Comic strips first began in the 19th century in North America. They were part of the newspaper wars between Pulitzer and Hearst newspapers. As children, we used to wait in eager anticipation for the Sunday comics. They were in color and there were snippets from all of our favorite comic book characters. Early comic strips were in black and white and several featured unforgettable felines.
One of the earliest cats to appear in a comic strip was Krazy Kat who first appeared in 1913 in a Hearst publication, the New York Evening Journal. Krazy Kat was created by George Herriman and was set in Herriman’s vacation home of Coconino County, Arizona. Krazy Kat was a naive, carefree, simpleminded cat of undetermined gender, referred to as “he” and “she” at different times. He/she was often seen singing and dancing about. Krazy Kat had an unrequited love for a mouse named Ignatz. Ignatz had given Krazy Kat his/her name and was constantly trying to throw bricks at the cat’s head. The crazy thing about this was that Krazy thought this meant that Ignatz was demonstrating his love by throwing bricks at him/her. Krazy called him “my l’il ainjul”. The dialect of the comic strip was a combination of English, French, Spanish, Yiddish and others.
The other main character was Offissa Bull Pupp who was always trying to stop Ignatz from throwing the bricks, and lock him in the county jail. It was a bitter rivalry that Krazy Kat in her guileless ways, was totally unaware of. Krazy assumed they were always playing a game of tag. “Ever times I see them two playing games togedda, Ignatz seems to be it.” The comic strip was last published in 1944.
Another famous cat was Felix the Cat. His name possibly came from the Latin “felis” (cat) and “felix” (lucky). Felix was a big screen cat before he became a comic strip in 1923. He was created as a comic strip by Otto Messmer. Felix’s start on the big screen came in 1919 in “Feline Follies”. He appeared as a cunning, communicative, big-eyed black cat who walked upright, always on the prowl for his own food and basic needs. At the time, people embraced him because they were tired of the silent stars. His thoughts could be read in bubbles on the screen. He was full of curiosity and ready to help those in need. One of his film cartoons showed him pulling the beard and tufts of white hair off of a sleeping black man so he could exchange the “cotton” for a chicken dinner. He has the dinner but in the end, thoughtfully puts the “cotton” hair back on the man. (Unlike the personality of the next comic strip cat to be mentioned). Felix also had a television series in 1958 about Felix’s Magic Bag of Tricks and in the mid 1990’s, Tales of Felix the Cat. Otto Messmer’s Felix with his nephews Inky and Winky continue in various media to this day.
And then there’s Garfield. This orange, fuzzy tabby cat of Maine coon origin was born in the kitchen of an Italian restaurant; hence his love of pasta and lasagna. Garfield was created in 1978 by Jim Davis and was named after Jim’s grandfather, an obstinate old man. Garfield is owned by Jon Arbuckle and lives in a home with a dog named Odie. The original Garfield had a fourth character named Lyman who was Odie’s original owner. The reason for having Lyman was so that Jon could have someone to talk to. Later on, Davis realized he could give Garfield a non-verbal voice and Lyman was written out. That was when Jon adopted Odie.
Garfield lives in Muncie, Indiana, which is the home of Jim Davis. Garfield is a very lazy, pessimistic, sarcastic, scornful, obnoxious character with a compulsive eating habit. He hates Mondays, diets, and makes a point of tormenting Odie or being snide to Jon about his appearance or getting a date. (Though, now Jon is happily involved with Garfield’s veterinarian, Liz.) Garfield has a rare soft spot for his teddy bear Pooky and of course food and sleep.
Over the years since Garfield was first created, he has undergone some significant physical changes, unlike the other two comic strip characters mentioned before. He was originally quite overweight, had very squinty eyes and walked on all four legs. He also did not communicate his thoughts in a bubble. Now his body is slimmed down, his eyes are open wide and he walks on two legs. This helps him to see things such as food on the table and to be able to reach higher. And of course, make his sarcastic remarks.
Garfield was syndicated in roughly 2,580 newspapers and journals as of 2007. It held the Guinness World Record for the most widely syndicated comic strip. It’s broad appeal among the population of fans is its lack of social or political satire. It is still going strong as a comic strip, film, and television entertainment.
We all love our feline pets. They love to show they love us by bringing us little presents they capture in the wild. Many a cat lover has discovered a half eaten mouse or bird on their doorstep left by their kitty as a token of love for being such a good caretaker. But, we wonder, is it safe that they have eaten some of that wild animal, especially when we have no idea where it has been?
Cats are carnivores and predators. In fact they are obligate carnivores meaning they must have meat to live. Meat contains taurine which is one of the essential nutrients to a cat’s diet. The bones of the animals they consume are full of calcium and are easily broken down and digested. The bones, guts, fur and feathers of mice and birds contain fiber which is another essential nutrient. They obtain water from their prey as well. Cats enjoy a variety of textures which is why they relish chewing on mice and birds. Their natural instinct is to hunt. If you do not wish to have them bring home such wildlife, you will have to keep them indoors or monitor their time outdoors.
