King Street Cats

Kitty's Junk Food

2012-02-23T09:43:00.000-05:00

***

While we all know we should feed Kitty high quality food,

oftentimes Kitty just wants to eat some "junk food."

I discovered my Tortie, Katie June Bug, loves frosting,

while whipping some up for an event at King Street Cats.

She thought she was being sly while lapping it

out of the mixing bowl when I wasn't in the kitchen,

but the purple glob of goo on the end of her nose gave her away. My orange Tabby, Jake, has taken a liking to

vanilla protein shakes

(actually, that's probably a healthier choice than, say, frosting).

What about you? What is your Kitty's guilty pleasure?

Chime in below in the comments section.

***Artwork done by Jamie Shelman. Check out the collection on Etsy here

Failed Fostering Experience

2012-02-20T19:16:00.004-05:00

Hi, my name is Laura and I am a failed cat foster parent.

It all started with a simple enough phone call from the ever diligent Vivienne Bacon, the lady who keeps us all at KSC on track and on point of saving the plethora of cats we all love to snuggle. This phone call took place two days before Thanksgiving as I prepared for my mother's arrival for the holiday. The request was simple, pick up a three month old kitten named Aimee from the vet's office and keep her through the long holiday weekend in my tiny postage stamp sized bathroom. Hmmmm... sure, okay, can do! What's a tiny fluff kitten in my bathroom going to upstart in the whole grand scheme of things? HAHA!

She had me at "meow". Here's this tiny itty bitty fluff ball of a kitten who struggled so hard to survive on the streets on her own and then was struggling to just breathe and gain weight... my heart melted. I tucked her in my sweat shirt as I putzed around the house, prepared a small Thanksgiving meal and she just lethargically purred, grateful for the warmth. Nothing but skin and bones, I would wake up every two hours and stumble into the bathroom just to feed her some more and make sure she was warm and still breathing. This went on for four days. She finally started to breathe without labor, jump around like a normal kitten, and eat like it was her last meal. I decided to let her stay in my bathroom just another week (famous last words). Two weeks later, she decided to charge out of the bathroom with the gusto of a cat four times her size. Her path took her right into the nose of my calico, Raggedy Ann... I held my breath, RA took a step back and Aimee stretched forward to swat my strong willed calico right on the nose. RA spun around and ran the other way. My boy, Kwame, came out to see what the fuss was and within minutes, this 15 pound tabby was playing with a 2.5 pound tan tabby like they were fast friends.

I say I failed as a foster parent because in the end, I couldn't imagine my house without this small addition. My hat off to those who can foster the legions of kittens every year and send them off with a slight tear and lots of love!! Needless to say, Aimee became Arcadia (aka Archie - different blog at a later date to explain that one) and now runs the house with her little white booted paw. She is one feisty little kitten that I and my two cats love unconditionally. My foster parenting days may be over until I buy a bigger house, but I like to think I kick @ss as a loving mother to my fuzzy four pawed babies.

Consider fostering, its an experience that I recommend for everyone who has a spare bedroom, bathroom or even a den. King Street Cats covers all vet costs, feeding costs, etc. all we need is someone to take in cats of many ages, sizes and attitudes. Go to KingStreetCats.org and send us an e-mail to learn more.

King Street Cats 2012 Kiss-A-Kat Event

2012-02-13T11:45:00.002-05:00

As expected, the KSC kitties made themselves

irresistible this past weekend

for our Kissing Booth fundraising event.

We thought we'd share some photos

from the weekend.

(Tiny and Rexy had their own little romance going on-

didn't want any human kisses)

Couldn't attend, but still want to donate to the cause

(kitties will write you an I.O.U for the smooches)?

Click Here

King Street Cats Kissing Booth This Weekend!

2012-02-09T08:48:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner

and the kitties at King Street Cats are lookin' for love.

And smooches. Lots and lots of smooches.

Of course, these smooches are very valuable (if not priceless), so they are setting up

a kissing booth this weekend. $1 per smooch.

And, they will be available for smooches at several locations. Come to our orphanage,
located at 25 Dove Street, Alexandria, 22314.
Or, check out or mobile adoption locations at 2 Pro Feed locations:

Bradlee Shopping Center, 3690 King Street, Alex., 22302

Belleview Shopping Ctr., 1628-A Belleview Blvd. Alex., VA, 22307.

Come by any of those locations between 1:30-4:00 PM

on both Saturday and Sunday.

Don't live in the area or plan to be out of town this weekend? Click on the link below and the kitties will write you an IOU.

Donate Kissing Currency Here

YOGA to Benefit King Street Cats

2012-02-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

If you are in the NOVA area

and want to get your downward dog on

for the kitties at King Street Cats,

stop by for a special class (Karma Class-Flow from the Heart) on Monday, 2/20/2012, from 10:30-11:45 AM

at River's Edge Yoga.

Pay what you can, or a $20 donation is suggested.

300 Montgomery Street, Ste. 201, Alexandria, VA 22314

River's Edge Yoga

February's "What About Me (TM)?" Campaign

2012-02-02T10:43:00.001-05:00

Check out these little cuties in KSC's Purr-sonal Ad's:

Or, check out all the kitties looking for their furrever companion

HERE

www.KingStreetCats.org * Contact@KingStreetCats.org * 25 Dove Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Aromatherapy for Kitty?

2012-01-30T10:03:00.001-05:00

(My cats' interpretation of aromatherapy)

Aromatherapy has become a very popular form of alternative medicine, used for the treatment or prevention of disease, pain and anxiety reduction, relaxation, etc. by use of essential oils.

