentle, Peaches is the Nastiest viper of a cat….I love her, and she’s beautiful, but she will bite me in a hot second. SHe’s bitten me numerous times, and shed WILL bite me again. It’s the price I pay for having cats. Cat’s aren’t like dogs. Cats don’t love you. If you die, cats will eat you the same day. They’re not like dogs
bERNIE, REALLY? EVEN THE pEACHES MUSIC?
Ugh, capslock issue…but really? Not even Peaches music? lol
Wild Child, really, that is not my idea of Peaches. Peaches is soft and gentle. That is neither. But I know you are as determined as my Tortie Steeler to get thru to me, so I will just have to let you keep trying. You had one good one before, so I will just wait for the next one. LMAO You are working so hard on converting me. You should know that I am a little like the Torties myself and with Attitude. 🙂
This is most definitely Monkey music….but it’s so over-the top- aggressive it’s hilarious! Language warning. This one always makes me laugh, It’s so completely psychotic. LOVE it!
Bernie DO NOT CLICK THIS ONE! lol
http://youtu.be/WcEPdTy7_uE
No fear of that. I trusted you on the Peaches one. Nope not me. Not today.
Steeler is took off. I had to turn the volume down.
I will just stay in my own enjoyment of music. You guys are into the different sounds. I am just mellow. So you folks enjoy your “Monkey Music” and I will enjoy my “soft kitten music”.
Of course I’m going to go listen to Monkey’s version again, duh, y’all know me lol
The Monkey Music version lol…Much different,
http://youtu.be/5BAiDKOqfvc
The Peaches version of “The Bleeding”
http://youtu.be/DEvlFN-3dTk
Everyone has an “advantage”, here.
Kasey, Taz and Morgan all had their advantage treatment on Monday, June 27th.
I had reported Kasey had the fur thin out between her eyes and ears; the new vet diagnosed it as a flea allergy.
Since everyone is strictly indoor, the fleas came in likely on our shoes or perhaps Toby, the silky terrier, even though he gets Revolution. Vet said they could live long enough even with the Revolution treatment for Toby to be the “flea bus”.
The Advantage treatments went well, no reactions, everyone took it in stride and didn’t seem to resent the indignity.
I have noticed Kasey’s thin spots have been looking a bit better in the last day or so, she’s not scratching the areas much now, so hopefully things will get better now.
Hey Glen, those gals, and guys have the “advantage” over you and I am not referring to the flea treatment. It’s good to know Kasey is showing signs of her fur coming back. Nothing feels better than to see our little ones showing improvement and their coats are a real attractive part of them. Each is unique in and of itself. Your little flea bus, could be the carrier or even a screen. Those darn fleas could have only had one come in and lay eggs. Then you little ones get them. So I hope the advantage works well for all of them.
I know here in the country, I am in and out quite a bit. So I close off the sunroom where shoes and work clothes go, and set off a bug bomb at night. Then in the AM I air it out and all that is living there uninvited is gone.
This even took care of those dreaded stink bugs we had here. I am not bothered by them any more.
Steeler would find one and just play with it, until I would grab it with a towel before she did a number on it and the smell permeated the room.
Good luck.
Actually they did two versions of the same song called The Bleeding…..one is pure Monkey, but the Peaches approved version is really beautiful and shows his vocal range. He’s actually very talented
The Monkey version
http://youtu.be/5BAiDKOqfvcersion
Lianimal the whole bag possession thing is interesting. They seem to both have their own territory. Nikita sits next to me on the couch and Luna on the floor next to the couch staring at me until I pet her and she does the whole headbutt, then turns around and comes around again for a pet. She has also taken over the red stepstool as her own but gets so wild flipping on her back for a tummy rub that she frequently falls off!
The red duffle is quite big and my boyfriend(not being a cat person) doesn’t get why I don’t just put it away instead of leaving it out. Same with the huge microwave box in the middle of my kitchen floor that they love to jump in and out of, and the empty Crystal Gyser box they play in, they run and jump and slide across the floor in it. Luna likes to climb in under the plastic and hide but I’m afraid she will suffocate under there.
lol..I totally get it. I have all kinds of supposed trash sitting in the middle of my floor…but to my cats they are not trash but valuable real estate!
http://youtu.be/WcEPdTy7_uE
Monkey Music! But also funny. I love this band, but this one song is so over-the-top-aggressive that it’s hilarious! I hope to God he was trying to be funny. Because otherwise…..well, yeah, they’re angry, but they’re really good and not this ridiculous. I think they did it on purpose lol
I’ll post a couple of their more serious ones
Once again, WARNING….this IS Monkey music!
Sue it is good to hear about your girls and the new world opened up to them with the door. I know I rearranged my back storm door so that Steeler could lie and look outside. I can just see how you little ones are laying there enjoying the view without having to stand like a meerkat to look out. Ever since my door was fixed for Steeler she loves just looking. Your little ones, like my little one, will not miss a thing now. They are truly curious girls.
You son must have felt like “hey here I am” but the got the Tortie treatment for leaving. I can see them going in and out of the duffle bag. Imagine the different odors, not to mention the new hiding place or playpen they have found. I don’t know about the sparring over sharing the duffle bag. It would seem that the girls have a new program going on. Like the children used to say “move your feet, lose your seat”. Sounds like the girls are doing the same thing.
Hope the diabetes camp was a good experience and happy time for your son. I know they are a vital part to young people with diabetes.
Good to hear all this.
We all seem to have become laid back a little. I don’t know if it is the change of seasons. I know I am finally glad to see some dry days here. Everything is so green and beautiful this time of year, I guess most everyone is working and enjoying the outdoors.
Hi all!
Bernie, good to hear that Steeler has overcome her last fear. I actually wish I could keep my kitties out of the bathroom, well maybe just Nikita. She is the one that loves to tear up the toilet paper and will destroy an entire roll at a time so I keep the bathroom door shut at all times. Luna on the other hand loves to run in and jump in the tub to sit. Especially right after someone takes a shower. She doesn’t mind that it’s all wet in there. She is my waterbaby.
I haven’t had anything new to report lately, that’s why I haven’t been on here.
Except last weekend I had one of those steel security screen doors installed on my front door and the installation scared the heck out of the girls! They hid under the couch the entire time because of all the drilling and banging noises. They do like the new screen because there isn’t a metal kick plate at the bottom so they don’t have to stand on their hind legs to look out they can just sit or lie normally and look out. I will miss seeing Luna do her meercat impression though. Luna tried to climb the screen and discovered while it is easy to climb getting down is not so easy since her claws get stuck. I had to rescue her and she hasn’t done it again since.
In other news my son was gone at Diabetes camp for a week and was dismayed that the girls didn’t rush to greet him when he got home. He thinks they didn’t miss him. They were however, facinated with all the gear he brought home….dirty clothes, a sleeping bag, big duffle bag etc. They have been smelling it over and over. Luna has taken up residence in the duffle bag and she and Nikita fight over who is going to sit in it. Reminds me of kids fighting for a window seat on a car ride. lol
Last night Luna was sitting in the bag and got up to use the litter box, came back and Nikita was sitting in the bag. Well Luna after walking away again, came back looked at Nikita and popped her on top of the head. That of course started a full on fight with hissing, punching and growling with puffy tails. Poor Nikita isn’t much of a fighter.
I have been known to put off home improvement and/or repair projects because I know the noise will freak out my girls. But since yours was specifically for their viewing pleasure, it sounds like they quickly forgave you for the scary noise!
