Tonks Tuesday: Nap, Interrupted

Poor Tonks. She's so cute that sometimes a camera gets shoved in her face even when she's trying to nap. Which results in photos like this.

At least Tonks knows she's downright adorable, even when her nap is interrupted and she looks a tad bit tired.

Happy Tuesday to all!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

It's been spider central at our house lately, so for today I pulled this spring/summer spooky doodle from a few years ago. It of course stars my calico angel Rosie.

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Tip of the Day

Today's pet parenting tip relates to the dreaded vacuum cleaner, but at the same time, it doesn't. Especially if you have a furbaby who is fearful of the vacuum, you can do them a favor by using other methods to clean carpets and rugs, when possible. For example, did you know that a squeegee can be used to remove pet hair from carpets and rugs? That being said, there are also actual rug brushes on the market, which can similarly be used to remove hair from carpets and rugs. So, especially if you have a furbaby who is fearful when you vacuum, you can use these alternative, far quieter such methods when possible. Though the vacuum cleaner may not always be avoidable, when it is, such methods as the aforementioned ones can help remove hair from carpets and rugs while causing far less fearful reactions from your kitties or pups.

A Rare Tonks Tuesday in Bed

It's Tonks Tuesday, but we're starting this post with a comment on a certain orange boy. You see, yesterday Evan shared how much he loves his favorite bed. While seeing Evan in his beloved bed is a very common sight, seeing Tonks use a cat bed is very rare. Which made this photo shoot with not only Evan but also Tonks something special.

When I saw Tonks enjoying the other cat bed in the background there, I absolutely had to get a photo of her. This cute calico has never had much of an interest in cat beds, but perhaps she's changing her mind.

Tonks hopes you all get a cozy nap in bed today!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Today's flashback doodle is a bit of an odd one, but it was part of a Christmas in July series of drawings I did a few years ago. I remember thinking it would be fun to draw a somewhat Wild West one, and that resulted in this.

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Tip of the Day

Today's pet parenting hack of a tip is one to help you save on floor space. When it comes to storing some of your pet supplies—whether it be treats, canned food, medications, brushes, toys, or cleaning supplies, just to name a few—you can try using a shower caddy or other similar shelving system. You can even get shelving units that are meant to hang from a door, such as by a hook that goes over the top of door, to further save on both floor and wall space. Sometimes our furbabies come with a lot of supplies, and we have to find a place to put all of those items. So, as needed, think outside the box and find ways to use a variety of storage systems that will help save you on floor space or even wall space.

Tonks Tuesday with the Toe Beans

It's Tonks Tuesday, and today the cute little calico wanted to give you all a glimpse of her toe beans.

Tonks has adorable toes, and she knows it. She says you're welcome for the toe beans show and tell today.

Happy Tuesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I felt like sharing another summertime spooky doodle today, and since I still haven't scribbled up this year's yet, I went into our archives and found this one. It's actually more so a springtime spooky doodle, though, as I scribbled it up as part of my "Halfway to Halloween" April A to Z Challenge a few years ago. That said, this drawing was also inspired by the fact that I have a couple of life-size skeletons that hang out around my house year round. They're not real, at least not that I'm aware of, and their names are Jack and Sally.

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Tip of the Day

Is your kitty a chewer? Do they put anything and everything in their mouth? While we're sure you all know to keep potentially dangerous plants out of your home, do you have safe or fake plants on which your kitty chews? If your cat goes outdoors, do they tend to eat grass on the lawn? If the answers to any of these are yes, and if medical issues have been ruled out for any abnormal behaviors, do perhaps consider keeping some cat grass growing in your home. Even if any of the above statements aren't true of your cat, you can of course still offer cat grass. Cat grass is a safe plant on which many cats enjoy chewing, and which also serves as a source of fiber than can help keep things moving sufficiently through the GI tract. For example, cat grass might be able to help prevent issues with hairballs.

You can purchase cat grass that has already been grown and is ready for your kitty's chompers, or you can grow your own. It is relatively simple to grow, and is also typically cheap. So, do consider looking into keeping cat grass in your home, both for your kitty's entertainment as well as for their health. Of course, do monitor your kitty, especially when first offering cat grass. If they gorge on the grass and/or vomit after eating it, then only offer it to them on occasion, or not at all.

Tonks Tuesday in the Window

Hello and happy Tuesday, friends! More specifically, it's Tonks Tuesday, and so the calico is of course here to grace you with her presence.

No matter what is on the back of that couch, Tonks will sit on it in order to watch out or snooze in the window. That window looks out into our back yard, where wildlife traffic is very heavy. That's probably why it's one of Tonks's favorite places to hang out.

