My Furry Valentine

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On Valentine’s Day we show love and affection to those we care about. For me that includes my husband, a few select others—and my kitties.

I carefully pick out the coolest-looking toy at the pet store to give my beloved fur babies for Valentine’s. But it’s funny; the items they seem to like best are boxes, tissue paper and a round rock that I picked up on a recent hiking trip.

The showering of love is a two-way street. My cats, CC, Norman and Benny, have different ways of showing affection to me. The three kitties often shower me with their love and attention.

• All three of them will stretch out and roll on their back allowing me to give them belly rubs, showing me that they are very comfortable and do not feel threatened. They have no concern about letting their guard down in front of me.
• CC loves to rub her head on my face. Not only is this a loving gesture on her part, but in cat language she is sharing a special privilege with me. She is depositing pheromones to exhibit her possession of me.
• All three of my treasures like to hang around me. When I come into the house, they all appear, ready to shower me with love and get some petting time in return. Norman likes to walk by my feet. Sometimes I think he has a hidden agenda to trip me; but no, he just wants to make sure I am right with him.
• These purr machines always rev up their motors for me, a sign that they have special feelings for me.
• The slow blink: Kitties will only look you in the eye if they feel comfortable and trust you. If you are fortunate enough to receive a slow blink from them, that is the kitty equivalent of a kiss.
• Presents: Your kitty brings you a present as a sign of love. For kitties that live inside, it may be a favorite toy. Kitties that go outside will often bring you some of their treasured prey such as a dead rodent or other creature. (Try not to scream).

The animal and human bond is something that has lasted since the beginning of time. It is a special relationship, and you should feel privileged if an animal has bonded with you.

If you are not able to have a cat or other animal living with you in your home, maybe you would like to volunteers or one of the local shelters. There are several around. Furry Friends is always looking for volunteers to help them take care of their kitties. These are kitties that need your love. Please consider donating your time or resources today. Visit their website at www.furryfriendswa.org or email information@furryfriendswa.org.