If your cat is allowed to roam, be sure it gets regular check-ups for worms and other parasites. Be sure vaccines such as rabies and feline leukemia are up to date. In very rare cases, a cat can contract a disease such as toxoplasmosis which can lead to uvitis and glaucoma. Again, regular checkups for your outdoor cat are good preventative medicine.
Humans should take care when disposing of their little presents of mice and birds. Take care to wear gloves and even a mask when handling the gift. Viruses, such as the sometimes deadly hantavirus, can be spread for example, by handling a mouse. Scrub any surface that the mouse came in contact with. Cats are not carriers of the virus nor can it be transferred from one person to another.
In general, it is not harmful for cats to eat mice and birds. This is how many cats live in the wild. However, keep your cat safe by keeping it’s checkups regular and keep yourself safe by using gloves when you handle strange wildlife. Happy hunting!
When it comes to adopting a new cat or kitten, the question often arises is it better to adopt two so they can have companionship when we are not home? There are certainly some advantages to having two cats:
-they can chase away more spiders and mice
-you have more to snuggle up with or to pin you down in your bed
-twice the entertainment factor as they chase each other and swat tails or fall all over each other
-they can keep each other company when you are away
-they provide each other with exercise and mental stimulation
-the happier and more confident they feel together decreases the chance for behavioral problems
The disadvantages are that it does cost more for veterinary care, food, pet supplies, boarding over vacations and emergencies. Then there are the day-to-day clean up chores like changing two litter boxes, sweeping up extra cat hair and the occasional furballs or dead critters they have bestowed upon you as gifts. Additionally, cats often mimic each other, so if one scratches the furniture or marks its territory on your bed, the other may follow suit.
If you decide to get two cats, know that cats that are familiar with each other will get along easier and be more adaptable to their new home with you together. Often the shelter you adopt from can tell you two cats or kittens that appear to be compatible. They will provide you with suggestions for introducing them at the same time into your home. Kittens from the same litter have already been socialized together. They tend to know each others limits when it comes to play and tussles. They come from the same background. For example, if they were strays, they will have the special sense of survival bonding.
If you already have an adult cat at home, look for a companion with similar habits and personality. There are many websites that can help you with step by step rules for introducing a new pet with an already established one. This will ease the transition and make life enjoyable for all of you.
The best thing about adopting 2 kittens or cats is that you are saving two lives. On top of that you are enhancing your own with the fun and laughter that comes from watching them get crazy with each other!
Photo: Courtesy of a repin on Pinterest from Rapidnewstweets
Many pet owners enjoy both feathered and furry friends. But as we have all seen in cartoons, the cat always chases the bird. By nature, cats tend to be the predator and birds the prey. Those of us who have an outdoor roaming cat might just find a dead bird on our doorstep one day as proof of this. But what if we want to enjoy the delightful sounds of a songbird or the companionship of a talking parrot? Can we also keep our cuddly furry friend as well?
It is possible for cats and birds to co-exist in the same household. There are some important precautions and living arrangements that should be considered. Cats carry a bacteria in their saliva called Pasteurella. It is not harmful to the cat, dogs or humans but can be lethal to birds. Birds can contract this bacteria from a cat bite and die within 24 hours as the bacteria rapidly multiply in their bodies. Even a small scratch on the bird from a swatting cat can lead to infection. Antibiotics must be administered in that 24 hours to prevent death to the bird.
Even mild-mannered cats cannot control their predatory nature and instinct to kill a small animal. Think about the way cats play with toys dangling from a string or flitting around them. A cat will chase, pounce and attack the toy. Stalking and pouncing are reflex actions for cats. You would not want this type of reaction to occur with your beloved feathered friend.
It is best to keep a bird in a strong, solid cage high up on a stand or hanging hook that is away from furniture. Be sure that the cage has a secure, child-proof lock and that there are no free-sliding doors. Cats should not be able to reach the cage when they jump up. If the cage is within the cat’s reach, he might frighten the bird even to the point of death by pawing or pouncing at the cage. A cat sitting and staring constantly at the bird can cause the bird stress. This stress can lead to destructive behaviors on the part of the bird such at biting or feather plucking. If you have to leave the house, it is best to keep the cat and bird in separate rooms with the doors securely fastened.
Small birds such as finches and canaries usually stay within the confines of their cages and are content to be there. However, larger birds such as macaws and cockatoos enjoy interacting with people and like to be let out of their cages to play with their owners or explore. At times like these, cats should be kept away in a separate area of the home or well supervised by a second person in the room. Believe it or not, larger birds may become aggressive towards cats. A bite from a big bird can even break the skin of the cat and require stitches. Keeping the bird and the cat in separate areas and giving them both the attention they need is the best thing you can do. Enjoy your feathered and furry friends and keep them safe!
