Milita's Monday

Hi everyone, it's me, Milita today!  Did you all have a good Christmas?  We sure hope so!  I will tell you about ours, but first I want to give you a short update on my asthma situation.

Last week, the Mom took me to see the fill-in vet at our clinic, and they took an x-ray of my lungs.  She said there is no evidence of pneumonia there, which the Mom was quite happy about!  She and the Mom had a talk about my attacks and what they look like and how I had not improved on the Terbutaline.  

The vet told the Mom to stop the Terbutaline since it wasn't helping me.  They decided to raise my Prednisolone dose to 7.5mg a day for a couple of weeks to see if that helps me.  The Mom expressed her concerns about how lethargic and sleepy this dose made me before, and she asked the vet if she could split the dose into three to see if that would be better for me.  The vet said that would be fine, so that is what the Mom has been doing.  

I have been getting very suspicious any time the Mom or her friend come near me, and I often dart under the dresser so they can't give me more medicine, MOL!  Splitting the dose into three parts seems to be working fine for me - I am not really lethargic and sleepy the way I was before on the higher dose given twice a day.  

I had a bad attack on Friday, which really scared the Mom (and me too).  I didn't have any attacks on Saturday or Sunday, though!

We got a few prezzies for Christmas.  The Mom got us a little bug that runs around on the floor when you turn it on.  It has a little light on it and moves in random patterns.  The Mom seems rather amused when Carmine or I follow it around or poke at it.  She is easily entertained.  

One of the books the Mom got for Christmas.  She started reading it last night.

We also got some of our favorite ProPlan treats and some catnip mice.  The Mom also got a cat scratcher house.  She knows Carmine will probably be the only one who uses it, but she is going to try to tempt me into it.  She says it is very cool.  Maybe I'll give it a shot.  It is a pretty house!  The Mom hasn't put it together yet, but when she does, we will share photos of it so all of you can see how pretty it is.  

The Mom got a few books for Christmas and her friend got her a cool little thing called a Roku - whatever that is.  In any case, the Mom seems happy with it.  She also got a couple of kitty ornaments for the tree!

Carmine's favorite part of Christmas was that he got to have ham and then some whipped cream!  Personally, I don't like ham, so the Mom's friend got out some chicken for me instead.  

How was your Christmas?

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!!!

Love,

Carmine, Milita, Angel Jewel, and Mom Sierra

Jewel's Journey: Christmas

This is our first Christmas without Jewel, and that makes us very very sad.  We thought we'd share a few photos of last Christmas with you.  Jewel had so much fun then, and I wish she were still here to enjoy another Christmas with us.

Last year, our Secret Paws package came from A Tonk's Tail.  It was the first year we participated in Secret Paws, and it was a blast!  Just look at how curious Jewel and Lita are.

Allie, Maxwell, Faraday, and their human did such a wonderful job with our package!  It was like they could read our minds and knew just what to send.

One of Jewel's favorite things from the package was this little fish bowl.

It didn't even take her five seconds to figure out how to get the treats out!  She was such an intelligent kitty.

We hope that all of our friends have a wonderful Christmas.

We also hope that all those who have lost a fur baby and are having a hard time will be able to find a little joy and peace today.

Holiday Safety Tips for Cats: Dangerous Holiday Food and Plants

Last week, I discussed the holiday dangers that household decorations and gift wrapping pose to cats.  Now I'd like to discuss which holiday foods and plants are dangerous for kitties.

FOOD

Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to cats.  Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is used medicinally as a blood vessel dilator, heart stimulant, smooth muscle relaxer, and a diuretic, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.  According to their website, one or two dark chocolate or baking squares is enough to be fatal for an adult cat who ingests it, and as little as one ounce of milk chocolate can kill a kitten if ingested.

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning in cats include vomiting, hyperexcitability, nervousness, and diarrhea.  In severe cases, the only sign may be sudden death.  It's very important that you call your veterinarian, a local emergency veterinary hospital, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline for advice if you think your cat has ingested chocolate.

Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic are not good for cats as they can cause gastrointestinal upset and red blood cell damage, according to the ASPCA.

Xylitol: Xylitol is a sweetener used in many products, such as baked goods and candy.  Xylitol can lead to the release of insulin in cats, which leads to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and can potentially lead to liver failure.  Initial signs of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, loss of coordination, and lethargy.  Seizures and recumbancy may also occur.  Elevated liver enzymes and liver failure may occur within a few days of ingestion.

Grapes and Raisins: According to the ASPCA, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in pets who have ingested them.

PLANTS

Amaryllis: Amaryllis is also known as St. Joseph lily, Belladonna lily, Naked Lady, and Cape Belladonna.  When eaten, Amaryllis may cause hypersalivation, depression, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, and tremors.

