Friday, March 31, 2017

We were socked with a lot of rain yesterday--bucket loads and thunder--a real thunderbanger. The farmyard is afloat but the ducks and geese are sure enjoying it. Everyone is dry and warm though.

We had BOXES last night! 

Lost Girl - CATATHON--bath and body products.  3 plug ins, 4 portable fragrance packs, 3 boxes of bottled scents for flower plug in.

Cinder - CATATHON--items for Black Cat Office Basket,  1 decal cover, 1 desk organizer, 2 pair of scissors, Black Cat Coffee Mug.

Pam T. (Zoolove) - CATATHON--for Black Cat Office Basket,  black kitty paper clips. desk divider (black) with compartments.

                                         *    *    *

Anonymous donor - lots of snackers--large container of  Party Mix, several packets of Temptations, 6 bags of Treats for the doggies, and packs of Fancy Feast Duos.

Pat (Thursday Vol)  - 2 towels, 1 large bag of dry cat food, paper plates, broth packets, and appetizers.

Anonymous donor - case of Classic Pate & Fancy Feast fish and shrimp, Party Mix.

Carla M.  (cj500) -  44 knit spring coil toys, and 30 knit blankies (flash sale!)
Pam T. (Zoolove) -   variety of jeweled kitty key chains for a Flash Sale.    

Anonymous donor - box of 30 snack packs of nuts
Widdletiger --2 cases of Iams wet kitten food, 1 large bag of Purina One dry cat food.

CARDS
 Pat (Thurs Vol)   Card with donation in honor of Trucker.

Conii and Elliott and Izsabellah--belated birthday card, 1 pop-up birthday card.

Littleonemine  - card wth donation in memory of Adelaide and Alice Mary 

Michlynn and Vern - condolence card for Jacci.

Jim and Mary S. -  card/donation in memory of Trucker

Jill C.  -   card with donation for Alice Mary, Adelaide and Trucker.

Elaine and Alan - Birthday card with gift card from Appleby's for Steve and jacci,

                        and a private disc for Jacci about Trucker.
Caitlyn C. -  donation to sponsor Coralie and special food for Coralie 

LARISSA'S ART BOX--lots of Artsy item!  Larissa---you are amazing and have such a great talent. I know these items were made with love and we receive these with love and gratitude to you.
    -  Ode to a Black Cat box with keychains, magnets, and pendants inside.

   -  1 large and 1 small Harlequin Kitty paintings.

   -   Rainbow Bridge Pattern Items    Kleenex Box, Med & smallKeepsake Box

   -  2 Bad Cat Keepsake boxes, 1 medium, 1 small

   -  1 Blame the Doggie Christmas Tree

   -  1 Black Harlequin Box with Heart of Gold

   -  1 Black Kleenex Box with several black kitties painted on

   -  1 Pixie Gazebo with smushed pixie painted on the bottom.

   Pyrography Items 

    -  1 Heart Shaped  I Love Paddy Cakes box 

    -  1 Sevaun Box with dividers.

    -  7  plaques of following kitties:  Zelda, Elsie, Hensley, Walter, Merri Elizabeth

                                                    Derecho, and Coralie.

Special BD Gift for Jacci,  handmade statuette of Zelda to be displayed on a box.

Tomorrow is another surgery day for FFRC.  We will concentrate on male neuters again and should have approximately 20 males from the public coming in. We also have a few physicals for Dr. Darcy.  Later in April, she will come and we will do a whole Saturday for all the outside cats---they will be weighed, have their physicals, update on vaccines, wormings, flea prevention--the works!

I was asked about our washer and dryer and the efficiency of them.  Good question! Each day is different though because some days we do the laundry from the Porchie Haven and Firecat's house and the Covie Haven.  Some days we add in the Covie and Porchie's sunporch.  But......basically, we are running about 1 load per 3 of what we were doing before. Yes---that washer tub can be tripled. And the dryer is so huge--it dries the items quickly.  Many times in the afternoons we are done with all the laundry except when we are doing the outside items. The soap consumption is also much lower.  We love them and appreciate what this dryer and washer does for us. 

We have another date for you!  There's a Flash Sale coming up!  It's April 6 about 2:30 ish.  Mich (and maybe Vern) will be here! We have lots of items, many of which hasn't been shown here before. Should be a great afternoon. Many thanks to Mich and Vern.

AnnaBelle will be adopted soon. Not sure exactly what day but she is going into a home where she will have fun. This lady who will adopt her has tons of bird feeders and squirrel feeders. Should keep her very busy watching all the action. And she'll have a lap that is just for her!

Nyla and the Niners are doing great. Each day they are checked and tummies are still nice and round. As they grow, if their milk needs outgrows what Nyla can provide, we are willing and able to pitch in and help her. Names will be coming soon!

I've heard from Markie and Barkey---they are doing wonderful. They are inside and also have like a catio, so they can go outside safely too! 

I also heard from the lady who adopted Darcy and saw pictures of her. Looks like she is doing wonderful. She is so beautiful. She is getting use to the dogs and enjoys playing with her toys!

Next Tuesday is our next HumaneOhio date. We have another very full schedule--mostly females. We're trying to get as many females spayed as possible. When that Spay/Neuter truck pulls in, my heart just swells knowing that each spay/neuter done is saving lives. 

Olivia is doing wonderful--her fur is gorgeous. She's sleeping on my desk right now. I love watching her play. Bonnie and Franklin Tommy enjoy playing together--their favorite is chasing each other while they are carrying a toy in their mouth.  Livingston thought it was fun to play with Gia's tail, until Gia swatted him. He went and found a toy to play with! Giovanna is doing wonderful. She's a quiet soul but so loves to be petted. She is now in the Main Area all the time. 

It's been over a week since Trucker has been gone now. He has left a huge hole in my heart and is sorely missed. But---these other cats sure know how to make us all smile. And life is abundant there in the back Thumper's Room which is such a joy. Magic is doing ok. He had a couple days that I could tell he was sad---was off and not playing. But he too is adjusting. He's been playing with some of the other cats now. And of course is soaking in all the pets, love and hugs that we give him.

Have a great weekend! 

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Trill, chirp, purr and meows---lots of that going on this morning! Farrah has been singing and so has Kiarra. And then Forte chimes in too!  Such great cat sounds!

Wow---what a morning! Today was another big HumaneOhio spay/neuter day. I love these opportunities to get cats spayed/neutered that may not otherwise have the opportunity. Today we sent up 38 cats---wow!!!  This broke down to 31 females and 7 males. All of these 31 females qualified for the Beat The Heat program that HumaneOhio is doing for March.  Their spays were only $20!  This now brings our total to 191 spays/neuters done to date--109 females and 82 males. I'm a smiling today about this!

We had BOXES last night! Happy about all this support and so thankful! 

Hencass – CATATHON – 4 boxes full of Troyer Amish food. vegetable soup (3), potato soup (2), bread and butter pickles, peaches, pasta sauce (2), peach pie filling (2), concord grape juice, wedding salsa corn, angel hair noodles, pears, beans and ham, honey, licorice bites, blackberry pie filling, cherry pie fillings (2), mustard Dijon, orange marmalade jam, peach pie fillings (2), pickled baby beets, potato soup, salt water taffy, sweet Gherkins pickles, Troyer beef flavored soup base, vegetable soup.  Wow!

Zoolove – CATATHON - meatloaf pan (mint green), 2 matching cookie sheets & air fryer accessory set

Gina (catlvr) – CATATHON - crochet and knitting basket 12 skeins of yarn (6 different colors), 8 crochet hooks, 2 knitting needles scissors and needles.  

Cinder – CATATHON – black cat desk, black cat tape dispenser, black dot folders.

 Lann – 2 big rolls of bubble wrap

 Anonymous  - 54 bags of chips and Fritos, 32 box of chips and Doritos, peanut and peanut butter mix, M&Ms and snickers, licorice,  2 classic cookie mix, Nutter Butter bites, Milano dark chocolate cookies, 2 bags popcorn variety .

 Donna (knittinkitten2) – book, “I will See You in Heaven” (for the rescue center)

BillieK--2 cases Gerber baby food.

 Cards:

 Mary Dc in CT – donation in memory of Alice Mary

 Halley G in PA – to Staff and Volunteers – donation in memory of Alice Mary and Trucker and to buy Magic a treat (bed, toy, etc.)