But, what's good for us humans isn't necessarily good for Kitty. There are mixed opinions amongst veterinarians if it is a safe practice for cats. Whether applied, ingested or inhaled, the essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream and metabolized in the liver, but Kitty lacks the enzyme necessary to metabolize the oil, and some oils can actually be toxic to cats.* With mixed reviews, I am not willing to risk trying aromatherapy with my cats.

But, I've recently discovered another option for helping Kitty overcome some issues. They are called Floral Essences. A friend of mine with whom I volunteer at King Street Cats introduced these to me. There are floral essences for abandonment and abuse, anxiety, grief and loss, jealousy, transition, etc. Green Hope Farms has an exhaustive list of floral essences to help Kitty. Their staff is excellent when you have questions or concerns. I highly recommend them.

Check out their website!

Green Hope Farm

What do you think? Do you have any experience with either aromatherapy or floral essences for Kitty that you would like to share? Post your comments below!

* http://roberttisserand.com/articles/AromatherapyForCats.pdf

Kitten Purrlooza Write-Up

2012-01-25T17:47:00.000-05:00

Last weekend King Street Cats hosted "Kitten Purrrlooza." Even though Fall and Spring tend to be kitten season,

we've had a bumper winter crop

and wanted to spend a weekend promoting them.

It was a great success!

Romy Maimon, who writes for the Examiner,

and is one of our biggest fans,

came by to snap some pictures.

Read Romy's heart-warming write-up and be sure to check out the slide show of some of our adorable kitties.

Kitten Purrlooza Weekend

Weren't able to come by last weekend? No worries!

We still have kittens and a full age range of other cats

that are ready for their furrever home.

We are open on weekends from 1:00-4:30,

or by appointment during the week!

Drop us a note any time:

Contact@kingstreetcats.org.

King Street Cats Adoptable Kitties

What About Me (TM)? January Campaign

2012-01-23T09:12:00.004-05:00

King Street Cats' January "What About Me (TM)?"
campaign features 6 of our very special kitties.

We are most pleasantly surprised to announce

that month to date,

4 of these kitties have found their furrever homes!

FOUR!

Four sets of four paws that are no doubt

kneading the legs of their new owner's lap.

Or maybe they are planted firmly in the kitchen,

insisting on treats.

Or maybe they are facing the ceiling,

along with that furry tummy,

so comfortable in their new home.

Or maybe all of the above.

We are so happy

with the success rate of this campaign,

and we're not going to stop there.

Our 2 other featured kitties this month deserve that same happy ending.

So to continue to manifest the pawsitive!

I'd like to introduce you to our 2 remaining January kitties,

Pandora and Reggie.

Won't you take a minute to read their story

and help us find them a furrever home

for their four paws and fuzzy tummy?

I'm Pandora and here's my story:
Pandora

I'm Reggie, and here's my story:

Reggie

We have plenty of other kitties too!

I have no doubt we have the purrfect one for your home:

King Street Cats available to Rescue You!

Kitten Purrr-looza January 21 & 22

2012-01-19T12:22:00.000-05:00

Kitten season is typically in the fall or spring,

but lucky for you,

we've got plenty of the little sweethearts now,

ready for their furrever home.

We've got some non-kitten-y types too,

if you're looking for something a little lower-key.

Please come by King Street Cats this weekend,

from 1:00-4:30 PM, Saturday and Sunday,

and be prepared to overdose on kitty cuteness.

You've been warned.

25 South Dove Street, Alexandria, VA, 22314

Contact@KingStreetCats.org

For a preview of all our kitties up for adoption:

CLICK HERE

Winter Safety Tips for Stray and Free-Roaming Cats

2012-01-17T10:57:00.001-05:00

Winter Safety Tips for Stray and Free-roaming Cats**

By Barbara J. Koll, Best Friends Network volunteer

Alley Cat Allies offers online guide for community cat colony caregivers

Stray and free-roaming cats may spend their entire lives outdoors, but during the cold and damp winter months they can use some extra help staying safe, warm and well-nourished. Alley Cat Allies has an online guide offering tips to community cat caregivers and anyone else who wants to help protect stray cats from the winter elements. The guide offers simple instructions for constructing appropriate shelters and feeding stations for feral colonies.

The information below is an excerpt from a December 7, 2010, Alley Cat Allies press release, “Alley Cat Allies Offers winter Safety Tips for Feral and Stray Cats”:

“We know that millions of people already help to care for the cats in their communities each day, said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies. “While most feral cats are skilled at finding their own food and place to sleep, providing specially-built shelters and dedicated feeding sites guarantee the cats a warm spot to escape the harsh winter weather and deter them from places they aren’t wanted.”

Feral cats spend their whole lives outdoors, and can be found all over the country, from the largest cities to the mostrural landscapes. They are not socialized to humans and can’t be adopted into homes. Feral cats live amongst their own in family groups called “colonies,” and studies show they are just as healthy as pet cats.

To help the feral and stray cats in your community this winter, Alley Cat Allies suggests the following simple steps:

Build an outdoor shelter and a feeding station.

Shelters are easy and inexpensive to build. You can use the plans [available in the guide] or modify a pre-built dog house. Some manufacturers also sell pre-built cat shelters.

The shelter should be elevated off the ground and sited in a quiet, unobtrusive area with a minimal amount of traffic. A good-sized shelter offers a space just big enough for three to five cats to huddle. The door should be no more than six to eight inches wide to keep out wildlife and bigger predators. Install a flap on the door to keep out snow, rain and wind.