Wishing you all a wonderful day!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Today's flashback doodle is one I scribbled up many summers ago for my mom. It stars her fuzzy calico, Gilly, who loves hanging out in kitty tunnels.

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Tip of the Day

Our previous pet parenting hack was to use rubber gloves to remove furbaby hair from sofas, car interiors, and so forth. We failed to mention another option, and so we'll go ahead and do that today. If your clothing, bedding, or similar item is covered in pet hair and you're looking for a quick fix, you can try tossing it in the dryer with a dryer sheet. The anti-static nature of dyer sheets will help keep the hair from sticking to the clothing, bedding, or whatever item is in question. The hair will instead make its way to the lint trap. You could also try just rubbing a dryer sheet on the hairy item, as that sometimes will also help remove hair with the aid of its anti-static nature.

That all being said, though, please do keep those dryer sheets out of your furbaby's reach. This is because dryer sheets often contain potentially toxic components. So, keep those dryer sheets well hidden, and find and toss stray dryer sheets before dispersing the laundry. Of course, if you have any concern for your furbaby's safety, then simply refrain from using this method altogether.

Tonks Tuesday: Non-Blanket Naps

It's Tonks Tuesday, and today the calico has a couple of flashback photos to share. These are from right around a year ago, when I snapped photos of her resting on my laptop case. Though Tonks loves blankets, she also really enjoys plenty of non-blanket naps in things like boxes or, of course, on laptop cases.

Last spring and summer, Tonks got to spend lots of naps on that laptop case. After all, the laptop was rarely at home since it was constantly at a local computer shop for repairs. It wasn't even that the laptop wasn't working right, as all the programs and everything worked fine. It's just that it kept literally coming apart at the seams.

Turns out, though, that the shop I kept taking my laptop to was actually doing more damage than good. It wasn't until my laptop started coming apart for something like the half dozenth time, each time worse than the previous, that I found another computer shop to take it to. This new shop immediately knew what repair really needed done, and since they worked on it I've had no issues whatsoever with my laptop.

Don't worry, though, because Tonks still gets to nap on the case whenever my laptop isn't in it. I sometimes have to find somewhere else safe to keep my laptop, as I refuse to take Tonks off of the case if she's on it. The kitties are the bosses, of course.

Happy Tuesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Here's yet another spooky summertime doodle from a couple years ago, this one starring Tonks and a friendly feline ghost.

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Tip of the Day

Today's summer safety tip for strays, ferals, and other outdoor furbabies revolves around water. Water is, as you certainly know, incredibly important for all life. It's especially important for staying hydrated and cool in the summer heat. That being said, today we have some quite logical albeit important tips for helping strays, ferals, and other outdoor furbabies stay hydrated this summer.

Not only is it important to keep water in a shaded area or shaded shelter, as we mentioned yesterday, but it's also important to keep fresh water available in abundance. Especially in the summer heat, it is not possible to offer too much water. Strays and ferals may very well drink, and need to drink, far more water in the heat. Not to mention, water can evaporate very quickly in the heat. For these reasons, try to offer extra bowls of water.

Furthermore, try to keep those bowls of water as fresh and clean as possible. Refill them as often as you can, and clean them as needed. Bugs, leaves, and all sorts of other outdoor debris can find their way into water bowls. Sometimes cats and other animals may be unable to or unwilling to drink from a bowl that has debris floating in it or that is in another way dirty. In some cases, it's also unhealthy and dangerous to drink water that has been contaminated by certain debris. So, do try to keep those bowls and the water inside them fresh and clean.

For extra chill in that water, and perhaps even to give it a bit tad bit more ability to combat evaporation in the heat, you can also try putting ice cubes in the water bowls that are available to strays and ferals. Of course, do keep in mind the furbabies' preferences when doing this. Some animals will not drink from water that has something floating in it, so if this is the case, then refrain from putting ice cubes in at least some water bowls.

All in all, never forgot that fresh, clean water can of course be crucial to comfort and survival in the summer heat. So, offer lots and lots of water for those strays, ferals, and other outdoor furbabies. What's more, keep an eye on those water bowls, and try to ensure that they remain full and free of debris.

Cute Tonks Tuesday

It's Tonks Tuesday, and today the calico is here to bless you with her cute little face. You're welcome.

Her tongue is slightly sticking out in that there photo. That happens more often since Tonks lost both of her bottom canine teeth during a dental a couple years ago. It just adds to her cuteness.

Happy Tuesday to all!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

We're still sharing flashback doodles from past spooky summertime series. Because why not. Here's the kooky doodle I scribbled up for Tonks last summer.

