Thursday, December 24, 2009
Merry Christmas
On behalf of Firestar and myself I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas - even if you don't adhere to the holiday. I hope it is a good time for you.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Cat and Bird
There was a cat and there was a bird and they were friends that’s what I heard
The cat was grey and quite a fellow, the bird was flighty and painted yellow
The two would play around the yard and hit each other but not too hard
It was all in fun like friends should be and they sat together in a tree
At night the bird sat in its nest while the cat went in the house to rest
This friendship lasted through long days until days grew short and they parted ways
The bird the cat did never eat instead it savored the bird’s sweet tweet
Would that people could from them learn and be nice to each other in our turn
.
The cat was grey and quite a fellow, the bird was flighty and painted yellow
The two would play around the yard and hit each other but not too hard
It was all in fun like friends should be and they sat together in a tree
At night the bird sat in its nest while the cat went in the house to rest
This friendship lasted through long days until days grew short and they parted ways
The bird the cat did never eat instead it savored the bird’s sweet tweet
Would that people could from them learn and be nice to each other in our turn
.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thoughts Behind the Looks
So I was holding Firestar this morning. He wanted to fight (play) and I didn't. So he didn't want to hang around me. I wanted to calm him down so he would quit biting so I didn't let him go right off. I just kept petting him until he actually did calm down. I was actually amazed he let me think it worked.
When I let him go my nice clean shirt was covered in cat hair. I complained, telling him I had cat hair all over my chest. He looked at me with doleful eyes as if to say, "What are you bitching about? I have that all day every day, dummy."
.
When I let him go my nice clean shirt was covered in cat hair. I complained, telling him I had cat hair all over my chest. He looked at me with doleful eyes as if to say, "What are you bitching about? I have that all day every day, dummy."
.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The Cat's Tale Waving
I am considering turning off access to this blog and shutting it down. Should make a decision by Thanksgiving. But even if the blog continues it is not unreasonable to think I will be making the decision again later.
.
.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
The Cat
The cat was known as Firestar
He wandered here he wandered far
His teeth were sharp and he bit quite hard
Often he bit this timid bard
But a cat is gentle a cat is soft
So when a cat stalks through the loft
Be sure to know it’s on patrol
To find something new is it’s only goal
Things that move it’ll pounce upon
From late at night until early dawn
And if in bed too long you lie
The cat out of reach will loudly cry
If cries don’t work it’ll jump on you
And getting up you have to do
And once you’re up the cat is gone
It’s running off but not for long
For soon it steals its way back to bed
And lays down nearly where you put your head
It falls asleep as if to say
You sleep at night and I sleep at day
.
He wandered here he wandered far
His teeth were sharp and he bit quite hard
Often he bit this timid bard
But a cat is gentle a cat is soft
So when a cat stalks through the loft
Be sure to know it’s on patrol
To find something new is it’s only goal
Things that move it’ll pounce upon
From late at night until early dawn
And if in bed too long you lie
The cat out of reach will loudly cry
If cries don’t work it’ll jump on you
And getting up you have to do
And once you’re up the cat is gone
It’s running off but not for long
For soon it steals its way back to bed
And lays down nearly where you put your head
It falls asleep as if to say
You sleep at night and I sleep at day
.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Firestar's Diary
Hello. It's Sunday (I'm told). First or last day of the week, depending on your perspective. For myself - I don't care. My days are all pretty similar.
Let me demonstrate.
5:00 a.m. Sleeping on rocking chair. Bevie gets up and turns on light. How rude.
5:30 a.m. Spouse gets up and wanders around making noise.
5:45 a.m. Spouse leaves apartment. I now wander around meowing loudly. This is to get Bevie's attention.
6:00 a.m. Sitting on chair beside Bevie. Every time Bevie's arm moves close I bite it. Not hard. Just enough to entice play.
6:15 a.m. No play. Just back scratches. Not bad, but not what I wanted. Go to bedroom and sleep on Bevie's bed.
8:00 a.m. Return to main room. Sleep on rocker.
9:00 a.m. Son is up. Son comes to rocker and gets bit.
10:00 a.m. In Son's room sleeping on Son's bed.
11:00 a.m. Back in master bedroom sleeping on Bevie's bed.
12:15 p.m. Fill out blog entry and return to bedroom. Sleeping on Bevie's bed.
These busy days just wear me out.
.
Let me demonstrate.
5:00 a.m. Sleeping on rocking chair. Bevie gets up and turns on light. How rude.
5:30 a.m. Spouse gets up and wanders around making noise.
5:45 a.m. Spouse leaves apartment. I now wander around meowing loudly. This is to get Bevie's attention.
6:00 a.m. Sitting on chair beside Bevie. Every time Bevie's arm moves close I bite it. Not hard. Just enough to entice play.
6:15 a.m. No play. Just back scratches. Not bad, but not what I wanted. Go to bedroom and sleep on Bevie's bed.
8:00 a.m. Return to main room. Sleep on rocker.
9:00 a.m. Son is up. Son comes to rocker and gets bit.
10:00 a.m. In Son's room sleeping on Son's bed.
11:00 a.m. Back in master bedroom sleeping on Bevie's bed.
12:15 p.m. Fill out blog entry and return to bedroom. Sleeping on Bevie's bed.
These busy days just wear me out.
.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Here's Firestar
Nearly a month since anything has been posted here. Sorry. Posting to blogs isn't an easy thing to do right now.
However, Firestar is still alive. Not going to say well because I think he's incredibly bored. Like Spouse and Son I think he was kind of excited to be in a new place. No stairs meant life was easier on his legs. But now he's discovered the other side of that coin. There aren't any windows to speak of. Two. One in each bedroom. And then there is the sliding door which leads to the deck. But there are no rabbits and few birds. And Firestar seems to find people watching a dull activity.
So, he walks around the place crying out for something to do. Son will toss his toy for a while, but Son is also bored about the place. But circumstances have allowed for Firestar to find a few creative outlets.
King of the Mountain is a newer game Firestar's discovered. He jumps from box to box until he can nearly touch the ceiling. He's even taken to sleeping up there. That's a unicorn bedspread he's sitting on. You can't see the unicorn because it got reversed when Son did a reconassaince through boxes in search of a specific hat.
Not sure what he's looking at. There's nothing there but the ceiling. Maybe he's praying we can find a different place to live. A prayer I share.
.
However, Firestar is still alive. Not going to say well because I think he's incredibly bored. Like Spouse and Son I think he was kind of excited to be in a new place. No stairs meant life was easier on his legs. But now he's discovered the other side of that coin. There aren't any windows to speak of. Two. One in each bedroom. And then there is the sliding door which leads to the deck. But there are no rabbits and few birds. And Firestar seems to find people watching a dull activity.
So, he walks around the place crying out for something to do. Son will toss his toy for a while, but Son is also bored about the place. But circumstances have allowed for Firestar to find a few creative outlets.
Hide and Seek is a game Firestar enjoys. This is a throw rug in the foyer just outside the kitchen area. With no windows to speak of the place is quite dark and we have to have lights on even at noon. I had to lighten up this image so I could see it on my dark monitor. Hope it isn't too much for those of you with newer monitors. This is where Firestar lays when any of us returns to the apartment after leaving him alone.
King of the Mountain is a newer game Firestar's discovered. He jumps from box to box until he can nearly touch the ceiling. He's even taken to sleeping up there. That's a unicorn bedspread he's sitting on. You can't see the unicorn because it got reversed when Son did a reconassaince through boxes in search of a specific hat.
Not sure what he's looking at. There's nothing there but the ceiling. Maybe he's praying we can find a different place to live. A prayer I share.
.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Temporary Shelter
So, it has been about a month since the last post on this blog. We haven't disappeared entirely, although it might seem like it. Life just isn't filled with a lot of happiness at the moment. Of course we are aware of others who are suffering far worse than ourselves, so that our approach to our own unhappiness seems even petty. But there it is. It's all we've got.
Not a lot to say. Just felt I should let those who might be interested know we are still alive and as well as we can be at the moment. Still waiting for that rainbow to shine a pot of gold upon us. Maybe tonight, right?
It hasn't all been unpleasant. In fact, I believe I can honestly state that of the four of us (myself, Spouse, Son, Firestar) there is one who is still happy about the move. Spouse and Son were excited - until we actually arrived. They've changed their tunes (as I knew they would).