In addition to a shelter, you can build a simple feeding station with a roof and sides to protect cats from the elements while they eat.

Insulate the shelter against moisture as well as cold.

Straw resists the wet and keeps a shelter warm, and is the best choice for insulation and bedding. Blankets are not a good idea, as they absorb moisture like a sponge.

Keep food and drinking water from freezing.

Wet food in insulated containers is most ideal for winter time feeding, as it takes less energy for cats to digest than dry food — and cats can use all that extra energy to keep warm.

Preventing liquids from freezing can be a challenge during the winter and can lead to a risk for dehydration. Keep water drinkable by using bowls that are deep rather than wide, and place them in a sunny spot. If possible, refill the bowls with warm water. A pinch of sugar in the water also keeps it from freezing as quickly, and provides an added energy boost for the cats. Alternatives include the heated electric bowls found in many pet shops.

The cats will come to expect you if you keep a regular feeding schedule, and the food and water will spend less time in the cold before it is consumed.

Get educated about cats, and stop the breeding cycle with trap/neuter/return.

Make sure to educate yourself, your family and your neighbors about the habits of outdoor cats during the winter time. For example, know to check under the car or give the hood a tap before starting the engine, as cats will sometimes crawl into car engines or hide under them for warmth.

Prevent another “kitten season” next year by getting the outdoor cats in your neighborhood spayed or neutered now. Cats have a 63-day gestation period and usually mate in winter. End the cycle of breeding and help the cats lead better lives by humanely trapping them and having them spayed or neutered by a veterinarian as part of a trap/neuter/return program. Make sure the trapped cats are quickly moved to a warm vehicle for transportation to a veterinary clinic. A local volunteer group that practices trap/neuter/return may be able to help.

Visit Alley Cat Allies’ web site for more information about connecting to local resources and starting a trap/neuter/return program in your community.

For more information:

Best Friends feral cat resources

Best Friends' cat initiatives

Outdoor cat shelters and feeding stations (from Indy Feral, Inc.)

Feral Cat Winter Shelter instructions (from NeighborhoodCats)

Coming in from the Cold (Helping feral cats survive the winter from Petfinder.com)

How to Build Feral Cat Shelters (from Petfinder.com)

Feral Cat Resources (Humane Society of the United States)

Photos courtesy of MorgueFile.com

**Article taken from The Best Friends No More Homeless Pets Network Website. http://network.bestfriends.org/18008/news.aspx

KSC wants to win the Shelter Challenge!

2012-01-12T10:12:00.000-05:00

The Animal Rescue Site does so much good for so many animals. They are running their Shelter Challenge again.

King Street Cats is determined to win it this time around!

As we mentioned before, we had a record-breaking 2011

in the amount of cats we rescued

and placed in their furrever homes.

But, with that, came more expenses,

some expected and some not.

We spare no cost to provide a better life for these kitties.

Friends and volunteers of KSC have been more than gracious with their time and money to help the effort,

but winning something like this Shelter Challenge could put us in a better spot for whatever 2012 holds for us.

Won't you consider adding this link to your calendar

and vote for us daily?

We, and our fuzzy feline friends, thank you for whatever effort you can extend to us!

Vote Every Day for King Street Cats in Alexandria, VA!

2011-King Street Cats' Biggest Year Yet!

2012-01-09T12:26:00.002-05:00

2011 was a banner year for King Street Cats! We took in, and adopted out, the most cats yet.

Click the link below for our Year in Review video, highlighting just some of those special kitties.

For all those who donated to KSC, either with your time, money, or efforts, we cannot thank you enough.

You made it all possible!

King Street Cats - 2011 Year in Review

*Video designed by Volunteer, Allie Phillips

Therapy Cats

2012-01-02T13:25:00.000-05:00

King Street Cats Volunteer, Allie Phillips, and Tony the Therapy Cat

Ever hear of Therapy Cats? No, not the cat that needs therapy, although many of us kitty parents often wonder if a little therapeutic couch time might do our fluffer duffers some good. Rather, we're talking about cats that are taken into different venues to provide a sense of love and companionship for those who need it most.

One of our volunteers, Allie Phillips, has had extensive exposure to this topic of Therapy Cats, so we thought we'd sit down with her and gain some insight.

KSC: Today we are talking with Allie Phillips about the topic of Therapy Animals, specifically cats. She's a long-time volunteer at King Street Cats, and a nationally-recognized author, attorney, advocate and trainer on animal protection issues. She is the co-creator of Therapy Animals Supporting Kids (TASK) Program, which advocates for placing therapy animals with abused children.

AP: For years I have been advocating for the expansion of therapy animals into the criminal justice system. Part of that involves advocating for the inclusion of therapy cats since therapy dogs are most prevalent. I have found a wide spread belief that cats are aloof and would not make good therapy animals, but over the past 12 years of doing cat rescue I have come across hundreds of cats that would have made amazing therapy cats. And since I have a national platform to provide trainings to criminal justice professionals across the U.S., I am using this platform to not only advocate for therapy animals, but to also think about including therapy cats in the process. Since some children or adults may be afraid of dogs (even nice dogs), it is good to have a therapy cat available for that child or adult.

KSC: Allie, please define the role of a therapy cat.