 Ellie Sue H in NY – donation in memory of Alice Mary and Adelaide and Trucker

 Susan C in Defiance – donation

 Sandra S (krnk) – donation in memory of Trucker

 Michael (sophieandlucydad) – coupons

 Diane G – donation to Feliz Navidad fund

So, as you can tell we are open to any Catathon donations!  We will be putting together a list of topics for Catathon baskets soon, but folks are welcome to make up their own topics too!  We are asking, please, if any items that are coming could be here by May 15.  It takes a lot of time to put the baskets together and then to type up each basket.  We realize some items will come in later but if we can get the majority in by May 15, that would be so helpful!  Thanks bunches!

The Niners were weighed yesterday.  All are between 5.0 ounces to 6.5 ounces except for one and that one weighed in at 4.5.  This one's tummy though is round, is active and is finding the faucets.  Mama weighed in at 10.04 before birth. She now is 7.12 but is eating really well. Some of the babies appear to have a bit longer fur. Names will be coming soon.

The Porchies, Firecats, Barnies and Covies are sure enjoying this nicer weather. It's nice to see them rolling around on the cement when it is sun-warmed! All look good and had a fairly easy summer. 

Zelda has found out my hiding spot. In my top drawer I always keep an opened bag of snackers. She knows she is allowed 2 snackers a couple times a day. I found her in the opened drawer a couple days ago, scarfing up the snackers with utter glee!  I had to shake my finger at her to get her to stop.  Now I'm worried about next time we weigh her. lol 

No BOXES this evening as we will be doing surgery check outs.  The neuter truck arrives about the same time. Take care and have a great Tuesday! 

Sunday, March 26, 2017

Tummy check on the Nyla Niners showed all 9 tummies continue to be round and full! And....a new assessment: a few have tiny little eye slits happening! Soon, they will be checking out their new world! Mama Nyla's appetite is picking up which is good. 

We had BOXES last night. And.......we are so very grateful for these gifts to FFRC
Anonymous Friend--2 cases of baby food
Eaglewatcher--2 cases RC baby cat can food (perfect for young kittens & mama)
Julie P from IA--for a fundraiser--Kids Fire Tablet
Kathy/justme--For CATATHON--Brothers sewing machine
Pam/zoolove--For CATATHON--Cook's Companion Ceramic Nonstick air fryer
Billie K--2 cases RC baby cat can food, bag of RC mother/baby dry food
Jodi/jobear--3 cases baby food
Nona--3 cases KMR
Neil & Jean S from OH--donation and support of thekitties
MacnCheesemom and Doodles--card and monthly donation
Rich & Rosesf6 with Marble, Blackie, FLuffy, Brownie & CHeckers--BD card and $5 chicken
Snoopybaby, Preakie & sisters--BD card and $ for chicken
Joco--big box of puffcorn for the volunteers
Faithy--BD card & cake--2 boxes magnets, push pins & paperclips
Hannah & Michelle from MI--4 cat snackers, 3 bags candy, 2 boxes Kleenex, 2 bags Purina One
Sue/Cinder--For CATATHON--(black cat office basket)-metal bookend, over top door hanger, jar paper clip holder & black sticky notes with white pens
ProMedica Gift Shop in Defiance---thanks for the towels, sheets, etc! 
Di/Miau, our wonderful moderator--very cute Paw gloves/different colors---will see at a Flash Sale!  (2 pairs will go for CATATHON!)

Hurry! Hurry!  April 1st is coming up fast and that is the last day we can take the shirt/sweatshirt orders! Please check FB chatters page for info. If you can't get that, email me and I will get you info!  Thank you!

Did you know that FFRC is collecting the Purina's weight Circles? Yes, we are! Specially marked bags of Purina dog and cat food contain the weight circles---cut those out and send them to us! We can then collect them--they will earn us points and can be redeemed for food purchases.  Thanks for any help!

Here's the next 3 surgery dates:
March 28, Tuesday--HumaneOhio (hoping to do 30 some cats, mostly females)
April 1, Saturday--FFRC surgery day--this is an all-boys public day
April 4, Tuesday--HumaneOhio (again, mostly females)
These 3 spay/neuter dates fall within a week---will keep us hopping but wow---very productive in reducing productivity! 

And speaking of dates, remember to mark your calendar for June 25 for Catathon.

Franklin Thomas and Olivia are playing hide and seek. So cute to watch. Olivia looks like a fluff ball flying by!  Olivia will be going to her new home in April!

Giovanna is still in the Main Area and is doing wonderful. A bit shy at first but sure loves to be petted and fussed on.  You can tell the temperatures are nicer because the cats are once again enjoying going out into Bella's Place, the dog run. But not today--it's raining.

TJ has figured out the Kuranda Towers--she can zip up and down them quickly now. Gia has lost a bit of weight and that is good. She's such a great purring cat and loves people. The windows are open in the Kitty Kabana with 5 cats lined up watching the great outdoors. Felicity is in her red poof. She looks so sweet all sunk into the middle. 

I can finally say that Pippi is feeling better. You may know that she took a bad fall and really hurt her neck, back and hips.  Catopractor visited her 3 times which was a huge help. We gave her anti-inflammatories and lots of "we're sorrys". This combination helped and she is able to move easier today. 

Anayaa has us all figured out. A certain meow from her means she's hungry NOW! And of course, we obey. She looks very shiny and sleek. Joyful had her big spa day yesterday. She was brushed, had her eyes cleaned, her ears cleaned and her toenails trimmed. She has forgiven us for this invasion and has already accepted pets today! 

Have a wonderful Sunday. On to a busy week ahead.

Saturday, March 25, 2017

What a week it's been.  Everything from super highs (spays and neuters done), happiness (adoption of Cairys) to low of lows (losing our 3 precious cats). 

Here is a well known verse changed a bit for cat rescueres:

I am an Animal Rescuer.
My job is to assist God's creatures.
I was born with the drive to fulfill their needs
I take in new kittens and cats without plan, thought or selection.
I have bought cat food with my last dime.
I have petted a cat totally invested with fleas.
I have hugged some cats that are deemed "dangerous".
I have fallen in love a thousand times and I have cried into the fur of a lifeless body.
I am an Animal Rescuer.
I knowingly love those cats that will have a short life.
My work is never done.
My rescue is never quiet but is always peaceful and a place of joy.
We may always struggle to make ends meet....
But my heart is always full.

It's been a difficult week here without Alice Mary, Adelaide and Trucker. Isn't it amazing how we can love so much, yet still have the capabilities to continue loving. And that, my friends, is what we will continue to do. We will continue to rescue, to take in those that are hurt, healthy, sick, abused, lost, "different".  It's truly not just what we do, but it's what we are.....a Rescue. 

We have thanks to give. We have a special friend who happily donated $2,000 to match donations given in memory of Alice Mary and Adelaide. And then another $2,000 to match donations given in memory of Trucker. I am so very grateful. Alice Mary and Adelaide's funds went to our spay/neuter program.  Trucker's funds went to our Feliz Navidad Fund.

I have to apologize.  I started keeping track of each and every donation to put those names here in the blog. But, I made a mess of keeping track and did not properly do it. I must say my brain hasn't been completely intact this week.  But....I did send an email to each person. Please just know that each donation is gratefully received and will used to the fullest. You--our FFRCNation--humbles me with your support and love during this hard time. 

And now.......Nyla's Niner News ! Nyla herself is doing good. She once in a while will take a break from her babes and rest on the floor, but she never leaves her kitties for long. And every once in a while a baby may tumble out of the nest but she retrieves it and returns it to the nest. Her milk production is keeping up, at least for now. I check the babies 2-3 times a day--check each and every one of those 9 tummies to make sure they are nice and round and full.  And they are. They simply rotate their turns to nurse. It's unbelievable how much they have already grown. They have been given the birthday of 3/2/17. If a litter is born during the night when some are before midnight and some after midnight, I give them the "morning of" as their birthday--so it's 3/21. These babies really are so cute. 

Our new kitten that Trucker found has a name. It's TJ, for Trucker Junior. Yes, this brown tiger is a female and Trucker Junior sounds like a boys name, but that doesn't matter. The name stays as TJ and I love to call her that. She's a happy cat and already here in the Main Area. She and Forte will be spayed/neutered on 4/1 here at FFRC.  TJ's birthday is 9/20/16.