Sounds like the bag has become a permanent part of your decor now – in fact, it sounds like it’s no longer a bag, but rather, a cat bed. Bag, bed – it’s all good!
I Accidentally turned the shower on Monkey once…I always turn it on while I’m brushing my teeth because it takes a while to get hot….I had no idea she was in there. I reached in, turned it on, all of a sudden there was a horrible commotion and this wet furball nearly bowled me over! She’s smart, she learned. She still loves to get in the shower, but only AFTER I’m out lol
Too funny about Luna, Nikita and the bag…..I can see either Monkey or Hatchet doing that. Probably more Hatchet. She was more straight Dominatrix. Monkey’s a little more passive/aggressive
To sum it up….Hatchet was ghetto…she’d be all “Oh no you didn’t! (insert hand-on-hip-sister-girl-head-bob), Monkey is more passive aggressive; ” Uh-huh, yeah….okay…I see that, and You WILL pay…..”
Very descriptive. I can just see you standing there saying those things to your Monkey. Even Hatchet if she were still with you. You have a great expressive way with words. So glad you got onto this site. You sure do bring things alive. 🙂
Hey guys it has been a little quiet here. So I decided to bring you up to date on Steeler finally overcoming her very last fear in our home.
It will be 2 years on October 20, 1009 that I brought her into my home to live forever. She already knew this before I ever did. She made it her home. Now I digress, I have a habit of doing that.
In all this time, Steeler has prowled every nook and cranny in the house. From the attic throughout the basement. Well the only room she would never enter was the bathrooms, not ever.
This past few days, she has conquered whatever fear she had of bathrooms. I now have to watch when I enter the bathrooms, whether it be upstairs or downstairs. She is taking up residence to lay on the cool floor tiles and relax. I was truly surprised to find her on the floor in the, because I had on many occasions tried to coax her to come into the room. She never did. She always stopped right at the doorsill. Now I have to watch where I step, she is comfortable in the baths and the tiles even to lay on the carpets sometimes.
This is the last fear she seems to have had to overcome in living in our home. So whatever demons she had in her little mind, are now all overcome. She is a happy little girl. Afraid of nothing and no one. This was a huge breakthru for her and I.
I thought I would share with you how the fears the throwaways have can and will eventually be overcome with the tender loving care given to them by us. So all it takes is understanding and patience and lots of love. So if anyone you know that may have a little furry one with fears from the past, give them the advice that it takes time, patience and love and the little ones will respond in kind.
That’s all I have for today. I hope to hear from some or all of you on here. It has been way to quiet here. Remember we are the “gabby lot” according to Harry.
I love how little by little, Steeler has taken over your entire home. And I bet the cool tile floor feels good to her. Now you’ll really have to watch your step. I accidentally stepped on Ruby’s foot in my bathroom the other day (my little velcro kitten would be glued to my side at all times if she had her way!), and while she got over it almost immediately, I felt horrible!
That is funny. Buy you have met me and know when I say this how strange I would look doing this. The first time she did this I had no idea she was sleeping on the carpet and I suddenly saw the movement and I actually did a high hop over her. Scared me silly. She just rolled over on her back like nothing happened. I on the other hand, almost went into the tub head first. Now I look first before I enter the room.
Poor little Ruby. Stepping on her foot, but you know the love of the Torties, the forgive us immediately. So you are good with her. No doubt about it.
That’s great to hear Bernie!
And Ingrid…Monkey’s a velcro cat, and I’ve stepped on her paw or tail several times…she screams, I scream, I’m sure it scares me more than her, since she associates me screaming with music time….she doesn’t even run.. as soon as I get off her, she just gazes up at me with that sweet look and waits for me to pet her. She’s a wierd kid. She was meant for me, I think. Nobody else would understand her (or, upon failing to understand her, just say; “Well, she’s just being Monkey, that’s cool”)
Hey Wild Child, more likely Monkey is saying you are the weird kid, so she has to stick to you for your own good.
Your’re probably right Bernie!
She’s sticking up for me lol
Ingrid this interview was great. This blog took off but it would never have happened had it not been for you and your Tortie baby. So It was very pleasant to see that you mentioned what good people were on here. I wholeheartedly agree with you interview.
Monkey music. That is how I see it also. But I can’t bring myself to blame Monkey for the music?? 🙂
Thanks, Bernie. I had fun doing the interview – Layla asked some great questions.
As for the Monkey Music, I actually think some of the musicians would consider that term a compliment 🙂
🙂 I am not so sure the Monkey’s would agree. But then I am more a Kitten music type. The Wild Child is thrilled I am sure. I enjoyed the entire interview and your responses. But for those who do like the “Heavy Metal” I concede to your and Lynn’s taste.
lol…..maybe…or maybe they’d think people were saying they jump around on stage and act silly like monkeys….They’d have to know Torties to appreciate it as the compliment it is lol
Hey Wild Child. I have conceded that “Heavy Metal” and “Monkey Music” as it is now being called is out there and I will just have to live with you crazed folks. Now you folks do know there really was a group called “The Monkeys”. Of course probably before your toddler days were over.
I am teaching Steeler the classics and big band music. She is calmer and more relaxed. You see there was a time, and I remember it well, and I really enjoyed the time, when dancing to music, meant you were in the arms of your partner thru the entire song. This is why I will stay with nice and easy and keep Steeler there.
“Monkey Music” would mean never even knowing who your dancing partner is or was.
So ladies and gentlemen, for the sake of teaching our little furry ones other musical styles, try a little close and personal dancing music. The Torties could possibly give you real strong ppuuuuurrrssss. I know Steeler does.
Ingrid, inducted into the “Monkey Music” gang. YOI
Just went and read the interview, it was GREAT!
Second that – nice job!
Peaches approved, which means it’s safe for everyone….lol
http://youtu.be/ErvgV4P6Fzc
FYI for all new people to the blog…..”Monkey Music” is code for “Do NOT click on this unless you like seriously heavy metal” lol I mean serious screaming metal. My tortie Monkey actually likes it, but I am aware that most people don’t, lol
So there, you’ve been warned. Click on Monkey music at your own risk
Peaches approved music, on the other hand, is usually safe for the general public
I’m starting to call heavy metal “Monkey Music” in casual conversation with friends who have no clue what I’m talking about – look what you’ve done…lol…!
Love Monkey music
LMAO…NOOOO! I’m going to have every metal artist who runs across this blog mad at me for coining the phrase! lol Hopefully there won’t be too many. I mean, being hated personally by metal artists is baaaad, m’kay? (Please forgive the South Park reference lol)
Monkey music! http://youtu.be/BhYT-7bzHis
From a friend
LITTLE DONKEY©
My donkey doesn’t pull a cart
He’s much too small to ride.
And when he sees the vet drive up
He always runs and hides.
He’s not much good for packing a load
Upon his tiny back.
But in so many other ways
He makes up for what he lacks.
He is the best alarm clock
Out here on this farm.
He’ll tell you when it’s feeding time
And meet you at the barn.
He knows just how to look at you
With those big brown eyes.
To make you see inside his heart
And know he’s very wise.
He doesn’t waste his energy
By running here and there.
And when I’m out fixin’ fence
He’s always in my hair.
He walks off with the hammer.
He walks off with my glove.
And when I am not looking
He’ll give the wheelbarrow a shove.
Folks say, “Why do you keep him
If he’s no better than that?
He’s sure not very pretty
And his tail is like a rats!”
That’s when I tell them the story
About my little friend.