AP: Therapy dogs are more prevalent, but there are therapy cats who are doing amazing work. Therapy cats who are registered with a national therapy animal organization, like Delta Society, go through the same testing and training that therapy dogs do. Most therapy animals spend time in hospitals, schools, nursing homes and even hospice facilities. Recently, therapy animals have been expanding into the criminal justice system, even going in to the courtroom to help crime victims testify. But some people have designated their cat to be their own private therapy cat for psychological and mental health reasons. If a doctor provides a note that a patient requires a therapy cat (or dog), then that person cannot be discriminated against in housing.

KSC: Are therapy cats used with both children and adults? If so, do the needs for which the cat is providing vary at all between the two?

AP: Therapy cats can benefit both children and adults. If someone is ill, in therapy, struggling in school, lonely, or a crime victim, therapy animals can provide unconditional acceptance, positive human-animal touch, or a nonjudgmental ear (and whiskers) to listen. I have witnessed child abuse victims actually make their disclosure by whispering in to the ear of a cat; the child felt safer telling the cat than telling the child protection professional because cats (and dogs) do not judge. The therapy animals simply take the information and send back unconditional love. That is something that humans, though they try, are unable to do.

KSC: How are therapy cats trained?

AP: Personally I have not been involved in the training of therapy cats; instead, I work on the legal aspects of effectively incorporating a therapy animal into the criminal justice system. However, in working with animal-assisted therapy professionals nationally, I have learned that it is more about training the handler (the person who has the therapy animal) to properly guide and advise the therapy animal. Therapy animals are typically chosen by a handler based on their natural personality. We've all met cats who are outgoing (but not obnoxious), love everyone, enjoy traveling in a carrier, and maybe are trained to walk on a leash. All of the therapy cats that I have met have been rescue cats; there is no cat breed that is needed to be a therapy cat. When a handler has a cat that has the personality of a good therapy cat, the handler-animal team undergoes temperament testing for the cat and training of the handler. They are a team and it is important that the handler be able to advocate and care for their therapy animal. For instance, a handler needs to know when their therapy cat is tired and needs to rest. If a handler is properly trained, then the handler-animal team is effective. My co-creator of the TASK Program is the founder of Denver Pet Partners. They have a wonderful website that describes what it takes to be a good handler-animal team.

KSC: Are therapy cats adopted into homes where there is a need, or is it more of a visitation/short-term process?

AP: Therapy cats (and dogs) are actually "owned" by their handler and they will visit facilities. It is just like you and me getting our cats trained, tested and registered as therapy cats and then finding organizations that can benefit from our services. The therapy cats have homes just like regular cats. The only difference is that they have a day job. And when a therapy animal is registered through Delta Society, their services are free of charge. So if a children's reading group or a nursing home could benefit from a therapy cat, you as the handler would volunteer your time once a week, once a month, or however often you want. And with that registration with Delta Society, you and your therapy cat come with $1 million in insurance. This is a lovely story of a Delta Society therapy cat in Colorado Springs.

KSC: Where can someone reading this blog go for more information on therapy cats ?

AP: They can go to Delta Society to learn more about therapy animals and google "therapy cats" and their locality to see about opportunities available for training and testing. Or go to my website to read more articles and listen to me talk about therapy animals on the radio.

We'd love to hear your comments, either on Therapy Cats, or just the healing you've seen cats (or dogs) do in your or other peoples' lives. There's no doubt the joy that a kitty can bring to our homes...
I know my life wouldn't be the same without

those 3 little fuzzballs that greet me at the door every night. Post your thoughts below!

King Street Cats in Their New Homes

2011-12-29T14:35:00.001-05:00

Meet Emma and Lydia, two of our St. Croix kitties!

As you can see, they have a great bond.

Read what their Mommy has to say about them...

“We have two new wonderful additions to our family of five. Emma and Lydia make seven. These cute kitties came to us from King Street Cats. Our whole family has fallen in love. These sisters from St. Croix are so lovable and friendly. They fit right into our family. The kids adore them. Thank you King Street Cats you have changed our lives for the better.”

Year-End Donations of Many Types Appreciated!

2011-12-26T16:36:00.000-05:00

In 2011, KSC was able to find homes for over 210 cats and were able to rescue even more this year than in previous years, all thanks to the help and support of volunteers and sponsors. Since the shelter is run purely on donated time, money and the occasional tears (happy and sad), the following items would greatly help the cat rescuing cause.

We are always appreciative of these items that are in constant demand in our shelter:

Bleach
Paper towels
Large trash bags
Disposable large gloves
Small sandwich baggies
Canned kitten or cat food (Wellness and Pro Plan are preferred)
Cat litter (Feline Pine and Fresh Step is preferred)
Clean towels and linens
Unused cat beds & scratching posts (please, no carpeted cat trees)

Items can be brought to 25 Dove Street, Alexandria, VA

(1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekends).

We cannot stress enough

the importance of montary donations.

Vet bills were upwards of $89,000 for 2011,

and even with Ft. Hunt Veterinary Hospital's kindness,

it was a very expensive year.

If you participate in the CFC,

please donate to the following location:

Combined Federal Campaign number is 39069

Or use the link below to safely donate online:

Click the yellow "Donate" button in the upper right-hand corner.

You will be sent a receipt of your online donation for your 2011 tax purposes!

All of us 2 legged and 4 legged beings thank-you

for all you have provided this year.

We couldn't have made it this far without you!

Online Merchants Giving Back to King Street Cats!

2011-12-21T14:34:00.000-05:00

We're all busy finishing up our holiday shopping. Stores are promising we can order today and still have our gifts arrive in time. PHEW! Well how about this...how about you make the deadline AND have a portion of your sale go to the kitties at King Street Cats? Win win!