Polly is doing great being back. She's right back in her routines that she did before her adoption. Olivia is recovered from her spay and is a fun girl. I love seeing her run with that gorgeous long fur bouncing around. Magic is doing ok. I know he misses his buddy. He no longer stays in the back during the night now but is up in the Main Area. Vernon and Hensley seem to be picking up their appetites a bit. 

Our weather is getting warmer! We've been able to keep the windows open some during the day, which of course the cats love. We have the black wrought iron table and chairs out that we all enjoy sitting at. I believe today the wind chimes will be coming out of their winter shed! I love when this happens. The geese are laying eggs as are the chickens. Spring has sprung!

Katharine too is doing good. Her fur is growing and she is now in the fuzzy stage. She's quite a funny girl--loves to run and play. Those big golden eyes of hers gets lots of snacker offers!  Joyful has decided now it's fun to roam in the entire Main Area--so nice to see her out and about like this. Jessie is doing very well and still likes to nap up high above the sink cabinets. 

All is good. Life here continues and so does the joy. Thanks for being a part of what we do here. 

Thursday, March 23, 2017

Another day of emotional ups and downs. 

I would like to pass on many thanks to you all for the wonderful birthday cards and surprises.  It meant alot to me. You all are wonderful friends and it's amazing to me how we can connect without actually having met in person, for some of us. 

And then I would like to send a big thanks to Deb11111 and DonnaJB for their generosity in helping us with the loss of Alice Mary and Adelaide.  Deb has been the organizer of this and Donna has made the offer of anyone wanting to donate to FFRC in memory of Alice Mary and Adelaide, their funds will be matched (up to $2,000).  We have been receiving those gifts to FFRC and I am grateful. You all know how dear spaying and neutering is to FFRC. This will be a boost to our spay/neuter program. We are already using some of these funds. On our 4/1 surgery day here at FFRC, we will pay $5 off for each neuter and donate the capstar and worming (most of these cats have never been wormed).  This comes to $10 per cat and is always appreciated by the owners. Many thanks to you all for making this possible.  We will also send up more money to HumaneOhio to cover our Voucher spay/neuter program that we have for people who take their cats themselves to HO for their surgery. We donate $20 per voucher. I do believe Adelaide and Alice Mary would've approved. 

We had BOXES last night. It truly was like Christmas. Every single item will be used and appreciated. Our FFRCNation is built upon kindness and the love for these cats.

Fran D - New Purple Stool

Vickie B - 6 bags of Baby Cat Royal Canin

Anony - 1 case Chicken Soup for the Soul food, 1 case WeRuVa, 2 cases Friskies, 10 bags Sheba Meaty, 2 bags Blue Buffalo Wild

June/Painteddaisy  Card for Joyful with her sponsorship, 180 9" plates, 2 sleeves 9" plates, 2 Purple pillow cases, Kitty Toys, Maple Syrup Taffy, Box of Trail Mix, Oreo & Peanut Butter Cookies, Vanilla Waffer cookies, Milano Cookies, Rice Krispie Treats, 3 boxes Cheese Crackers, Crazy Cat Lady Band Aids, 6 cans sardines, Bunches of Fancy Feast Broths, 4 cases Fancy Feast Kitten,7 cases baby food, 2 Boxes Appetizers

Katie L--2 Tubs Dental Life Treats, Case of Chicken, 6 boxes Meow Mix Cups, 5 cases Whiskas Purrfectly, Fancy Feast Broths, 4 cases baby food, 4 boxes Whiskas Gravy Sensations, 3 bags Pure treats, 1000 6" plates, 2 bowl scratchers, 2 tunnels, 6 Yeowww Cigars (Tabitha was loving hers), 2 pink kitty cubes

pjpanda & Bad Kitty--3 boxes Whiskas,  3 Boxes Planters Peanuts and 3 Boxes Planters Honey Roasted Peanuts,  24 bag of microwave popcorn,  2 Yoga mats

Sam & NM, Lurker Friend--Case of Friskies & 1 Case each of Purffectly Chicken & Fish

Mayumi - Tokyo Branch--  Musical Birthday card with a beautiful purple scarf with kitty & butterflies & Two bags of tea,  2 boxes of Tulle (Bondi Licks)

Anony - 6 2" rolls of Scotch Tape

Widdletigger --  Case of KMR, case of Baby cereal

LJ323 

4 bags Temptation Snackers, Sunkist Gems, 5 boxes quart and 1 box gallon zip loc bags

5 framed felted kitty pictures ( 2 Phoebe fur, 1 Jolene, 1 Jesse, 1 Alice Mary & Walter)--will have at a Flash Sale

Contessa--40 Canvas bags for the Vols

Sev - 5 kitty key covers

Diana C - Stamps & Walmart Gift Card

Vickie & Pat with Clark Jesse and the Rest & HB Card with a gift for dinner with Steve

Elaine & Alan - HB Card Donation for Jones' art work & Donation in memory of LittleKat

Andre & Suzanne - Yeowwww Banana for Hensley

EarthEyes - 3000 6" plates

Nyla is doing great as are the kittens.  I'm checking the babies twice daily to make sure their tummies are full.  If we have to help Nyla with supplemental feeding of the kitties, we can do that. But, for right now, their tummies are full. She's so good with them. Each are clean and toasty warm. Nyla is such a good mama. She has such a deep purr.  A little round up of info on the kitties:  we have 5 boys, 4 girls (subject to change, but I believe this is correct!).  We have 2 that are mostly white with grey tiger markings. There are 3 that are grey tiger with white. The other 4 are brown tiger with white.  There also appears to be 4 that have tiny white tipped tails.  Their names will come from our Name a Cat list.

Our other new kitten Forte, is doing great. He's the new little black/white kitten. He so loves to be cuddled.  He has a nice round tummy already. Love his 3 black pokie dots that are on his back.

And now to Trucker.  Our Trucker is no longer in discomfort and is in his kitty heaven. My heart is so very sad about this. I'm not going to go into the past about what all was done for Trucker.  It doesn't matter now. What does matter is the love he received.  Part of doing rescue work is KNOWING in advance that grief and sadness is part of this rescue world. While knowing that, it doesn't lessen the pain of the loss.  To spare us the grief means that we did not extend our love. And that would be more sad than the loss. To experience these deaths is to also know grief. But this grief is little compared to the joy and love received from every cat that has passed. Death may be the end of a life but it is NOT the end of memories and the joy of having that pet.  

Again I have to say, people think I am strong. Really, that's not true.  I try to show a comfort for others but inside I ache for these losses.

While my heart hurts, Trucker and I had a nice late evening that I have to tell you about. It will always bring me a smile.  He was always my special buddy and we always enjoyed our time outside together. Trucker and I had a connection and it was still there last night.  We went out to where the grass is and he watched the peacocks that he loved to torment. Several of the chickens were on the other side of the fence and he raised his paw up. I know beyond a doubt that he wanted to swat them--he always kept them in line out on the farmyard.  But I was holding him so he couldn't "get those chickens'.  I then put him on the grass. PB went running by and so Trucker did his Trucker thing---he ran right up to him with his chest puffed up. He always thought he was boss outside. I had to laugh at him. And that's when I noticed Trucker's face---he was sniffing the air and walked over to the shed. I could tell he was excited. I went over to pick him up and he got ahead of me, looking very intense. And there it was---Trucker found a stray cat all by himself. I could tell this cat was a bit nervous and told Trucker to stay back, which he did.  After sweet talking, i was able to pick up the cat.  So, Trucker and I then carried the stray into the Front Thumper's Room. She is now in quarantine (normal for all new arrivals). I do think Trucker was quite proud of himself. What did the stray look like?  Well, she is a brown tiger, just like Trucker. 

Trucker passed peacefully.  Even in his discomfort he gave love. Even when his tummy was so upset, he was sweet.  I will never forget this special boy. I feel like I can hear him say---I am with you all in your memories for ever and ever. 

A viewer sent me this---"Grief is the last act of love we have to give those we loved. Where there is deep grief, there was deep love"  Author unknown.      But.......please remember with a smile and with joy, what Trucker was---a happy, ornery, sweet boy. Remember all those memories he has given to us. 