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Tip of the Day

Today's tip is going to be a bit of a long one, because it's all about how to introduce cats to each other, such as when bringing a new cat home. Truth be told, the circumstances and methods of cat introductions can vary, especially depending on the cats involved. Some cats love other cats, some are not fond of other cats, and some are anywhere in between. Just like humans, every cat is different, and every cat has its preferences for who and what is around them. That being said, below we will indeed discuss some of the steps that can be taken to help properly introduce cats to each other.

Let's begin by saying that, though it is certainly not a cure-all for cat introductions, you can give Feliway a try. For long-term use (such as approximately 30 or so days), you can invest in a Feliway diffuser (refills can be purchased for these diffusers). There is also Feliway spray on the market, though a spray's effects do not last nearly as long as a diffuser's. If you are using a Feliway diffuser, it is often recommended that you plug it in roughly 2 weeks prior to an event such as bringing home a new cat, so that the pheromones are already in the home prior to the change.

Moving on, as we already mentioned in a previous tip, of course have somewhere safe for the new kitty to stay once they arrive at their new home. For example, a spare bedroom or a bathroom can make a safe area for a new cat. At this point, it is often best to have a sturdy barrier between the cats, something through which they cannot see each other, such as a door. This way, the cats can smell each other without having to take in the sight of a strange cat. Getting used to the scent of a new cat can be a crucial step before visual contact is made. If safe and feasible, you can even swap the cats' bedding, so that they learn the other's scent this way.

During the aforementioned non-visual olfactory meet-and-greet, there may indeed be hissing or growling. When this hissing and growling is only mild or nonexistent, at that point you try to start allowing the cats to see each other. Of course, using some sort of barrier is still advised, to ensure that no fights occur at the sight of each other. You can use a safe and sturdy baby gate, for example, or even a screen door. If there is hissing, growling, or other signs of aggression, stop the session and give both cats a break from seeing each other. You can repeat this exercise for short spurts, perhaps even multiple times a day, until the aggression diminishes.

The next phase of the introduction is of course best begun only when previous signs of aggression have significantly decreased or disappeared. When the sight of each other no longer spurs hissing, growling, or other aggression, then you can start considering allowing a more direct meet-and-greet. Of course, only do this with heavy supervision. In other words, as you allow the cats to enter the same proximity, without any barrier between them, be very, very watchful. Look for any and all cues that aggression might occur, and if that is the case, stop the session and separate the cats as needed, and then try again when both cats are calm. As a side note, in the potential case of a cat fight, have on hand something safe, such as a towel, that could help you break up the fight.

It may very well take time and lots of patience to get cats used to each other. No matter what phase of introduction you're at, continue safe meet-and-greet sessions as often as is possible and plausible, even if these are best kept brief at first. Getting new cats used to each may indeed take a lot of repetitive exercises such as those listed above. The main yet simple thing to keep in mind is that this will likely take time and patience. Forcing cats to meet in a hasty manner can lead to any number of issues, including aggression or even litter box aversion. While I wish I could say there is a textbook method that guarantees easy, successful cat introductions, that's simply not the case. Just remember to be patient, do not force it, help the cats get to know each other on their own terms and timeline, and closely monitor them until they are well acquainted and have learned to safely like, tolerate, or ignore each other.

Tonks Tuesday: Neighborhood Watch

It's Tonks Tuesday, and today the calico is spending her time in one of her favorite places. And that is, the window!

Tonks may or may not spend much of her time spying on the neighbors, and of course the wildlife. She's pretty much the head of our Neighborhood Watch. Thanks for keeping our street safe (or at least heavily spied on), Tonks!

Happy Tuesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Yesterday I shared a flashback doodle from a few Junes ago. It was something I scribbled up after seeing a summer release of a particular piece of Halloween decor. Today's flashback is from that same June of old, and was inspired by yet another piece of Halloween decor that was released that summer.

I actually can't remember what store came out with this witchy hand a few years ago. It might have been Bath & Body Works, and the witch hand might have been meant to serve as a candle holder. I'm not positive on that, though. Just like the piece of decor I'd drawn in yesterday's flashback doodle, I didn't buy this witchy hand, but I did bring it into my sketchbook.

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Tip of the Day

We have another quick and simple food and drink tip today. Especially for older, arthritic, or furbabies otherwise unable to get around well, try to place food and water bowls near their favorite places to sleep or hang out. If possible, you can also try to place bowls all throughout the house so that they have easily accessible options wherever they are at the time. This can help ensure that furbabies with less mobility are still getting proper nutrition and hydration.