But Firestar is happier, or seems to be most of the time. I think I know why. Stairs. He doesn't have to navigate any now.
The house was five levels, and we spent most of our time on levels one and three (with one being the highest floor). Firestar's personal bathroom (litter box) was on level four and his food was on level three. He liked to sleep on our bed, which was level one, and he liked to watch the rabbits from ground floor, which was level four. So, here is a typical day in the life of a cat in a five floor house.
Wake up on level one and go down thirteen steps to level two. Go down four steps to level three. Go down thirteen steps to level four. Use the litter box. Come back up thirteen steps to level three and get something to eat and drink. Go bother Bevie at the computer. Go back up four steps to level three. Go back up thirteen steps to level one and take Bevie's place on the bed. Repeat this scenario several times during the day.
Here at the apartment/flat there are three rooms. The living room is nearly filled with boxes, two office chairs, some banquet tables, a glider rocker, a treadmill (which won't work at the apartment), and a desk. There is a two foot wide path allowing passage from the kitchen to the sliding doors.
Son's room has no space for walking. His mattress takes up the room's center, his dresser one corner, his book shelves an entire wall, and his saxophone and tuba another corner.
The master bedroom actually has the most open floor space, but no wall space. Boxes have been stack too high.
So, Firestar never has to go very far at all before he has reached the end of how far he can go and has to turn around. We have the same problem, but it doesn't seem to bother him as much it does us. Even so, I think he misses the rabbits. And he has been going stir crazy more often this past week. Perhaps the novelty of living in a different place is wearing off for him, too.
For your (possible) enjoyment/amusement, here are some pictures Son and I took at our current place of residence.
.
Not a lot to say. Just felt I should let those who might be interested know we are still alive and as well as we can be at the moment. Still waiting for that rainbow to shine a pot of gold upon us. Maybe tonight, right?
It hasn't all been unpleasant. In fact, I believe I can honestly state that of the four of us (myself, Spouse, Son, Firestar) there is one who is still happy about the move. Spouse and Son were excited - until we actually arrived. They've changed their tunes (as I knew they would).
But Firestar is happier, or seems to be most of the time. I think I know why. Stairs. He doesn't have to navigate any now.
The house was five levels, and we spent most of our time on levels one and three (with one being the highest floor). Firestar's personal bathroom (litter box) was on level four and his food was on level three. He liked to sleep on our bed, which was level one, and he liked to watch the rabbits from ground floor, which was level four. So, here is a typical day in the life of a cat in a five floor house.
Wake up on level one and go down thirteen steps to level two. Go down four steps to level three. Go down thirteen steps to level four. Use the litter box. Come back up thirteen steps to level three and get something to eat and drink. Go bother Bevie at the computer. Go back up four steps to level three. Go back up thirteen steps to level one and take Bevie's place on the bed. Repeat this scenario several times during the day.
Here at the apartment/flat there are three rooms. The living room is nearly filled with boxes, two office chairs, some banquet tables, a glider rocker, a treadmill (which won't work at the apartment), and a desk. There is a two foot wide path allowing passage from the kitchen to the sliding doors.
Son's room has no space for walking. His mattress takes up the room's center, his dresser one corner, his book shelves an entire wall, and his saxophone and tuba another corner.
The master bedroom actually has the most open floor space, but no wall space. Boxes have been stack too high.
So, Firestar never has to go very far at all before he has reached the end of how far he can go and has to turn around. We have the same problem, but it doesn't seem to bother him as much it does us. Even so, I think he misses the rabbits. And he has been going stir crazy more often this past week. Perhaps the novelty of living in a different place is wearing off for him, too.
For your (possible) enjoyment/amusement, here are some pictures Son and I took at our current place of residence.
Son doing his daily exercise under Firestar's intense tutelage.
Actually, this becomes my sanctuary to escape snores in the middle of the night.
Actually, this becomes my sanctuary to escape snores in the middle of the night.
Firestar after one of his campouts.
Actually, Firestar has a penchant for crawling into sleeping bags, under blankets and towels, and going to sleep.
Actually, Firestar has a penchant for crawling into sleeping bags, under blankets and towels, and going to sleep.
Another good idea shelved.
This is one of two desktop shelf units I used at the house. After this picture was taken the shelf units were both moved and now I haven't a clue where they are - beyond some place in the apartment.
This is one of two desktop shelf units I used at the house. After this picture was taken the shelf units were both moved and now I haven't a clue where they are - beyond some place in the apartment.
Local friends having a quiet chat.
When we first arrived there was a flock of swallows who were convinced our deck belonged to them. Haven't seen them now in more than a week.
When we first arrived there was a flock of swallows who were convinced our deck belonged to them. Haven't seen them now in more than a week.
Reflections of a cat's life.
This was taken from the deck. Firestar is in Son's room looking out. The glass is reflecting the pool area and parking lot below.
This was taken from the deck. Firestar is in Son's room looking out. The glass is reflecting the pool area and parking lot below.
It isn't home and it isn't sweet, but this is where we live now.
It's a corner apartment, so the first two windows from the deck are Son's room and the master bedroom. The air condioning box on the wall has to cool off the entire apartment. That's all right this year because it's been so cool. My plastic white rocker, which is older than Son, is finally cracking apart. But I kept it anyway. It's one of the more comfortable chairs we have. We can't keep windows open long because absolutely everyone around us smokes and the smell congregates in that corner. Son actually gets sick and has to go back inside. I grew up around cigarette smoke, so it's only a nuisance for me.
It's a corner apartment, so the first two windows from the deck are Son's room and the master bedroom. The air condioning box on the wall has to cool off the entire apartment. That's all right this year because it's been so cool. My plastic white rocker, which is older than Son, is finally cracking apart. But I kept it anyway. It's one of the more comfortable chairs we have. We can't keep windows open long because absolutely everyone around us smokes and the smell congregates in that corner. Son actually gets sick and has to go back inside. I grew up around cigarette smoke, so it's only a nuisance for me.
What a bath tub!
Actually, it's our pool area, shared with about one hundred other units. The sign claims forty people can be in there. Maybe. If they're all leprechans. For normal sized people, though, I would say ten to twenty is max. And on the best days that is about how many are in there. Son and I had it to ourselves one day - when it wasn't too cold.
Actually, it's our pool area, shared with about one hundred other units. The sign claims forty people can be in there. Maybe. If they're all leprechans. For normal sized people, though, I would say ten to twenty is max. And on the best days that is about how many are in there. Son and I had it to ourselves one day - when it wasn't too cold.
A symbolic end to a day and an era.
This was taken by Son from our deck, which faces west. It wasn't the prettiest sunset we've had, but it was nice. We're out of the house now, and unless it starts to rain money down upon us we will probably never again see the inside of one we call home. I must say, none of this makes any sense to me. But then I've always been thick.
This was taken by Son from our deck, which faces west. It wasn't the prettiest sunset we've had, but it was nice. We're out of the house now, and unless it starts to rain money down upon us we will probably never again see the inside of one we call home. I must say, none of this makes any sense to me. But then I've always been thick.
.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Shut Down
I apologize up front for this post's connection to cats is at best - remote. Stretched like cat gut harp strings. (I've played harp strung with cat gut.)
The past month or two I have often neglected this blog in favor of other things, and for that I also apologize. But now I am taking something of a forced sabbatical. I will be offline for a time. Any time from a day to infinity. Chances are it will only be for a few days, but there are no guarantees. So I want to take this opportunity to thank you cats, and cat lovers, for your visits and your comments.
Check every few days to see if anything new has been posted. If September arrives and you still haven't seen anything new you will know things have gone poorly. There are two more days for me to post, but I'm not sure I will on this blog. My mind is a bit stressed right now.
So, if you will, play the following YouTube link and sing along. This is what I'm listening to at the moment and this is how I'm feeling. You take care now, you hear?
Meow.
You tell 'em, Firestar.
Everytime that I look in the mirror
All these lines on my face gettin clearer
The past is gone
It went by like dust to dawn
Isnt that the way
Everybodys got their dues in life to pay
I know what nobody knows
Where it comes and where it goes
I know everybodys sins
You got to lose to know how to win
Half my life's in books written pages
Live and learn from fools and from sages
You know its true
All the things come back to you
Sing with me, sing for the years
Sing for the laughter, sing for the tears
Sing with me, if its just for today
Maybe tomorrow the good lord will take you away
(x2)
Dream on, dream on
Dream yourself a dream come true
Dream on, dream on
Dream until your dream come true
Dream on, dream on, dream on...