Adopt A Shelter has worked with many merchants so that you have a wide variety of choices. They've even negotiated with some travel sites, since many of us will be traveling over the next week. These are some of the participating merchants: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, Orbitz, Petsmart, iTunes, Petco, Lowes, Walmart, Walgreens, Target, etc. Check out the extensive list!

Click the link below and purchases made from there will benefit the kitties at King Street Cats!

Shop to Benefit the Kitties at King Street Cats!

New Pudders, Meet Pudders/Puppers...

2011-12-19T13:46:00.000-05:00

'Tis the season where a new cat in the house sounds like a wonderful idea! Who doesn't love a new pet for the holiday season? HOWEVER, keep in mind those who love pets have grandiose ideas of how things should go when they bring in a new kitten or cat into an already established pet's territory and it doesn't always work out the best of ways! I would love to have pets who snuggle together and play nicely and follow in around the house in tandem. Alas, if my two cats are in the same room peacefully (AND they are litter mates!), I count myself fortunate.

In order to keep things as stress free as possible when introducing a new cat into the home, keep these ideas at the top of your list:

1) ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION! Spread it around like cheese whiz on crackers. All over and in plenty supply for both the new pet and established pet. Spend one-on-one time with all involved to help keep jealousy and territory battles at bay.

2) Have a separate room where the new pet can relax and the established pet(s) can sniff under the door. In this room, purchase some new items for the new cat like water and food bowls, litter box, blanket and toys. This helps them make their own scent in their own space to bring about comfort levels. Let the new cat/kitten relax here for at least 24 hours. Travel can be stressful, especially for pets!

3) After the 24 hour waiting period, switch the pets. The new cat will go into the space where the established pet was and vice versa. The established pet will be a little upset with the new smells in a stronger concentration but allow them time to adjust (an hour or so). Its all about the odor and sniffs.

4) For the first week or so that they're together in the house, leave them in two separate spaces while you're out of the house, but bring them together when you're home. While you are at it, spread some cat nip or treats around while they are in the same room. This allows them to experience positive experiences when the other is around. Who doesn't love to play and eat together??

5) Ignore hissing and growling, but intervene if a physical battle breaks out by dangling a towel between them. If they do seem to tolerate each other, even begrudgingly, praise both of them profusely.

The introduction can take from two hours to six months, so don't be discouraged if your cats don't seem to get along well at first. Keep in mind realistic expectations. Some pets love to snuggle together and others... not so much.

Factors to Consider

If you are thinking of getting a kitten to keep an older cat company, you might want to consider two kittens. They will be able to keep each other company while the older cat learns to love them.
If you already have more than one cat, use the "alpha cat" for preliminary introductions. Once he/she accepts the newcomer, the other resident cats will quickly fall in line.
Lots of snuggle-time and attention is indicated for all cats concerned during this period. Remember, the prime goal is to get them to associate pleasure with the presence of each other.
If possible, ask a friend to deliver the new cat to your home, in her cage. You can act nonchalant, as if it's no big deal, then later let your resident cat(s) think it's their idea to welcome the newcomer.

All in all, good luck to you and yours and happy holidays!

**Artwork available in Dancing Cat store on Etsy.com

King Street Cats in Their New Homes

2011-12-14T11:56:00.000-05:00

We wanted to keep you updated as we hear back from our Kitties' adopted families.

This is Monkey and here is the update from his Mommy!

"Monkey is doing very well now! He's finally acclimated and eating better, and hasn't had any "accidents" in 2 weeks! He's still a little weird though--begs like a dog for ham and cheese EVERY day (and it must be Boar's head--NOT KIDDING!!!) and whenever I come home he lays on the floor and waits for me to scratch his belly--and oh yeah, must sleep on warm comfy blankets and the more the better! He's such a king :)"

What Can I Do?

2011-12-12T12:03:00.002-05:00

'Tis the season for sharing, caring, loving, and stress. Wait, no, I meant to say trees... just typed it incorrectly (suuure, you say). After spending some time this past Sunday at the KSC fund raiser which included Stella and Dot jewelry, wine, nibbles and treats, I realized how much blood, sweat and tears go into this organization by all the amazing volunteers. Even when they are on their own personal time, they are thinking about the cats and what they can do to help them in every way they can. One volunteer opened up her lovely home and laid out an amazing spread of human treats to encourage donations to cover whatever KSC expenses may arise. A second volunteer carries around pamphlets and cards in her purse to hand out or post in various stores at random interval opportunities. Another volunteer carries around a kitty harness, cat treats, catnip and a small blanket in her backpack so if she sees a cat outside, she has ways to bring them to a warm space at any given moment. This same volunteer also treks out with her husband in tow to place cash donation boxes all over the Old Town area and lovingly talks store managers to help KSC in their own small ways. A fourth volunteer journeys over to total stranger's houses to clip sharp kitty nails in pursuit of donations. Yet another patroness waltzed into the party in all her glamorous splendor and handed over a significant check. Ladies and gentlemen, I am in total awe in their ingenuity and determination to make KSC what it is today and even better tomorrow.

All in all, there are three main ways people can help King Street Cats: Time, money, or connections. Some volunteers have the money to help while no time to do so. Others have time but little money. The third group has the connections to bring about all three categories. We truly appreciate all three in each and every way possible. If you would like to know how you can help KSC, please feel free to post questions or comments. If you can think of ways to help KSC, feel free to post as well! A more significant listing of volunteering opportunities will be posted some time in January so keep an eye out for it!