Tonks Tuesday in a Box

It's Tonks Tuesday, and today the little calico is again showing off just how obsessed she is with boxes.

It doesn't matter how many cat trees, couches, beds, blankets, or any other cozy places to snooze that there are in the house. If there's a box, Tonks is going to choose it.

Tonks hopes you all get to enjoy a box (or two or three) today!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I've shared this old doodle a couple times in the past, but it seems fitting for today as well.

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Tip of the Day

Our food talk continues today with a little something known as fiber. Fiber is a very important nutrient that, for one, aids in digestion for not only us humans but also kitties and pups. In terms of digestion, fiber can play more than one role. Depending on the circumstances and the particular type of fiber consumed, it can assist with both constipation and diarrhea. That's not all, though, as fiber can also play a beneficial role in weight loss. Fiber can make food more bulky, and in turn can help a kitty or pup feel full, which can then lead to less gorging and therefore aid in weight loss. Still, though, fiber's roles in a cat or dog's health does not end there. Studies have also indicated that high fiber diets can benefit those with diabetes, such as by helping to control blood sugar. For all of these reasons and more, be sure to educate yourself on your furbaby's fiber intake and overall health and diet, and of course discuss options with your veterinarian.

Belated Memorial Day Remembrance with Tonks and Evan

We're so sorry we failed to share a Memorial Day post yesterday. That is entirely this here human's fault. Weekends tend to get a bit wild and crazy, simply because that's when I'm off work and can get all the neglected home and yard chores done. That's why I don't often post on Saturdays or Sundays. I hope to remedy that someday, but for now I guess it is what it is. Since I also had yesterday off, and spent a good chunk of the day finishing up my yard work to-do list, I failed to even post on that day. Shame on me.

That said, we hope all of our friends in the United States had a blessed and safe Memorial Day. We will never forget those who have lost their lives for or in any way served our country. Because of them, we are free.

Since it is Tonks Tuesday, I decided to also share these patriotic flashbacks of kitten Tonks. Back when she was tiny, I had a piece of red, white, and blue star decor hanging from my front door and tried to get photos of her posing with it. She was indeed a kitten, though, so it was a real challenge. Even so, she was (and of course still is!) adorable.

And since Evan missed out on Mancat Monday, we also have some flashbacks of him being trolled by his little sister Tonks.

You can tell these photos are from a few years ago, as Evan hadn't yet started getting his little caboose shaved.

Evan is such a good boy and such a great big brother. He's the only cat in the house that all the other kitties get along with. Soon after these photos were snapped Evan did give Tonks a little barking meow to request she stop, and then all was well again. Tonks loves to play with the Evan, and he's the only cat in the house she actually plays with rather than trolls, but if he asks her to stop she will.

Wishing you all a terrific Tuesday!

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Tip of the Day

Today's summer safety tip is to be careful around water. Summer often means swimming in pools, or visiting lakes or other bodies of waters. If your dog or cat is with you when you visit the pool or any body of water, always be cautious and keep an eye on them. Though many animals have the instinct to swim when in water, that does not mean they cannot drown in certain situations. So, as needed, block access to pools so that your cat or dog cannot access the water, especially when not closely monitored or when they are not used to being in or near water. If you take your pup or kitty to visit a lake, to go on a boat ride, or to participate in any other similar water activity, keep them near you, such as safe on a leash. In addition to this, you can get flotation devices specifically designed for furbabies. This can come in handy especially for furbabies who are new to water, or if you have any concern for their safety when around water. After all, what do we always say? It's always better to be safe than sorry. So, if your summer plans with your furbaby include some watery ones, plan ahead for their safety.

Tonks Tuesday with Evan

It's Tonks Tuesday, but the calico loves her big brother Evan and so is allowing me to give an update on him today. Though, you still get a dose of Tonks in these flashback photos of her playing her brother.

As I mentioned yesterday, Evan is having some stubborn urinary issues, likely related to both his chronic bladder cystitis and his chronic UTIs. He was seen by our vet yesterday, and while we're still waiting for urine culture results as well as bloodwork, Evan's antibiotic prescription was yet again refilled and he started on yet another round of those.

Though he's still having some discomfort when his pain meds start to wear off, I do think I'm seeing a bit of improvement with the antibiotics. Evan's vet is worried that the long-term use of this particular antibiotic has led to a UTI resistant to it, which is why we're doing a culture and antibiotic susceptibility test. There's also the chance that he simply needs his usual antibiotics for at least 2 weeks to clear the current infection. Then again, it's possible that it's not an infection at all but just a gnarly flare of his bladder cystitis, which has been the case more than once in his history of urinary issues. Though, the fact that a round of antibiotics initially cleared up all the symptoms a week ago and they only returned after a week of antibiotics would indicate it is indeed infection.