Sing with me, sing for the years
Sing for the laughter and sing for the tears
Sing with me, if its just for today
Maybe tomorrow the good lord will take you away
The past month or two I have often neglected this blog in favor of other things, and for that I also apologize. But now I am taking something of a forced sabbatical. I will be offline for a time. Any time from a day to infinity. Chances are it will only be for a few days, but there are no guarantees. So I want to take this opportunity to thank you cats, and cat lovers, for your visits and your comments.
Check every few days to see if anything new has been posted. If September arrives and you still haven't seen anything new you will know things have gone poorly. There are two more days for me to post, but I'm not sure I will on this blog. My mind is a bit stressed right now.
So, if you will, play the following YouTube link and sing along. This is what I'm listening to at the moment and this is how I'm feeling. You take care now, you hear?
Meow.
You tell 'em, Firestar.
Everytime that I look in the mirror
All these lines on my face gettin clearer
The past is gone
It went by like dust to dawn
Isnt that the way
Everybodys got their dues in life to pay
I know what nobody knows
Where it comes and where it goes
I know everybodys sins
You got to lose to know how to win
Half my life's in books written pages
Live and learn from fools and from sages
You know its true
All the things come back to you
Sing with me, sing for the years
Sing for the laughter, sing for the tears
Sing with me, if its just for today
Maybe tomorrow the good lord will take you away
(x2)
Dream on, dream on
Dream yourself a dream come true
Dream on, dream on
Dream until your dream come true
Dream on, dream on, dream on...
Sing with me, sing for the years
Sing for the laughter and sing for the tears
Sing with me, if its just for today
Maybe tomorrow the good lord will take you away
Sunday, August 2, 2009
New Kitten of the Month
Sorry I am late with this, but we have a new Kitten of the Month. She's a cute and shy little one named Tara.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Cats
The cat would walk around the house and meow at this or that
It rubbed its head on legs and chairs, because it was a cat
The cat would jump on window sills and stare out at the birds
And when a human called its name, it feigned it had not heard
At times the cat would sit on laps, and purr loudly half asleep
Other times the cat restlessly, about the house did leap
Aloof, alone, the cat did roam, and own the house it walked
And the looks it gave when spoken of, showed it knew of human talk
The cat comes not at request of others, for that it does ignore
Obeying others is not its way, what an unpleasant chore
But be interested in something else, and soon the cat is there
Demanding your attention, to show it that you care
Some do not care for cats at all, they hate the cat’s strong will
They do not comprehend the fact, that cats and love us still
We need not cat’s compliance, nor need them to obey
They need not come because we ask, nor remain when we say “stay”
A cat need not be else but what a cat can only be
A creature loving as ourselves, who just needs to be free
And so when a cat will come to me, because it wants my touch
That a cat should want my touch, you see, means to me oh so much
It rubbed its head on legs and chairs, because it was a cat
The cat would jump on window sills and stare out at the birds
And when a human called its name, it feigned it had not heard
At times the cat would sit on laps, and purr loudly half asleep
Other times the cat restlessly, about the house did leap
Aloof, alone, the cat did roam, and own the house it walked
And the looks it gave when spoken of, showed it knew of human talk
The cat comes not at request of others, for that it does ignore
Obeying others is not its way, what an unpleasant chore
But be interested in something else, and soon the cat is there
Demanding your attention, to show it that you care
Some do not care for cats at all, they hate the cat’s strong will
They do not comprehend the fact, that cats and love us still
We need not cat’s compliance, nor need them to obey
They need not come because we ask, nor remain when we say “stay”
A cat need not be else but what a cat can only be
A creature loving as ourselves, who just needs to be free
And so when a cat will come to me, because it wants my touch
That a cat should want my touch, you see, means to me oh so much
Monday, July 20, 2009
Culture Lesson - Class #1017
Just checked my email for the first time in weeks. Apparently I have won a lot of money. Now what's a cat supposed to do with money? Money's for humans. Now there was something about male enhancement, but Bevie deleted it before I could read what it was all about. I had kind of been hoping it was a way to reverse that trip to the vet I had a year or so ago. Now I'll never know. Humans.
Anyway, we have not had any real culture here in a while so I thought I would return to our lessons.
The information for this post has been taken from this site.
Cymric
(picture taken from this site)
The Cymric is a breed of long haired cat. They are often considered to be a long haired variety of the Manx breed of cats rather than being considered a completely distinct breed. In fact except for the long hair traits of cymric, both the breeds are similar to each other in all aspects. The word Cymru from which this name Cymric is derived is the indigenous Welsh name of Wales, though this is a myth that this breed of cat has any relation with the Welsh, the origin of cat is related to the successor of Manx Cats from the Isle of Man. Though most of the cat associations believe Cymric to be an original breed, the TICA and ACF regard it as a variety of the Manx.
History
Though the official acceptance of Cymric as a breed is a very recent phenomenon, the breed has existed on this earth for a long time. Their origin is traced back to the Isle of Man, an island located in the Irish Sea between England and Ireland where it is said to be introduced by human settlers and explorers. Cymric was earlier known to be Longhaired Manx, its name was later changed to be the name was changed to Cymric in 1970s. According to the records of the island, the special trait of taillessness in Cymric began as a mutation amongst Isle of Man's domestic cat population. As there is not much scope of varied gene pool in this small island, this trait became dominant and was passes from one generation to other along with the long hair genes. Many long haired tailless kittens were born from Manx but were often discarded as mutants. However, when the same kinds of kitten were born in Canada in 1960, they were treated with much respect and some time later recognized as a breed.
Appearance
The Cymric cat is identified as a tailless furry cat with a round head and full eyes. It is compressed and chubby in appearance. It has a short and thick neck over a mall to medium-sized muscular body. Adult males of Cymric breed weigh 9 to 13 pounds; adult female cats weigh 7 to 11 pounds. The ears of Cymric cat are medium-sized and widely spaced, narrowing gradually to a rounded tip. The hair of Cymric cat is mid length and dense over the main body adding more to its chubby appearance. The hair gradually grows from shoulders to rump. The hair on the abdomen and neck ruff is usually longer than that on the main body. The cheeks of Cymric cats are thick and full and its facial hair extends towards its cheeks like bib. This cat breed has impressive tufts.
Personality
Cymric cats are intelligent, funny and are friendly with other pet animals. They are impressive learners and are very soft and non-fussy in nature. They are very obedient and loyal to their owners. Cymrics very quickly bond with their human companions. They love cuddling and lap swinging. Some of the Cymric cats' owners describe them as cute as teddy bears. Though they love company, they are usually not overly demanding of attention. They love water and love playing with it, however do not assume they love bathing. They are moderately active and playful.
Intelligent cats. Isn't that kind of redundant?
Obedient? What nonsense is this? Just who are they obeying? Other cats? Well, that would make sense. Loyal to owners. Nobody owns a cat.
Lap dance cats, huh? Now I really wish I had been given a chance to read that email.
.
Anyway, we have not had any real culture here in a while so I thought I would return to our lessons.
The information for this post has been taken from this site.
Cymric
(picture taken from this site)
The Cymric is a breed of long haired cat. They are often considered to be a long haired variety of the Manx breed of cats rather than being considered a completely distinct breed. In fact except for the long hair traits of cymric, both the breeds are similar to each other in all aspects. The word Cymru from which this name Cymric is derived is the indigenous Welsh name of Wales, though this is a myth that this breed of cat has any relation with the Welsh, the origin of cat is related to the successor of Manx Cats from the Isle of Man. Though most of the cat associations believe Cymric to be an original breed, the TICA and ACF regard it as a variety of the Manx.
History
Though the official acceptance of Cymric as a breed is a very recent phenomenon, the breed has existed on this earth for a long time. Their origin is traced back to the Isle of Man, an island located in the Irish Sea between England and Ireland where it is said to be introduced by human settlers and explorers. Cymric was earlier known to be Longhaired Manx, its name was later changed to be the name was changed to Cymric in 1970s. According to the records of the island, the special trait of taillessness in Cymric began as a mutation amongst Isle of Man's domestic cat population. As there is not much scope of varied gene pool in this small island, this trait became dominant and was passes from one generation to other along with the long hair genes. Many long haired tailless kittens were born from Manx but were often discarded as mutants. However, when the same kinds of kitten were born in Canada in 1960, they were treated with much respect and some time later recognized as a breed.