Of how he made a lady smile
And helped her heart to mend.
I took him to a nursing home
Not too long ago.
To try and cheer the people up
Because their spirits were so low.
He walked up to a lady
Who was sitting in a chair.
He placed his head upon her lap
And there was magic in the air.
The lady reached and touched his neck
And a tear rolled down her check.
And when she smiled her eyes lit up.
It was the first time she’d smiled in weeks.
So see my donkey’s special
And he has a job to do.
Because of his gentle nature
He made an old lady’s heart feel new.
Poetry can be found for all the things we love in life. Our little cats to the best of the human race and all in between. It speaks for so many.
Awwww!
The Wild Child is speechless. Steeler RUN!!!!! 🙂
LMAO
Wow, it’s been quiet on here for the last two days! Anyone have experience with cats that had fleas and ringworm? Check out my blog and see what’s going on: http://www.sandpipercat.blogspot.com.
I did check out your blog and left you a message. You Shubins are exceptional. Get some Ivy Itch for the bites (for humans). I am proud of you guys, I don’t know what to say. 4 + 7 in one house makes 11. I always knew I liked you folks.
I think Bernadette dealt with a flea infestation last summer. I’m sure she’ll chime in later.
I feel for you with regards to the ringworm – that’s a tough one to get rid of. I’m not sure how old cats need to be before they can be put on itraconazole or griseofulvin, but if they’re old enough, I wouldn’t even bother with over the counter stuff. Call Dr. Ellison’s office tomorrow and find out.
Bernadette I didn’t know ou were going through this too….Monkey got out, got a flea or two (I swear she was only gone for an hour) Brought them into the house, passed them to Peaches and the rats, went half bald because she’s allergic…..it was AWFUL!
Fleas! Not just last year, but I rented a house years ago that had resident fleas.
First, are you guessing it’s ringworm, or was it actually diagnosed? I wasn’t sure from your blog post if you got to the vet or if you went to purchase the goods prior to the visit. Ringworm is rarely diagnosed visually, and the scabby area you saw could be an allergic reaction to the flea bites which is very common on the tail because it’s so easy to bite. I’m sure you know this, but don’t start treating for it, especially with a dog shampoo, until you know for sure.
But the best way to treat for the fleas is what you also need to do if it really is ringworm, which involves a lot of bathing of cats and washing and vacuuming, every day if not twice a day, and washing your hands frequently for the ringworm. You also need to make sure that you don’t carry the ringworm to your other cats or yourselves on your clothing.
It sounds like this is very recent, so the fleas haven’t had a chance to start new generations in your carpet. Last year, by the time I realized the infestation was coming from the possum nest on my deck I was so badly infested that my seniors really suffered from it. I had to use some sprays so I kept the girls in the bathroom and sprayed a new bath rug every day to put in there for almost two weeks. I bathed them nearly every day with simply my organic dish detergent and combed them in between as I could. That kept their infestations down.
The rest of the house I removed all the carpets completely and everything else that could harbor fleas–beds, blankets anything they might sleep on. You can sprinkle diatomaceous earth on your carpets and floors and vacuum that up, and I also read on Paws and Effect that she uses a combination of baking soda and salt. Either way, the powders dry out the flea’s soft belly and they dehydrate and die, I got to like that thought. Bathe, comb, dry if you have the time, launder, sprinkle, sweep, throw out the sweeper bag, outside in the garbage can.
And if you can do it, one last thing is don’t keep them in a room that has a bed, like your bedroom. A mattress is a host for all sorts of infestations like the fleas but especially the ringworm. They don’t need foam beds and things right now, just piles of sheets or blankets you can launder is a better idea.
Good luck! Cookie is mad she can’t go outside this year, but we just can’t risk it, not until after flea season is over.
Kasey laid the law down, today.
Kasey likes to have her glucosamine pill in the morning, likely due to it being wrapped in a small bit of cheese.
Once this is complete, she goes and lies contentedly on the living room floor.
The chosen spot is about 4 feet from the scratch post.
Morgan the tuxie was lying beside the the scratch post.
Taz, the big orange guy decided to scratch the post, normally this is acceptable to Morgan but this time she decided to take a few playful swings at him while still lying on the floor.
One swing hit his nose, so he tackled and pined her; this is all “kitten stuff” complete with sounds; not an out and out fight.
This disturbed Kasey’s rest.
All she did was sit up with an intent look at the two, she didn’t even start to get up to go over there but you could see that was next.
Morgan, who is quick, bailed immediately for parts unknown.
The 20 pound orange Taz actually looked panicked, searching for the best avenue of escape, then scooted.
Peace was resorted and Kasey settled back down on the floor.
Now that’s tortitude! One look, and everyone takes off. Love it. You go, Kasey!
Yeah, it was “the look” for sure, there is no mistaking it
Glen I can visualize this event. You told it so well. I guess Kasey was saying enough already with that Tortie look. Oh we have seen that many times. Poor Taz, hard to move with lightning speed for him. Morgan was the smart and fastest one there. I would liked to have seen this almost battle. Kasey is back and in great form. What more could a guy want. Happiness in a small little Tortie!!!!
Life is good for all.
Wow, nothing like just the look of a Tortie put fear into the hearts of “normal” cats.
Stirfry would be proud. Kasey has upheld the Tortie reputation with honors.
I had a busy 2 days. A few hours sleep and up early to go to a giant car show in Carlisle. Saw load pf Camaros and got lots of ideas. Was up late with a friend on mail and went out for a final check on my critters. I hear a meow and there is B&W cat. I gave her scratches and went in for some dry food. Filled her dish and watched her eat for a few minutes then went to the barn. When I came back she was gone. 10 minutes later I saw Pumpkin looking out the door. Turned on the light and saw the Gray and White male cat. Not playing favorites I went out and gave him scratches too. Was a great way to end the night?
Went to bed. Got up un Sunday and went to the Pa Renaissance Faire. Heard about 5 Irish/Celtic bands. Ate too much and had a great time. Home to clean up and then out to a local park for a bluegrass concert.
Now the weekend is over and I can relax.
My Hatchet had “The look”
Stirfry usually does not look. But seeing her run at Punky or Tabby with teeth out is her usual mode of expression.
All Torties are different but get the same results. Respect (and Fear) from any other animal – people included.
We have all seen Stir’s look. She doesn’t need the Tortie Glare. She has her own look. All run from that.
lol @ the singing thing. How I wish I lived close….I would SO come get him! Females are hard to get to get along, but I’ve always found that neutered toms are SO easy-going…they don’t care about much of anything….just calm,sweet, and laid-back
I’m including non-neutered toms in that….none of mine were neutered, obviously, until after they were tamed lol
Wild Child no Toms in the house. OK Steeler would not allow that. I am not ready to have a Big O. jumping and running like a lion inside with Steeler. She needs her rest. So if you have friends in the area of Bernadette of I, reach out and touch them. Them them about this really nice Big O that needs a good nurturing home.
No singing.
Gosh so much on here this evening.
Glen I am trying to place why Kasey would launch off the window in full attack mode. I guess I just seemed to lose track of where everyone is.
Wild Child tease me till the cows come home. I don’t, won’t, and can’t sing. I believe you and Jay have the heavy metal covered for your Torties. Steeler and I shall stay a little easier mode.
I don’t wish to tame Big O. If I do whoever shot him may succeed the next time. I can’t “adopt” him as it would not be a good fit for Steeler. We are a 1 cat house, let me rephrase that. I have a 1 Tortie household. That’s better. Have to be careful how i phrase my words, you guys will jump on my use of phrases to quickly.