All that said, Evan is acting like he feels a bit better with his increased doses of gabapentin and the restarting of the antibiotics. We'll give you all another update when we have the test results, but for now, thank you all for the prayers, purrs, and well wishes for my sweet boy Evan! Calico Tonks loves her brother so much and also thanks you all!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

If it's not obvious, this doodle was inspired by my boy Evan.

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Tip of the Day

As a follow-up to yesterday's tip on how to keep your furbaby cool if they are outdoors in the heat, we're here today to specifically talk about those walks you and your furbaby might take this summer. Especially on those days with extreme heat, it is safest to either limit or cut out walks, or to take them only when the day is at its coolest. For example, a very early morning walk or a late evening walk would be far safer than a walk in the middle of the day, when the sun is at its highest and hottest. If a walk or bathroom break outdoors is necessary for your pup or kitty on a hot day, do consider taking a water bottle along to help keep your furbaby hydrated and cool.

It's not just the heat of the air that you have to consider with regard to summer walks, though. Pavement can reach literally burning hot temperatures in the summer sun. While us humans typically wear shoes to protect our feet, paw pads are exposed and can indeed be burned during exposure to hot pavement. If touching the pavement with your own hand leads you to conclude that it's burning hot, then indeed take that into consideration. This is one reason why it is incredibly important to plan walks and outdoor adventures accordingly during the summer months. If your pup or kitty does need to go outdoors in the extreme heat, and especially if the pavement feels hot to you, then try to avoid the pavement and instead head straight for the grass. Or, for those furbabies who will tolerate it, protective booties can be placed on the feet to keep them safe against the hot pavement.

In the summer, just as always, it's always better to be safe than sorry. That might mean skipping a walk on a scorcher of a day, or changing your walking schedule so that your furbaby is outdoors only when it is cooler. Always do what is best for your furbaby's health and safety.

Perturbed Tonks Tuesday

On this Tonks Tuesday, the calico wants to remind you all how cute she is. Even when she's a bit perturbed at her human of a mom for waking her up.

Sorry, Tonks. I didn't mean to interrupt your nap. You're just so adorable, so can you really blame me?

Happy Tuesday, friends!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

Today is the release day of my most anticipated book of the year, and that is the 8th book in the wild and chaotic fantasy series I've mentioned more than a few times on here. That would be the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman. It stars a man named Carl with magical heart boxers, and of course his talking Persian tortie cat, Princess Donut. When the 7th book came out about a year and a half ago, I scribbled up this here doodle, which seems like a good one to share again today.

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Tip of the Day

Today's wildlife tip involves ways you can make your yard more wildlife-friendly. Of course, before you start making changes to your yard, ensure that the yard is still safe for any outdoor furbabies, and that your yard's attributes do not infringe on your neighbors. That being said, what are some ways you can make your yard more wildlife-friendly? You can of course add bird feeders, and areas where squirrels are fed. A bird bath is also very beneficial for both birds and squirrels, as long as you keep it clean and well tended. Bird houses are another possibility. You can also use the help of nature to make your yard a lovely place for wildlife to spend their time. Not only can you plant flowers for birds and insects to enjoy, but you can also maintain trees and bushes as areas where wildlife can seek refuge and nest.

Of course, we will again note that you must take the safety of both your furbabies and wildlife into consideration. Do not plant any flowers toxic to dogs or cats where your furbabies can reach. Also be cognizant of the location of bushes and trees. Why? For multiple reasons. Birds and other wildlife will not want to spend time in bushes or trees where dogs and cats frequent, as our furbabies are seen as predators. This also goes for the placement of bird feeders, bird baths, and bird houses. In addition, our furbabies can possibly be infected or injured by some wildlife. Our kitties and pups can acquire certain parasites from wildlife or in areas where wildlife frequent, and they could also be injured if they startle certain critters. These are also reasons why it's important to be aware of possible interactions between our furbabies and wildlife.

In short, there are ways that you can make your yard more wildlife-friendly. After all, this makes for great Bird TV and Squirrel TV. But, of course, you must also take into consideration the safety of your furbabies as well as that of the wildlife.

Tonks Tuesday with Just One Canine Tooth

It's Tonks Tuesday, and today the calico wants to remind you all just how cute she is even with just one of her canine teeth remaining.

Tonks does have most of her other teeth, but she lost three canines to resorptive lesions a couple years ago. She and Thimble have a history of these. Thimble has lost more teeth than Tonks overall, but Thimble still has two of her canines while Tonks only has her upper right one left.