Appearance
The Cymric cat is identified as a tailless furry cat with a round head and full eyes. It is compressed and chubby in appearance. It has a short and thick neck over a mall to medium-sized muscular body. Adult males of Cymric breed weigh 9 to 13 pounds; adult female cats weigh 7 to 11 pounds. The ears of Cymric cat are medium-sized and widely spaced, narrowing gradually to a rounded tip. The hair of Cymric cat is mid length and dense over the main body adding more to its chubby appearance. The hair gradually grows from shoulders to rump. The hair on the abdomen and neck ruff is usually longer than that on the main body. The cheeks of Cymric cats are thick and full and its facial hair extends towards its cheeks like bib. This cat breed has impressive tufts.
Personality
Cymric cats are intelligent, funny and are friendly with other pet animals. They are impressive learners and are very soft and non-fussy in nature. They are very obedient and loyal to their owners. Cymrics very quickly bond with their human companions. They love cuddling and lap swinging. Some of the Cymric cats' owners describe them as cute as teddy bears. Though they love company, they are usually not overly demanding of attention. They love water and love playing with it, however do not assume they love bathing. They are moderately active and playful.
Intelligent cats. Isn't that kind of redundant?
Obedient? What nonsense is this? Just who are they obeying? Other cats? Well, that would make sense. Loyal to owners. Nobody owns a cat.
Lap dance cats, huh? Now I really wish I had been given a chance to read that email.
.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Don't Talk With Your Mouth Full
It has taken weeks, even months, to get this picture, and I didn't even get a good one. Had to snap it quickly, before the moment was lost.
I think Firestar gets nostalgic at times. I will hear him cry - almost whimper. Then, he will show up with his favorite toy in his mouth, as though wanting someone to throw it. Back when he was a kitten, he and Son would play catch for long periods. Son would toss the toy across the room and Firestar would chase it, sometimes catching it in the air. Then he would bring it back to repeat the process.
He will still chase the toy - sometimes. But never catches it and never, ever brings it back anymore. But every so often - particularly if someone has just left the house - he will carry his toy around the house and cry. I've tried several times to get a picture of it, but once he sees me he drops the toy, and it will be days before he picks it up again. Yesterday, right after Spouse left for work, he brought his toy downstairs. He got distracted by movement outside the dining room door and that gave me time to get the camera. Didn't have time to wait for it to focus. He was realizing I saw him and I had to snap the picture. This is what I got.
.
I think Firestar gets nostalgic at times. I will hear him cry - almost whimper. Then, he will show up with his favorite toy in his mouth, as though wanting someone to throw it. Back when he was a kitten, he and Son would play catch for long periods. Son would toss the toy across the room and Firestar would chase it, sometimes catching it in the air. Then he would bring it back to repeat the process.
He will still chase the toy - sometimes. But never catches it and never, ever brings it back anymore. But every so often - particularly if someone has just left the house - he will carry his toy around the house and cry. I've tried several times to get a picture of it, but once he sees me he drops the toy, and it will be days before he picks it up again. Yesterday, right after Spouse left for work, he brought his toy downstairs. He got distracted by movement outside the dining room door and that gave me time to get the camera. Didn't have time to wait for it to focus. He was realizing I saw him and I had to snap the picture. This is what I got.
.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Firestar: Lion-Cat of the North
=================================================
Look into my eyes and come to me, you who have entered my lair.You are under the power of my will.
I control your actions. Your very thoughts. I am -
Your Master!
Do remember that. Okay?
=================================================
Inasmuch as a certain human, who shall remain nameless (but who's name rhymes with "heavy") believes himself to be a writer, I have endeavored to undertake my own foray into the world of words.To put it simply: I am going to write a story.
A cat story.
About me.
=================================================
I began life as a kitten, but I quickly advanced to the major activities of an adult cat.I majored in rest and sleep. Everyone knows you can't do great things unless you get plenty of rest. And food. And rest.
And so it was that I was engaged in a period of much needed relaxation.
And I dreamed.
=================================================
I was stalking my prey from the shadows. (I was in the shadows. Not my prey. Well, it was kind of in the shadows, too, but I was the one really in the shadows. I was a black terror in the night.)Making a game of it, I allowed my prey to run, chasing in order to maintain the flight-pursuit game, but not trying hard enough to end the game too soon.
Cats are so cool!
=================================================
Suddenly, I came upon an ancient artifact of old. (Is that redundant?)It radiated power. It spoke.
"An ordinary cat you shall be no more. Heneforth, you shall be known as: Lion-Cat."
Cool!
=================================================
And I was made anew, granted the power of the great Savannah cats. (Not the city in Georgia - the African Savannah.)I grew apace in strength, knowledge, wisdom, and cunning.
My new life as Firestar: Lion-Cat of the North, had begun.
=================================================
=================================================
Friday, July 10, 2009
Zoo Update
Did a quick update on Firestar's Virtual Image Zoo. Added three (3) pictures of snow monkeys, nine (9) pictures of Kamchatka bears, and 16 pictures of wolverines.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Never Make a Cat Jealous
Firestar did something interesting yesterday. Well, he usually does interesting things. It's just that, often, one must be a cat to find them interesting. Staring, for instance. He likes to do that. I think he gets a kick out of us trying to figure out what he's thinking. Sometimes it's evident: he wants to bite something - someone. Sometimes it's also evident: he thinks were nuts. Most of the time it's a bit disconcerting.
Anyway, Son came and told me this. He found it amusing and I thought I would pass it on.
In typical fashion, Firestar decided to sucker punch Son while Son was watching television. This is one of Firestar's favorite games. It usually happens after staring for five or ten minutes. Firestar will rush foreward, whop (or bite) Son and then take off. This time Son made pursuit.
He found Firestar in his room, sitting on the bed. Son, deciding to "rub Firestar's nose", so to speak, picked up several plush animals and hugged them closely, telling Firestar how soft they were, and how cuddly, and how much he loved them. Finished, he arranged the plush animals on his bed and left. Before he did, though, he turned around to see what Firestar was doing. (It's never safe to turn your back on him for long.)
Within the span of a few seconds Firestar had ravaged the stuffed animals and was calmly walking away as though he hadn't done it. He came to me, all innocent, seeking a back rub. Son followed and ratted him out. He's going to get you for that, Son. Oh. I suppose he's going to get me, too. I posted it on the blog.
Oops.
.
Anyway, Son came and told me this. He found it amusing and I thought I would pass it on.
In typical fashion, Firestar decided to sucker punch Son while Son was watching television. This is one of Firestar's favorite games. It usually happens after staring for five or ten minutes. Firestar will rush foreward, whop (or bite) Son and then take off. This time Son made pursuit.
He found Firestar in his room, sitting on the bed. Son, deciding to "rub Firestar's nose", so to speak, picked up several plush animals and hugged them closely, telling Firestar how soft they were, and how cuddly, and how much he loved them. Finished, he arranged the plush animals on his bed and left. Before he did, though, he turned around to see what Firestar was doing. (It's never safe to turn your back on him for long.)
Within the span of a few seconds Firestar had ravaged the stuffed animals and was calmly walking away as though he hadn't done it. He came to me, all innocent, seeking a back rub. Son followed and ratted him out. He's going to get you for that, Son. Oh. I suppose he's going to get me, too. I posted it on the blog.
Oops.
.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Just What Do Cats Need Anyway
All right. It's been a long time since I've posted. I'd say "I'm sorry," but I'm a cat. We don't do that. Others do it to us.
Anyway, was walking some of the cyber streets and found several places where humans wrote what they believe cats need. Humans are such fools. They've got the basics down, sure. But they don't know how to live. So, here is a short pictorial walk and talk on what cats really need. I call it, Ten Things Cats Really Need.
Plenty of Rest
Plenty of Fluids
Something to Play With
Human Companionship (or something close)
A place to lay down.
A place to explore.
A way to get down.
A place to hide.
A place to snuggle.
.
Anyway, was walking some of the cyber streets and found several places where humans wrote what they believe cats need. Humans are such fools. They've got the basics down, sure. But they don't know how to live. So, here is a short pictorial walk and talk on what cats really need. I call it, Ten Things Cats Really Need.
Something to stare at. (And then destroy.)
Plenty of Rest
Plenty of Fluids
Something to Play With
Human Companionship (or something close)
A place to lay down.
