2542 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34234
•
[email protected]
•
www.catdepot.org
•
941.366.2404
Issue 14 • Fall 2011
Pawpurr’s Ball with a Twist Oliver Twist, that is . . .
“Please sir, I want some more.”
An affordable evening with an
Oliver Twist theme including dinner,
music, live and silent auctions, and
courtyard activities all benefiting
homeless and abandoned
cats and kittens.
Dot Cat
The Last Bite
Although it is found worldwide,
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, or FIV,
was discovered in 1986 in a cattery in
California when some cats developed
an illness similar to the AIDS virus. FIV
belongs to the same family of viruses
as HIV. Both are life-long, progressive diseases that
affect the immune system, and FIV affects 2-4% of
cats in the United States. FIV is not transmittable to
humans, and HIV can’t be transmitted to cats.
Outdoor, free-roaming cats who have
aggressive fights or territorial disputes
may pass the virus through deep bite
wounds. Less commonly, infected
mother cats can transmit FIV antibodies
to her kittens, but they should be tested at
a later date to determine if they are still
infected. The best way to protect
your cats from contracting the virus is
to keep them indoors. It is recommended that all new
cats be tested before being introduced to a household
to prevent any existing cats from being infected. If
you learn that your own cat has FIV, protect the neighborhood cats by keeping him indoors.
FIV is routinely diagnosed by blood testing, and an
infected cat may not show symptoms for years. Infected cats should be kept indoors, spayed or neutered,
and fed a cooked, balanced diet. Wellness vet visits should be scheduled every six months.
Since there is no treatment for FIV, a good quality
of life can be achieved through early diagnosis and protecting your pet against other diseases and
injuries. By extending the asymptomatic
period and maintaining a stress-free environment, you and your cat can live many comfortable years together.
Dot Cat
Jake (pictured here in his favorite pose) loves
people and has become the greeter at the front
door of Cat Depot. He has tested positive for
FIV, but that doesn’t bother Jake. This boy is full of
fun and is ready to play. His outgoing personality and
loving disposition will easily win your heart.
Buster Boo’s Boo Boo
Buster Boo showing off his healing “boo boo”
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Jackie peered out her window to see a black cat
limping badly. He was making his way up her
driveway being careful not to place any weight on
his back leg. She recognized the cat as belonging
to a neighbor who had moved away. On his own,
something terrible had happened, and a bone now
protruded where soft fur had once been. Jackie called
Cat Depot, and the kitty was rushed to an emergency
veterinarian. X-rays confirmed that the leg was broken
in two places. Thanks to a good neighbor and a skilled
veterinarian, the abandoned cat is now sporting a splint
and is snuggled in a big soft bed. Buster Boo, named
for his boo boo, hopes for a new family who will never
leave him behind again.
Share Your Talent • Join an Event Committee
Hear no Evil. See no Evil. Speak no Evil.
These cats speak volumes without uttering a single
word, just as the three wise monkeys do.
Hear No Evil
Gentle music wafts through
Cat Depot. Kittens cry for
their nightly treats. Children
laugh as cats chase their
toys. These joyful sounds go
unnoticed by Sarah, who is
Sarah is a lap cat
almost completely deaf.
There is no need to call her because her favorite place
to sit is in your lap. Sarah is so striking, her picture
consistently receives the most online views on our
website. Please give this pretty girl a home.
A Twist of Faith
My name is Rusty and, I’ve been chosen as the
poster child for Cat Depot’s upcoming fundraiser, the
Pawpurr’s Ball. The reason I am dressed in theatrical
garb is because, like Oliver Twist, prior to coming to
Cat Depot, I too, was an orphan.
See No Evil
Jazelle is just as lovely
and graceful as her name
leads you to believe. With
her long flowing black and
white coat and emerald
green eyes, Jazelle is quite
the beauty. The routine
of the shelter can be
Jazelle is a lover
overwhelming so Jazelle
chooses to keep her lovely eyes closed. Perhaps she
will open them for you.
