A Roly Poly Tonks Tuesday

Today, on this Tonks Tuesday, the cute little calico is feeling a little roly poly.

This girl greatly enjoys shimmying around and doing a little jig when she's excited.

And Tonks also truly loves having her belly rubbed, so feel free to give it a little tickle.

Tonks wishes you all a terrific Tuesday!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

With February being Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, we are giving some tips on this significant topic over the next couple of days. Today, we have a few words on how a kitty or pup's health can benefit from being spayed or neutered. Just to give a couple of examples, spaying a female cat or dog can eliminate the risk of uterine cancer or infection, and can reduce the risk of mammary cancer. For male cats and dogs, neutering can eliminate the concern of testicular cancer and can reduce the risk of diseases of the prostate. Of course, pregnancy itself can be risky, so a spayed cat or dog is also free of unexpected pregnancy and the dangers that come with it. There are a great many other health benefits that can potentially result from having a cat or dog spayed or neutered. Due to their reduced risks of various diseases, spayed or neutered cats and dogs are sometimes more likely to live longer, healthier lives. So, for the above reasons and more, spay and neuter your pets. And, as we mentioned yesterday, also consider assisting with or donating to the neutering efforts of feral colonies, so that these furbabies can also live as healthy of lives as possible.

Mancat Monday: Cuddles on the Couch

It's Mancat Monday. The Monday part of that is unfortunate, as it means it's back to the workweek grind. But, I'm glad that I got to spend a good chunk of my weekend cuddling my sweet Evan on the couch.

I wasn't able to work on many of my drawings this weekend due to my handsome boy's proximity to my dominant hand, but I was able to pull out my laptop and work on the story I've been writing. It co-stars a kitty heavily inspired by my Evan, so I had a lovely time with that.

Evan and all of us here wish you a magnificent Monday!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Last week I shared a doodle I scribbled up a couple years ago, when Evan had a URI that resulted in an ear hematoma and ultimate ear disfiguration. Evan was having a rough time with ear infections and discomfort back then, before we found a regimen that worked to keep him and his ear happy. I coped by scribbling up doodles of my poor boy, and so this was another one I drew back then.

Though disfigured, Evan's ear doesn't bother him at all anymore. I clean it twice a day with an ear cleaner that was invented by the founding veterinarian at the clinic we go to. It's the only ear cleaner that keeps Evan's ear completely free of infections and discomfort, and I'm so grateful for that.

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Tip of the Day

We're going to try to start some new series of tips at some point in the future, but for now we're yet again doing some repeats from the past. That being said, February is a busy month. At least, in terms of important messages it is. February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, National Pet Dental Health Month, and National Cat Health Month. For the past few Februarys, we filled the month with tips on all of these topics. We've decided to do the same again this year, since the topics at hand are significant ones. Brace yourself for a month all about health and wellness.

We'll start with spaying and neutering. As you all surely know, spaying and neutering your pets, as well as ferals outdoors, helps significantly reduce cat and dog overpopulation. This in turn reduces the number of homeless animals, the number of furbabies awaiting homes in shelters, and the number who are, sadly, euthanized due to lack of space in the shelter system. That being said, if possible, don't just stop at getting your kitty or pup spayed or neutered. If possible, consider assisting in or donating to trap-neuter-release (TNR) efforts, so that even those kitties who are most comfortable with an outdoor life can enjoy a life that does not involve contributing to pet overpopulation. All of us here certainly love animals, but all of us also certainly feel heartbroken when we remember that there are a great many cats and dogs without homes due to uncontrolled reproduction and overpopulation. So, have your pets spayed and neutered, and, if possible, do what you can to help in the efforts to have feral cats spayed and neutered as well. Stay tuned tomorrow for some facts and tips on the health benefits of spaying and neutering your furbabies.

Friendly Fill-Ins and Eddy's Blurry Bloopers

Hello and happy Friday, friends! We're ready for the Friendly Fill-Ins challenge, and we'd love for you to join us. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two fill-in statements, and I came up with the second two.


1. _________ is my biggest time waste.

2. I am allergic to _________.

3. _________ heavily influences my _________.

4. I like to DIY _________.


My answers are below in bold, and are accompanied by far too much rambling. My apologies.

1. Doom scrolling is my biggest time waste.
(I recently saw someone refer to the act of endlessly scrolling on your phone as doom scrolling, and I felt personally called out. While I can often realize what I'm doing and make myself stop, I do still procrastinate by pulling out my phone and scrolling Instagram or even YouTube. I don't use many other apps, but those two alone have plenty to offer during my moments of procrastination.)

