Hi, I’m leaf. I’m a 2-year-old female black cat who believes love conquers all! But my road to being all about party-time for love wasn’t always full of roses. I started in a home, and soon enough, I found myself hustling in the alleys of Santa Monica. Despite the solitude, and even breaking my leg, remaining a hopeless romantic fueled my resilience to survive. My love is magnetic, and eventually I attracted a kind person that took me to the animal shelter to fill up my love tank again. I prefer humans to other cats.
Tout de suite, like music to the ear, my communication is filled with an alluring melody of purrs. Give me your hand to sniff, and expect it to be delicately nose kissed. Shower with me with loving terms, and I will meow delightful nothings in return. And, tender loving pets in lieu of picking me up, will always make me swoon. So, if a are seeking a shameless fool for love, I will be hopelessly devoted to you! Leaf ID#A060182, is available for adoption at the Santa Monica Animal Shelter located at 1640 9th Street, Santa Monica CA, 90404. The shelter is closed to the public and adoptions are by appointment only by calling the shelter at 310.458.8595.
PET TIP OF THE WEEK: ADOPTING A SHELTER CAT
To adopt a shelter cat is to save a life and gain a lifelong friend. But knowing how to prepare to adopt is essential in facilitating a healthy transition for cats into their new home and with you.
First, make sure that a cat is the right type of pet for you. While cats are love humans, they are independent and not as demonstrative about their adoration as other pets are.
Prepare your home for your new cat. Cats are territorial. Confine them to a private room and provide bedding, a feeding station, litter box, and opportunities for enrichment like toys and scratchers. Cat proof your home for any poisonous plants, items that may cause injury, or escape routes.
Determine if you would like to adopt a kitten as they require more engagement, a more well-adjusted and self-sufficient adult, or a mature cat that may have unique needs that require ongoing management.
If you are willing to open your home to cats with special needs, cats with medical or behavioral issues may require more patience, resources, and an acceptance of their limitations.
When you are ready to adopt, call the Santa Monica Animal Shelter to make an appointment to meet their adoptable cats and inquire about their temperaments and needs. Be open minded. Being caged is one of the most stressful experiences for cats. The behavior that they present may not be a true indication of who they are.
Once you adopt, make an appointment with a veterinarian to rule out or address any medical issues, and bring vaccinations up to date.
Be patient. Since cats communicate and adapt to their environment through scent, the process of acclimating to a new home takes time. Ease into Introductions with any other animals in the home.
Keep it clean! Cats groom regularly and prefer a clean and tidy space. Daily washing of food and water bowls, litter box maintenance, as well regularly cleaning bedding, can be stimulating, and stress reducing.
Being prepared to adopt a shelter cat can avoid many obstacles. It can also encourage your cat to waste no time in captivating you with their charm and keep you on your toes!
Pet of the Week is provided by Carmen Molinari, a long-time volunteer at the Santa Monica Animal Shelter and founder and CEO of Love At First Sit®, a pet care and dog training company in Santa Monica. Learn about her, pet tips, and Love At First Sit® services at loveatfirstsit.net