Once again, I am in awe of all our volunteers for all they do. Thank you.

Interested in volunteering your gifts to King Street Cats? E-mail us at Contact@KingStreetCats.org or click here.

The Power of the Internet in Animal Rescue

2011-12-08T12:07:00.004-05:00

We all know how powerful and far-reaching the internet can be. Through venues like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs, etc., our messages can be mass reproduced in a short amount of time and with little to no cost. Do you ever wonder the effectiveness of your cyber-posts? Here is a heart-warming story of 2 soon-to-be-homeless-or-worse kitties from New Orleans, LA, that have somehow found their way to King Street Cats in Alexandria, VA. Just one cyber connection after another falling into place to rescue these kitties. This story came from a blog called Covered in Cat Hair...so nice of them to promote King Street Cats. We're all fighting for the same cause...don't miss new posts on either blog.

Covered in Cat Hair: WE DID IT! Barney & Bella are Safe!

That very cute kitty pictured above is my Jake. I'll spare you his complete name lest you think I am OVERqualified in the crazy cat lady department. No doubt he is surfing Facebook where he and brother and sister share their own page.

Meet the Board of King Street Cats!

2011-12-05T17:48:00.017-05:00

From L to R: Helen, Alyson, Dawn, MaryBeth, Vivien

We decided to do a brief interview with the Board Members of King Street Cats (KSC), just to allow you to get to know them a little better. They are such a great group and put in a great deal of hours, many of which are behind the scenes. Let’s see what they had to say in response to the following four questions:

1. What brought you to KSC and when?

2. What's your real job...the one that covers the mortgage and kitty litter expenses?

3. How many cats rule your home (feel free to tell us about them as much as you'd like)?

4. What's your funniest KSC memory?

Helen:

1. I learned of KSC from Christina Montana, who is a pet communicator. After one of my kitties passed away in 2006, I came to KSC to adopt a companion cat for Pookie...and the rest is history!
2. I am in commercial real estate.
3. I have 6 of my own and currently 3 fosters running around my house - and they are ALL KSC cats!
4. One time a potential adopter was filling out the application and when he got to Spay/Neuter part of the application he put down "yes I am neutered!".

Alyson:

1. I started working with Vivien because we were, and still do, use KSC as a resource to help WHS with some of our shelter cats. WHS reaches out to local cat rescues in the area to help re-home our shelter cats, as we try to find them homes as well. There is a new person now who is in charge of cat rescue, but at the time, I just knew of KSC because I live in Alexandria and had heard of the great work they do. I was asked to join the board the following year, so I guess I got to know Vivien and KSC early in 2010.

2. I work for Washington Humane Society (WHS) and I am a program manager in charge of CatNiPP, the feral cat program, plus the cat foster care program.

3. My husband and I have 4 cats and a dog. Our cats are all rescues; 2 were trapped as feral kittens (that I socialized), one was a foster from a rescue group out in near Louray, VA, and the other was a failed WHS foster. Our dog is a failed foster too.

4. Not sure of a funniest KSC moment, but I enjoyed my visits to the cattery. I used to transport cats and kittens back from the WHS spay & neuter clinic, after surgery. I always love pulling up in the evening and seeing all of the cat faces peering out the front door of KSC. Plus I enjoy watching them all go crazy as the caregivers/volunteers get wet food ready for them.

Dawn:

1. I came to KSC back in 2009 when the news broke of Michael Vick’s dog fighting scandal. I could either express my anger by protesting football games, or direct that energy in a positive manner by volunteering at King Street Cats
2. I am in government relations.
3. I have my one very special kitty, Jasmine. She’s a tortie (enough said). I adopted her because she was an older kitty and I wanted her to have a loving home in which to live out the remainder of her life…which seems to be longer than anyone expected. I also foster kittens for KSC regularly.
4. At one point in time, I was fostering Broccoli, Potato, and Bobby. I let them out of the guest bedroom (their residence) and they all made a bee-line to the bathroom where I keep Jasmine’s litter box (they had 2 litter boxes in their bedroom, mind you). Broccoli jumped in and Potato decided she needed to use the box right then as well, crawled under Broccoli, and suffered the consequences of being in that location. Bobby was smart enough not to jump in the box as well, but he was seen doing the “potty party” dance outside the box until it was clear (and safe) for him to go in.

MaryBeth:

1. I came to KSC in 1997 - a friend of mine was working at Unique when the Albert Foundation (KSC predecessor) was just opening its orphanage at 213 King Street.
2. I am a SVP for meetings and events at the Urban Land Institute.
3. 2, two year olds.... From KSC of course. Booker and Fraser.
4. Creating cat "art" with the kittens.