2. I am allergic to chickens.
(I'm not referring to chicken meat. I eat that all the time. I'm referring to actual chickens, their feathers, their excrement, and everything else that comes with interacting with chickens. My college degree was in animal sciences, and one of my required courses involved hands-on experience at the university's chicken farm. While I generally enjoyed working with the chickens, I learned on day one that I'm allergic to everything about them. Well, except for their meat. While taking care of the chickens, there was much sneezing, red and itchy eyes, a running yet also stuffy nose, headaches, and all that jazz. I wore a mask every second I was at the chicken farm, but that did little to nothing to stop the allergens from coming after me. It was a long semester, but I did still enjoy working with the chickens.)

3. My mood heavily influences my reading choices.
(I love reading, but I have to be in the mood for what I'm reading in order to keep from putting the book down. I see a lot of people make TBR lists, or "to be read" lists, and they'll plan entire months that way. I don't know how they can make those book choices ahead of time. I have a lot of books on my to-read list, but I pick and choose which to read one at a time, depending on what I'm in the mood for when I finish a book and am ready for a new one. More often than not I'm in the mood for fantasy, but other times I'm in the mood for a thriller or horror, or sometimes something entirely different. If I try to force myself to read something I'm not in the mood for, I often end up putting the book down.)

4. I like to DIY what hangs on my walls.
(While I do have some store-bought or otherwise premade art that I really enjoy, I much prefer the homemade, DIY sort. Though sometimes it makes me feel odd or a bit conceited to do so, I enjoy hanging copies of my drawings on my walls, or signs that I've crafted up using my drawings. I love seeing cartoon versions of my kitties and pup around my house, amongst other silly characters I've scribbled up. I also love art made by others in my life, and I have various crafty pieces created by my mom, dad, and sister hanging on the walls in my house. It makes it feel like home.)

Now it's your turn!

To add your link to the Friendly Fill-Ins Linky list, just click HERE!

You can also click on the badge below to add your link.

You are also welcome to complete the fill-ins in the comments below,

or in the comments on Ellen's blog, 15andmeowing.

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And now it's time for the Pet Photo Fails Blog Hop, hosted by none other than Melissa and Mudpie of Melissa's Mochas, Mysteries, & Meows.

My blooper queen Eddy is not a big fan of the camera. I try not to bother her too much with it, but I cannot go without photos and memories of my sweet and sassy girl. When I do whip out my camera, Eddy usually turns into an annoyed, active, blurry little gal. Which is why I have so many photos of her that look like these here.

I'm actually surprised I got the closeup outtake I did in that last photo, as Eddy rarely chooses to approach the camera. She really hates when that thing points at her, so I was shocked when she actually came up and sniffed it. Of course, she did immediately jump down and leave the scene of the camera crime after that blooper was snapped.

Eddy and all of us here send you warm wishes!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Yesterday I shared a flashback doodle of some kitties hanging out with a classic ol' gnome. That same year I remember feeling inspired to draw those same kitties with a fully feline gnome, hence this right here.

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Tip of the Day

Today is likely our last tip in our winter safety series. For this last tip, we're going to do an overview of winter weather concerns, and remind you of some of the signs to look out for that might indicate a furbaby is struggling with the winter elements. To begin, when outdoors in the cold winter months, closely observe your kitty or pup and watch for shivering, a hunched up position, restlessness, whining, lifting paws off of the ground, redness of the ears, and other signs that the furbaby is becoming too cold. On extremely cold days, frostbite and hypothermia can happen fast, which is why it is not only important to closely monitor a furbaby who might need to venture outdoors even for a short time, but to also reduce time outdoors as much as possible. Also monitor your kitties and pups indoors, and ensure that they are remaining warm with sufficient heating and bedding.

Coldness, frostbite, and hypothermia are not the only issues that can arise in the winter, though. Injury to the paws, for example, is another potential. Pups and kitties who go outdoors can be affected by the cold ground, and by the snow, ice, and ice melts that might cover the ground in the winter. For this reason, be watchful for paw pads that are dry, cracking, bleeding, or otherwise injured, and monitor for lifting of the paws or altered ambulation.

The winter issues don't end there, though, as many more potential concerns can arise from the harsh cold of winter. For example, dryness of winter air and heated homes can lead to dryness of the coat and skin. When it comes to this, be on the lookout for itching, scratching, dander, and a dull coat. Yet another system of the body that can be affected by the winter months is the respiratory system. Dry, cold air can affect asthma and other such ailments, so be on the alert for coughing and other similar signs.