I would also like to say a special thanks to my friend Donnajb. She told me early this morning that she would like to do a special tribute to Trucker. Anyone that would care to donate in his memory, please know that your donation will be matched (up to $2,000). This memorial fund will go towards our Feliz Navidad Fund.  This is our special fund that helps us with our cats that are above the normal need of medical help. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Finally...........Nyla had her kittens. We all figured she would have quite a few because of how very large (giant) her tummy was. She started about 8:30 pm last night and (hopefully) is finished this morning as of 8:30 am---12 hours of intense work for our girl.  She had 11 (yes ELEVEN) kittens. She's such a small boned girl--just shows how that skin can stretch!  Can you imagine having that many wiggly babies in there? 9 kittens are alive and doing well.  Number 10 was underdeveloped and was born deceased.  Number 11 was fully developed but arrived as a stillborn.  We tried to stimulate him but he had already passed. These things are not all that uncommon in high birth numbers. I'm thankful that we have 9 healthy babes.

But.......9 is very impressive. Nyla has to feel so much better. The kittens are actually of decent newborn size. I've tried to put her in the big pool so there's more room, but Nyla insists on going back into Thomas's octagon bed.  She's content although utterly exhausted. She is relaxing and enjoying her babies today. 

Nyla will have to produce a tremendous amount of milk to keep up with this many babies. It may be that we will have to supplement them 1-2 times daily after they begin to grow. We will keep up with each of them for how full they are. In the meantime, Nyla is being a very good mama. All are white with tiger markings, some black tiger, some brown tiger, some more white than others, but all have some white on them. And of course, they are as cute as cute can be. 

Dr. Darcy suggested that I give Nyla fluids this morning, which was done. She lost a tremendous amount of fluids with this many kittens. Will check how many boys and girls we have later!  And yes, Nyla and kittens will be on our spay/neuter list eventually!

I want to thank you all for your sincere caring ways in regards to our sweet Alice Mary and Adelaide. Two wonderful cats that will be missed. They both made an impact on us. There is no greater gift to FFRC than your love and support. You are all appreciated.

Trucker had a rough night last night. I kept Nyla company for most of the night and at the same time, kept track of Trucker. He has received extra good lovings and pettings.  He and Magic are napping right here with me at my desk.

We have a new little kitten--12 weeks old. Oh wow--he is a cutie for sure! His name is Forte (Name a Cat name), meaning strong.  Forte is black/white short haired boy.  He only weighs 3.02. His birthday is 12/26/16--kittens are not usually born here in our area in the winter, but......he apparently was!  He was found by himself in someone's garage. They kept him for 5 days and then brought him to FFRC.  Won't be long until Forte is out in the Main Area. 

We had BOXES last night--many thanks for your giving ways.
PJPanda & BadKitty--2 Yoga Mats
Craig M & Family with Daisy & Solee--2 bags Reeses PB cups & a Reeses Candy dish!
Tom P from NJ--2 kitty birthday cards, pics of his kitties Alice, Ashley & Buddy, pop tabs & PawPrints
Phil & Judy--bag of litter, temptations, PB cookies & donation
Eaglewatcher--10 cases baby food
EarthEyes--2 cases appetizers, 18 lg cans chicken
Julie C from IN with Anna Maria & Miss Mellow--150 spring toys, note from Miss Mellow. For Catathon/Fun-Raiser--Precious Moments with cats, Hamilton Collection & with papers

We  also have thanks to give:
Belltime--donation for spay neuter fund in memory of Alice Mary
Andre & Suzanne--cat Craves Chicken Snackers for Hensley
Nona--for spay/neuter fund for Alice Mary
Ju-In-Ji from Netherlands--donation to FFRC, to be used wherever needed
Ruth D--donation to help with spays and neuters
Brenda R from VA--donation in memory of Adelaide and Alice Mary to be used where needed 
Karla from Iowa--donation to be used wherever needed 

We've heard from the family that adopted Cairys. Sure sounds like he's already fit into his new home. The word is that they love him very much!

We have a cat that was returned--our Polly, siamese with mild CH.  Her new mama had thought she did not have the time needed to fulfill Polly's need to have people around her. As her contract states, if she can no longer stay, she has to come back to FFRC. I'm thankful for the love she was given. She's fit right back in and has been wandering around! 

Wow--you did it!  Your votes mattered and made it possible for FFRC to win a prize on the SaveaRescue.org!  After a few weeks of voting, this segment is over and FFRC has come in 4th place with 11,691 votes! Thanks to all of  you who participated. We will receive 3 Walking Palm Cat Caves. They are really nice caves for the cats to sleep in. Check it out at walkingpalm.com    Congrats to Blind Cat Rescue & Sanctuary for being the top winner! Thanks to you all for your votes!

Saturday, March 18, 2017

Where do we start?  Lots happening.

First—our surgery day is done.  We started about 7:15 this morning with check ins and done with that about 8:30.  We had 19 male cats and 1 female cat. The female was our Olivia. She is now spayed and doing just fine. She’s eaten a couple times already after recovery and is napping again right now.

The 19 males did fine. We had one with an abscess on the tail, one with a growth in the mouth and one that we did an umbilical hernia repair on.  But all have recovered and went back to their homes. 

We have another HumaneOhio surgery date this month. In April, we will again have two HumaneOhio surgery dates and another FFRC surgery date.  We want to get as many spayed and neutered as we can.

Todays surgeries brought our total count to 153, which pleases me. This breaks down to 78 females and 75 males.

Many thanks too to Joyce D for providing pizzas for us while we’ve been working today. Also to Gusti for the drinks. And Larry brought his brownies. We also had an anonymous friend donate for a fruit platter and cookies.

We also did some physicals.

Livingston did indeed have a suture deeply imbedded in his tail that was causing some discomfort. We were able to get that removed.

Hensley—need to continue to watch his teeth. He has a couple light fractures of his top K9’s.

Coralie—all is fine, teeth good, physical good

Chester—will continue watching his teeth also but they look improved.  Physical good.

Farrah—physical good.  A little tartar but was removed

Arley—had his physical and he passed with flying colors

Gia—physical good

Alma—physical good

Nyla—all appears fine.  We are just on the wait-and-see-and-let-her deliver-on-her-time!  She appears very happy and is eating, although in smaller amounts. I imagine that is because there simply isn’t room “in there” for much food. I truly do not think she can possibly go much longer.

We had BOXES last night---I am so very grateful

Clark, Jessie & the rest—Happy 6^th BD to Katharine, a HB to Brody, Happy BD to Chester—each received their $5 chicken money. Plus a happy 20^th birthday to Sea Turtle.  Yes, our sweet girl is now 20.  She received FOUR of the $5 chickens---she said she’s not sharing either!

Zoolove—can opener & multi tool for kitchen CATATHON

Andre & Suzanne with Freemont & Lorenzo—for Hensley—tub of Party Mix, case of wellness

MLS—kitty card & note—2 boxes qt bags, 200 kitchen bags, 360 6 “ plates, 500 spoons, 3 pkgs of postie notes, postie note dispenser, box of 32 individual snacks for vols.

Kittiesmom—St. Paddys card with 2 chicken $5 & coupons

Julie & David from UK—2017 calendar of Cotswold England—beautiful pics!

We also had a special donation to FFRC from the Defiance Eagles Aux 372---it’s much appreciated.

We also had some adoptions today.

LaRue went to her new home.  And yes, I did not show her on the cam. Things were crazy here and I simply didn’t do it. But, she went to a lady that doesn’t mind that LaRue is a bit shy and a little crooked mouthed. I think this was one of those matches that is just perfect.

Gem, our mod and friend adopted Arley (Harley) and Peanuts. She has been eyeing them for quite some time. I’ve already heard from her and it sounds like a peaceful household already! Iknow Artley and Peanuts are two wonderful cats and their new mama is too. I’m grateful they have such a home as this.

Now…………to some much much harder news.

Adelaide—our sweet girl is now in heaven. My plan was to have her as long as possible, give her a good life even though we knew it would be short. I just didn’t realize how short it would be. I noticed this morning that already her cancer had spread. It was hard for her to open her eyes and her forehead was more protruding. Breathing was also more difficult. I talked to Dr. Darcy and we both knew beyond a doubt that we could not ask her to stay longer. I promised her a life here of no pain and that she would be loved.  Both things are true but just way too short.