Vivien:

1. I came to KSC 13 years ago. I was a small, local business owner, and Ethel, another small, local business owner came to visit me. Apparently she pegged me as a cat person and told me about King Street Cats, being housed in her business. I started as a feeder/cleaner 1-2 nights a week (in a room containing 60-70 cats…you can imagine how big of a job that is!).
2. I am the store manager for Decorium, located in Old Town Alexandria. I also do pet sitting on the side.
3. That varies, depending on the number of fosters I am housing, but all my kitties are from KSC. Gracie has held a very special place in my heart. I met her when I first started volunteering and she was a feral kitty. I made her my “project” for the next year, seeking her out every time I went to KSC. She eventually came to trust me and I adopted her. She still doesn’t like being picked up, but she’ll “allow me” to lend her my lap, on her schedule, of course.
4. Several years ago Melissa (another KSC volunteer) and I used to sit outside on the sidewalk and "beg" for money for KSC at 213 King Street (where the cat room used to be). We had a cat called OREO in the room who was a very thin, sick tuxedo female cat with HUGE eyes. She LOVED people so we used to take her outside in a cage and with her putting out her shaved paw to anyone that passed by and looking at them with her huge eyes, and she was our champion fundraiser (Yes, we did anything to get money.). Oreo lived another year defying all the odds!! The next year we took her ashes to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, located in Angel Canyon, UT, so she could be buried in their pet cemetery. Well the next year we visited her grave site AND there was money on her headstone!!!! Where did it come from??? Last year it was the same thing - more money on her grave and this is the only grave with money on it out of the hundreds in that cemetery. Is she still fundraising for us???????

What About Me?

2011-12-01T10:58:00.001-05:00

Remember the kitten I am fostering? Well, the super cute yet super messy Archie (SURPRISE! IT'S A BOY!) got me thinking about the great debate on whether people should adopt a kitten (under 1 yr) or an adult (1 yr +). Let me present a case for the older category. Kittens sure are cute! They are also messy, high energy, and their personalities haven't quite formed yet. They want to climb drapes, scratch (mark) their territories and use your couch as an Indy 500 race track at all hours of the night. Did I mention the chewing on everything as their teeth develop? However, adult cats can still be playful, loving, calm and grateful for being in their "fur-ever" homes. These lovely older cats were given up for no fault of their own. Most of the time, they were given up because of owner illness, divorce, death, they wandered too far from home and weren't micro-chipped, and even the occasional overly nervous new parents of human babies (as crazy as that sounds). Here are talking points to encourage older (even more shy) cat adoptions:
1) Older cats are usually litter box trained. Adult cats don’t play in their box as much and understand the true purpose so will usually cooperate with your efforts to keep theirs tidy.
2) You avoid most of the emotional turmoil of being worried that you are going to step on the tiny moving fur-balls in the middle of the night since they haven't learned the meaning of personal space.
3) Since you didn’t raise the cat, you don’t have to take responsibility for the cat’s shortcomings. Instead, you can blame the former owner and play the role of saint for tolerating their antics.
4) Older cats generally are more quiet and sensible than kittens and generally need less supervision. Instead of becoming bored and needing to let off steam in your absence they are more likely to doze, leaving your furnishings, drapes, etc. intact.
5) An older cat is fully grown so you can see what you are taking on - large, medium, small, long-haired, semi-long haired or short-haired, placid or active. The cat's previous owner or shelter volunteers will provide details of its character, allowing you to select a cat that suits your own needs and lifestyle.
6) As cats grow older, they are more home-oriented and settled. If you enjoy pampering your cats, an older cat will be much more appreciative of this attention than a kitten. Cats are at their most companionable in later years.
7) You’re saving a life - The simple fact of the matter is that older cats are harder to adopt out, because people naturally gravitate toward the kittens in all their over-the-top cuteness. It is unfair to these cats that have already lost their homes should live out the rest of their years in a shelter, even one as nice as KSC where the volunteers love and coddle them as if they were their own, this is no replacement for a real home with a human to call their own.
8) Less of a commitment - When adopting a kitten, few people consider that this feline will be a part of their lives for possibly 16 to even 20 years. Adult cats aren’t at a shelter because they are defective or worn out. They may have simply outlived their former owners or been unable to join them at a hospital, nursing home, or new apartment.
9) Kittens are like human babies: everything goes in their mouths. Whether teething or just exploring bits of the world around them, kittens can be destructive little bundles of fur. Adult cats typically chew less, if at all because they tend to save their energy for more important activities, like window squirrel/bird hunting.
10) It might be their last chance. Separated from their loved ones, surrounded by other strange cats, confused and sometimes frightened, many are emotionally devastated by their misfortune. Kittens will always be popular, but for the abandoned, forgotten, and heartbroken adult cats, you just might be their last chance to have the love and warmth of a home where they can live out their years in comfort. When cared for properly, cats can live well into their late teens or early twenties. Typically, they will remain active and playful throughout most of their lives. Some may need a little extra patience while adjusting to a new home, but once they feel safe and secure again, most will give you years of faithful companionship and unconditional love.

King Street Cats has a special spotlight on "What About Me" cats this December. These cats are sweet, loving, adorable, adult-like and looking for a special person to cuddle up with during these chilly nights. Please consider opening up your hearts and home to an older or more overlooked cat.

What About Me TM is an ongoing campaign of King Street Cats focused on helping ALL of our kitties find homes.

Holiday Decor and Kitty

2011-11-28T09:06:00.000-05:00

The holidays are upon us and with that comes the great challenge. No, not the crowded malls and highways, not the endless party invites, not the family coming to stay with you for what feels like an eternity. Those pale in comparison to the biggest challenge of all…keeping Kitty out of the tree. Kitty napping peacefully under the tree as if he were the only gift that should matter in your world? No problem. Kitty gnawing on the tinsel or scaling the limbs? Problem. Every day is a new opportunity to play hide and seek with the ornaments. I’ll come home and notice a bare section on the tree…where 4 or 5 ornaments once happily hung, and 3 little sets of eyes just blinking at me with complete innocence.

