ANIMAL COMPANIONS
How to keep your feline happy
| • | Petwalk June 22
As a nonprofit organization, the Hawaiian Humane Society provides the care for many pets thanks to contributions from individuals, businesses and foundations. Events like Petwalk on June 22 help support the work of the society all year long. Show you love cats (and other animals!) by gathering pledges and bringing them to Petwalk at Magic Island. Walk with or without a pet to show you love animals. You won't find a bigger, happier group of pet-lovers and their favorite animals. For a pledge form, call 946-2187, ext. 238. |
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Adopt a cat. There are lots of wonderful kittens and cats looking for homes. Included in the $55 adoption fee at the Hawaiian Humane Society this month are microchip ID, sterilization and first vaccination. June adopters also receive a free three-pound bag of Nutro food and a free month of flea prevention. And during June, you can double your fun by adopting two cats or kittens for one adoption fee.
Make playing outdoors safe. Buy or build an outdoor cat playhouse to give your cat the fun of being outside without the dangers. If you have a yard, consider installing a cat fence within which your cat can play safely. Building plans and information to purchase these items are available from the humane society, 946-2197, ext. 223.
Play outdoors along with your cat. Teach your cat to walk outside on a leash. You'll be able to monitor his actions so he won't get tangled in branches or outdoor furniture. Fit your cat with a harness from a pet store, clip on a leash, and go for a walk. Allow your feline time to get used to this new experience and go back inside if he gets nervous. Soon you'll be walking comfortably outdoors, and you may even be ready to walk together at Petwalk on June 22.
Groom a scaredy cat. Most cats enjoy being brushed. When you're just starting to groom, let your cat feel like she is in control. Approach your cat when she is relaxed. Hold out the brush quietly and let her nuzzle up against it. Entice your cat to sit still by offering her treats. Start with short sessions and lengthen them gradually, always making it a pleasant experience. Brushing is good for your cat and a wonderful way to spend time together.
Assure gentle play. Use your hands only for affection and petting, and your cat won't become a biter. Use a toy as a plaything, never your hands or fingers. Keep toys separate from your hands and you won't get bitten. If your cat tries nipping at your hands, stop playing with him and only start again when his rough play has stopped.
Prevent litter-box problems. Inappropriate elimination is the most frequently reported issue for cat owners, so it's important to know how to prevent and correct problems. Use an open litter box, not the enclosed type, and keep the box clean. If you have multiple cats, have one litter box for each. Place the litter box where your cat will feel safe and have some privacy. Use unscented, scoopable litter. If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box reliably, your veterinarian should check for a medical problem.
Help your cat live longer. Cats regularly live happy lives for 20 and sometimes even 25 years. To keep your pets healthy for as long as possible, maintain a diet of nutritious cat food, provide moderate exercise through playtime and grooming, identify your cat with a collar and tag or microchip ID, spay or neuter your cat and visit your veterinarian regularly.
ADOPTABLES
Beth
Tag No. 28603
Beth has a gorgeous fluffy coat of calico colors in an interesting pattern. She has a white chest and adorable white socks. She is a friendly adult who enjoys the company of people and other cats. You can bond with Beth while grooming her fantastic coat.
Chase
Tag No. 28411
This calm Lab mix is about 7 years old, so he qualifies for the Seniors for Seniors program. The adoption fee is waived for someone age 60 or older. Of course, anyone at any age might want to bring this tall, red-haired guy home.
MISC.
These particular animals already may have found new homes. Please visit to see all the wonderful pets in person. The Hawaiian Humane Society & McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open noon to 8 p.m., Mondays-Fridays; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The incoming animals area always is open. If you've lost or found an animal, call the society immediately at 946-2187, ext. 285. See www.hawaiianhumane.org.
