Author’s Life

“Tortitude” – The Unique Personality of Tortoiseshell Cats: Fact or Fiction?

tortoiseshell-cat

Last updated August 2019

In August of 2009, I wrote a post titled Tortitude: The Unique Personality of Tortoiseshell Cats. The post describes some of the unique traits that many of these beautifully colored cats seem to share: 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.Continue Reading

Happy 4th of July 2014

4th_of_july_cats

As you and your families celebrate the holiday with picnics, parades and fireworks, please remember that this may not be your cat’s favorite holiday, especially when it comes to fireworks. If your cats are afraid of loud noises, there are things you can do to help them cope.

How to Help Your Cat Cope With Fireworks

Have a wonderful holiday!Continue Reading

Sunday Purrs: Special Birthday Edition

birthday cats

Hi everyone, it’s Allegra and Ruby! Don’t tell on us – we snuck on the computer while Mom was asleep. And it’s a good thing we did, because we noticed she didn’t have her usual Sunday Purrs post written for today. That’s just as well, because we were going to delete it and post this instead – because today is Mom’s birthday!

Ruby: Do you think Mom will be happy when she sees this, Allegra?Continue Reading

Veterinary Journalist Certification

veterinary_journalist

I am pleased to announce that I have earned the credential of Certified Veterinary Journalist from the American Society of Veterinary  Journalists. As a former veterinary hospital manager, and as someone who works hard at bringing you cat health information you can trust, this certification means a lot to me.

The ASVJ certifies veterinarians, animal health professionals and veterinary contributors to public media ranging from  print to blogs to radio and television. The goal of the ASVJ, and the certification, is to establish the credibility and the recognition of journalistic standards in the veterinary profession Continue Reading