Christmas trees present several dangers to house cats. First, live trees, especially pine, can be deadly if ingested. Pine resin can cause disease in cats. Also, the pine needles with sharp points may cause internal damage to his organs if he eats them. Artificial Christmas trees are safer, but you still need to keep an eye on your cat. Flame retardant chemicals are sprayed on most trees, live and artificial, and can cause thyroid issues in your cat.

Beyond ingesting, the tree, cats may also chew on the electric cords for the Christmas lights. Pet specialty stores sell bitter apple or lemon based sprays designed to keep cats away from furniture or rooms. The smell is a deterrent which works even when you are not there to shoo them away. Spray the base, Christmas tree skirt and branches of the Christmas tree, to include the light strings. You may want to spray again every few days to make sure the smell is strong enough to deter your cat.

If you have rambunctious cats and kittens, it is best to avoid glass and fragile ornaments completely. Use shatter-proof or plastic balls with less fragile ornaments. Small pieces, detachable parts and flimsy hooks are tempting and dangerous to Kitty, so avoid them whenever possible. Leave the bottom branches free of ornaments to avoid tempting cats.

Skip tinsel altogether. It can choke Kitty or cause intestinal blockages. The same goes for any metallic wrapping paper or bows. Also, clean up wrapping paper scraps as quickly as possible. The thicker coatings may also be hard for your kitty to digest.

Secure the base of the tree with weights so Kitty doesn't turn it over which can cause lots of damage and possibly injury.

Silk holiday plant decorations are the best bet for homes with cats. Holly, mistletoe and poinsettias are all poisonous for Kitty. However, if you must use the real thing, keep them high and out of reach. Keep a careful check throughout the holiday for leaves, berries and petals, which may have fallen on the floor. If you are going to be traveling, dispose of poisonous plants before you go. Who knows what Kitty may get into while you are gone.

Avoid using artificial snow spray, which, besides being tacky, can also be deadly if ingested by Kitty. Also be mindful of candles and Kitty's whiskers.

Give Kitty his own sets of “decorations.” With all the fun stuff hanging around, it’s only natural Kitty will want to check out all the new and fun-looking stuff. When you haul out the decor, also haul out a set of holiday toys especially for Kitty. Anytime Kitty goes for something hanging from the tree, quickly hand him one of his own special toys to show him that’s what he should be playing with.

Enjoy this little video...it epitomizes what's probably happening in my house right now while I am at work...

http://www.simonscat.com/Films/Santa-Claws/

**Artwork available in Dancing Cat store on Etsy.com

King Street Cats in Their New Homes

2011-11-22T12:56:00.000-05:00

Obviously we are excited each time one of our kitties gets a new home. We enjoy getting updates on how they are doing. We will be posting updates as we get them, but we would also LOVE to hear your heart-warming adoption stories, regardless of from where you adopted Kitty! Share them in the comments section below and insert pictures if you have them.

Above is Dancing Cat, now named Sebastian. Dancing Cat was rescued from the outdoors when he somehow got separated from his family. He is now in his furrever home and LOVES drinking from the faucet.

Top Ten Things Not To Feed Kitty This Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T11:51:00.001-05:00

As I sit here with a foster kitten named Aimee dangling in a cloth burrito-like contraption hung around my neck to keep her warm and close while my two cats glare at this miniature intruder into their domain, I contemplate the upcoming holiday known as turkey and football day (aka Thanksgiving). As the planning of a day of feasting and merriment ensues, I wonder how this great feast could affect my furry loved ones. My girl, Raggedy Ann, is the consistent scrounger of human tidbits. Not by my doing, mind you, but in part her own curiosity drives her to sniff out and try to consume anything forbidden. Considering how many other fellow cat lovers are out there, I am positive this information could be of use to them as well. Keep in mind these items could also affect felines' favorite playmates (canines) in a negative manner as well, we are focusing on cats because their metabolism is different. The top culprits listed from numerous online references are:

1) Chocolate: The stimulants, theobromine and caffeine are the main offending substances in this delicious human treat that could, quite simply, cause toxic issues to the heart and nervous system.

2) Onions: Remember this because these tend to be in turkey stuffing, gravy, and mashed potatoes among other lovely items. Onions contain a substance (N-propyl disulphide) which destroys red blood cells, causing a form of anemia.

3) Garlic: contains a similar substance as onions in a lesser amount.

4) Tomatoes and Green (raw Potatoes): these foods are members of a family of plants, which includes nightshade, and contain a poisonous alkaloid called Glycoalkaloid Solanine, which can cause violent lower gastrointestinal symptoms. The leaves and stems are particularly toxic.

5) Raw eggs: contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin which can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella.

6) Raw Fish: eating raw fish can result in a thiamine deficiency leading to loss of appetite, seizures, and in severe cases, death. More common if raw fish is fed regularly. *Don't forget the bones! Bones can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system.*

7) Grapes and Raisins: Per the ASPCA: "As there are still many unknowns with the toxic potential of grapes and raisins, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center advises not giving grapes or raisins to pets in any amount."

8) Baby Food: can contain onion powder, which can be toxic to cats fed baby food for an extended period of time.

9) Yeast Dough: can expand and produce gas in the digestive system, causing pain and possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.

10) Fat Trimmings: can cause pancreatitis.

This is just a peek into the foods that we will encounter during this Thanksgiving holiday and the holidays to soon follow in the coming months but please keep these in mind as the merriment ensues. Feel free to add in additional items to help educate and enlighten. All my fuzzies give their highest regards, they are hungry and are demanding their dinner. Happy Holidays!

**Artwork available in Dancing Cat store on Etsy.com