Alice Mary—with a much broken heart, our little baby is also in heaven. Dr. Darcy and I had a very long talk about her. It was so obvious that she was struggling to breath.  We have tried so so many things to help her life be easier. This morning I weighed her—the last few days she has lost ounces and today she was below her lowest weight of all. It was impossible to tube feed her more as it “didn’t set well with her” and caused even more difficulty breathing. Dr. Darcy believes that her larynx was damaged and was not able to be fixed.  I am crushed at this loss as I had great hopes to help this sweet girl be healthy and happy. I just wanted to see her play.

Cami—my dog.  While not a cat, she is certainly part of this rescue center. Many of you know she has been having troubled times lately. Some days are great, some not so great. I described all the things that Cami has been doing in the recent months. It is believed that she probably has a brain tumor and seizure activity. She is only 12, but an “old 12”. Her first 5 years of life was not good---she was part of a hoarding situation. But her time here has been good and she is so loved. We will keep on going with Cami and see how she does. Hoping she has way more good days than poor days.

Trucker—my boy and sweetie and Magic’s best friend. As you all know, we have tried a zillion things to help with his bowel problems. It has progressed the last few months where almost all stool is liquidy. I know beyond a doubt (cause I know my boy) that life isn’t always good for him. His tummy hurts much of the time---you can see it in his body posture and his eyes. Recently, his anal area is now very thickened and bloody. Dr. Darcy looked at him and feels that our Trucker is dealing with intestinal cancer at this point. When a cat deals with inflamed intestines for as long a time as Trucker has, cancer likes to “come in” and cause even more trouble. We went over the many many many things that we have done for Trucker—I have boxes of items that have been tried---all to no avail. One has to wonder that as disfigured as his legs were (the leg bones, muscles and ligaments were all displaced) if his abdominal cavity is also disfigured. 

Our discussion today was quality of life. I am not a believer in keeping a pet alive for my own wishing and wanting. That would be wrong of me to do so. Every pet has a right to have a good quality of life, to be loved and to know love, to know the joy and fun of living. When a pet is suffering, is beyond treatment, is no longer enjoying life, then sometimes euthanasia is called for. I know some people do not agree with me here. But, I have to do as my heart and soul guide me. I know of someone who made their pets stay alive on their own, to the bitter end, despite being in severe pain and no joy left in life. I do not believe in that. I promise every cat that comes here to be treated for pain if needed, to be loved and to know joy in life. When all resources have been tried and there are no further options, then that very very difficult choice sometimes has to be made.

These things are very  hard for me. I try to be brave for others. But………..I’m not really so brave. I hurt deeply when these things happen.  Trucker is still here with us, but I don’t know for how long. I do know I will NOT let him suffer. So, bear with me during these hard times.

Another part of this that is hard, is telling everyone. Each time I have to say it, repeat it, go over it, it hurts. But, my volunteers will need to know, my mods and admins, the viewers and friends of FFRC.

I guess there isn’t really anything else to say. Life is wonderful and I cherish it. Death is a part of life but it sure does hurt. Thank you all for loving these cats that I cherish.  

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Wow--what a fantastic evening FFRC had. The Fun-Raiser was phenomenal, the results were amazing, our FFRCNation is the best of the best folks and we had a whole lot of fun too! 

My heart is full--plain and simple, with much friendship, gratitude and relief to you folks that make up our FFRCNation. Whether you support us, participate in the fun-raisers and flash sales, pray for us, send good thoughts, vote on contests, supporting each other, congratulate others when they win---all different ways to be a part of FFRC.  And I'm very grateful for each and every person.

Let's go over last night!  First, we had BOXES---
PJPanda & Bad Kitty--big bag of Bonito Flakes
Madisonpepper, for Trucker--2 cases of Zewi Peak
Susan345--6 Gerber baby cereal
Rod O--4 cases large cans of Friskies
Anonymous Friend--3 cases FF Kitten, 4 cases Friskies, 2 cases Fancy Feast, 2 boxes Purrfectly Chicken, 1 case NutroCat, 2=16 lb bags Purina Cat Chow, bag of Kitten Chow--many thanks!
Zoo-love--mousecat bed for babies, 2 packs of individual chips, 42 K-Cups Coffee.  For CATATHON--Santa with Kitty Statue, Santa with dog, Mr. & Mrs. Snowman soft statues, cat tote for Flash Sale.  5 cat beds for FFRC

Then we had the Drawing!
Item A--63 tickets--$315 to Phyllis Ba
Item B--87 tickets--$435 to Anonymous Friend
Item C--82 tickets--$410 to Straycatlady
Item D--34 tickets--$170 to Julie P & Calicocat
Item E--94 tickets--$470 to PJPanda
Item F--210 tickets--$1050 to EarthEyes for Moss Kitties!!!!
Item G--92 tickets--$460 to Elizabeth & Kerswill

This total came to $3900!  We had an FFRC matching angel for all the $50 and more donations which came to $3165.  When I let our Angel Friend know, she said she couldn't do that amount.......but she could do $4,000!!!! 

So now our total came to $7900

Then we had some magical wonderful Bump-Ups! Thanks to Mudjie, Bellabelle, Farmgirl, Faithy, Pawlapurr, Shona, Eartheyes, LJ, Nuthatches, Zoolove and Deb11111 for these Bump-Ups!  $400 was made if Steve would come to the cam so I could tell him how well the Fun-Raiser was doing. And of course, he came and was also happy!  He will be paying bills this evening!  This total of Bump-Ups came to $2,180

This then made our total exactly $10,000.  Where else in the world could there be so many wonderful people that supports a cat rescue?  Nope, none could possibly reach the kindness of our FFRCNation. 

This Fun-Raiser allows us to pay our Insurance, Patterson (our medical supplier), Arthur phone, CAT Tax (not a real cat! lol), the electric bill, another luekemia/FIV test kit, 2 vaccine trays. The good news is we have a bit left over as cushie money to tide us over to help with the next set of bills! Truly, my heart is indeed full of thanks. 

And here's a few more thanks to give:
Hope, volunteer--2 kitty wipes & Friskies
Linda S--2 big boxes of Hefty quart size zip bags
Billie K--donation to help with Adelaide's medical needs.
Adela--donation to buy ice cream for Alice Mary and friends. We did get the ice cream but we're waiting on Alice Mary's tube to be removed before we have an ice cream party!

Update on Adelaide.  She was up in the Main Area today for a while and seems quite comfortable. She sure can eat! She downed a whole plate by herself and then munched on Bonito Flakes!  She's had her meds this morning. Saturday we will have Dr. Darcy do a physical on her. She sure is a happy girl and loves the cushie beds and blankies! 

Nyla---Same, same!!!  Still no babies.  She told me to quite checking on her every hour--she was tired of me looking at her! Lol.  Actually, she loves a tummy rub and ear scratch. 

I've heard from all 3 recent adoptions.  Barkey and Markie are doing just fine in the house and seem to enjoy it. They particularly love the sliding glass doors and the bird feeders.  Tiger, the 14 year old is also doing fine. She easily went into her new home without any problems! 

Saturday is our FFRC surgery date. Right now, we have our Olivia scheduled for her spay and then the rest is all public male cats.  At the moment, we have 24 males scheduled. I will also have some physicals that we will have Dr. Darcy do. 

Take care. Again, a giant big thanks for the March Fun-Raiser!  Big smiles here! 

Weds., March 15, 2017

Things just all happen so fast sometimes.  Yesterday was one of those days.  

We took in a cat of 14 years old--Tiger.  She needed to find a new home ASAP.  We had talked to a family last week that would be happy to have an older female cat.  So, after a quick phone call, it all fell into place. I like it in some circumstances if things happen fast. In this case, Tiger didn't have to go from her old home, to here for a stay and then to a new home---the transition was smooth and fast. Just an FYI---she was already spayed!