If someone wants Big O. I would be happy to have them come to try to catch him. He runs pretty fast. He eats, but he runs if I go out. So I have no intention of getting hurt again, but I will make sure he is fed and hopefully before winter, he will find a home. If I can I am going to see if the farmer will come to try to trap him and take him out to the farm where he can at least be safe and live in the barn with other cats. Other than that I am out of options.
I definitely will not sing. However, if a million bucks were there for me, I would sure try.
“Glen I am trying to place why Kasey would launch off the window in full attack mode.”
It all stems from an incident last summer.
The lower portion of the living room windows have screened openings.
It was a cooler summer night so rather than have the a/c on, the windows were left open.
I was awake for whatever reason and around 5:30 AM, something that Kasey did not like must have come up to the screened window.
Everyone in the house heard her do the unworldly tortie “cougar snarl” followed instantly by the sound of her hurling herself bodily at the screen trying to get at whatever it was. Whatever was out there did not stick around very long, there was no sign of it when I came to look.
Ever since this happened, even with the screens in, the lower level windows are not left open at night.
I was just speculating for fun that she might use me while I was sleeping as a launching pad to try to get at something through the bedroom window screen.
Glen now that explains my confusion. I was thinking where is Glen at tonight. Good vet visit maybe Glen was celebrating.(Of course you should.)
I had to go out this evening and while out I picked up the food for Steeler. I happened to smile to myself and thought about the vet’s advice about the diet. I only had to contend with Steeler on the diet plan. How in the name of heaven are you going to put one on a diet with the others not on a diet. This should be interesting. It was rough on me with just Steeler. I am going to await to hear how this goes with you. I finally got her to the desired weight but I was ready to climb the walls.
So I hope you have high walls. You are in for a real awakening. But hey it is for the greater good. Good Luck
I’ve heard of that “Cat House” out in Pittsburgh.
Sir, gentleman, you are in big TROUBLE. I just knew someone would jump on that, I knew I should have erased it. A Tortie will eat your mustache for that one.
I have lived with Stir so long that I fear nothing (well – needles) – (and marriage)
But I have learned not to show that fear.
OK Jay, here goes. You just laid down the gauntlet. Ladies with Torties or other types of cats, that are marriage minded or might be, propose to Jay. Let us see how he declines proposals? He gives now let’s see if he can take it. Torties start your engines. 🙂
As I go screaming into the night make Kasey’s cougar snarl sound more like a purr compared to mine.
Jay I guess that is a new Hard Metal love song for you and Stir. Go Ladies.
Whoops my mistake. Jay, surely just because Bernadette has her beautiful girls, surely you are not referring to her. Bernadette, I know you are usually up late, and watching CC, so how do you see this?
You just woke me up! I checked e-mail and saw my name in this–not sure what it’s referring to, but people have referred to my house as they “cathouse” before. Cookie and Kelly will have you know this is not that kind of a cathouse. We will keep Mimi’s prior reputation hidden.
Bernadette thank you for fixing this. Jay gets carried away. I thought he had the wRong person. THanks for showing him there is another house much more nicer with such pretty girls.
I love the lettuce. Your girls give you such joy.
Ugh, yeah, unpleasant feeling….Monkey launches off me in the middle of the night. Not sure if she’s after Peaches, a bug, or just off on one of her rampages, but she’s about 10 lbs, and her feet are tiny, so when she launches it’s like a punch. I get tiny cat foot sized bruises sometimes
Kasey & potential hazard on cool evenings.
This thought has crossed my mind.
On cooler summer evenings, I have one of the screened casement windows open, it is at the head of the bed.
Kasey likes to sleep on the bed.
I have thought of the result of something showing up, outside that is on the list of things she doesn’t like (its a LONG list!).
Since she doesn’t appear to fear too much and her consistent policy is to simply all-out attack anything on the “don’t like list”, immediately without hesitation, I assume she would have no qualms about running right over top of me to do it.
Hasn’t happened, yet, but it would be a rude awakening 😉
Torties are never stupid though. She was smart enough to suck up to you and get you to take her home, so she’s smart enough not to attack anything she can’t whip lol
I’ve been a little concerned lately because we have a mother and cub pair of Black Bears in the ‘hood….they’ve been hanging out a mile from here, they go to my co-worker’s friend’s house every day, and last week they ripped the side off the chicken coop and took 12 chickens…someone saw a bear chasing a chicken across Mast road (which answers that age old question….lol) I shouldn’t be making jokes, it’s not funny for the people who lost their chickens and have a chihuahua that has to go out to go to the bathroom
Anyway, I’m not worried for P or Monks, they never go outside (well, Monkey hasn’t escaped for a while) Ugh. I’m a fan of the bear. But I’m the type of person who sees long term, and I can’t see this possibly ending well for the bears. They say they won’t re-locate them because this is their natural habitat. So they will leave them here in a small town full of rednecks and farmers. They’re going to keep taking people’s chickens (can’t blame them for getting hungry) and people will kill them, whether it’s legal or not. They can’t post a guard on them. People won’t take kindly to losing their animals. (Can’t blame them for that either, farm animals cost time and money)
If they leave the bears here they’re going to die, no matter how many suporters they have on facebook http://www.facebook.com/TheDexterBear?sk=wall&filter=2 , twitter, or whatever
They can’t put a guard on the bears, and if they get shot, how the hell will they ever find the person who dd it? And if they somehow find the person, how can they prove that person wasn’t under attack?
I’m just sad because I can’t see this possibly ending well for the bears
A kitty burn out. OUCH !!!!!!!!!!!!!
Today is Bernie’s day to get another Rabies shot. Hope it is the last.
Shows how much she cases about Big O
All that pain and she still feeds that big kitty and lets Steeller talk to him about how to find a home the correct way. Steeler knows all the tricks.
Well folks I finally finished the last in the series of the Rabies Vaccine. THAT makes me very safe to bite someone without giving them Rabies. Big O showed up after I was into the vaccine series and at that point you don’t stop. Last evening he was here and yes I fed him. He looks so thin and I can’t hold it against him for biting me. He just tried to get into my home. Steeler and he had a discussion last evening with the storm door between them. I would really like to find him a home. But he is elusive. This AM he was on the porch and I put food out for him. He ran and still as of now has not come back to eat.
I am ok, what is a total of 8 shots. I guess you could say I took 8 for Big O. Go live a good life Big O.
I’m so glad you’re done with your rabies shots. Big O better have a really good life after all this!
I’m hoping for him. He does deserve better than he has had. Thanks. Now being bitten by me will not pass rabies to anyone. Even Steeler is safe. 🙂
Congratulations Bernie- with any luck it will be a really really long time before you have to face a needle again! And glad to hear that Big O is still around getting food and seems to be healing well, even if he is a bit thin. I can’t imagine how much harder his life would be without you to keep food available for him- you’re the best!!!!
Sharon I am only doing what everyone on this site would do to help Big O. Although the shots were not a part of the picture. But he disappeared for to long so I went thru the shots. I am feeding and watering him. I just hope someone will find him a home. I will keep asking around. First he needs to be caught to help find him a home. But I will keep trying. Thanks for the kind words. When I roll onto my shoulders, I will remember it was for a good cause 🙂
He just wanted to make sure he made an impression on you.
🙂 🙂 your right. 8 in all.
