Happy Three Kings' Day!

Yesterday was the Twelfth Day of Christmas. We mentioned then that the festive season still wasn't quite over yet, though, as today is the Epiphany, or Three Kings' Day. To repeat what we said yesterday, this is the day when the three Magi, or the three Wise Men, visited baby Jesus and gifted him gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In some cultures gifts are also exchanged on this day, and in order to extend the Christmas season a bit I do give my human and furry family a couple of small things every January 6th. Just like with Christmas itself, it's not about the gifts, but it does feel nice to continue the festive season just a bit longer.

All that said, on this Tonks Tuesday, the adorable calico of course has a festive photo to share with you all.

Though you can't see it, Tonks's favorite (actual) Christmas tree is right across from that kitty bed. She loves keeping her Christmas tree company in her Christmas tree bed. And don't worry, we did indeed snap some closeups for you to enjoy.

Happy Three Kings' Day!

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Festive Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

As we mentioned yesterday, today's tip regards what type of bedding to put in an outdoor cat shelter, such as for feral cats. We'll start by cutting right to the chase and saying that an ideal form of bedding for an outdoor shelter is straw. A cat can burrow down in straw in order to stay as warm as possible in the cold. Unlike blankets and towels, straw will not hold moisture, and therefore will less likely freeze or become uncomfortable in rain, snow, and so forth. This is one huge reason why straw is often a better choice over cloth bedding material, because it can repel moisture, and can therefore allow for a consistent, dry, warm form of bedding for outdoor cats. Straw can also often be more easily replaced or replenished, as opposed to cloth bedding, should it get dirty. That being said, do make sure you know the difference between straw and hay. They are not the same thing, and hay will hold onto moisture, become wet and uncomfortable for outdoor cats, and can also become moldy when wet. Go for straw, not hay.

If you do put out cloth bedding for outdoor cats, check it regularly. If it is wet or dirty, be sure to replace it, clean it, and so forth. Try to keep all cloth bedding in areas where it is least likely to get wet, so that feral or other outdoor cats can use it comfortably. Cloth bedding works best in shelters that are free of leaks and that are in some way heated, as that will help it remain dry and comfortable.