Speak No Evil
Recurring dental
troubles plagued
Lyndon for years
before it was
determined he
would be better off
without any teeth at
all. Although now
completely toothless,
Lyndon is a snuggler
Lyndon has no
problems eating. He enjoys his dry food just as much
as his wet food. His teeth no longer pose a problem,
and he is ready for a loving home. Lyndon will rub
against your legs and snuggle close while flashing his
toothless grin and purring happily.
Rusty, poster child for the Pawpurr’s Ball
What I do recall from my prior kitten street life is
living with my Mum in the back seat of an abandoned
car. At night, we would huddle together for warmth
until Mum left to find us dinner. She taught me to hunt,
but mostly, she protected me from things that go bump
in the night.
One morning, prior to Mum’s return, our metal habitat
was towed away, with me, frightened and famished,
wailing in the back seat. In response, the kind tow
truck driver made a call to Cat Depot, and before long
my tummy was full and I was wrapped in a warm
blanket. As I drifted off to sleep, I longed for my Mum
and hoped she was also warm, safe, and hunger-free.
Now that I am a celebrity, visitors ask to see me.
Currently, I reside in the Chubby Cat Pod. I am
told that cats like me who grow up unsure of their
next meal often overeat. So, looking svelte for the
Pawpurr’s Ball may require shedding a few pounds.
If you are looking to adopt a handsome and deserving
silver tabby who has learned how precious a Mother’s
love can be, I’m your guy. But losing love again would
break my heart, so, if you choose me, please make sure
it is forever.
Donate - your time, your expertise, your love • Become a Volunteer!
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Casa de Pablo
Cat Depot Launches a new website
Suite one at Cat Depot houses
eight cats, and although Pablo
is not one of them,
the indoor-outdoor
suite proudly bears
his name. Pablo,
once a homeless cat
himself, found a new
life and happiness
with Edward and
Rose Durham. Pablo
traveled everywhere
with them, including
to their summer home
in Puerto Rico. When
Ed passed away, Rose
decided to honor him,
by naming a cat suite
Pablo, once homeless
after his beloved cat,
Pablo. Now all the cats in Casa de Pablo will benefit
from the interactive flat screen TV that will provide
mental stimulation for feline residents, and life saving
messages and cat care tips for daily visitors. Thank
you Rose and Pablo for helping current cats and future
residents of Casa de Pablo.
Sneak Peak . . .
Coming soon - a new Cat Depot website, providing daily news, rescue stories, ecards, new arrivals,
and the latest happenings at Cat Depot. Our current
homepage, the Cat Depot train, will be moved to the
children’s section.
Harley
Lovey
This handsome boy is ready to cut loose from Cat
Depot. Harley has a cool, laid back attitude, but
enjoys sitting beside you. Scratch his head and listen
to his motor purr.
Don’t be fooled by her vampire imitation, this girl does
not bite. Brush her coat and listen to her purr. Lovey
adores her treats, especially those that keep her teeth so
pearly white!
THE INSIDE SCOOP
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Visit us on the internet at www.catdepot.org
Everyone’s Doin’ It
Every day, folks like you pitch in to make a difference in the lives of orphaned animals. They assist with fundraisers and grants, foster and stimulate cats through play, or provide much needed love.
The reasons for volunteering are as varied as the volunteers
themselves. Cat Depot’s dedicated volunteers say they feel a
deep sense of personal satisfaction from giving back to their
community.
During this
economic downturn, some people
have volunteered to
enhance or maintain job skills while
underemployed or Siobhan Boyle and Katherine Gardener,
volunteers, taking cats for a stroll
between jobs.
Volunteers breathe new life into an organization with their
enthusiasm, creativity, and expertise.
Kevin Berkebile, a volunteer, with Osker
Nationwide statistics for August 2010 show that 62.8% of citizens volunteered 81.1 billon hours to local
organizations. Notably, Generation X (born1965-1981) deepened their commitment by volunteering 2.3 billion
hours, an increase of over 110 billion hours.
So, if it seems like everyone you know is committed to making changes in their communities, they are! Sign up
and join other feline lovers who are committed to helping Cat Depot fulfill our mission of saving lives...
one kitten at a time.
