ood. And your cat deserves to feel good, doesn’t he?
• Bonding with other cats or animals in the house. Cats chase other cats; cats entice dogs to chase after them; and cats even chase dogs in some households! This type of behavior provides much-needed bonding. Playing with your cat can even bond him to you — and who couldn’t use more bonds in their life?
How to provide play for your felines
Usually, cats enjoy playing both inside the house and outdoors. There are a variety of ways that you can make playtime, inside or out, more fun for your cat.
There are a variety of toys you can purchase to play with your cat. From the balls with the little jingle bells in them, to the feather toys that the cats can chase. Check your local pet store for some fun and exciting cat toys.
A cat tree is a perfect place for your cat to perch to lie in wait for another cat — or even the dog. Anything that towers over the rest of the home’s inhabitants will do. Window perches are especially popular since they allow kitty to see all that nature affords.
Catnip is in a category by itself. It can entertain the cat and the rest of the household! Who knows what’s going through your cat’s mind once he smells that potent odor and wants to bathe his entire body in it!
Use an enclosure such as the Kitty Condo or the Happy Habitat to keep your cat safe from wildlife and wildlife safe from your cat. He can sniff all there is to sniff, chase insects, and watch feathered friends, and you’ll always know exactly where he is.
Every cat is different, of course, and what works for one may not work for another — sometimes even in a multiple cat household. But, by careful observation, any cat owner — or rather anyone who is owned by a cat — can provide bliss to his favorite feline friend!
The following are just a few of the wonderful pets currently available for adoption at the HSCAZ shelter, located at 605 W. Wilson Court (just south of Main Street). Adoptable pets are spayed or neutered and current on vaccinations. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call (928) 474-5590 or visit www.humanesocietycentralaz.org.
Marley is a 4-year-old Husky/Lab mix. He was surrendered to HSCAZ when his owners could no longer care for him. He has lived with other dogs, but would do best with a tolerant, easygoing dog. Marley is a vocal guy who loves to sing the blues. He does like to jump up and give hugs, so a home without small kids would be best. He is potty trained and loves to go for walks.
Slate is a handsome guy who gets along with everyone. He is an easygoing cat who usually keeps to himself. He is litter box trained and keeps a clean area. Slate loves to get affection and attention. He has been neutered, is current on vaccines and is ready to find his forever home.
Squirt is a very sweet boy who can be a little shy at first. His last two owners both ended up in a nursing home, so Squirt is a little nervous about finding another home. He does get along well with the other cats and he really loves to sit in your lap so you can pet him.
Stormy is a 4-year-old girl that came in as a stray. She is good with people of all ages and really likes when you rub behind her ears. She can even be a little playful, spatting at toys and having fun. She doesn’t seem to mind dogs and gets along OK with other cats.
Chaco is a 5-year-old Chihuahua mix. He is super-affectionate and will jump into your lap. He gets along well with other dogs of all sizes too. Chaco is still pretty active and he loves to spin around and dance. He is potty trained and walks well on a leash.
Teak is a 2-year-old Lab/Pit mix. He is an easygoing guy who likes to mosey around in the play yards. He gets along with most other dogs and has really come out of his shell since first coming to HSCAZ as a stray. He used to be scared and would bark at everyone, now he enjoys giving kisses to his friends, new and old.