There's a bonus to this. We've had a change out for the Covies. Many of the volunteers have told me that Markie and Barkey have been big-time bullying some of the other cats. Last night they had a cat pinned behind the refrigerator. Remember.......this is part of the reason they became Covies---the two would gang up on cats here in the Main Rescue and bully them together. Well, they now have a home. The family that came for Tiger, had a family member come with them. Turned out I know her. We had Markie and Barkey up here then. And it happened.......she fell for them, hook, line and sinker. She has no cats at home, doctors with a vet we know and so wanted these two boys. So, they too now have a home. She is going to start them inside and if their potty habits are good, they can stay inside. If not, she has an awesome barn they can call their own. While we will miss them, I'm also happy for them. These are two awesome boys and I think they will calm down when they don't have to play the bully scene.  So, that made 3 adoptions for us yesterday.

We received a second phone call about a cat at a rural home that was "missing part of it's face".  Upon the second phone call, Lynnette and I drove to this house to see if we could check on this cat. It turned out, she had an owner but he relinquished her to FFRC so she could get some help. Her name is Adelaide, which means noble. Many of you probably remember Heaven. She was a dear cat that came to us in late stages of cancer (squamous cell --not a good kind of cancer). We gave her a much loved life but she wasn't here very long.  This cat, Adelaide is similar to Heaven. I sent pictures to Dr. Darcy who shared them with Dr. P--they both believe it is squamous cell.  She's had a bath and looks so much cleaner. She was born to purr because she hasn't stopped purring since she arrived! Dr. Darcy will be here Saturday and will give her a physical. In the meantime, she is eating really good, is on soreness meds and antibiotics and is soaking up the attention! She will sometime soon be in the Main Area. 

I am not a believer in hiding things about the cats. Yes, some things may not be pleasant. Some things may not look so pretty. Some things may cause sadness.  But.....every cat does indeed matter and so does Adelaide. We will not hide her. We can also use her as education. Many times, if these cancers are caught early (hence another reason for physicals), they can be treated and life can be much extended.  In the case of Adelaide, her cancer is far advanced.  But.....we will love her and she already loves us and we will exchange this love and comfort for as long as we can. 

We had BOXES Monday evening. Many thanks to you all.
Kerswill & Tom--4 big cat design pillows, 2-sided table toppers, cat hot pads, cups, 2 pet bowl pads, cards and bag of RC baby cat---some of these items will be at a Flash Sale!
Danielle, day visitor--litter and snackers
Sev--10 kitty key covers
Zoolove--5 bags of chicken freeze dried snackers, kitchen utensils for CATATHON (mint green)
Dave & JUlie--for Trucker, case of Ziwi lamb food
Dewitty--Raniaco hand held grater
Eaglewatcher--2 nice long kitty rugs for FFRC
Sonnykat--10 tablet or phone holders, looks like kitties, different colors for Flash Sale
Plee--4 boxes Purrfectly chicken
Clark & Jessie and the Rest--HB 10th to Oliver & chicken $5, also HB to Jessie with FOUR $5 for chicken and a special song!
Needtoretire--card for Jones & Sea Turtle with donation
Charlotte L--donation to FFRC
Joy D from NY--donation to FFRC
Tracy L and Melissa from OH--coupons

And more thanks too!
Gusti--donation for drinks for surgery date on Saturday & donation for Alice Mary
Gisa Z from Germany--donation for Alice Mary
Billie K--donation for Alice Mary
Eartheyes--donation to FFRC
Lana H--donation to FFRC
Betsy S, adopted Tater, Pollyanna--towels, blanket quilts she made from her husbands shirts!

Tonight we have BOXES at 5:30 with the Drawing at 6:00! So excited about this. And special thanks to our FFRC matching donor angel. I cannot express my thanks enough.  

I told a friend of mine today that we have progressed from orange, to grapefruit to cantaloupe to now a soccer ball size belly---yes, Nyla is still pregnant and is simply waiting her time out!  Nyla is just hanging out, resting, sleeping, eating a little and soaking up lots of TLC.

Big thanks to JUdy and Dave today who did lots of extra grooming on many of the cats. They look wonderful.  

Alice Mary continues to be tube fed 5-6 times a day. She's an easy girl to do this too as long as she gets pets and head scratches during the procedure! I am so waiting for the day that she will run and play and join in with the other cats for some fun. 

Sunday, March 12, 2017

Waiting, waiting, waiting. Yep, we're playing the waiting game with Nyla. No kittens yet, but it's getting closer. When Nyla arrived on 3/6, she weighed 8.09. This morning she weighed 9.12. That's a good chunk of weight to gain in such a short time. She's resting all the time now, not playing. I don't think it could possibly be much longer. But....as is the way with cats, they have their own special timeclock! 

On Friday, after talking to Dr. Darcy, it was decided that Alice Mary needed to visit the vet office. Once again, she was having trouble breathing. Upon inspirations, her nostrils were closing again. This time, the soft tissue flap inside the nostrils were removed and now it appears she has 2 nice openings. She had also dropped a significant amount of weight---back down to 3.5 again. So discouraging for her and for us. But, it's hard to eat when you can't breathe.  This visit, a feeding tube was inserted. She is getting good caloric nutrition now thru her tube 5-6 times a day. She is so very cooperative for this. We have her in the back Thumper's Room so all of her care is being done there. We don't know how long the tube will stay in---that all depends on Alice Mary. If she starts eating really good on her own, we will decrease her amount of tube feeding and eventually get that removed. Please keep her in your prayers and good thoughts. She still has a desire to get better so we are backing her 100%. 

The March Fun-Raiser is on--all 8 items are awesome!  It started this morning and ends Weds. at 9 am.  This Fun-Raiser will help us with our operating costs, our insurance is due, we need 2 vaccine trays and another leukemia/FIV/heartworm test kit. And of course, there are great consolation prizes!

We have thanks to give---your support to FFRC is gratefully received!
Sylvia H from PA--donation to FFRC, to be used as needed
Kelly I from TX--donation to FFRC
Lannml--donation to FFRC, in memory of DJ who will be missed at breakfast time
Zoolove--CATATHON!--5 qt. mixer (mint green), 2 piece 9" spring form set and stainless steel bowl with lid for mixer. Also a dandy step ladder! Been using it already in Kitty City to reach things! 

We've heard from Terry's new family! Sounds like he is doing great. He's playing and roaming all over. He also loves the peacock feathers that we sent home for him! 

This coming Saturday is our next FFRC surgery date.  At this time, we only have 3 cats that are not spayed--Nyla (will wait of course!), Alice Mary (not ready yet) and Olivia. We will have Olivia spayed on that day. The rest of the surgery schedule is for public MALE cats. We are doing these for $25, includes a physical by Dr. Darcy. We still have a few slots open and hope to do a good amount of them on that day!  

Gia is doing wonderful! She even was on the counter for pets this morning! Olivia had her nasal sutures removed. She really is quite the clown kitten--so fun to play with her! Tabitha still spends much of her time in and out of June's Room--she just sails over the top of the open door area. She has a special box for napping, all her own.  Joyful is a wonder and we love it. She is enjoying being petted, more and more. Yesterday she actually was on the lap of a visitor!  Haven't seen Eddie White lately? If so, that is because he spends alot of time in the front Thumper's Room. He loves looking out the window and watching people come and go.  Jessie is doing great--I love how she seeks us out for a special pet and scratch.  Both Jones and Sea Turtle are fine--ornery and loving! Paddy Purr is on my desk taking his nap. I had lost a note that I needed. He just rolled over and there it was--tucked into his fur! 

Speaking of notes--I will be the first one to tell you that I sometimes lose my notes. Yes, sometimes it is indeed due to the cats and sometimes it's my fault (I'd rather blame it on the cats though!).  So, if there's ever anything that I have forgotten to mention, please don't hesitate to email me.  There are times that I have 25-35 notes on my desk. Livingston has recently taken to pulling them down and chewing on them! Gotta smile at him though because he so enjoys it! 

Take care and hope you remembered to turn your clocks last night, if it applied to your area! 

Thursday, March 9

Our new girl, Nyla is still "with kittens".  She's decided to keep them tucked inside for a while!  Nyla is enjoying all the good food and loving that she is getting!  I'd love it if she was fully adjusted before babies arrive. She is rather wide though!  She's a grey/white short hair, probably 14 months old. For now she is in the back Thumper's Room.  Her name is a Name a Cat name. 