Mental note; Never tell Bernie to bite me, because now that she feels it’s safe, she just might.
lol…but seriously, I’m glad you’re done with it. Hopefully you won’t be feeling the effects too much longer
🙂 🙂 🙂 I have a feeling this rabies vaccine could be a plus for me. Look out Wild Child. You just never know.
LOL….hmmm, maybe this is my cue….I probably shouldn’t keep trying to lure you to the dark side lol
Mental note #2…..MUST tell Bernie that being bitten by someone who is safe from rabies is NOT a cure for rabies, just in case she thinks my love for screaming metal is a symptom
BTW, I’ve always had good luck with ferals by putting food out then staying outside at what they feel is a safe distance until they come back, and singing softly to them while they eat. NO METAL though! lol…..I’ve found Patsy Cline songs work great. You should be able to gradually move closer (By gradually I mean every day or two….just outside the range where they start being visibly nervous) until one day you’re in petting range. Stay there for a few more days without touching him…you’ll be able to feel when he trusts you enough to get a quick stroke. He might run off the first time you touch him, but he’ll come back. It takes a lot of time and patience, but I’ve had several former ferals, and they’ve been the best cats I’ve ever had.
BTW Lianimal, I will feed him outside and provide cool water, but I would never even sing to Steeler. Better yet even to myself. That would cause astronomic measures. He will not go into the hav-a-heart trap. Mine is very old and he can reach the food without stepping not the plate to close it off. I could not have him in the house, not at this time especially.
So anyone that thinks they want to sit out there and sing Patsy Cline of Pat Boone melodies are more than welcome, providing they provide and good and caring home for Big O. 🙂 🙂
Trust me Bernie, I can’t sing….Oh, I can hold a tune, but my voice is just AWFUL! lol Cats don’t care. I think it’s just the rythm and melody that soothes them somehow. I think that’s why Patsy works so well. Not a lot of range, just a steady soft rythm and repetative melody….I’ve been able to pet more ferals while singing “Walking After Midnight”, than any other song I’ve tried, which is why I came to that conclusion. I never end the song while trying to tame a feral….when the song ends I just start it over without pause and keep going until they leave.
C’mon Bern….anyone can sing “Walkin’ after Midnight”! Try it! Steeler will LOVE it! Or at least she’ll get some much needed entertainment! lol
Berns…..even though you have no intention of adopting him, you could probably use my methods to gentle him and get him more familiar with people so he’d be easier for the next person….god I wish I wasn’t so far away. If you could catch and transport him to Dexter MI I would SO take him and tame him…..my girls would whip him into shape in no time, and I’m already adept at keeping Monkey from escaping….. My apartment is small, but we’d make room one way or another…they have the wall which adds space and cat satisfaction, they love to be up high.
Here’s a new break for you Tortie folks and all other little furry friends humans. This evening STEELER had a real FACEOFF against BIG O. This is not a joke. I was able to get pics of it and watch this unfold. Surprisingly I found Steeler to be so compassionate to Big O. that I felt very proud of her. She seems to sense that Big O. is looking for a home just like she did at one time.
I posted the pics on my FB. It is heartwrenching to see Big O. I wish someone could find him a home. He bite me, but look at him. He is looking better, and I am feeding him the best cat food. He is getting EVO and a little Kitty Meow to build him up. He had gotten very thin. I only hope he gets a good home somehow.
Wish things were better in your area. If that happened around here, it would make the papers and hundreds would line up to adopt him. Hope someone in your area will open their heart and home to Big O.
That would be nice. In the meantime I will have to keep looking for someone to take him.
Like I said on FB, I wish I could. I love formerly feral (former)Toms best of all, and he reminds me of my old buddy Ratman
Glen I am thinking our you tonight. I know Kasey goes tomorrow to the new vet. Just want to let you know I am wishing you and Kasey the very best outcome. I will be waiting to hear from you.
I know she is a strong little girl and you know we are all anxiously awaiting to hear from you tomorrow.
Thanks, she goes in at 2:00 PM tomorrow afternoon.
I have taken tomorrow as a vacation day.
I am not sure how long we’ll be but I will post an update after I get back.
GLEN we are all with you. We are family here and worry right along with you. Hugs to Kasey.
Will be waiting for the good news on her health.
Will be stressful on you up until then.
Just go back, Kasey had a very good vet visit. She behaved very well there, too.
He is very positive the bump on her chin is a benign cyst. He advises observation, only.
He has a plan if it gets larger, he says it can be removed, she would be given a sedative and a local for it instead of being put fully under. \he has had experience with this procedure; but he doesn’t want to do it unless it is necessary.
The thin fur between the eyes and ears on both sides of her head is due to a flea allergy. Since she is strictly indoor, he says they may be hitch hikers from our feet or off Toby. He gave us info on administering over the counter Benydril (SP?) to clam the itching, then she should be given a Revolution treatment.
He said it was OK to give her glucosamine for her old injury.
Now for the bad news; my full-figured girl needs to lose some weight, he suggested trying to ration her regular food first in precise amounts, rather than going to a diet food. We will try this but it will not be popular, I am sure.
Morgan went too for her annual. He found that she may be starting a thyroid issue but has a plan to check that out and treat it, if it is a problem.
This vet is more costly but they are VERY thorough and informative. He spent over an hour with the two cats, checked a lot of things and told us a lot too. I am pleased that we are going there.
That is very good news, Glen – I’m sure you’re much relieved. I hear you on the cost, but we’re in the same situation – a cat-only vet for whom we have enormous respect, and who is not in the discount aisle. But, it’s worth it.
Harry
Thanks, yes, it is a relief.
We are fortunate that the cost, while somewhat higher, is not an issue for us. The level of care is quite high and it is not a frequent expense. It is well worth it.
I an sure glad that my “warrior queen” does not understand the meaning of the dreaded words uttered in the examining room, “weight loss program”, though 😉
I’m glad it turned out to be something minor.
I know she won’t be pleased about the diet. I think it’s good that your vet doesn’t recommend one of those so-called diet foods, because they’re loaded with things cats shouldn’t eat anyway, especially not cats who need to lose weight. I highly recommend considering putting her on an all-canned, grain-free diet. Cats are obligate carnivores and do much better on diets with little or no carbs. Feed her twice a day, and don’t leave any food out in between meals.
Great news on her vet visit. Keep us informed on her weight loss program. Her chasing you thru the house with teeth and claws out to get you to open more food should really work well. A good hint. Wear sneakers and cheat by hiding behind a locked door.
Glen it is really good news on Kasey. I have heard hitchhikers can jump up to six feet and come in on other pets or clothes. It is good to know it is a flea allergy and benydril will help. Overall her health was good and that is the most important thing to hear. Sounds good.
Believe I hear you on cost. I changed vets and costs were high. But worth every cent.
Diet + cat = real stress for you. Been there. Ask Ingrid. No dry food. No food left down all day for grazing. I had to do that. I almost started to eat the cat food as a stress reliever from Steeler.
Hope Morgan does not need thyroid meds. Hope that is not an issue for you and her.
Overall you sound pleased and the outcome for all is good. This is the best news of the day.
Glad the vet visit went well! And that you’ve found a really competent vet that you can trust. There are a lot of good vets out there and the ones who love their job and do it well are worth every cent!
Glen, good vet + good food + proper amounts = fewer visits. Why pay more for lesser care?
So she’s a little Rubenesque right now, like my little Goddess, but Cookie slimmed down as well. It turned out at that time, early to mid-90s, her weight gain was due to the corn every manufacturer used in their food and once I figured that out she slowly lost the x-treme curves and just looks like a little round kitty now, but I can feel her ribs. The grain, especially corn, makes a huge difference and just changing and managing her food will allow for the slow weight loss that’s safest.