When a dog reaches the age of 12 and older, many things change in terms of their physical and mental status. Senior dogs who were once loving, playful and docile animals may begin to display agressive behaviors. A senior dog who’s hearing or vision is failing may exhibit growling or snapping behaviors as they do not hear or see when people approach them and are startled. As a dog ages, there are many mental and physical changes that affect its stress level. Arthritic joints and restricted movement do not allow your pet to move as easily, causing him to feel trapped in an annoying situation. A well-intended affectionate rub may be causing your canine friend irritation to sore joints without you knowing it. He may snap at you when you try to pick him up for the same reason. Changes in routines, new family members, moving, loud noises, or the fast movement of children can startle the dog into an aggressive action.
It is important to have your pet checked by a veterinarian. If biting is a reaction to pain, this can possible be alleviated by medication, acupuncture or other holistic therapies. Brain tumors are another possibility that can cause behavioral changes. The vet would do a CT scan or MRI to determine the type of tumor and prognosis for treatment.
In the long run, the toughest decision we all must make with our senior pets is when is it time to let go? We love them as a member of our family and do not want the burden of making that decision. But it is part of the responsibility we take on when we decide to bring a pet into our lives. We wish they could talk and tell us it is okay. ‘I’m uncomfortable, my body is tired and sore and I don’t like snapping at the people I love!’ It requires soul-searching, sacrifice and courage. Don’t let others judge you. Move ahead with resolve and know it is right for you, your family and your beloved pet.
A lovely note from Cheryl after she read our Tails Untold Personalized Pet Book FB page. “I just have to get some rolled out and try this recipe. By the way, my sister read her book from Tails Untold that was personally created for KONA…. would you believe that KONA wags his tail when she reads it out loud? The dog knows it’s about him! And for all you pet lovin’ foks – go to Tails Untold and look what you can have created for your pet – dog or cat. It is something that you will have forever and it’s personalized just for your pet. We’ve had several created for our pets already.”
To like our Facebook Page please copy this address into your browser. http://on.fb.me/YkwqAG or visit our website www.tailsuntold.com and you can link directly to our Facebook page there.
What we used to call a “mixed breed” has now become known as a “designer dog”, a much more “haute couture” name than “mutt”. Actually they are a cross between two purebred dogs. New breeds have sprung up since the late 1980’s at a fast and furious pace, the earliest cross having been between a Labrador and a poodle, the Labradoodle. The following is a list of just some of the breeds that have been created by breeders of designer dogs;
– Golden Retriever + Standard Poodle = Goldendoodle
-Schnauzer + Yorkshire Terrier = Snorkie
– Pug + Beagle = Puggle
-Maltese + Pomeranian = Maltipom
-Boston Terrier + Pug = Bug
-Pomeranian + Toy Poodle = Pomapoo
-Yorkshire Terrier + Poodle = Yorkipoo
-Jack Russell Terrier + Poodle = Jack-a-Poo/Jack-a-Doodle
-Yorkshire Terrier + Shih Tzu = Shorkie
When deciding on a designer dog, it is important to read up on the characteristics of each breed. Know their temperament and the kind of care they need. If you dislike shedding, mixing a poodle or other non-shedding dog, like a Bichon Frise with one that tends to shed may be a good choice. Determine if the two breeds are good with families with children, other pets and senior citizens, if need be. Find out if the dog can handle apartment living and less exercise or needs more space and lots of area to run and play. Is the coat high maintenance requiring frequent brushing and trips to the groomer? Are they large consumers of food? These and other factors will help you choose the type of designer dog that best suits your lifestyle.
Most experienced breeders will be able to tell you what characteristics will develop as the puppy grows. They are often able to predict what coat type the dog will have and the kind of care it will need. Temperament can be harder to predict because it develops past the age of adoption. But the good breeder usually has the history of other successful litters to draw upon. The important message here is to research and select a highly regarded breeder. The AKC is a good place to start your search. Enjoy your new special companion!
Many people suffer from some type of allergy, be it pollen, dust, food borne, etc. A good percentage of these people also suffer from allergies to dogs and cats. What exactly is the cause of a pet allergy? Contrary to popular belief, it is not the hair or the fur that causes the allergic reaction. It is the proteins in the pet’s dander (dead skin that is shed) or in their saliva or urine. These proteins are the source of the allergens. Pet fur or hair can collect the dander and cause it to be spread around. Also, think of your pet’s fur like a dust mop. Dust and pollen can cling to it and be brought into the home, spreading additional allergens beyond the dander.