A place to explore.
A way to get down.
A place to hide.
A place to snuggle.
.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
A Feline's Excellence in Education
Found a very cute (and very accurate) picture on LaughingWolf's blog. Yes, yes, I know. Shouldn't be visiting canine blogs. But there is a lot of good stuff which passes through, as is evidenced by this post.
I can just imagine Firestar as obedience School. Talk about a juvenile delinquent. When he wasn't sulking he would be shredding. In any case, I doubt he would finish the course.
.
I can just imagine Firestar as obedience School. Talk about a juvenile delinquent. When he wasn't sulking he would be shredding. In any case, I doubt he would finish the course.
.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Comments for June Kitten of the Month
Sethra, who owns Talpianna, is the June Kitten of the Month. Sethra comes with a darling exchange with her housemate, Aliera.
The Kitten of the Month Archive has been updated, too.
.
The Kitten of the Month Archive has been updated, too.
.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Lazy Days
We've successfully emptied a couple of rooms now. The play room is mostly emptied. What remains is a mattress and a sleeping bag. Firestar found the sleeping bag and decided to play camp out. He crawled inside and popped his head back out. Then he fell asleep.
The other day Son was making a stuffed bunny dance about. Firestar found it interesting.
Ane here is the bunny.
.
The other day Son was making a stuffed bunny dance about. Firestar found it interesting.
Ane here is the bunny.
.
Friday, June 26, 2009
The Easiest Way to Use a Treadmill
So once again I go down to the fourth level (sounds like something from a video game: You have now reached the fourth level!) to weigh myself this morning and what do I find - Firestar in the middle of the room, sitting like he's waiting for something - or someone. It isn't me, because he hardly gives me any notice. Just enough to let me know he'd rather I ignore him. Didn't have the camera with me at the time, but I returned and found that while he had shifted position, he was still waiting.
I think it's for rabbits. There is a warren of them nearby and they like to come to our yard where the play area used to be and eat grass and clover and such. Sometimes they come right up to the house. Possibly, Firestar is waiting for them to get close to the door so he can play the big "boo" on them. As long as he doesn't smash his face in the process.
Since I was down there with the camera I took a couple of shots. Son had taken some a couple of days ago, too. Here they are.
.
I think it's for rabbits. There is a warren of them nearby and they like to come to our yard where the play area used to be and eat grass and clover and such. Sometimes they come right up to the house. Possibly, Firestar is waiting for them to get close to the door so he can play the big "boo" on them. As long as he doesn't smash his face in the process.
Since I was down there with the camera I took a couple of shots. Son had taken some a couple of days ago, too. Here they are.
I appreciate you all doing this for me, but really, Bevie, when are you going to make your bed?
Now don't go ruining anything. I've got a plan.
Ah, shucks, Bevie! I knew you'd ruin it. Bunny's gone now.
Well, since you're here, why not get on the treadmill and walk? C'mon, it's easy. I'll show you. Lose that weight.
See? It's easy. Now, if I can just figure out how to turn the dang thing on.
.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Zoo Update
Made a return visit to Como Park. Got some more pictures for Firestar's Virtual Image Zoo (see link upper right corner on sidebar). Wolverine submitted some pictures, too.
Right now, most of the images are from animals already in a zoo. But there are a few "wild" pictures, too. Give a look see, but block out some time. There are nearly 100 images now - 55 loaded in the past 24-hours.
If you have any photographs you/your children/spouse have taken and would like to make part of Firestar's Virtual Image Zoo, just email them to: firestarthecat@gmail.com
.
Right now, most of the images are from animals already in a zoo. But there are a few "wild" pictures, too. Give a look see, but block out some time. There are nearly 100 images now - 55 loaded in the past 24-hours.
If you have any photographs you/your children/spouse have taken and would like to make part of Firestar's Virtual Image Zoo, just email them to: firestarthecat@gmail.com
.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Pranks, Purring and Playing Rough
Our garage sale is over. Officially. Unofficially, a few people have showed up anyway and bought some things. We made nearly $100 without being open.
But Firestar has not been a happy kitten since we shut the garage sale down. He had got used to going out to the garage and sitting in his kennel cab and watching everything. Now we don't spend time in the garage so he doesn't spend time out there.
The other day Spouse left for work and Son left to visit. When the door closed, leaving Firestar inside, I thought someone had come in and was beating him to death. Such a commotion. I called from where I sitting and said I wasn't going anywhere either. Silence. Then he shows up at my side and we commiserated together.
Sometimes Firestar and I are good buddies. Other times he seems to go out of his way to make my life - interesting. He likes to play with my shoes. My shoes. Not Spouse's shoes. Not Son's. My shoes. What he does is stuff his fluffy toys into the toe area. That way, when I put my shoes on, my foot gets uncomfortable. With my feet now numb it can be a long time before I realize what kind of discomfort is being put on my feet.
With warmer weather I have been wearing sandals more and more. Firestar has tried his fluffy toy thing with them, too. Fortunately, I'm not likely to get caught with this prank.
He was chewing on my stockings the other night. What he wanted was to play. Before I knew it I had a raving lion at my hands, trying to tear the stocking away. Firestar bites hard when he plays. So I took the stocking and stuck it on his head. Son thought it was funny and snapped a photo. Firestar thought it was - something - and bit me thoroughly. I tossed the stocking away and suggested we calm down and sit quietly. So he lay by my side (not a lap cat) for about twenty minutes and then walked away.
When he got especially viscious I pulled it down. Mistake. That made him mad. So I took it off and apologized.
We're good buddies, although I cannot say I have ever had any other friend bite me.
.
But Firestar has not been a happy kitten since we shut the garage sale down. He had got used to going out to the garage and sitting in his kennel cab and watching everything. Now we don't spend time in the garage so he doesn't spend time out there.
The other day Spouse left for work and Son left to visit. When the door closed, leaving Firestar inside, I thought someone had come in and was beating him to death. Such a commotion. I called from where I sitting and said I wasn't going anywhere either. Silence. Then he shows up at my side and we commiserated together.
Sometimes Firestar and I are good buddies. Other times he seems to go out of his way to make my life - interesting. He likes to play with my shoes. My shoes. Not Spouse's shoes. Not Son's. My shoes. What he does is stuff his fluffy toys into the toe area. That way, when I put my shoes on, my foot gets uncomfortable. With my feet now numb it can be a long time before I realize what kind of discomfort is being put on my feet.
With warmer weather I have been wearing sandals more and more. Firestar has tried his fluffy toy thing with them, too. Fortunately, I'm not likely to get caught with this prank.
Not bad in a sandal, but try walking around all day with one of those tucked inside your shoe.
He was chewing on my stockings the other night. What he wanted was to play. Before I knew it I had a raving lion at my hands, trying to tear the stocking away. Firestar bites hard when he plays. So I took the stocking and stuck it on his head. Son thought it was funny and snapped a photo. Firestar thought it was - something - and bit me thoroughly. I tossed the stocking away and suggested we calm down and sit quietly. So he lay by my side (not a lap cat) for about twenty minutes and then walked away.
He likes to play rough, and he interpreted the stocking on his head as a go-ahead for all out play. So he got quite rough.
When he got especially viscious I pulled it down. Mistake. That made him mad. So I took it off and apologized.
We're good buddies, although I cannot say I have ever had any other friend bite me.
.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Culture Lesson - Class #1016
It's time to return to real culture.
The information for this post has been taken from this site.
Javanese
(picture taken from this site)
History
The Javanese cat breed has originated from Siamese cats. This breed was developed by breeders who wanted to take the qualities of the Siamese and alter the coat and colors to their liking. One of the foundation cats of the Javanese breed was created by crossing a Balinese to a Colorpoint Shorthair. The outcome was a cat with all the characteristics of a Siamese but with a longer coat length and a color outside the basic four (i.e. seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac). These cats with colorful longhairs were recognized by the CFA in 1987.
Appearance
The Javanese are medium-sized and have fine bones and firm shoulders. They have a long, silky coat, which comes in a range of colors. These cats have coat style resembling to that of the Balinese. These are pointed cats though fall outside of the typically known point colors seen in Balinese cats. Javanese are also known as colorpoint cats, considering odd or rare colors, like red or white, and patterns, like tabby and tortie. Though the Javanese are almost identical to Siamese, the major difference lies in the color schemes and hair lengths. As compared to the Siamese, the Javanese have softer lines and less extreme body type because of the longer hair.