Tonks and all of us wish you a terrific Tuesday!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

I sort of recently re-shared some old doodles of Evan, Thimble, Eddy, and angel Astrid that were all inspired by the new fantasy series of books I've mentioned here a ton of times. I didn't re-share the drawing I made of Tonks in that series because I had considered using it on one of my book covers for the April A to Z Challenge. I didn't do that, though, so now you get this doodle from a couple years ago. It stars Tonks and a certain velociraptor named Mongo.

In the book he comes from, Mongo the velociraptor is described as having feathers. Let me tell you, though, that even drawing him naked was stressful enough, and so I decided against adding the anxiety of trying to put feathers on him. Sorry, Mongo, but Tonks likes you just fine like this.

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Tip of the Day

Whether you feed the wildlife in the warm months as well as the cold months, be sure to take your furbaby into consideration when placing feeders and food. We often of course want our kitties and pups to be able to see their Bird TV and Squirrel TV out the window. That said, too close of proximity can cause problems. This is especially the case for our furbabies who go outdoors. If feeders are placed where outdoor dogs and cats can easily access them, the wildlife can of course be scared off or preyed upon.

There's also the chance that the outdoor pups and kitties themselves can be negatively affected by close proximity to the wildlife and their feeders. For example, birdseed can pose some dangers to dogs and even cats. If consumed, there is a chance that a dog or cat can become blocked by consuming too much food intended for the wildlife. In addition, it could be possible for birdseed to ferment inside a dog or cat's stomach, and thereby cause bloat, which can be a very serious condition. Another concern is if birdseed molds, which can then have toxic effects if ingested by a pup or kitty.

In addition, the wildlife themselves can pose risks to our furbabies, just as they can pose risks to the wildlife. For example, the feces of some wildlife might contain parasites that could infect our kitties or pups if ingested. Parasites and other issues can also arise if certain critters themselves are caught and consumed. Some wildlife also carry transmittable diseases, which in some cases might affect our furbabies, or which our furbabies can pass to us from wildlife with which they come into contact.

So, the long and short of it is to always be aware of where you place feeders and food for the wildlife. Many of us do enjoy feeding those outdoor critters, but we also must keep our own furbabies safe. Of course, the wildlife wouldn't mind a bit of safety from curious pups and kitties as well.

The Letter X and Halfway to Halloween with Tonks

We're in the last few days of the April A to Z Challenge.

There are just three more days of me sharing my own versions of covers for some of my favorite books, mine of course starring cats. Today we've reached the letter X. Believe it or not, I couldn't come up with any books on my list of favorites that started with an X. So, for today, X is for xeno, which is a prefix derived from the Greek word that essentially means "alien". So, today's book is about aliens. It's another one written by one of the older fantasy and sci-fi authors introduced to me by my dad. That said, today we have the 1951 novel The Puppet Masters by Robert A. Heinlein.

[Reminder/Disclaimer/whatever you want to call it: This is not a real, true cover of this book. My name is also not Robert A. Heinlein, and so I am admittedly not the author of this book. I'm just someone who likes books and cats, and so I drew this unofficial version of the book's cover.]

I don't read a whole lot of sci-fi, but most of my favorites that I have read and enjoyed were written decades ago. For some reason, that's my kind of sci-fi. Also, for the record, the above is not what the aliens from The Puppet Masters look like. I believe Heinlein's aliens are slug-like. But, they are aliens, and there are UFOs, and so that there doodle I scribbled up a couple years ago was almost perfect for this cover.

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Now, of course, it's time for the Tonks Tuesday part of this post. This time of year is roughly halfway to Halloween, and so for today the calico is here to remind you all that she's surrounded by Halloween pillows and tons of other spooky decor all year long.

As long as those kooky pillow don't take her window seat, Tonks doesn't mind them being around. Sometimes she even naps with them.

Happy Tuesday to all!

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Tip of the Day

If springtime for you means a few more road trips here and there, make sure that you take precautions to protect any furbabies who are accompanying you. For example, cats are safest if kept in a secure carrier, as are small dogs. There are also means of and products for belting in a carrier, to add another level of safety for your small furbaby accompanying you in the car. As for larger dogs, make sure they are leashed in the car, as well as belted in. Again, there are methods and products for doing this that can ensure they are as safe as possible in case of an emergency.

There are of course other safety precautions to make when it comes to going on car rides with your furbaby. For example, watch those windows, such as by ensuring that no escapes can happen through an open window. Also, as we're sure you all know, make sure that you do not leave a pup or kitty in the car in the heat, or even in the cold, for that matter. All in all, if you plan on taking some trips on the road this spring, and if your furbaby is accompanying you, be sure to consider and plan for their safety.

