As much as the South Valley loves its dogs, as was illustrated by our “It’s a (wonderful) Dog’s Life” tribute to Man’s Best Friend Sept. 27, it’s time the cats were counted.
It’s no accident that anything good is considered the cat’s meow, and all of the submissions you’ll find in today’s Lifestyles section can attest that – in many households – the Cat is King.
Our independent feline friends range from indoor to barn cat, keeping laps and feet warm in the cold winter months, and barns and yards free of rats and other undesirable critters. Who can resist the evidence of our faithful friend’s hunting efforts placed with loving care on the front porch?
Cat videos and memes abound on Facebook and YouTube, feeding the feline-lovers frenzy of “Must have more cats,” who say funny things in captions, often misspelled in “Kitteh-speak.”
Shredded draperies, couch “scratching posts” and endless – dare we say – caterwauling, are no match for the silly antics that keep cat fanciers in love with their pets.
Some cats think they are dogs and will fetch if trained, and some cats delight in training their owners to do the same. There are aloof cats and others who insist on going where their beloved owner goes, or are comfortable enough to perch on their shoulder. Some cats, despite the lore, actually enjoy water and being in the sink, and for some, batting at a stream of water from the tap is a favorite activity.
Cats are as individual as their owners, and cats, no matter their personality, bring something special into the home and heart of a cat lover.
So ailurophiles, today is your day. Read and enjoy the following stories about cats and how they have become a part of your family – even if you can’t remember if you adopted your cat or they adopted you.
We hope you enjoy this special section dedicated to your favorite furry friend; preferably with them on your lap or lying next to you – but always in your heart.