Phineas went to his new home yesterday. The lady that adopted him sure thought he was nice! And her husband said what a nice looking cat he was! 

Gia is now up in the Main Area. She was brought up to the Cat's Corner Room two days ago. Yesterday her room door was opened. It didn't take her long to come out. So far she has picked the purple office to hang out in. She seems to enjoy watching all the activity. Gia is a sweetie---so enjoys being petted and having her head rubbed.

We had BOXES last night! YOU are appreciated.
Zoolove--tray of baby food, Tuxie cat bird house, Paws Travel mug, cat apron, Lavender cat paw purse---will see in a flash sale!
Mr. & Mrs. Medic--2 cases Fancy Feast
Alan & Elaine--lg. bag kitty litter, 3 boxes Friskies, box of 32 Friskies, 1 box Fancy Feast
Don H from TX--45 kitchen trash bags, 2 boxes qt. bags, clorox wipes, 2 boxes spoons
BYK Insurance--a big stash of Chief tape receipts
Tom C from IL--donation to FFRC
Dorothy C from MD--donation and note to FFRC
Clark, Jessie & the Rest--HB 4 to Ceasar and HB 2 to Annabelle, both with $5 chicken
Miranda--13 gal.trash bags, 300 paper plates, glass cleaner, big box PT, 2 bottles-Clorox cleaner
Joey--3 boxes 9 inch paper plates

And more thanks!
Janet K from Amsterdam--donation to FFRC, use wherever needed
Thomas W--donation to FFRC
Gloria P--donation to FFRC
Gusti--donation to FFRC, in memory of our friend DJ, use for vet bills
Tyler W, Defiance--donation to FFRC
Michael JW--donation to FFRC
Jakesmeowmy--donation to FFRC
Rich W from Antwerp, visitor--brought some towels for us
Vaun, our mod--donation in memory of her cousin, Jacqueline who passed 3/1. 

Thinking wonderful memories of our Magenta who would've been 20 years old yesterday. What a really sweet, special cat she was to all of us. 

We have received word that our Breakfast Clubber on our kitty cam, DJ (Dick Johnson) has passed away. Very sad to hear this---DJ was such a nice person who loved the cats. Peace to his family. 

Last night at BOXES, we had a special visit from the LaChat family. It was important to also get a picture of them---afterall, we feel they are volunteers now of FFRC.  So, a picture was taken and will soon be on our Volunteer Picture page!  They also wanted to let everyone know if there's a special cat that you would like a portrait of their drawings, that we can now do that! The portrait would be painted by that special cat, along with a picture of the cat in action during the creation of the portrait! We are asking a Free Will donation for this to be done. You can send a check or send a PayPal---be sure to let me know what special cat is being requested.  We will let the LaChat family know then! 

We did weights on many of the cats yesterday.  Most maintained their weights. The one I didn't like was with Alice Mary.  She is once again way too low of weight. I've spent more time with Dr. Darcy, talking about her. Not sure really what else we can do for her.  She's nibbling at her food and so loves to be loved on. So......we carry on and keep helping her as much as we can.

On Friday, Olivia gets her nasal sutures removed. That is IF I can convince her to sit still for one minute! That girl has speedy wheels and is in constant motion! She just absolutely loves to play.  So fun to watch her! Right now she is inside one of the clear toy containers, batting at all the toys inside it. 

Remember, starting tomorrow (and Saturday) is our LuLaRoe fundraiser!  Here is the link for this:  https://www.facebook.com/events/692130780965068/?hc_location=ufi 

We also have our neat FFRC shirt fundraiser going on until April 1.  


Can send a check to FFRC or go thru PayPal!

You all take care and have a great Thursday!  I know much of our states went thru some really rough winds yesterday. Stay safe.  It's only 11 days until Spring! 

Monday, March 6

A wonderful super Monday. Today is another HumaneOhio surgery day.  Between 5:25 and 6:05 am, we checked in 34 cats!  The reason we can do this quickly is because we do not take cats out of their crates.  We go over their paperwork, ask about vaccinations, testing, flea prevention, etc.  We also check each crate for safety and then tag each one. Every crate has a cover that goes over it. When the neuter/spay vehicle arrives, we help load it up. I always get such a thrill seeing this truck filled.  In the winter, it is heated. In the summer, they have an AC for it.  Have to keep the cats comfortable!  This evening somewhere between 5:30 and 6 pm, the vehicle returns. We then release one cat at a time to the owners. This way we can go over procedures done, information from the vet, answer questions. 

Drumroll please!!!  For today we had 34 cats. This consisted of 27 females and 7 males.  Out of the females, we were able to have 21 of them qualify for Beat The Heat special price of $20.  This is thru a limited grant that HumaneOhio received.  

Our total now for 2017:  A BIG drumroll this time!  77 spays and 57 neuters, so far. For March and April, we will actually have THREE surgery dates each month--2 Humane Ohio's and one here at FFRC. We are determined to help reduce the cat overpopulation problem. 

We had an adoption on Saturday morning. Sweet Terry was adopted into a family that has been eagerly waiting for him to join their family!

I've heard from the new mama of Polly---all is wonderful and a good bond has happened there. Polly is happy.  I've also seen pictures of Darcy--sure looks like a happy cat! I've also had another update about Chloe, Theodore and Ethel.  A quiet home is just what these three needed--sounds like all three have adjusted beautifully and have a nice routine now. 

Mark your calendar! We have an awesome Fun-Raiser coming up that is extra special.  Here are the items: blue felted cat cave, 2 kids fire tablets with protective coverings, 2 cat carriers, blanket/mug set, Warp-de-doo blanket, Sleepypod and 2 items that will be of Larissa's famous paintings! Guaranteed to be a fun fun-raiser!  This starts 3/12  and ends at 9 am on 3/15 with the Drawing being that evening at 6 pm.  Boxes will be at 5:30 pm.   

We have THANKS to give!
Mary, Friday vol--2 cases big binder clips, 3 reams paper and some wet food
David D--donation to FFRC
Tracy L--donation to FFRC
Hallie G--donation to FFRC
Miranda--2 big boxes of paper towels!
Robert T--donation to FFRC
Zoolove/Pam--lots of 6 inch paper plates
SonJa--lots of 6 inch paper plates, for Vern & his Bondi licks!

Olivia had her nasal surgery on Friday. This was to open up the passageway to help her breath easier. I would say this was a complete success.  She has her sutures in but those will be removed in another week.  Her heart sounds are good--she passed with flying colors. Now to work on getting her spayed so she can go to her forever home.

Good news--my computer came back!  The timing very much surprised me. We received the box to mail it out on  Weds.  They received it on Thursday. On Friday I received a message that it was fixed and on it's way back to me. We received it Saturday!  Unfortunately, the entire hard drive had to be removed and a new one put in. They were unable to save any of my documents. But......a couple of my mods saved the day. They spent hours restoring all my information. I am so beholden to them.  And then, today, Monday, I am back at my computer full force! Whew---made it thru that "adventure"! 

I'd like to let you all know that Phineas will become an outside cat. He came from the outside, super people friendly but has most definitely made it clear that he doesn't like this life here inside. He is right now in the back Thumper's Room.  We have 2 wonderful farms that have offered him a home. The whole idea is to do what these cats need to do to keep them happy. It's just a fact---sometimes cats that have always been outside do not want to life a life of being inside. So, we get them vetted fully, including testing, neutering, vaccinations, worming and flea prevention applied.  Then we send them out with a prayer for safety. 

We have taken on a new cat. Some of you may remember her. We helped a family that needed a temporary place for their kitten to be until they found a home. Her name is Gia.  She was here about 14-15 months ago as a kitten. She is now a big girl, brown tiger and is super sweet. She now needs to be here to find a permanent home for her.  She is 19 lbs 14 ounces--a good size cat. When I gave her her incoming bath, she just stood in the sink and let me do the bubble work. What a patient kind cat!  Welcome back, Gia! 

Friday, March 3

Yeah!  The box came from HP Wednesday! We put my broken computer in it and sent it right back. HP received it yesterday. Hoping it won't take too long to get it fixed.  As aggravating as these computers are, I miss it.  Been using my phone, laptop and Lynnette's desktop.  I think what I really miss is the kitties that help me work each day. Jones has been getting lots of lap time though! 

