Hi, I’m Geoffrey!
I’m a 2-month-old, male, orange tabby — and yes, I’m ridiculously cute. The sheer sight of me invokes fawning because everyone loves me. Why? You might ask. Because I’m a kitten and everyone loves kittens. And while it’s kitten season at the shelter with plenty of other kittens to adore, I have my own unique qualities that set me apart from the rest.
I’m confident in playing with older cats, my non-stop energy keeps people on their toes, and my keen skill in hunting and pouncing on toys are admired by all.
So, come on down and adopt me! However, if my awesomeness is too much for you, then there’s plenty of other irresistible kittens to take home today.
My ID #A059880 is available for adoption at the Santa Monica Animal Shelter, located at 1640 Ninth Street in Santa Monica. 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
Hot weather can pose risks of dehydration and heatstroke in cats but there are many ways to keep cats protected and comfortable in the heat.
Owners can provide water bowls with ice cubes in and around different areas of your home and your cat’s favorite spots. Since cats are attracted to very fresh water, wash and fill your water bowls daily or use water fountains for those picky cats.
Matted hair traps heat so brush your cats, especially long-haired ones, as much as possible. One can also pet a cat with damp towels on the areas of their body that have the most heat, such as their tummy, paws, armpits, chin, ears, and other areas with little or no fur.
Create your own cool cat spots like empty bathtubs, showers, sinks, dark rooms, cardboard boxes on their side, under chairs, and wooden floors. To encourage your cat to stay in those areas, include their favorite treats, toys, water and food bowls, and spend time with them in their spots.
Residents can even use ice cubes as toys by placing cubes on the floor and engaging with them in hunt-and-pounce play.
If your cat endeavors outside, create shaded areas and provide plenty of water. Closed areas like conservatories, greenhouses, sheds, and garages trap heat. Sunscreen formulas suited for cats can prevent sunburn on their noses, ears, paws, and areas with little to no fur, but on especially hot days, keep pets indoors.
Look for signs of heatstroke that may require immediate veterinary attention like agitation, stretching out, breathing rapidly, lethargy, skin hot to the touch, glazed eyes, vomiting, and drooling.
Keeping your cats cool keeps them safe, and creates new opportunities for bonding and fun.
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