Mistletoe: Mistletoe or American Mistletoe is also toxic to cats.  When ingested, mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal distress, breathing difficulties, low heart rate (bradycardia), erratic behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiovascular collapse.  Low blood pressure can also occur when cats eat this plant, but it is rarely seen. 

Poinsettia: Poinsettia may cause mouth and stomach irritation as well as vomiting for cats who ingest it. 

Please note that this list of food and plants is not all-inclusive.  There are many other human foods and plants kitties should not eat.  

If you know that your cat has ingested any of these foods or plants, please contact your veterinarian, local emergency veterinary clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline for advice on how to handle the situation.  There is a $65 consultation fee the ASPCA Poison Control Center hotline.  Their number is 888-426-4435.

Holiday Safety Tips for Cats: Christmas Decorations

Photo credit: Trish Hamme.

Christmas is a joyous time of year when we celebrate the birth of Jesus.  Yet, like many other holidays, Christmas holds potential dangers for our furry friends.  Please read on to find out about the potential risks as well as how to best protect your kitty during this time of year.

Christmas Tree: Christmas tress pose many potential dangers for kitties  The best way to keep your kitty safe from the Christmas tree is to put the tree in a room your cat cannot access.  Alternatively, you could put your tree into a room with a door on it so that you can close the door when you're not home.  Unfortunately, these solutions are not always practical, so it's best to make your Christmas tree as safe as you can for your cat.

Real pine trees are toxic to cats, and if swallowed, pine needles can puncture a kitty's internal organs.  Fake trees are definitely safer for cats, but if you must have a real tree in your home, please ensure that the tree's water supply is sufficient so that the tree won't dry up and drop needles onto the floor.  Check for needles around your tree daily, and sweep or vacuum up any that have fallen onto the floor.  The tree's water supply will also be poisonous to your cat, so ensure that he or she cannot drink it.

Whether you have a real or fake tree, make sure the tree's base is sturdy so that the tree isn't able to be knocked over easily.  Pet Wave suggests that many tree stands are not sufficient for the weight and height of their trees.  The site suggests that you invest in a larger, sturdier stand and duct tape it to a non-carpeted floor to prevent your kitty from toppling the tree over if he or she decides to climb inside it.  If you have a carpeted floor, you can use twine to anchor your tree to a hook in your wall, but make sure the twine doesn't pose a risk to your feline in itself.  You may want to place your tree away from any furniture or shelves as well so your kitty can't jump onto your tree from them.

Ornaments: Make sure all ornaments are securely fastened to the tree, especially the ones on the bottom that your cat can easily reach.  It's best not to put any fragile ornaments on the bottom of your tree in case your kitty bats at them and knocks them off.  Your furry friend could easily cut his or her paws on broken glass ornaments that he or she batted off the tree.

Tinsel: Please avoid putting tinsel on your tree.  Tinsel is very pretty, but if your cat swallows it, it can cause intestinal blockages, which may be fatal or require expensive emergency surgery.

Angel Hair, Flocking, and Artificial Snow: Angel hair, artificial snow, and flocking are also toxic to kitties, and if they are ingested in large quantities, they can cause intestinal blockages.  It's best to try to find alternative decorations for your home.

Decorative Lights: Electrical cord chewing can lead to mouth burns, electrical shock, and electrocution for your cat.  To help protect your furry friend, spray your Christmas light cords and extension cords with a deterrent, such as Bitter Apple.  It is also important to always unplug your tree lights before leaving the house as well.

Candles: Keep lit candles out of your cat's reach so that he or she doesn't accidentally bum him or herself or knock them over, causing a fire.  Remember to blow out your candles before going to sleep or leaving the house so no accidents occur while your kitty is unsupervised.  You could also consider using flameless candles as decorations instead.

Gift Wrapping: Because ribbons can cause intestinal obstruction if swallowed, I would recommend not using them on gifts in your home.  Gift bows, like the one pictured, are safer for kitties.

To keep your presents and feline completely safe, you may want to consider not putting the gifts under the tree until right before your Christmas celebration.

By utilizing these tips, you can help keep your cat safe during the holidays.

Jewel's Journeys

Photo credit: Erik Drost

The first Christmas I knew Jewel, I went over to spend the day with her and her former owner (we were obviously not roommates then).  Jewel didn't have any toys, and that made me quite sad for her.  So for Christmas, I decided to start her toy collection (which I would add to over time) off with a little kickeroo.  I also bought her some treats, which were her favorite thing in the world!

When I arrived at their house, I placed the toy, treats, and my friend's present under the tiny table tree he had.  While my friend cooked a little food, I watched as Jewel went over to the presents to check them out (nobody had ever gotten her a present before!!).