Personality
Like their Siamese relatives, these cats are very intelligent and talkative Javanese are curious, intelligent, excellent communicators and playful. They have a fascination for food and love high places. They are very talkative and have loud voice. Javanese are responsive and interactive in nature and thus, are easy to train. Javanese cats usually love to play, and are noticeably good at jumping. Like the Balinese, Javanese are also quite vocal and will "talk" for no particular reason.
Genetic Defects
Since Javanese are directly related to Siamese and Balinese cats, they might suffer from some of the similar genetic defects. Though these defects are bred out of the active lines and are becoming infrequent. They are very social cats and love to be around their owner. If they are left alone frequently, they can become depressed. The Javanese also have a tendency to become overweight if they do not receive enough exercise.
"Talk for no apparent reason". Sounds like humans.
.
The information for this post has been taken from this site.
Javanese
(picture taken from this site)
History
The Javanese cat breed has originated from Siamese cats. This breed was developed by breeders who wanted to take the qualities of the Siamese and alter the coat and colors to their liking. One of the foundation cats of the Javanese breed was created by crossing a Balinese to a Colorpoint Shorthair. The outcome was a cat with all the characteristics of a Siamese but with a longer coat length and a color outside the basic four (i.e. seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac). These cats with colorful longhairs were recognized by the CFA in 1987.
Appearance
The Javanese are medium-sized and have fine bones and firm shoulders. They have a long, silky coat, which comes in a range of colors. These cats have coat style resembling to that of the Balinese. These are pointed cats though fall outside of the typically known point colors seen in Balinese cats. Javanese are also known as colorpoint cats, considering odd or rare colors, like red or white, and patterns, like tabby and tortie. Though the Javanese are almost identical to Siamese, the major difference lies in the color schemes and hair lengths. As compared to the Siamese, the Javanese have softer lines and less extreme body type because of the longer hair.
Personality
Like their Siamese relatives, these cats are very intelligent and talkative Javanese are curious, intelligent, excellent communicators and playful. They have a fascination for food and love high places. They are very talkative and have loud voice. Javanese are responsive and interactive in nature and thus, are easy to train. Javanese cats usually love to play, and are noticeably good at jumping. Like the Balinese, Javanese are also quite vocal and will "talk" for no particular reason.
Genetic Defects
Since Javanese are directly related to Siamese and Balinese cats, they might suffer from some of the similar genetic defects. Though these defects are bred out of the active lines and are becoming infrequent. They are very social cats and love to be around their owner. If they are left alone frequently, they can become depressed. The Javanese also have a tendency to become overweight if they do not receive enough exercise.
"Talk for no apparent reason". Sounds like humans.
.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Firestar's Compromise
Been having a massive garage sale. There are dozens more across our little town. This week has been Carnival Week. They call it, "City Days". We've attended none of the festivities. Too exhausted.
It's been a good week for Firestar. He's been outside a lot. True, he has been outside in his kennel cab, but he's happy with the compromise. (He would like to roam free.)
When he is in the garage with us he is frequently the center of attention. People who come with no intention of buying anything (why are they here?) will fuss over him. Several have offered to buy him. Spouse always says he's not for sale. I take a different approach. I tell them, "He's quiet now. That means it will cost you $5,000 to buy him. When he starts meowing the price starts to drop."
A man with two young boys came by, making sarcastic comments about all of the things he could buy. He ended with, "and a free cat". I corrected him with my $5,000 price tag. The boys knelt by the cat and wanted to know if I was serious. I said I was. They rushed to their dad, impressed that they had just seen a $5,000 cat. Firestar turned to me and began meowing in his annoyed voice. I told him to hush up. Five thousand dollars is a lot of money. No one is going to pay that for me. He went quiet. (I may have told you this before. Told it to someone. My old brain just can't remember who.)
Yesterday we did some rearranging and Firestar got the premiere position in the center of the garage doorway. He got to see everyone who came, most before we did. He was quiet all day. Son taught him that when he meows too much he goes back into the house. So he saves his cries for those times when he wants to eat, drink, use the facilities, or just stretch his legs. Then he rushes back to his kennel cab and waits inside for one of us to see he's ready to come back out.
He's probably going to be all upset with us when we quit going out to the garage to sit.
.
It's been a good week for Firestar. He's been outside a lot. True, he has been outside in his kennel cab, but he's happy with the compromise. (He would like to roam free.)
When he is in the garage with us he is frequently the center of attention. People who come with no intention of buying anything (why are they here?) will fuss over him. Several have offered to buy him. Spouse always says he's not for sale. I take a different approach. I tell them, "He's quiet now. That means it will cost you $5,000 to buy him. When he starts meowing the price starts to drop."
A man with two young boys came by, making sarcastic comments about all of the things he could buy. He ended with, "and a free cat". I corrected him with my $5,000 price tag. The boys knelt by the cat and wanted to know if I was serious. I said I was. They rushed to their dad, impressed that they had just seen a $5,000 cat. Firestar turned to me and began meowing in his annoyed voice. I told him to hush up. Five thousand dollars is a lot of money. No one is going to pay that for me. He went quiet. (I may have told you this before. Told it to someone. My old brain just can't remember who.)
Yesterday we did some rearranging and Firestar got the premiere position in the center of the garage doorway. He got to see everyone who came, most before we did. He was quiet all day. Son taught him that when he meows too much he goes back into the house. So he saves his cries for those times when he wants to eat, drink, use the facilities, or just stretch his legs. Then he rushes back to his kennel cab and waits inside for one of us to see he's ready to come back out.
He's probably going to be all upset with us when we quit going out to the garage to sit.
.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
More Images in the Zoo
Got some new pictures posted on Firestar's Virtual Image Zoo. Spouse, Son, and I went to Como Park, which is a small zoo/amusement park/park area in St. Paul, MN. If you stay near the gardens you'll find it quite peaceful. Gets quite hectic around the amusement park.
Anyway, I put up maybe a couple dozen pictures. Adjusted the naviagtion, too.
Anyway, Firestar is unhappy with us. Not only did we leave him alone to take this venture, but we haven't been going outside to do our garage sale for several days in a row now. He's enjoyed sitting out there with us. What he doesn't understand is that we - not having any real fur - find it too frikkin' cold! And it's been raining.
He's napping now. Tomorrow he'll get outside again.
.
Anyway, I put up maybe a couple dozen pictures. Adjusted the naviagtion, too.
Anyway, Firestar is unhappy with us. Not only did we leave him alone to take this venture, but we haven't been going outside to do our garage sale for several days in a row now. He's enjoyed sitting out there with us. What he doesn't understand is that we - not having any real fur - find it too frikkin' cold! And it's been raining.
He's napping now. Tomorrow he'll get outside again.
.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Showing Off
We took down Son's bed today. He outgrew it years ago, but we couldn't afford to buy him a new one. Now we're selling the frame and he'll have to sleep on the floor like Spouse and me.
Anyway, Firestar was curious about the activity and decided to demonstrate his skills. He has a fine sense of balance, even if he doesn't have much other sense sometimes.
.
Anyway, Firestar was curious about the activity and decided to demonstrate his skills. He has a fine sense of balance, even if he doesn't have much other sense sometimes.
.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Kitchen Cupboards and Drawers
Firestar can open kitchen drawers. Not the small ones just below the counter surface, but the big drawers closer to the floor.
He taught himself to do this after teaching himself how to open the cupboard doors. Spouse used to keep his food there. After he was able to open cupboards Spouse put his food in one of the big drawers. After he was able to open that the food went into the laundry room. He's working on opening door with a handle, but he's not quite tall enough. What he needs is a step stool or something. God help us if he figures that out.
Although his food is no longer in the big drawer he will still open it up on occasion to look inside. It's where we now keep cookie sheets, pizza pans, and things like that. He sees me use the drawer often enough that he wants to make sure about what's in there, I guess.
The other day Spouse was at the sink and I was at my computer station. From my computer station I see all of the kitchen. The kitchen is about two-and-a-half feet higher than the family room, where my computer station is, and all that separates the two rooms is a wooden rail.
Anyway, Firestar goes to the big drawer and begins working it open. Takes him about a minute. He jumps inside to make sure all of the pans have to be rewashed. Then he hops out and walks over to Spouse as if to point out the fact that there isn't anything of value in the drawer.
