Oct 16 is National Feral Cat Day ~ Pawsitively Humane, Inc.

NATIONAL FERAL CAT DAY

In the U.S. the cat is the most popular pet, meaning they outnumber dogs as pets. At the same time, in Miami alone there are a predicted 400,000 homeless cats, a result of cat owners who did not spay/neuter their cats and in turn multiply in this tropical paradise.

The feral cat literally changed our lives here at Pawsitively Humane, Inc. In stumbling upon them, learning about their plight, and now in caring for them with food and shelter, the feral cat has taught us about our community, and about ourselves. They taught us to enjoy the simple things in life and that we do possess inner strength to overcome obstacles. The feral cat is a constant reminder to be grateful for what we have and not complain. Yes, a feral cat has taught us important life lessons--they lead by example. They are often misunderstood and ignored and fight to survive. The feral cat does not wimp like a dog or seek attention. They are stoic and independent. But once you connect with a cat, your life changes for the better.

We encourage you to take the time to learn more about this misunderstood creature as shared in the previous posting.

The two videos below depict the "friendly feral" cats in our neighborhood. You'll notice we can pet them but only at their feeding station. They are still feral in the sense that we can not touch them when we encounter them elsewhere in the neighborhood. They gained our trust over time at the feeding station. It takes time to gain trust but once you do, it is a feeling like no other.

Leroy Chaz and Lion King are two of the 21 Riverfront Cats.
We named the black cat Chaz and later learned the FPL guys (next door) named him Leroy.
You'll notice Leroy Chaz would rather be petted than eat. He normally begins eating after feeders walk away. He loves the affection.

Lion King is also feral. But really, he started giving nose kisses to Christine's dog before he allowed humans to pet him! After three years, he initiated contact by rubbing against our legs. Then slowly we could pet him and on that day we cried tears of joy! It took three years. Here Lion King is salivating, and if you notice carefully, kneading his paws in delight.

Let's celebrate these intelligent, resilient creatures by SHARING this posting with all your friends and contacts! Education is key to overcoming misconceptions and turning around an epidemic into a positive!

Together we can make a difference!

p.s. to see photos of Christine dressed as Cat lady feeding the cats, visit our dedicated cat blog, Riverfront Cats.