The next thing I knew, Jewel was dragging her bag of treats, wrapped in Christmas paper, away from the tree!  How I wish I had a photo or video of her doing this to show you!  It was so adorable!!  She couldn't wait to get into those treats.

Needless to say, she LOVED the treats I got her!  She also really liked her new toy :)

We received two wonderful surprises today that we wanted to tell you about as well.  The first came from our awesome friends Robin, Dave, Cinco, and Manna from Playful Kitty.  They sent us a Christmas tree and some ornaments!!  Aren't these owls pretty?  They remembered that owls remind me of my Jewel.  So even thought Jewel is not here with us physically this Christmas, she will definitely be present this year during the celebration.  As soon as I get ornament hooks later, I will put up and decorate the tree.  I can't wait to show you all what it looks like!

The second surprise came tonight.  I received a box, and, thinking it was Milita's present I had ordered, I opened it up.  Was I ever surprised to find a Grumpy Cat coloring book, which I wrote about in last week's Jewel's Journeys post, and Grumpy Cat stickers!!  This very sweet and thoughtful package came from our sweet friends Melissa and Truffles from Melissa's Mochas, Mysteries, & Meows.

Thank you so very very much for thinking of us!  We are blessed to have friends like you.  This season is an incredibly difficult one without Jewel, but having such thoughtful and caring friends sure helps.  :)

Wordless Wednesday: What's in the Box?

Remember last Wordless Wednesday?  We posted about a Christmas present we go, but we didn't tell you what was in the box?  Well, it's time to show you what we got!

Carmine: A box for me?  I wonder what's inside.

Interesting.  *Sniff sniff*

The Mom says it's called a Cat It Senses Play Circuit.  The Mom and her friend, D, put it together in a snap for us.  And they said it was easy.  It must have been because there were no HBO words involved!

The Mom said to give the ball a whap, so I did!  Me thinks it is lots of fun!

Thank you to our friends who gave us this cool kitty track!!

We hope you all have a wonderful Wordless Wednesday!!

Our Secret Paws

Carmine: The Mom FINALLY let us open our Secret Paws box on Christmas.  We had been waiting a WEEK to open it, and we really wanted to know what was in there!

Carmine: Which one should we open first?  

Milita: Open this one first!  Mom, I want THIS ONE!!!

Jewel: It's a Pawbreaker!!  This one's MINE, Lita!!

Milita: You can play with it for now.....I found another one!

Jewel: A new fun way to get my treats!  
The Mom: It took her all of five seconds to figure out how to get treats from the fish bowl.  LOL.

Carmine: Our Secret Paws sent me some special urinary tract treats!  The Mom said hers didn't even know they made these.  Someone sure must like me to send me special treats!  And I LOVE Yeoww! catnip fishies!!! :)

Carmine: Look at all the great prezzies we got!!  We got lots of treats, a Pawbreaker, some Yeoow! catnip fishies, some bath wipes (for Jewel...MOL!), a fun fish bowl food toy, TWO different kinds of mousies, and they even sent the Mom some chocolate!  

Our Secret Paws were Maxwell, Allie, and Faraday from A Tonk's Tail....err, Tale!!  

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH, MAXWELL, ALLIE, AND FARADAY!!!  We love all our prezzies!  We couldn't have asked for a better Secret Paws!! 

Merry Christmas!

Hi everyone!  

Here I am helping the Mom wrap prezzies.  Hers says hers has a few prezzies to wrap for us still, and hers says me can't help with those.  

We also got our Secret Paws package last week!  The Mom says we have to wait until Christmas to open it, though.  

 This is not our tree; it came from the Internets.

We want to wish all of our furry friends and their humans a very Merry Christmas!!  We hope you all have a wonderful day with lots of love, happiness, treats, and catnip!!!

Holiday decoration hazards

The most recent poll on Cat Channel asked cat owners what holiday decoration most interested their cats. The results show that cats are most intrigued by Christmas trees, with 59% of respondents reporting their cats being most intrigued by this holiday decoration. Thirteen percent of cat owners answered that their cats are most intrigued by garland, 9% said their cats are most interested in the holiday lights, and 6% responded their cats are most interested in stuffed animals/toys related to the holiday season.

Although Christmas has passed, I urge all of the cat owners out there to watch their cats closely when they are under the Christmas tree. While some cats merely enjoy laying under the tree, as one of my cats did, some kitties attempt to climb the tree, which can result in a dangerous situation. In attempting to climb the tree, a kitty can inadvertently knock , cat owners, catit over, which may injure your kitty, not to mention the potential fire hazard this situation presents.

I urge you to watch your kitty as you take down your Christmas tree and put away decorations as well. Curious kitties may try to eat small hooks, ornaments, tinsel, or pine needles.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, everyone!!!

-Carmine, Milita, and Sierra (our mommy)