I started taking the food away over 20 years ago, saw a positive change then and never looked back. You could try some foraging toys to keep her occupied if she’s inclined to play.
And last year, though no was going outside at the time, I was horribly infested with fleas. An opossum had nested in the furniture I had stacked on my deck right outside the door. Most wild animals are infested with fleas, and when she’d left the desperate fleas were hopping out of her improvised bedding and coming inside with me every time I went in and out the door. Cookie has a horrible allergic reaction to flea bites.
Glad you found the better vet.
Excellent. Sometimes it’s okay to go generic, but sometimes it’s true that you get what you pay for…I’m glad you found a thorough, caring vet that you like. She deserves that after the tough life she’s had
Benadette…..Rubinesque….LOVE IT! lol
I’m claiming that title for both myself and Monkey. I WAS using “fluffy”…….
Bernadette…..Monkey has a horrible flea allergy. When I got her she was half bald with scabs everywhere, it was really awful. I didn’t even know she was a long haired cat! What fur she had was so sparse and short, when I took her for her shots and spay I listed her as a DSH. Imagine my surprise when she turned out to have such long, luxuriously soft fur. When I got her she gave me razor burn she was so head-butty lol
http://youtu.be/swK-0UvqKBY
Warning…this is Monkey music…not for the faint of heart! lol
Bernie…this is Peaches approved. Monkey HATES it! So it’s safe for you to click….Peaches thinks you’ll like it a lot! http://youtu.be/a1sf2CzEq0w
BTW, It’s not metal, just good old fashioned hard rock lol
HEY WILD CHILD, now that is a little to hard for me. But you keep trying. You will end in my zone one of these days. I would love for Ingrid to have a book signing again in an area where you and all of us on here could get together. I think we might learn a lot about each other. We would all get along so well, with all our diversity.
Your Monkey, is so precious looking. Peaches is also. But those little girls, must need ear plugs. I wonder if they sell those. 🙂
Hmmmm….wracking my brain for something modern rock that Bernie and Steeler might like……
how about
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMLnDuzgkjo&feature=related
Monkey or Peaches ?
this is for the Wild Child. Steeler and I will enjoy some soft summer sounds.
Whoa, that took me back in time lol…good one!
Hmmmm, that’s an in-betweener….Peaches feeling frisky, or Monkey in a mellowish mood
🙂 for Bernadette. Get to feeling better. Steeler says we need you on your feet.
Steeler may not be herself but she is starting to behave a lot like she did before. Last evening I went upstairs to walk the treadmill, of course she comes up with me. She lies on the throw rug and just watches me. I think she must think why does Mom walk on that thing. Buy I digress. When I had walked awhile on it, I started to come down the staircase. We have always had an unspoken rule. Steeler gets the wall side and Mom gets the Banister side. So on the way down the stairs Steeler decided to cross over just as I was stepping down to the next stair. Well down on my dignity I went. She looked at me sitting on the step and it was something like get up, I am hungry. I wasn’t hurt, only my dignity. She on the other hand seems to have enjoyed what she did.
Then this morning she did her body walk a little before 5AM the left paw to the jaw and I played like I was still asleep. So she sat down beside me for a minute or two and she repeated herself. This time the paw was a continuing tap on my face so I would know she was not going to take anything less than my getting up. She wanted to eat. So she head butted me for her usual forehead kiss, and then I groggily headed to the kitchen to feed her.
Turned around with food and ice water and she was sitting at her eating area, as if at her table waiting for her feast.
Well I thought, I would try to lie down for a while, but Steeler was having none of that. She was at the bedroom doorway just talking away. So I got up and all she wanted was for me to sit at my chair at the table and keep her company while she ate.
Well I was then fully awake, against my constitution, and decided to go to Pgh. I got there quite early with no traffic. Got back home after 1 and sure enough she was asleep, but the it was time to eat again. It’s been a long day. But a very good day for us.
And THAT is very good news, that makes us feel almost as good as it does you. (I’ll tell you a secret – it might even make us feel *better* than it does you! We’re not worried, not a bit.)
I am happy for her and for you guys to know how she has reacted. Almost like the old Steeler. Only one feeling the reminder of the stairs yesterday is me. But hey dignity went out the window with her. I just love the way she is responding to me again.
What Harry said.
That’s wonderful news!!! (Steeler acting more like herself again – not the fact that you landed on your dignity, I mean, your – well, whatever!).
That is a good way to stop there. Everyone knows what I said. 🙂
wow, that’s awesome news!
Trying not to laugh.
Not succeeding.
Happy that Steeler has learned a new trick. Keeping you on your toes (or dignity)
That’s the best news I’ve heard in days! I mean the part about Bernie landing on her dignity. That was just Steeler’s way of telling you things are getting a little better.
lol
Ingrid,
The temp went down some last night but it was still hot. The kitties are being a bit more active and acting like themselves again though. I don’t blame them for being lethargic in the heat, I am too. lol
Luna has adopted my red stepstool as her new perch. She runs and jumps up on it and rolls over on her side for a tummy rub. Unfortunately she gets so excited she will fall off the stepstool in her attempt to roll over but that doesn’t stop her from trying again. She has become more affectionate and wants the rubs and chin scratches but still is not a lap kitty, nor will she sit on the couch next to me. She will however come stand in my lap if I am sitting and she thinks she needs fed. She is becoming more vocal too. She has the funniest meow. It’s kind of froggy and high pitched and sounds like it has a question mark at the end like she is asking a question. Very cute.
Nikita is her same old self, still quite interested in all that goes on around her. Funny thing happened the other day. Our power went out and I had the tv on at the time. When the power went out the cats really noticed, especially Nikita. She spent at least 15 minutes checking out the tv. Was looking under, behind and beside it in the entertainment center like she was trying to figure out where the tv power went. She even squeezed behind the entertainment center where I don’t like her to go because she unplugs the wires or shuts off the serge protector by stepping on it. She seem genuinely distressed that the power went out. lol When it came back on she came running in from the other room to look at the tv.
Sue I enjoyed the story of Luna and her talking. ONe of the things that always brings a smile to me is when, like Luna, Steeler loves to talk. Not always for any reason of defining what it is, but just roam around talking to herself. There are times, I am sure you also, have smiled at this behavior. I have in the past referred to her as “motormouth” a nickname I had used on my youngest son who seemed to always be talking. So enjoy the talking, the only time I laugh is when she is talking at me and then walks away with her tail held high and flipping the end. I know what that means.
Nikitia is studying electronics. She has figured out that those wires have something to do with the TV. She sounds like she will be in the repair or disrepair business very soon.
I love to hear about your Kitties. Keep them coming.