We had BOXES yesterday in the afternoon.  My schedule is rather mixed up right now so it was easier to do BOXES early.  Many many thanks!
Sevren from UK--2 mats--both with cats, so cute!
Judy and Phil--6 rolls packing tape and 3000 of 6" paper plates
Pam T/zoolove--216 zip qt bags, 200 heavy plastic spoons, 90 13 gal. trash bags, 3 Clorox wipes
Beth--10 odoban solid absorbers
Carlacj500--crocheted items-10 cat toy gift bags & 25 pet crate blankies
Jane W/calico--valentine card & donation for where need
Miranda from MI--coupons
Lann/Lois--3000 paper 6 inch plates
Mich & Vern--3000 paper 6 inch plates
Shannon S--donation for the care of Leonard, Victor, Jackson & Markus & friends!
Pat C, Thursday vol--cat toys, cat wands, snackers, 2 snacker toys & broth packets

Notice all the paper plates?!!  We were on our very last pack of 100 of the 6 inch plates. The plea of help went out and the plates arrived.  It's just magical. More importantly, the cats and I are grateful. We sure wouldn't like to wash all those plates! (I had to convince Sevaun that she couldn't wish pizzas here though! She's sulking.)

LaRue and Anayaa did great at the vets office on Weds.  LaRue ended up only having to have 1 canine tooth removed---the one that had a dead root which results in a dead tooth. This is probably the result of the blow to her mouth from her accident. She still cannot shut her mouth all the way. But, I heard her whisper to Derecho that she thinks she's quite cute this way! 

Anayaa ended up having 8 teeth removed.  She had quite a bit of past dental damage probably from her accident before coming to FFRC. All of her top and lower incisors were already gone. She had resorptive lesions, periodontal disease, fractures of teeth. This all resulted in these extractions. She is eating good already! 

And today, our sweet little Olivia is at the vets office for her nasal surgery. She will be home later this afternoon.

We always seem to have our share of dental problems with our cats. Many times it is from injuries to the head/mouth. Sometimes its from the poor care received before we get them at FFRC.  Sometimes.......it just happens. Genetics can play a part in this too.  I wrote to a good friend of mine today a little info about cat dentals.  Dentals are truly important in the care of all cats. The cats that benefit from vet dental work are those with diseased gums, fractured teeth, painful gingivitis, abscesses from cavities---the list is actually quite long. Every tooth that has pus around the root spreads bacteria thru out the body of a cat. This bacteria affects all the organs and can shorten lives. It can also cause a horrible, painful way to life. I have seen cats come to FFRC with severely diseased teeth, thin, hurting, so sad in their spirits. We will do a dental, get rid of those nasty teeth and the cat's world brightens. It's like they feel that life is good again.  
I also know very well the power of drugs that are used.  Drugs sometimes have a bad reaction to a cat. We have lost a couple of our FFRC cats from spays or eye enucleations from a reaction to drugs.  But, in my time with cats, I have been involved in over 30,000 surgeries (FFRC, Earth Angels, when I worked at the vets office). Just here at FFRC, we have had probably 5-6 deaths from a drug interaction. So very very sad and heartbreaking. But....the benefit of those other 29,995 were good and made life much better. That doesn't diminish the pain of losing one from a drug interaction though. Those are hard.

A full cleaning under the gum line where periodontal disease lurks is sometimes needed. It would be impossible to do this detailed cleaning on a cat that is awake. Periodontal disease begins with bacteria "living' below the gum tissue. 

Brushing your cat's teeth is the single most effective way to maintain dental health--and professional dental cleanings.  

Periodontal disease is a disease of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It causes changes that are associated with the inflammation and loss of the deep supporting structures of the cat's teeth. It is by far the most common oral condition suffered by cats. The effects are irreversible after a certain stage has been reached.  Some of the signs of this are: gums that bleed easily, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, pawing at the face, stomach/intestinal upsets, drooling, difficulty eating, sensitivity around the mouth.

The most important thing to remember is that cats hide their symptoms of dental disease for months or even years. Owners often do not realize their cats have dental disease. Regular check ups at the vets will include a mouth exam. 

You can help prevent dental disease:  regular visits to your veterinary, dental cleaning as advised, daily oral care (brushing of the teeth with cat toothbrush/toothpaste, specially formulated dental diets.

The bottom line---keep an eye on your cats teeth.  If a dental is recommended, by all means, be open to talking to your vet about it. It can save alot of discomfort for your cat and can lengthen the life of your pet. 

We had an adoption yesterday! Our sweet, beautiful Darcy went to her new home.  She had a couple visit her on Weds---they totally fell for her. And I do believe Darcy showed them very plainly that she should be the one they should adopt! It was so sweet. So they returned yesterday to adopt her. I've already heard from them--shows a happy cat! 

This blog is in memory of Anna, who was Christine's cat (a friend of FFRC's cat). And as Christine says--sometimes bad things happen to our pets but we need to continue to take the best care possible of them.  A wise and wonderful cat mama. 

Weds., March 1st

If the saying is true, In like a Lion, Out like a Lamb, then the end of March will be warm and pleasant. Last night we had some terrific thunderstorms--lots of lightning, thunder and pouring of rain. All is well though and the farm animals and cats are all safe and dry.  Even Kiara was settled down this morning. 

We had BOXES Monday evening---know that you are appreciated!
Jatcat from CA--2 Andis hairdryers for the kitties
Painteddaisy--kitty toy & 7 beautiful rugs
Severn from UK--kitty phone plugs
Clark, Jessie & the rest--Happy 4th BD to Asha with her chicken $5
Deb S for Susan L--to let me know that Bo-Bau (adopted years ago) passed, with a donation
Susan C from OH--donation to FFRC
Tracy L from OH--coupons
Gusti--Yeooow Banana, the real missing one!
mls9690--note with Cat Whiskers, box tops, stamps and 5 chicken $$'s!
Robin H with Hubby & kitties--2 bags Purina One
Janet M--donation to FFRC
Anonymous Friend--donation in memory of Doce
Bellabell--donation in memory of Doce
Jacksmom--donation in Doce's memory
Mishou1--donation for FFRC
Liz A--donation to FFRC, thru the Giving Campaign

I'd like to thank each and everyone of you for celebrating my mom's birthday with her.  She received some brownies, lemon bars, a beautiful bouquet of flowers, box candy, cookies and chocolate covered strawberries. Yes, she has a major sweet tooth---that's where I get it from!  She also so enjoyed opening all of her birthday cards. And then I got to explain the Birthday Chicken donations to her---she just grinned. She is so in awe of what you folks all do.  The total came to $875--wow!!  I asked her what she would like to do with it---first, get lots of chicken for the cats.  Then she said put some on a bill. And lastly, she wants a KFC chicken dinner!  I had to laugh. So, today we will get that chicken dinner for her!  Thanks to you all for making her smile! 

Happy Birthday to Asha---she is now 7 years old, born 3/1/10.  Asha arrived here 3/7/11, a very sweet girl with a very crooked leg. Not any more---she can get around on her 3 legs just fine and dandy!

We had 2 adoptions yesterday.  Phoebe finally was able to go to her long-awaited home. Her new mama was so very excited. We have went over her medical things a couple times and she will continue to see Dr. Darcy. But, Phoebe was ready. She is so full of energy, playfulness and sweetness--it was time to be adopted! 

As many of you already know, my granddaughter's cat Doce has passed away. He ran into some medical problems and went on to kitty heaven. This was very hard for Kellen as he was her comforter cat--always there every night with her and with her treatments. He gave her much love and a sense of peace.  She called me yesterday and asked if she could foster another cat (that's how Doce started out).  She and her family came last night.  Kellen and I went and talked a bit though and she told me that a new kitten would not replace Doce. He was one of a kind. But that Doce would want her to love another cat. Kellen was ready to do that and she picked Lamula, now named LaLa.  

Today is the surgery dental day for LaRue and Anayaa. They will come back with pearly white teeth and a few less teeth. They will leave about 8:10 today and be back this afternoon. Friday is Olivia's day for her nasal surgery. 

Have you noticed Katharine? She's decided she likes running and playing, especially with those Yeoooowww catnip bananas. Every day shows her relaxing and enjoying this very different way of living. She is also eating very good!

Take care and stay safe from any storms that might come your way today.