The Letter R and Tonks in a Box

Hello and welcome to another edition of the April A to Z Challenge!

I'll go ahead and repeat myself by saying that this month I'm creating fan art covers for some of my favorite books. Most of these covers also star cats. Today we've reached the letter R, which I've made stand for raven. As in, well, "The Raven". I've been a fan of Edgar Allan Poe's macabre stories and poems for a very long time. One of my favorite is indeed "The Raven", but today I created a cover for all of Poe's works. I have a number of books with this exact sort of title, including an antique omnibus from the 1800s that my sister got for me. But, here's my version, starring not only a raven but also Poe's beloved tortie, Cattarina.

[Reminder/Disclaimer/whatever you want to call it: This is not a real, true book cover, and I am also most certainly not Edgar Allan Poe. I'm just someone who likes books and animals and so drew this unofficial version of this cover.]

That cover is indeed created with an old doodle from many years ago. Truth be told, while I got a ton of new doodles done for the beginning of the alphabet's covers, I've now fallen behind on this month's art. What's more, I not only wanted to create these book covers for the April A to Z Challenge, but I hoped to partake in a writing challenge also going on this month. My writing has really fallen on the back burner as I've worked on my alphabetical drawings. So, in order to give my writing project some attention this month as well, most or possibly all of my remaining book covers might be made using old doodles that I've created over the past few months or years. There will indeed still be a book cover for every remaining day of April, but I'm not sure how many, if any at all, will include the brand new doodles I had planned. I'm grateful that I do have hundreds of doodles from over the years that I can use if needed.

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Now, you better believe we have adorable Tonks for you all to see today. This calico has really been into boxes lately. Well, she's always into boxes, but these days she loves taking her naps in them.

At least one box in the house now has a blanket in it for Tonks. I should get a photo of her snoozing in that one, as it's currently her favorite.

Happy Tuesday to all!

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Tip of the Day

In case you forgot, April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. And, in case you forgot, we're doing a short series of tips on this topic. Today, we have a simple tip on how you can help prevent cruelty and neglect of animals. And that is simply to adopt your furbabies from shelters or rescues. Though there are indeed reputable and responsible breeders out there, there are also, unfortunately, a vast number of backyard breeders and puppy and kitty mills where animals are inhumanely treated as nothing but tools for the sake of human profit. By purchasing from such breeders or from pet shops, you are supporting the cruel treatment of the animals used by these breeders. So, please always consider adopting from shelters and rescues.

Also, as we're certain you already know, please also have your kitties and pups spayed or neutered. In addition, if you are able to do, consider assisting with trap-neuter-release (TNR) programs, which help reduce overpopulation both in the wild and in the shelter system. Strays, ferals, and even intact house pets can contribute to a large number of kittens and puppies being born in the wild. Sadly, these outdoor animals can make accessible and easy targets for cruel treatment from humans who wish them harm. We have all heard the terrible stories of animal cruelty inflicted on innocent creatures living outdoors. So, for more reasons than one, please also spay and neuter your pets, and consider assisting in TNR programs.

The Letter L and Tonks Tuesday

Hello and welcome to another day of the April A to Z Challenge!

Like the broken record that I am, I'm here to remind you that for this year's alphabetical challenge I'm scribbling up fan art covers for some of my favorite books. All of these covers will star animals, mostly cats.

Today we've reached the letter L. I've mentioned how I got my love of fantasy from my dad, especially my fondness for J.R.R. Tolkien's works. For that reason, L is for The Lord of the Rings.

[Reminder/Disclaimer/whatever you want to call it: This is not a real, true cover of this book. My name is also not, unfortunately, J.R.R. Tolkien. Therefore I am not, unfortunately, the author of this book. I'm just someone who likes books and cats and so drew this unofficial feline version of the book's cover.]

The Lord of the Rings is technically the name of the whole trilogy, which is comprised of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. That said, my first physical version of these books was an omnibus of the whole trilogy. I always think of these masterpieces as one great big adventure that, like so many others out there, I usually just call The Lord of the Rings.

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It is indeed Tonks Tuesday, and so now we'll of course let you bask in the adorable calico's glory.

Tonks and all of us here wish you a terrific Tuesday!

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Tip of the Day

Today we're talking about another intestinal parasite. This time, though, it's not a worm. The parasite we're talking about today is Giardia, which is a single-celled protozoa. In short, Giardia causes diarrhea in cats and dogs, as well as humans. Diarrhea caused by Giardia is often very malodorous, sometimes somewhat green in color, and may contain mucus or blood.