Monkey’s not that much of a talker She’ll speak to me a couple times a week. Her voice is quiet and polite, very much the opposite of her large and in charge personality! lol I think it’s funny though, even though she’s not generally talkative, when she DOES talk, she’ll keep talking as long as I keep answering. Once or twice a week we have long important conversations. I pretend she’s talking about politics, music, books, conservation, philosophy….. whatever I happen to be thinking of when she speaks to me, and answer accordingly lol……my walls are paper thin and my landlady lives next door…..come to think of it….maybe that’s why she’s so much nicer to me than most of the tenants….between my crazy music and overheard conversations, ostensibly with myself, she probably thinks I’m psychotic and possibly dangerous lol
lol….Peaches turned off my surge protector the other night just before bedtime. The only things on it are the TV, computer and phone (I have Comcast Triple Play) I didn’t realize that’s what happened. The TV and computer went off suddenly, I glanced over and didn’t see anything except Peaches standing there (about two feet away from the strip) looking all sweet and innocent. So I cursed Comcast and decided to just go to bed and call them from work the next day at lunch…..luckily, before I made an ___ of myself, I thought “Oh! I should check the power strip first!” As soon as I got home I did and everything came back up lol
We adopted 2 toroiseshell kitties (sisters) from the animal shelter. They are the most affectionate cats we’ve ever had! One loves to head-butt and they both love to lick our hands and arms. Cookie is ginger with black markings, and her sister Chooch is black with ginger markings. They are both talkative, especially Chooch. She often talks to herself as she goes about her business. These are strictly indoor cats. Cookie loves commercially made cat-treats and Chooch loves to lick the bowl after any salad in which I have used a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream as the dressing.
One thing they absolutely refuse to put up with is trimming their claws. So we just let them grow naturally. (They NEVER scratch us! They are always gentle! ) But we have to cover up most of our furniture or they would reduce them to tatters if we’re not careful!
Hello to the Bermans, love hearing about Cookie and Chooch (how did she get her name ?)
Welcome to Ingrids group.
Talk to Bernie about her antique chairs.
Steeler is making tooth picks for her.
Cookie and Chooch sound adorable! The talking is definitely a tortie trait – other than Siamese, torties seem to be some of the most talkative cats around. I’m intrigued with Chooch’s interest in salad dressing – Allegra and Ruby both like to lick the bowl after I’ve used ranch dressing on my salad!
If you’d like, you can post photos of Cookie and Chooch (love the names!) on The Conscious Cat Facebook page – we’d love to see them.
Hi Bermans. I have to laugh at the licking of the bowl. I have a 1 cat family. Your little ones should have their pics put on Ingrids FB site. Most of us, if not all of us, have our little ones there.
I sympathize with the scratching. Steeler has always scratched my dining chair legs. She doesn’t touch and other wooden legs in the house, but the chairs, I think, she figures these are hers. I have did the wrapping, but it is difficult because she would just switch to the rungs. So my antiques chairs are going to be toothpicks one day. Then they will be very low chairs.
I hope your Cookie and Chooch show you more a little more attention, and maybe they will focus on only one item for scratching. Steeler does this a lot to get my attention. It works. No never works with her. She also has her claws and she has learned not to use them on me.
It is great to hear your stories, I hope to hear more about the little ones.
Welcome to the best site there is.
Aww, too adorable! My Monkey is the queen of head-butts and random wierd licks lol.
I LOVE them both already! I think what I love most about torties is that no two are the same, but they’re SO far different than any other cat. Your girls both sound unique and beautiful, I’d love to see pics of how one is more orange and the other more black. My Monkey’s almost half and half lol
I don’t do claw trimming either. Both Monkey and Peaches (my very divalicious Tuxedo cat) would shank me in the neck if I tried that, so I just make sure they have about a million scratchy things around…. lol
Look for me, Lynn Garrow , on facebook…I’m the heavy metal “wild child” as Bernie says, but me and Monkey are both harmless I swear! lol…
Wild Child you, Monkey and Peaches are some of my favorites. You lighten up things. Love to hear your expressive stories. Still love hearing. You and Monkey are definitely harmless , however, folks, beware, their music is out there somewhere. 🙂
Hi Ryan,
This is a great community!
I have a tortie (Nikita) and her sister a diluted tortie (Luna).
Luna is the protective one and Nikita is not really like a tortie at all personality wise unless you count how she only wants attention on her terms. Like your cat she also plays catch, Luna does not. Luna loves to stand guard watching out our screen door and won’t let another cat on the porch. Nikita doesn’t really car much if another cat is hanging around.
Truthfully it is so hot in our house right now that they aren’t acting like themselves at all. All they do is lie on the kitchen floor all day.
Welcome to our little family Ryan.
I’m sorry all of you are having such a hard time with the heat – hopefully, it cools off for you soon, Sue.
I have written a few days ago that Kasey is going to the vet on June 24th.
We have switched vets and so we thought it was a very good idea to let the new vet have a look at the cyst-like bump on her chin.
She has just developed another thing that I want looked at, that I noticed tonight.
Her fur on both sides of her head, between her eyes and ears has gone quite thin. I even compared this to pictures to make sure I was not imagining it.
The skin is not broken, she does not have a rash but there are a few, very small red spots in the skin.
She is scratching a bit there but not excessively.
She never gets outside and neither Morgan or Taz have this condition.
It does not appear to bother her but I sure don’t like it, so Friday’s vet visit can’t come too soon for my liking.
Glen I hope the thinning and red spots may be just an allergic to something that she got into. Hopefully it will clear up. The cysts, I would agree, I would not be able to wait either. Kasey like Steeler have paid a high price before they found good homes. So I not even going to tell you not to worry, because you will anyway. It just comes with the territory. So I will be thinking and sending her my best kitty prayers that all is well. Remember I have had to lean on the folks here, so I and I know everyone on her is pulling for Kasey, everyone’s little girl, to be A OK.
Thanks
The thin fur is confined to the area between her eyes and ears, the rest of her fur is fine.
It does not seem to bother her in the least, even to touch, but it will get checked out
I am glad we switched vets, the experience with them and Toby, the silky terrier is that they are very knowledgeable, thorough and good to deal with.
We’ll be waiting for a good report after Friday’s vet visit, Glen. Maybe Kasey is having a minor allergic reaction to something. Always best to get it checked out.
Thanks, I just posted a couple of pictures of Emma and Kahlua on the Facebook page. Seems like a good community here. Can’t go wrong with animal lovers. My wife and I share our 2-bedroom apartment with our two cats, but one day we would like to have a dog as well. But that will have to wait until we have a house with a big back yard. We are both in college still, and we’re more than happy to devote all of our love and attention to Emma and Kahlua. My wife and I don’t have kids yet, so they’re pretty much our babies.
Ryan many of us are past college age. However, no matter where you and your wife are in your stage of life, you feel the same as the rest of us. These little ones are our babies and we fiercely protect them. I will check out the pics. Welcome again to the world of friends of felines. Not just Torties.
My wife and I adopted a dilute tortoiseshell in May of 2010. We named her Emma, and she was a tiny, eight week old bundle of skin, bones, and fur. She was a rescue cat, and she had a rough start in life with intestinal parasites, ringworm, and having to be spayed only a couple of weeks after getting over her illnesses. She endured all of this during only the first 4-5 months of her life. We put a lot of loving work into treating her, having to give her liquid medicine by oral syringe for a week, and then came the sulfur baths to treat the ringworm. Today she is healthy and strong, but I’m pretty confident that if it weren’t for me and my wife, she wouldn’t be alive. I know many people either couldn’t or wouldn’t pay for the vet bills and medicines to save a cat they had just adopted, or put in the work to treat her. I’m sure many people here would gladly do so, but sadly we may be the minority. But we had fallen in love with her very quickly, especially after we discovered that she likes to rub her nose against ours or do the gentle “head butts” as a greeting, to express affection, or to let us know she’s ready for breakfast.