Spouse talks to him, bragging him up for being so clever about opening the door. He struts and purrs. Then Spouse looks at the drawer.
"Hey! You left it open. Close it when you're done."
Firestar immediately responds with his angry meow.
They don't take orders, you know.
.
He taught himself to do this after teaching himself how to open the cupboard doors. Spouse used to keep his food there. After he was able to open cupboards Spouse put his food in one of the big drawers. After he was able to open that the food went into the laundry room. He's working on opening door with a handle, but he's not quite tall enough. What he needs is a step stool or something. God help us if he figures that out.
Although his food is no longer in the big drawer he will still open it up on occasion to look inside. It's where we now keep cookie sheets, pizza pans, and things like that. He sees me use the drawer often enough that he wants to make sure about what's in there, I guess.
The other day Spouse was at the sink and I was at my computer station. From my computer station I see all of the kitchen. The kitchen is about two-and-a-half feet higher than the family room, where my computer station is, and all that separates the two rooms is a wooden rail.
Anyway, Firestar goes to the big drawer and begins working it open. Takes him about a minute. He jumps inside to make sure all of the pans have to be rewashed. Then he hops out and walks over to Spouse as if to point out the fact that there isn't anything of value in the drawer.
Spouse talks to him, bragging him up for being so clever about opening the door. He struts and purrs. Then Spouse looks at the drawer.
"Hey! You left it open. Close it when you're done."
Firestar immediately responds with his angry meow.
They don't take orders, you know.
.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Culture Lesson - Class #1015
Culture time again. It's been awhile, but I've not forgotten to keep humans abreast of what's important: cats.
The information for this post has been taken from this site.
Cornish Rex
(picture taken from this site)
Cornish Rex is domestic cat breed. This breed of cat has no hair except for down i.e. like as most of the cats, Cornish Rex breed of cat do not have outer fur and awn hair but they have a simple and thin about 1 cm long undercoat. Despite having only a thin undercoat, they are found in variety of coat colors and patterns. White, black, chocolate, orange and dilutes of blue, lilac and cream are few colors in which you can find a Cornish Rex. They are also found in all kind of tabbies from classic to mackerel and ticked to tuxedo. They have been accepted as an original breed by all the cat associations except TCA.
History
The origin of this breed is traced back to Cornwall. These cats are said to be a natural breed was created as a result of a spontaneous natural mutation, which occurred in non-pedigree cats in Cornwall, England in 1950. Serena, a tortie and white short hair pet cat gave birth to five kittens in 1950, out of which four were entirely normal. The fifth kitten was however formed with curly coat and whiskers. This kitten named Kallibunker was the first ever seen Cornish Rex breed cat. He was then bred to his mother to produce two other kittens similar to him. Later one of the female kitten produced by this cross was brought to England and breeded with Siamese breed. All the Cornish Rex present today are the successors of Kallibunker.
Appearance
Cornish Rex is long and slender. The shape of its body is gently curved throughout its outline. Their size varies between small and medium. They are also very soft. They have very large ears and their coat comprises of very short hairs, very close to their body. Their head is egg shaped and their cheekbones are prominently high. Their face is distinguished by their hollow cheeks and high-bridged Roman nose and strong chin. Cornish Rexs have a small waist but very fine long legs. Despite their slender body types, they are extremely well-built and muscular. They also have long, slender and flexible tapering toward the end. An adult Cornish Rex weighs around 5-9 pounds.
Personality
Cornish Rex are said to be very affectionate, friendly, alert and people-oriented breed of cats. They are said to be one of the most attractive and interactive breeds amongst cats. They are very active, even at the age of 15 years; they behave as if they are 15 months old. They are also very curious, so in case you are planning to get along with a Rex, it is always suggested to make your home cat proof first. They are very lively and love to indulge in jumping and getting nosy with others.
A cat proof home. Is there such a thing?
.
The information for this post has been taken from this site.
Cornish Rex
(picture taken from this site)
Cornish Rex is domestic cat breed. This breed of cat has no hair except for down i.e. like as most of the cats, Cornish Rex breed of cat do not have outer fur and awn hair but they have a simple and thin about 1 cm long undercoat. Despite having only a thin undercoat, they are found in variety of coat colors and patterns. White, black, chocolate, orange and dilutes of blue, lilac and cream are few colors in which you can find a Cornish Rex. They are also found in all kind of tabbies from classic to mackerel and ticked to tuxedo. They have been accepted as an original breed by all the cat associations except TCA.
History
The origin of this breed is traced back to Cornwall. These cats are said to be a natural breed was created as a result of a spontaneous natural mutation, which occurred in non-pedigree cats in Cornwall, England in 1950. Serena, a tortie and white short hair pet cat gave birth to five kittens in 1950, out of which four were entirely normal. The fifth kitten was however formed with curly coat and whiskers. This kitten named Kallibunker was the first ever seen Cornish Rex breed cat. He was then bred to his mother to produce two other kittens similar to him. Later one of the female kitten produced by this cross was brought to England and breeded with Siamese breed. All the Cornish Rex present today are the successors of Kallibunker.
Appearance
Cornish Rex is long and slender. The shape of its body is gently curved throughout its outline. Their size varies between small and medium. They are also very soft. They have very large ears and their coat comprises of very short hairs, very close to their body. Their head is egg shaped and their cheekbones are prominently high. Their face is distinguished by their hollow cheeks and high-bridged Roman nose and strong chin. Cornish Rexs have a small waist but very fine long legs. Despite their slender body types, they are extremely well-built and muscular. They also have long, slender and flexible tapering toward the end. An adult Cornish Rex weighs around 5-9 pounds.
Personality
Cornish Rex are said to be very affectionate, friendly, alert and people-oriented breed of cats. They are said to be one of the most attractive and interactive breeds amongst cats. They are very active, even at the age of 15 years; they behave as if they are 15 months old. They are also very curious, so in case you are planning to get along with a Rex, it is always suggested to make your home cat proof first. They are very lively and love to indulge in jumping and getting nosy with others.
A cat proof home. Is there such a thing?
.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Zoo Update
Just posted a couple of robin pictures at the Zoo. Nothing noteworthy. See link on sidebar to Firestar's Zoo.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
What Does the Cat You Choose Say About Your Personality
Humans love to take silly tests. Real tests seem to fluster them to no end, but give them a silly test and they rush to complete it.
Probably the most silly of all are the so-called "personality" tests. Give me a break. Humans don't have personality. Only cats do. Besides, don't they already know what they're like? Me - ow.
Anyway, Bevie's sister sent him another one and of course there was the big rush to complete it. And of course the results were exactly what Bevie wanted. Isn't that how these things are supposed to work? The humans decide what result they want and then answer accordingly. Anyway, since a lot of humans sneak into this alley I thought I would throw a test at them, just to be nice. Cats know how to do that, you know?
So, without further meows, here is the test. I have adjusted it slightly to better fit this blog. Word of warning to you humans: think carefully before answering. Your answer says a lot about you.
Remember, think over your answer and be sure before reading what it says about you.
.
Probably the most silly of all are the so-called "personality" tests. Give me a break. Humans don't have personality. Only cats do. Besides, don't they already know what they're like? Me - ow.
Anyway, Bevie's sister sent him another one and of course there was the big rush to complete it. And of course the results were exactly what Bevie wanted. Isn't that how these things are supposed to work? The humans decide what result they want and then answer accordingly. Anyway, since a lot of humans sneak into this alley I thought I would throw a test at them, just to be nice. Cats know how to do that, you know?
So, without further meows, here is the test. I have adjusted it slightly to better fit this blog. Word of warning to you humans: think carefully before answering. Your answer says a lot about you.
Question: Suppose you went to a shelter for homeless cats intent on helping one of the little darlings out. You see five cats in five kennels. The cats are as follows:
- Orange Tabby - male
- Bengal - male
- Persian (white) - female
- Norwegian Forest Cat - male
- Russian Blue - female
Remember, think over your answer and be sure before reading what it says about you.
Here is the personality profile:
- Orange Tabby - male means you like male Orange Tabby cats
- Bengal - male - means you like male Bengal cats
- Persian (white) - female - means you like white female Persian cats
- Norwegian Forest Cat - male - means you like male Norwegian Forest Cats
- Russian Blue - female - means you like female Russian Blue cats
.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Kennel Cab
Back in January, when we nearly lost Firestar to a severe illness, we transported him in his Kennel Cab. For some time afterward he associated the Kennel Cab with going to the vet, being poked and prodded, being forced to wear a catheter, and a host of unhappy feelings.
