A Big Purr of Welcome

This blog used to be written by Tara, cat and author of Cats in Charge: A Guide to the Training and Education of Humans. She is also a leading character in Big Dragons Don't Cry, Book One of A Dragon's Guide to Destiny and in its sequels.

Once Tara realized that the rewards of writing a blot didn't include treats or catnip, she assigned the job to me, human and nominal writer of her books.

However, she has final approval of all posts, and she advises you to visit often. The advice you'll read here can land you in a field of catnip if you follow it.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Choosing Your Human From a Shelter: Part 2

Dear Tara,

Your post on choosing the right human to adopt was very helpful. Could you rate the types of humans who may visit a shelter looking for cats and kittens?

Sincerely,
Tired of My Cage

Dear Tired,

I'd be glad to answer this important question. Below you will find various categories.

Singles of Mating Age

Although it isn't always true, single adults often seek a "pet" to relieve their unhappiness at being single. If you sense that rare human who revels in solitude—a trait that is often revealed by confident bearing and the total absence of wistfulness in their voices—make yourself VERY available for adoption. Their lifestyle will totally suit yours.

If you choose a lonely single, be prepared for a high-maintenance relationship. Some cats enjoy this, but the time needed to comfort a needy human cuts into the time necessary for grooming, sleeping, and stillness.

Often the lonely ones do better with a dog. Seek any indication, like fur and odor, that indicates they already have one. This is a separate topic, but going into a home where a dog has already established himself is not always optimal.

Seniors

The biggest concern with choosing an elderly human is how close to the grave they appear. I say this not out of a lack of compassion but because cats are too often ignored in the post-mortem shuffle. If the senior is accompanied by a responsible-looking younger human, and all other aspects are positive, you may want to consider adoption. Seniors often prefer an adult cat, and this benefits those of you who get neglected because of the kitten craze.

Senior couples are often a better choice, as long as at least one of them appears capable of remembering feeding time and other essentials.

Gay Couples

In general, these are excellent choices for adoption. Although you should not be deluded by the myth that they are always childless, many gay couples are attracted to our charming, low-maintenance selves. Food and treats in such households are often of the highest quality.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Choosing the Human Candidate for Adoption

Dear Tara,

I'm writing to you from an animal shelter. I'm an 8-week-old kitten and highly adoptable. I want your advice on how to pick the ideal humans to rule.

With Eternal Gratitude for Your Wisdom,
Cuteness Catsonified

Dear Cuteness,

Let me commend you on your attitude. If your human subjects believe you'll be honoring them by gracing their home, you're putting your best paw forward and setting the highest possible standard for future training.

To other cats reading this, you don't have to be an adorable kitten to assume this attitude. It's natural to all cats, and any cat who emphasizes it is virtually guaranteed the home of his or her choice.

Examine your prospects carefully. They should be neat and tidy, but not overly so. Those who are excessively groomed will try to make trouble later on about shed hair and other natural practices.

Nor should they be overly adoring. Those who go on about what a cute little kittiekins you are may try to treat you like a baby or—far worse—a pet. This could present challenges in your quest to assert your natural dominance with them.

Look for an attitude of respect and submission. A bit of awe at your magnificence never goes amiss. Humans who display these useful traits will make the best candidates for training.

Several effective techniques will prevent the wrong humans from adopting you. Look stupid. Act lethargic. Be indifferent to their attempts to charm you. If all else fails, pee outside the litter box.

Above all, maintain your attitude of superiority. This will attract the humans easiest to dominate.

Do let me know how it works out.

All the best,
Tara