How does a cat or dog become infected with Giardia? It is passed in the feces of infected animals. This means that eating the feces of an infected animal, or eating grass or other debris near where an infected animal has defecated, can result in infection with Giardia. Drinking water near where infected animals have defecated is another way that Giardia can be passed from animal to animal.

This all being said, many healthy animals can have Giardia present in there intestinal tract and not show symptoms. It more commonly becomes a problem in very young, very old, or otherwise sick animals. It is also more common in highly populated areas, such as in a shelter. If diarrhea resulting from Giardia is severe enough, the situation can become life-threatening due to dehydration and other complications.

So, though we can't always put protective bubbles around our furbabies, do your best to help prevent Giardia from affecting your furbaby. Try to keep them from ingesting the feces of other animals, of course, or from ingesting grass or water in areas where other animals may have defecated. Also be sure to keep their feeding, sleeping, and play areas, especially those outdoors, sanitary.

If you do notice your kitty or pup has diarrhea, do not hesitate to take them and a fecal sample in for an exam by a veterinarian. Especially if your furbaby is very young, geriatric, or sick, do not hesitate to have them seen if they are displaying diarrhea. Your vet can test a stool sample for Giardia, as well as for other parasites. Of course, also be sure to administer medications and follow other treatments that your vet prescribes for your furbaby. Also, as we always say, never hesitate to ask your veterinarian about any concerns you have regarding Giardia and your furbaby's risk, treatment, or prevention.

It is also worth noting that, though nowadays is is believed not as prevalent as originally thought, it is still possible for humans to get Giardia from cats and dogs. For this reason, always be sure to wash your hands after cleaning up their waste, especially if they are known to have Giardia. Giardia is not something to take lightly, neither in our furbabies nor ourselves.

Tonks Tuesday in the Sun

Just like any kitty, Tonks loves herself some sunshine. Though, I'm not sure why she wants to stare at the bright orb in the sky.

Tonks and her littermate Winky, who owns my sister and currently lives with us, have an odd habit of staring at lights. Whether it be a lightbulb or the sun itself, they stare at it. I can't imagine that's good for their eyes, so I always try to distract them from doing so.

Tonks hopes you all have lots of sunshine today! (But maybe don't, you know, stare right at it.)

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

Today's National Pet Poison Awareness Month tip is about the toxic gas known as carbon monoxide (CO). CO is not only dangerous to us humans, but also incredibly dangerous to our kitties, pups, and other animals. CO most often results from car exhaust, fire/smoke, and when generator systems fail. When a large amount of CO is inhaled, this can lead to cells in the body becoming deprived of oxygen. CO poisoning can thereby result in life-threatening effects on the cardiovascular system, neurological system, and other important systems of the body.

Needless to say, do all that you can to prevent both your furbaby's and your own exposure to CO. Set up CO monitors in your home, and ensure that they are always properly functioning. Of course also ensure that you have functioning fire and smoke alarms. There are all-in-one alarms on the market that detect fire, smoke, and CO. In addition to this, properly maintain any generators that you have, and do not use them if they are in any way malfunctioning. Also, of course, do not let your kitty or pup into a closed, unventilated garage where a car or other motor vehicle is running. CO can be a silent killer, so do all that you can to protect your furbaby, as well as yourself, from it and its deadly effects.

Tonks Tuesday: Camera Shy

Usually, just like her sister Thimble, Tonks is a bit of a ham for the camera. She generally likes have her photo taken, probably because she loves her some attention. But, there are still times when Tonks is not really in the mood to have her photo taken. Like in these photos here, when she refused to look at the camera no matter how much sweet talk I attempted.

Don't worry, though, because Tonks still got lots of cuddles and her beloved belly rubs after these photos were snapped.

Tonks and all of us here wish you a terrific Tuesday!

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Flashback Doodle of the Day

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Tip of the Day

We haven't reached the end of National Pet Poison Awareness Month yet, so we'll keep these tips coming. Today's tip on potentially poisonous household items relates to batteries. If a dog or even a cat bites a battery or ingests it, the acidic or alkaline components could leak out and enter their gastrointestinal system. This material is corrosive in nature, and can therefore cause serious side effects, including oral ulcers, vomiting, other various signs of gastrointestinal distress, and even fever. Due to the corrosive nature of battery components, vomiting should not be induced in the case of ingestion, as this will cause further damage. Immediate care can include rinsing out your pup or kitty's mouth with lukewarm water to remove as much of the battery material as possible. Of course, quickly follow that up with immediate veterinary care. To prevent such emergencies, keep all batteries tucked safely away where curious furbabies cannot get to them. As always, it's better to be safe than sorry.