A daily dilemma for a feral.....

Wildfires

are a real worry for many people in the US and the world over.
You not only have to prepare for yourselves, but for your pets as well.

You need resources, evacuation plans,
safe places to go and a myriad of other
things.






If you are a caretaker of a feral colony, it can be even worse.
How can you get the cats someplace safe? Can you catch them all in time? What about smoke inhilation?

I don't know what to tell you. I haven't come across it....yet. I hope I never do. However, I can tell you that you should try to make the same plans as you would for your pets. Maybe contact a feral friendly rescue that will help you with arrangements, maybe contact a farmer away from the fire path and ask to house your cats for a day or two until danger passes. Keep plenty of cool moist (not soaking wet) towels on hand to cover cages so as not to singe fur or breathe too much smoke. Also, do try to get them all to safety, it may not be possible, but try for their sake. Some cats can get so fearful that they hide and burrow into someplace that won't be safe. Many may run too far and not be able to return home afterwards; especially because smells have changed greatly. Have posters ready and friends on hand when you return to help locate any that were still at large.

I hope this gives you some ideas, and I am always open to your ideas and experienes so that I can share them with others.

Have a safe and happy summer!
MEOW

Taming Kittens

I was called out to trap some kittens that were being threatened by a fox.
One had already found his way to humans, one was not lucky enough to
survive the fox, and 2 are in my garage, being "socialized". 

For 2 days I had the 3 survivors, but the little boy, that was the first to find
a safe haven with humans, has not really wanted to be back with his sibs.
Perhaps he no longer wants to share, or he just thinks he's human himself!

The 2 that I have now will be going to a foster home soon. The little
female has gotten quite friendly; purring when held and exploring the
garage. Readily playing with toys, me and her brother...all in all,
being a cute kitten.

The boy, however, is still scared. He will spit and hiss, but he has allowed
me to pick him up a few times, and he will let me pet him while he eats.
Of course, he's not thrilled with that aspect, but he is getting used to it.

He has a long way to go though, and I am glad they are only 10-11
weeks old as it gives him another month or more to be tamed.

They are a beutiful color though, and have the lovliest eyes, so
when they are ready, they will be adopted quickly.

Look for pics or video later!

RIP Whitey.
Whitey had gotten sick. I did get him to the
vet and started meds, but it just made him distrustful
of me again. Then he started hiding from me, and
when he needed me most he would not let me help.
He has found his last super-good hiding place and
I have not seen him in 4 days. He was in bad shape
then, having not eaten for a few days before, so I am
certain he has crossed the bridge.
Miss you, Whitey! <3

We have 2 new babies from a site in Thurmont. The third kitten
who's picture this is, has decided he's a person, and he now spits
at his siblings. He has gone to a foster home, while these two
need some taming.

We have made progress though, with play and food and
stroking. The bigger one even let me pick her up for a bit.