A vet tech once told me that all tortoiseshells are mean, but that is demonstrably false. Our other cat is a big 20 lb. ragdoll, and they have a big brother/little sister dynamic to their relationship. They play-fight frequently, but he is loving and protective of her. Oh, one other thing about our dilute tortie is that she loves to fetch. I had never seen a cat fetch before, but it is her favorite game. Her favorite thing to fetch is a red pen with the inkwell removed. Anyway, I just wanted to share that we have a dilute tortoiseshell with a fantastic personality. She is very playful, often mischievous, but always sweet, especially if she gets caught doing something which she knows she shouldn’t.
Emma sounds like a wondeful little girl, Ryan, and she’s so lucky that you and your wife rescued her.
Torties often get a (false) reputation as being mean. I’d like to think that’s because it takes a special person to appreciate that tortitude, and I think everyone who’s been commenting here would agree with me 🙂
If you’d like, you can post a photo of Emma on The Conscious Cat Facebook page – we’d love to see her!
Welcome Ryan, so glad to hear how your love and attention to the health of Emma paid off 100 fold.
Torties are not mean as the reputation of them is but they love with their whole body and are very protective of their human servants. My Stirfry has the look most people associate with Torties but she is lovable in her own way.
And Emma will definitely have to talk to Brooke. They have a common fondness of pens.
Please post her pic on Ingrid’s FB page and tell us more about her.
You will find a lot of info here and learn how special our Torties are.
Ryan, many of us that have Torties have rescued them. The head butting is something to truly enjoy. My Steeler does the headbutting when we call it a day and she wants forehead kissed or when she wants just to have some attention. Torties are unpredictable. I have been going with her down that road. She loves my attention, and demands, it. Others not so much. Your Emma sounds like a real sweetheart. And yes sometimes vet bills can be very high and often. But Most of if not all of us have gone down that road and would do it all over again. Some of us are a 1 cat family and Harry, our in house foster/adopter/ has 7 in his home. All beautiful. Jay has 3 little furry ones and as you may know Ingrid has 2.
On this site (Ingrid King) started we talk about everything from out little ones quirks and stunts to health questions to music. We cover a broad spectrum of topics. This is a great place to talk (I call it brag) about our little one and then everything else in between.
If you ever need any advice Ingrid, Harry, and Bernadette are experts on felines. They have a wealth of knowledge. I thing Bernadette is a walking information center.
So please post pics of your little ones on the site Ingrid mentioned and you will see most of our little ones there also.
So welcome and I hope you will stay with us and talk often. Good company and good people.
Ryan
Welcome.
That is quite a story, I think they know when they’ve been rescued. Rescued cats make great pets IMHO.
I rescued Kasey when she was older but she has “imprinted” on me, she owns me.
She is very friendly with people but a bit tough on other animals in the house, sometimes.
She is in indoor cat but is very aware of what is going on outside, even if she shows no desire to go out. She reacts like she is literately guarding the house.
Such a sweet story. And you’re right, most people probably wouldn’t have gone to those lengths to save her. Torties are smart, she knew who to choose to be her people! My girl Monkey is a sweetie too, although not always to my other cat. There are different degrees of Tortitude….sounds like your Emma got the best degree
http://www.39online.com/newsfix/kiah-newsfix-angery-pussycat-story,0,5858557.story
Bet it was a Tortie or Torbie
CLEVELAND, TX— It’s not your usual cat attack…
A Cleveland Texas woman called 911 after her son 40 year old Charles Gibson, not to be confused with anchorman Charles Gibson, was attacked by a cat?!
Apparently the man found a 20 pound tabby cat in his living room. Guess he smelled a cat fight on his hands so he grabbed a knife of all things to protect himself. This little cat wasn’t playing nice. The man was attacked in his bathroom. Bites and scratches all over. Bleeding out of his pinkie finger, where he says the cat really got a hold of him.
Oh and did we mention the man stabbed the cat several times during the attack??!!! Ooopps!!!
He was transported to Memorial Hermann hospital. As for the fierce feline it was taken by animal control officers and tested for rabies and then euthanized.
Poor pussy cat.
That’s so horrible. Was it a pet? A friend of mine…well, I guess she’s still a friend of sorts….we still have lunch at work in the same group, and we talk occasionally, but we haven’t been close since this happened…..anyway, she’d had this cat for at least a year…I think it was closer to two. Housecat, never went outside. Up to date on all shots, checkups, and whatnot. All of a sudden one day it attacked her, and after that it would always hiss at her and charge. I told her there had to be something physically wrong. Loving, well fed and cared for housecats don’t just suddenly turn on their people that way, and urged her to get it to the vet. Instead she called animal control. They told her if they came out there the cat would be taken and euthanised, and she agreed. Poor thing probably just had a toothache or something. They don’t have any other way to let us know something is wrong. She has two other cats now, and when she got them I thought to myself, maybe mean-spiritedly, I’ll admit, “Dear God I hope they never get sick between vet visits!”
Happy Father’s Day to all the cat guys out there owned by torties. I hope you get a kick out of my Father’s Day volunteer email:
http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs042/1101552243383/archive/1106108974073.html
Love it! Cat guys rock!
Ha! I based this on part of an email from last year, and forgot to update my comment about myself from six to seven cats 😉
Uh oh Harry. I think you reached the point of sometimes. Sometimes you do and sometimes you don’t. But who was counting.
Cat guys are sexy.
Hey everybody, I haven’t updated you on Steeler in a couple of days. Here’s the latest:
The Cardiopet BNP test confirmed that Steeler has heart disease. She was put on Enalapril to start supporting her heart. Up until yesterday, she had a rough time, she was pretty lethargic and still had trouble breathing, despite the Prednisone she’s getting to help her with that. The good news is that she’s eating, and she fights Bernie when she gives her her medications.
This morning, things look a little better: she woke Bernie up at 6am and wanted to eat, and she also ate lunch. She even played with her catnip toys a little bit after Bernie refilled all of them with fresh nip last night.
Bernie will watch her through today, and if there’s no change by tomorrow, she’ll take her back to the vet’s.
It goes without saying that we’re all sending our love and prayers.
STEELER WANTS TO SEND THIS MESSAGE TO ALL OF YOU.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO ALL YOU GUYS ON HERE. TO ALL THE FOLKS THAT ARE IN THE ROLE OF FATHER AND MOTHER, HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO EACH OF YOU. MAY YOU ALL HAVE A GREAT DAY.
Allegra, Ruby and I would also like to wish all of your dads (of human and furry children) a Happy Father’s Day!
Too late & too tired to find the threads to which I’m replying 😉
Glen – I’m glad about the second opinion, too. I hope it’s the same as the first opinion and gives you more peace of mind.
Two kittens out tonight, one in. A volunteer found a kitten by the side of the road (more or less, that’s the short version) during the event. We fed it (starving) and sent it home with one of the fosters whose kitten was adopted tonight.
A really nice family (they’d adopted two dogs from us last year) came in and adopted a pair of kittens, one of which was a dilute tortie, who had just the tip of one paw dipped in orange fur coloring. They liked her feisty personality – I hope they know what they’re getting into. (I did clue them into tortitude.) They didn’t even know what a tortie was…
Him: is it ok if we adopt two cats tonight?
Her: it’s your father’s day, if that’s what you want it’s fine.
(He hastened to add, recovering his man points, that he was also getting golf clubs.)
He wanted the cats. So he would be ok with you. Golf clubs was a ruse. like you said man points.
That’s cute!
It’s never to late to say job well done. Even if it ends at 1 in. It is still 2 out to a good home. The feisty personality will show up, by then they will be to much in love with the kitten to let it go. That is part of the personality of our little girls.
Congratulations. Keep up your good work. You do a great job.