Cat Talk

Last year we seemed to be inundated with stories of animals getting adopted in record numbers as people stayed home, but we still hear stories of animals in terrible circumstances that need help. That's what's happening right now in Santa Cruz county, where 47 cats were taken from a dismal situation and now need homes.

The adoption prices are lower due to the vast number of cats, and they're able to be adopted this month. If you've been looking for a cat or know someone who has, this is a great time to adopt one.

Do you know of any other animal adoptions needing a boost? Share them in the chat.

The whole idea that dogs love their owners while cats merely tolerate them has always smelled of baloney to me. I've had cats that were so affectionate they were my best friends. While I do know some cats who merely tolerate humans, the majority of cats that I've had over the years have been incredibly loving and I don't need anyone to tell me how I know. Their snuggles, purrs, and companionship told me everything. My best friend, a cat who died two years ago, would snuggle me every time I was in pain, laying against the spot that hurt. I had a cat who would even "play" with my baby in utero. My teen's cat, also a best friend who passed recently, was one of the most vocal and affectionate creatures I've ever seen.

For those who aren't sure if their cats love them, vets say that they exhibit "affiliate behaviors" like rubbing against you, nudging you, or even grooming you. All of my cats have done at least some of these things. Have you ever had a cat nudge their head to your head? That's one of my favorite gestures. How about a cat who forms routines with you? I have one who demands to sit in my lap, but I have to cover myself with a blanket and make a circle out of my legs first. She sits and stares at me until I do, then immediately sits! My husband has one that waits to sleep with him every morning when he gets home from work and she even yells at him if she thinks he's late!

How do you know your cat loves you? Share your stories in the chat.

Cats sometimes seem so aware that it's scary. They know when you're talking about them, even if you don't say their name. They know your habits and form their own to match yours. They seem to even know things you don't, like what's that thing over your shoulder! In all seriousness, it sure does seem like cats know a lot ore than we think they do.

Some people post videos of their cats learning how to use the same communication tools dogs use, pushing buttons for words. I don't know if that's legit or not but it sure seems pretty advanced. Then there are cats who can even be used as emotional support animals. Just how smart are they?

Do you think cats know more than we give them credit for? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Every cat lover knows the phrase, "If I fits, I sits." If a cat sees something that he might fit in, he tries it out and sits in it, without fail. Cats are so funny that way, and in our house a simple cardboard box is always a cheap route toward entertainment. My cats do really quirky things like pull towels off racks to sit on them, too. I recently got a desk with some square bars that the cats are fascinated with. They like to sit and stare out of the bars like they're in a Sarah McLachlan commercial. Feel sorry for my babies! 

All kidding aside, I'd love to hear the silly places your cats end up. I saw an experiment on TikTok the other day where someone made a box out of masking tape and his cat sat in it, on the floor, for over an hour! I plan on doing something similar with mine soon.

Where are the funniest places your feline friends sit and fit?