He would run away at the sight of it.
The weather is nice now, and we have been spending a lot of time out in the garage preparing for the sale. Firestar hasn't liked it that we have been outside while he has to stay in, so he has taken to letting us know his feelings with an assortment of vocal messages.
This neighborhood is not especially safe for him, especially since we foolishly had one of his primary defense tools taken from him. Firestar is declawed on his front paws. So we don't let him run free outside. But he wants to be there. So we made up a compromise. Firestar can come outside with us - providing he remains in the Kennel Cab.
The first time we did this he wasn't keen on it (actually, the first time he never made it because he saw the Kennel Cab and ran away) and we brought him back in right off. But it didn't take him long to realize that the Kennel Cab was his ticket to the garage. Now, not only does he not mind being in it, but he will go inside it even when we are all in the house. In fact, it has become his way of telling us he wants to go outside. A very nice arrangement. Very quiet.
Cats are clever things, aren't they?
.
He would run away at the sight of it.
The weather is nice now, and we have been spending a lot of time out in the garage preparing for the sale. Firestar hasn't liked it that we have been outside while he has to stay in, so he has taken to letting us know his feelings with an assortment of vocal messages.
This neighborhood is not especially safe for him, especially since we foolishly had one of his primary defense tools taken from him. Firestar is declawed on his front paws. So we don't let him run free outside. But he wants to be there. So we made up a compromise. Firestar can come outside with us - providing he remains in the Kennel Cab.
The first time we did this he wasn't keen on it (actually, the first time he never made it because he saw the Kennel Cab and ran away) and we brought him back in right off. But it didn't take him long to realize that the Kennel Cab was his ticket to the garage. Now, not only does he not mind being in it, but he will go inside it even when we are all in the house. In fact, it has become his way of telling us he wants to go outside. A very nice arrangement. Very quiet.
Cats are clever things, aren't they?
.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Comprehension Without Speaking the Language
Every day I become more and more convinced Firestar has a complete grasp of the English language. Time and again he will sit, or lay, quietly while I talk to him. Then I'll say something he disagrees with and he'll correct my thinking. It happened again yesterday.
Spouse and I were in the garage pricing items for our garage sale. Firestar was whining about being left in the house so we brought him out. Now unlike other cats, Firestar is not allowed to roam free through the neighborhood. The number of dogs around here has increased exponentially, and they all hate cats. And there are no trees to climb, so Firestar would be in a constant state of attack. Therefore, when he goes outside he has to be in his carry case. It's not his first choice, but he likes being out of the house. I think he feels he's closer to the birds.
Actually, I will, on occasion, let him roam free in the yard. Just not for long.
Anyway, Spouse and I were talking, discussing pricing agreements and such. Spouse keeps pricing her items at $5 and mine at $0.25. Son gets a compromise. His stuff is priced at $1. While this 'debate' rages, Firestar goes quiet in his box. Then, Spouse makes this comment.
I guess he's asleep now. I don't hear anything.
Immediately - and I mean immediately - Firestar meows.
Later, he and I were in the house while Spouse was in the garage. He stood by the door demanding to be let out. Finally, I told him he was being annoying. He denied it. I assured him he was. So he comes over to me to rest on my shoulder and purr. He returned to the door and repeated his demand, only softer. I told him it was still annoying and that if he didn't knock it off I was going to put him down in the office. He quit.
He's been by three times already this morning, each time wanting to be on my shoulder. Normally he only does that once. I assured him I don't find him annoying at all.
.
Spouse and I were in the garage pricing items for our garage sale. Firestar was whining about being left in the house so we brought him out. Now unlike other cats, Firestar is not allowed to roam free through the neighborhood. The number of dogs around here has increased exponentially, and they all hate cats. And there are no trees to climb, so Firestar would be in a constant state of attack. Therefore, when he goes outside he has to be in his carry case. It's not his first choice, but he likes being out of the house. I think he feels he's closer to the birds.
Actually, I will, on occasion, let him roam free in the yard. Just not for long.
Anyway, Spouse and I were talking, discussing pricing agreements and such. Spouse keeps pricing her items at $5 and mine at $0.25. Son gets a compromise. His stuff is priced at $1. While this 'debate' rages, Firestar goes quiet in his box. Then, Spouse makes this comment.
I guess he's asleep now. I don't hear anything.
Immediately - and I mean immediately - Firestar meows.
Later, he and I were in the house while Spouse was in the garage. He stood by the door demanding to be let out. Finally, I told him he was being annoying. He denied it. I assured him he was. So he comes over to me to rest on my shoulder and purr. He returned to the door and repeated his demand, only softer. I told him it was still annoying and that if he didn't knock it off I was going to put him down in the office. He quit.
He's been by three times already this morning, each time wanting to be on my shoulder. Normally he only does that once. I assured him I don't find him annoying at all.
.
Monday, May 25, 2009
It's Just Not Safe to be a Goblin Anymore
Found this at this site.
An irate cat assaulted a defenseless Goblin in an abandoned warehouse in Washington, DC yesterday.
The cat, a Persian kitty with a vicious temper took out it's rage in an unprovoked attack which saw the Goblin being taken away on a magic carpet to hospital where he received 900 stitches.
"The poor thing was in shreds", declared eyewitness Beverly Hoskins, "blood was all over the pavement".
Why the Goblin was in the area of the abandoned warehouse, or indeed why the female eyewitness was in such an area, remains a mystery, but the assailant remains on the loose.
"We're hunting for a female cat-casian, medium build,approximately 4 years old and with excessive hair", said detective Ron Rollins of the Washington PD, "we would warn all citizens to be on high alert and to approach with extreme caution. This thing is an animal".
.
An irate cat assaulted a defenseless Goblin in an abandoned warehouse in Washington, DC yesterday.The cat, a Persian kitty with a vicious temper took out it's rage in an unprovoked attack which saw the Goblin being taken away on a magic carpet to hospital where he received 900 stitches.
"The poor thing was in shreds", declared eyewitness Beverly Hoskins, "blood was all over the pavement".
Why the Goblin was in the area of the abandoned warehouse, or indeed why the female eyewitness was in such an area, remains a mystery, but the assailant remains on the loose.
"We're hunting for a female cat-casian, medium build,approximately 4 years old and with excessive hair", said detective Ron Rollins of the Washington PD, "we would warn all citizens to be on high alert and to approach with extreme caution. This thing is an animal".
.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Friday, May 22, 2009
What Do You Think of These Ideas
A couple of new ideas for Cat in the Buff.
First, we've got a Kitten of the Month Archive site. This is a place to view all Kittens of the Month.
Second, and this is the really cool site, we've created Firestar's Virtual Image Zoo. This is a place where we can share photographs of wild (and domestic) animals.
The rules are simple:
1. You must have taken the photograph and not just downloaded it from the internet.
2. Try to keep human elements (and humans in particular) out of the photographs.
3. You must email the photograph to: firestarthecat@gmail.com
4. You must include a caption describing where and how the picture was taken
If anything, maybe it will encourage us to all get out and enjoy nature a bit more.
Hint on pictures: Use a zoom and try to fill the frame with whichever animal you are photographing. Don't be concerned about background and such. We just want the animals.
.
First, we've got a Kitten of the Month Archive site. This is a place to view all Kittens of the Month.
Second, and this is the really cool site, we've created Firestar's Virtual Image Zoo. This is a place where we can share photographs of wild (and domestic) animals.
The rules are simple:
1. You must have taken the photograph and not just downloaded it from the internet.
2. Try to keep human elements (and humans in particular) out of the photographs.
3. You must email the photograph to: firestarthecat@gmail.com
4. You must include a caption describing where and how the picture was taken
If anything, maybe it will encourage us to all get out and enjoy nature a bit more.
Hint on pictures: Use a zoom and try to fill the frame with whichever animal you are photographing. Don't be concerned about background and such. We just want the animals.
.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Kitten of the Month - August
Tara
Kitten of the Month - July
Amelia
Kitten of the Month - June
Sethra
Kitten of the Month: May
Caitlin
Kitten of the Month: April
Mikey
Kitten of the Month: March
Geoff
Kitten of the Month: February
Rufus
Kitten of the Month: January
Firestar