Winter can be a harsh time of the year, as you all certainly know. It can be hard on us, and also of course our furbabies. For this reason, always monitor your furbaby when outdoors but also when indoors. Over the past couple of weeks we've discussed some of the potential ways to combat the various issues that might arise due to the harsh winter weather. What it comes down to, though, is that it is important to monitor your furbaby, and if you have any concerns regarding their health and comfort, to never hesitate discussing this with your veterinarian in order to keep your kitty or pup as cozy as possible even on those cold winter days.

Thankful Thimble Thursday from an Angle

Hello and happy Thursday, friends! Thimble is here and ready for Angel Brian's Thankful Thursday Blog Hop.

Today, Thimble is grateful that she's adorable from any angle. During a recent cuddle session, this cute tabby posed for the photo below. Thimble and I are in agreement that her nose and lips and chin and just everything you see there is downright adorable.

Thimble hopes that her adorable face, no matter the angle, helped make your day brighter!

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Now, of course, we have the fill-in statements for tomorrow's Friendly Fill-Ins challenge. My amazing co-host Ellen of 15andmeowing came up with the first two, and I came up with the second two.

1. _________ is my biggest time waste.

2. I am allergic to _________.

3. _________ heavily influences my _________.

4. I like to DIY _________.

We'll see you tomorrow, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Today's tip is to find ways to exercise and entertain your furbabies indoors when it is cold outside. Walks and other lengthy outings can be a very dangerous thing in frigid temperatures. Frostbite and hypothermia can happen in a matter of a couple short minutes in low temperatures. So, if your kitty or pup is used to walks, outdoor playtime, and so forth, find ways to improvise indoors on cold winter days.

You can of course play games with your kitty or pup, such as by grabbing a toy and initiating fetch. For some kitties and pups who might not be easy to engage in a game of fetch, sliding treats across the floor can be a good way to get them to move and exercise, with an incentive. Another way to play with your furbaby can be a game of hide-and-seek. Of course, only play such games with furbabies who enjoy them, and who do not become confused or agitated by having to chase or look for you.

What's more, there are also a large variety of interactive toys available on the market that can help keep a kitty or pup entertained and active when walks or time outdoors is not an option. One plain and simple option is an interactive treat dispenser. These popular toys come in many forms, and can be rolled around or otherwise played with all while dispensing treats. The list of interactive toys certainly doesn't end there, though. You know your furbaby best and might be able to guess what kinds of toys they like, so search for interactive toys accordingly. There are a number of other interactive toys that will toss, roll, wave, fling, and otherwise move items around for your furbaby to chase. Do, of course, be very careful when selecting interactive toys. For example, do not leave your furbaby unattended with any toys that contain potentially dangerous parts and pieces. If your kitty or pup has a tendency to chew or eat string, for example, don't leave them alone with any toys that contain easily accessible strings. It is important to keep those kitties and pups happy and active even on cold winter days, but only do so with toys that are safe and sound.

Snowy Adventures with Angel Astrid

We got 7" of snow this weekend, and it's been frigid cold. My sweet angel Astrid would be thrilled with these conditions, as she was a huge fan of all things winter.

If you're curious why my girl Astrid's face is covered in snow in those photos, it's because when it snowed, this was one of her favorite things to do:

I loved watching Astrid play in snow, and I'm so glad I have photos and videos of her doing just that. I miss my pup so much, but these memories will be with me always.

Warm wishes to all!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I've shared this doodle multiple times, I think even in my sweet Astrid's memorial post in September. But, I feel like sharing it again. After all, it stars Astrid and two of her favorite cold things, those being winter and ice cream. Oh, and she has a metal leg here because I believe I drew this in the year that Astrid had metal placed in her knee after she tore her CCL (like the human ACL). So, a metal leg was drawn.

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Tip of the Day

Our series of winter safety tips has already covered wiping off those paws when they've been in contact with snow, ice, ice melts, and so forth. Today's tip relates to all of that, and is to regularly check your furbaby's cute little toes. It is of course important to always ensure that your furbaby and his or her paws are free or injury, but this is something that is especially important in the winter. The cold and dry air, as well as the cold ground that might be covered in snow, ice, ice melts, and other substrate in the winter, can potentially lead to dry, cracked, bleeding, and overall uncomfortable paw pads. This is why it is important for you to regularly check your pup or kitty's paws in the winter, and of course year round. Be especially vigilant of the condition of paws that frequently go outdoors.

