by Allie Katz
THE VIEW FROM ALLIE’S ALLEY
You’ve spent $100 or more and waited what seemed like an eternity for the fake fur-covered “Deluxe Kitty Kondo” to arrive. You’ve unpacked it and gathered the array of different sized screw drivers, ratchets and Allen wrenches required by the instructions, then endured over an hour of aggravation figuring out and assembling this monstrosity that takes up approximately ¼ of your family room. But you know when Sylvester climbs aboard and tries out all the levels while exuding that low guttural purr indicating pure happiness, that your efforts will be rewarded. Sylvester saunters into the room. You duck out to retrieve your video camera and give him a few minutes to recover his composure upon being so flabbergasted. The anticipation is thick in the air as you peek around the corner to witness and record his moment of ecstasy. But where is Sylvester? You search every compartment of the “kondo” and find it empty. Perhaps in his state of euphoria he became overwhelmed and is hyperventilating behind the sofa? Nope; not there either. It takes a few minutes, but you finally find him . . . curled up in the empty box!
Either cats have some kid in them, or kids have some cat in them, because this is reminiscent of Christmas morning when my guys were little. Deja vu all over again!?
Allie’s Fun with Furry Facts
According to Leslie A. Lyons, assistant professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California, cats purr in the 25-150 Hertz range. Studies have shown that sound frequencies in this range promote bone density and healing and can alleviate stress in humans. Studies also show that cat owners are 45% less likely to suffer from heart problems. So the next time you’re uptight and feel the need to exhibit road rage, be a do-it-yourself therapist and drive on down to the APR shelter and adopt one of our “service” kitties. It’s a great way to feel better about yourself.
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Please use some discretion when naming your new pet. Remember, this is the name that will be called out in the waiting room with your last name attached to it when you take them to the vet.
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APR isn’t just about cats and dogs, you know. If you have any kind of pet, I’d love to hear from you with your tails tales about anything from aardvarks to zebras; feathers to fur. Email me with your offerings at allie4katz@gmail.com. I’m anxious to hear from you. Allie
