Kitten Season is Upon Us

Sometimes we need to see happy kittens.

This little Celtic charmer is a Scottish Fold. That's why his ears look so flat. Just listen to that purrrrrrr.

One of my very favorite cat books is about a Scottish Fold named Norton. It is called The Cat Who Went To Paris.

Kitten Season Is Upon Us.

The feline reproductive season runs from Dec. 21 (winter solstice) to Sept. 21 (vernal equinox). The amount of daylight effects their cycles.

That means in December, intact females are stimulated to come into heat and usually they will come in heat by Jan. 15 or so. A 60-day pregnancy means that the queens (an unsprayed female cat) will give birth around March 15 or so. Hence the first litters of kittens will come into the shelters shortly thereafter. Because all of the intact females have had some time off over the winter, they will all begin to cycle and give birth around the same time. Hence the term "kitten season." (1)

--- Dr. Kim Hayes, Bay Area Veterinary Specialists

This means that kitten season is upon us. Shelters and rescue groups will soon be flooded with kittens and Queens who need help.

Your local animal shelter could use some kitten food and supplies just now. They can also use some caring folks to act as foster parents. Why not take a few cans or some dry kitten food over there or call them and see what they need. You'll be glad you did.

Enjoy the video,

Sia

Endnotes:

(1) This link to the seasons and fertility is yet another reason why cats were worshiped in ancient cultures.

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Excerpt:

According to the Humane Society, between 6 and 8 million dogs and cats enter shelters every year, and as many as 4 million of them are euthanized due to lack of homes.

Here are five reasons why you should become one of these volunteers at an animal shelter:

1. Get fit: For those of you who want to get fit and don't enjoy working out at the gym, volunteer as a dog walker. You'll be doing something for the community while getting some exercise.

2. Positive procrastination: Rather than Facebook stalking and YouTube surfing in your room, you could dedicate some of that time to playing with animals, while also enjoying the spring weather.

3. Stress release: Spending a few hours a week at a shelter will remove you from the demanding world around you and give you something to look forward to.

4. Fido would want you to: Do you miss your pet at home? Temporarily fill the void by hanging out at an animal shelter.

5. Beat the blues: The dogs and cats will eagerly greet you and offer you their unconditional love. They are good listeners and they don't discriminate or judge.

Can't volunteer but still want to help? You can donate blankets, food, treats, toys or money.

Additionally, you can encourage anyone thinking of getting a pet to adopt rather than going to a breeder and promote the importance of spaying and neutering pets in order to help slow the overpopulation of animals.