If you do notice your furbaby's paw pads are dry, cracking, or bleeding, or if they are displaying any discomfort when walking, consider options for treating and combating paw pad dryness and discomfort. There are pet paw salves on the market that are intended to combat dryness and to protect paws pads that often go outdoors. In some cases, petroleum jelly might be deemed safe to wipe onto the paw pads before they head outdoors, but this is sometimes a debated option. More importantly, when it comes to the health, safety, and comfort of your furbaby and their paws, it is of course always recommended to discuss the matter with a veterinarian. A veterinarian can check for any damage to the paws, and can also best recommend treatment for or prevention of dryness, cracking, and other injury to the paw pads. So, be observant of the state of your kitty or pup's paws, and seek veterinary care if you have any concerns.

Making Biscuits on Tonks Tuesday

It's Tonks Tuesday, and today the calico is making lots and lots of biscuits.

See those toesies in action? Tonks is quite the baker, kneading up dozens and dozens of biscuits every day.

Warm wishes (and lots of biscuits) to all!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Today's tip is one we've mentioned before, but that we're going to mention again for these cold winter days. Though of course living indoors helps keep our furbabies safe and sound during the winter months, it is still important to remember that extra measures can be taken to keep them warm and cozy. This is especially important for young or old furbabies, those with little to no fur, and any cats or dogs whose health is compromised. You can start by putting out additional soft and cozy blankets and beds for them. To take it one step further, there are heated blankets and beds on the market. Of course, be very careful when using anything heated, taking especial care to ensure that no burns or fires result. To be on the safe side, you can look into beds that allow warmth in a non-electrical way. For example, there are pet beds constructed of material that essentially reflects a kitty or pup's body heat back to them, warming them that way. Lastly, also take into consideration the location of blankets and beds. Place your kitty or pup's blankets and beds somewhere that is elevated off of the cold floor and away from drafts, doorways, and windows, to ensure that they can remain as warm as possible.

Evan's Squeaky Clean Mancat Monday

Today is Mancat Monday, for anyone who might have forgotten.

For the manly occasion, Evan decided to get himself squeaky clean for his audience.

My hind limb paralyzed boy has some very special looking baths, and I love it so much.

The above said, Evan doesn't mind the baths he gives himself, but he sure hates when I bathe him. That's too bad, though, because I bathe him at least once a day. With all of his urinary and intestinal issues mixed with his hind limb paralysis, we have to keep up with those baths no matter how much he hates them. Don't worry, though, he always gets cuddles and treats after his baths, which always brings back his purrs.

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

It's been almost exactly 2 years since Evan had an upper respiratory infection that involved some sneezes and head shakes that landed him with an ear hematoma. All things said and done, that hematoma left Evan's ear permanently disfigured. But, with the help of a specific ear cleaner that was invented by our vet clinic's founding doctor, Evan's weird little ear gives him no issues these days. That's not how it always was, though. When the hematoma was still fresh and we were trying to sort it out on top of his other health issues and meds, Evan was miserable. I remember scribbling up the doodle below during that time to try and makes something cute out of the rough time Evan was having.

Again, though, Evan's ear no longer bothers him. It is disfigured, but we have an ear cleaning routine that keeps it and my boy very happy. That means he hasn't needed the surgery we feared might be required to potentially remove his problem ear, especially before we got the resulting ear infections in control. I'm so grateful that we were able to avoid that and that my Evan is instead a happy boy with an ear that's just as special as the rest of him.

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Tip of the Day

Today's winter tip is to, despite the fact that it's winter here in the Northern Hemisphere, still keep in mind parasites and their prevention. If you live somewhere that is warm or temperate even during this time of the year, of course certainly do consider keeping up with those parasite preventatives for your furbabies. The same, though, goes even for those who don't live somewhere consistently warm in the winter. Some winter days are not as cold as others, and parasites such as mosquitoes and fleas can survive and make reappearances when the temperatures rise. Sometimes, some parasites even make their way into our homes and survive winter climates by hanging out in the warm comfort of our heated houses. With this in mind, don't forget that mosquitoes can carry heartworms, and fleas can cause bloodborne diseases and can also carry tapeworms, all of which can cause dangerous side effects. For all such reasons, do think about the benefits of keeping up with parasite prevention for your furbabies all year round.

One more note we want to make regards none other than mice. This time of year, mice might find ways to enter our homes, garages, and sheds in search of a warm place to stay. What's more, mice can carry parasites such as fleas, tapeworms, and roundworms. This means, especially if your furbaby gets near or even eats a mouse inside the home, or anywhere else, they are at risk of such parasites. This is yet another reason to keep up with parasite prevention for your furbaby, no matter what time of year it is.