Cat and dog allergens are small and sticky particles that can stay in the air for a long time. All dogs and cats produce these allergens. Many of the particles can be inhaled which causes itching and swelling of the mucous membranes. The eyes may become red and irritated. In the lungs, the allergens react with antibodies and result in breathing problems such as shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Hypersensitive people may break out in a rash on their face, neck and arms.
The best treatment is to avoid contact with cats or dogs or their dander. For us pet lovers, this can be devastating. However, some people with allergies can try immunotherapy to alleviate the symptoms. It involves once or twice weekly injections of small amounts of the allergen. The body then produces antibodies that block the allergic reaction. It can take several months to become effective and must be continued for several years.
Finally, over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines and decongestants can reduce the allergic symptoms. It is up to you to determine if keeping your pet is not putting an undue burden on your quality of life.
*Photo: Courtesy of David Castillo Dominici & Freedigitalphotos.net
There is nothing more beautiful than the joys of new birth. Puppies are tiny balls of softness, innocence and cuddly cuteness. There are many things you can do to help prepare for your female dog’s pregnancy. Your dog should be over one year of age and have had its 2nd or 3rd heat. Most dogs will have their cycle every 5-7 months. Be sure your female is in good shape prior to becoming pregnant. An overweight dog may run into more complications with pregnancy than a lean, healthy weight dog.
As with any pregnancy, your dog will likely go through emotional changes. Give her lots of love and attention with gentle words and lots of strokes. She may not feel very well in the first few weeks so this extra love will be very soothing.
After the first 6 weeks of pregnancy, your pet will need to consume more food, as well as after the birth of the litter. You should increase her food intake by about 25%. She may need several small meals as the puppies growing inside of her put pressure on her internal organs. Providing clean, fresh water is very important. The need for extra food and fluids increases at this time and helps your dog and her puppies have the nutrition they require.
Exercise is very important as well. Even though she is pregnant, she needs to run and play as she always did. Playtime makes your dog happy and gives her a boost towards a happy pregnancy. Walks alone won’t do it. You will need to walk her more, however, because she is increasing her fluid intake and the puppies put increased pressure on her bladder.
It is important to get her checkups with the vet. Prior to breeding she should test negative for heartworms and intestinal parasites which can be passed along to the pups. All of her immunizations should be up-to-date. The mother’s immunity to infectious diseases is given to her puppies during their nursing of her milk.
Be sure to set aside an area with an easy to clean surface where she can have her pups when the time comes. A low, shallow box lined with clean old blankets, sheets or old clothing will give her a soft and comfortable place to give birth. Get her used to it ahead of time, even offering treats there to get her to go to that spot. If she were to have the puppies outside of that area, move them right to the designated spot so she will follow. Since this will be her resting spot for several weeks with the puppies, it is important to keep it clean and comfortable.
The joys of motherhood will fill the air when the puppies are born. It is a wonderful experience that is best when you have taken the time to prepare for it. All of these suggestions will help to ensure a happy, healthy new litter of puppies!
One of the most frequently heard complaints from cat owners is “Why does my precious kitty cat go outside of the litterbox? Is she mad at me?”
There are many reasons pets can have accidents around the house. But spitefulness is not one of them. Pets do not hold grudges or try to get back at their owners. People, on the other hand…,but that would be a different article. Usually when a cat goes outside of the box, she is trying to tell you something. She is trying to communicate that something is wrong. You should not punish your pet for what you feel is spiteful behavior. Stress and fear only exacerbate the issue. Having accidents can start out as indicators of medical problems and then become behavioral problems. The following are possible issues that can lead to outside of the box elimination:
– anything causing pain that is then associated with the litter box such as;
*pain upon urination or bowel movement
*arthritis
*urinary tract infection or disease or bladder infection
*pelvic fractures
*lameness
*obesity making movement difficult
-diseases such as kidney disease, diabetes, diarrhea, parasites
-changes in the environment including new people, routines, new pets, moving, renovations, etc.
-dirty litter boxes
-change in litter box style, size, type of litter, pan liner, location of litter box
It is important to rule out medical problems first then to make behavioral management changes. Once the medical aspect is fine, the following suggestions may be helpful:
-have a litter box for each cat you own in all levels of your home
-don’t put the box in a corner where your cat might feel too closed in
-scoop out the litter daily and regularly clean with warm water and soap
-avoid permeable plastic boxes which absorb odor or use a plastic liner
-if your cat has an accident, clean the area with enzymatic cleaner and cover the site for a few days to avoid recurrence
-use unscented, clumping sand type litter in a large low box. A liner makes for easier cleanup.
We love our cats and want to understand when they are trying to tell us something. At least we know they are not trying to get back at us for not remembering a card on their birthday!
| Name: | Weezie |
| Nickname(s): | The Boss |
| Gender: | female |
| Characteristics: | One eye, white face, very large pointy ears |
| Personality: | stealthy, determined, quiet, funny |