Snickers
Trisha
Like the planet’s favorite candy bar, Snickers is a Cat
Depot favorite. She wrinkles her nose to let you know
she’s hungry and she will fill your need for something
sweet. Snickers satisfies!
Feather fans, feather boas, all feathers make Trisha
chirp and twitter. Trisha loves attention, head
scratches and kisses. If you’re looking to play, a
feathery plume will do the trick!
Check Us Out on Facebook • Become a Fan! • www.catdepot.org
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SIMON SEZ:
Blue-Fur Special Needs
Cats are experts at hiding illness, and elderly cats are no exception.
They are very stoic, and it is not uncommon for felines to develop
serious medical conditions and show no sign of its progression until the
condition is quite advanced.
So how do you know if your
cat is sick or just aging?
Aging is a natural process
and just like humans, cats are living longer. According to Cornell
Feline Health Center, the percentage of cats over six years of age has
nearly doubled in just over a decade and, the ‘blue’ fur population is
expected to grow. Physiologically, a one year old cat is similar to a
16 year old, two years is equivalent to a 21 year old and, thereafter,
each cat year is worth four human ones. Cats gracefully glide from
middle to old age, and live
from 12-16 + years.
A cat’s increased vocalization, especially in volume, Amina is nine years young and loves treats
may indicate that your
older cat is losing his hearing. Cloudy eyes, failure to use a litter box,
thinning fur, decreased activity, increased sleeping, joint pain, stiffness
and disorientation are all signs of feline aging. Dental disease is very
common in older cats and can decrease their sense of smell and cause
appetite loss. Providing moderate exercise, age appropriate nutrition,
daily brushing and modifying stressors can improve their longevity.
The good news is that older cats make great companions, enjoy attenToy Toy, losing both parents at once tion and relaxing in your company. But, never assume that the changes
is rough. She is looking for love.
that you see in your senior cat are due to old age and, therefore are
untreatable. Contact your veterinarian if there is any significant alteration in your senior cat’s behavior or
physical condition.
Help us make Miracles on 17th Street
Fill empty tummies • 3000 cans of Friskies
Rest weary bones • 100 soft, cozy beds
Provide safe travel • 500 gently-used carriers
and endless toys . . .
We believe in you
Holiday Shopping Has Never Been Easier!
If you are looking for that perfect gift or stocking stuffer for
your feline, friend, or family member, look no further than
Cat Depot’s gift shop. New products are arriving daily, and
there is literally something for everyone. There are Laura
Burch purses, scarves, bags, and shirts for her, and organic,
fair-trade Cat Depot coffee and mugs, hats and shirts for
him. We have cat necklaces, watches, books, and tees for
children and teens. And, we have new toys, treats, climbers,
beds, and bowls for the love of your life. If you can’t decide,
purchase a gift certificate or a membership for a friend or
family member. All proceeds benefit orphaned cats.
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Special Group Activities Available • Call Us at 941-366-2404
Membership - What Does It Mean?
Updates
I am a member of a political party, my church, numerous animal welfare
organizations, humanitarian groups, my college alumni association,
and I have rental car and airline memberships, as well as a long list of
affiliations, including Cat Depot.
My relationship with each group varies, but
with each one, there is a give and take. I
give information, and I get to vote or build
points toward a reward or discount. I give
financially, and I gain satisfaction in knowing
that I am helping the greater good. My
favorite membership of all, however, is the
gift of life.
This year, Cat Depot has spayed and
Bobbi
neutered over 1,200 cats in the community,
treated more than 500 cats for debilitating illnesses, repaired 23 broken
bones, provided dental care for 72 cats who would otherwise be suffering,
implemented critical emergency
surgery and medical care for more
than 100 cats, and found homes for
more than 800 once homeless felines.
Knowing that these animals are safe
from harm, out of pain, and free from
hunger helps me to sleep at night.
Knowing that there are so many
more who need our help keeps my
membership active.
Larry (AKA Lawrence of Arcadia),
found a cultural home with an
accomplished pianist caregiver.
The Catz Family found a lov-
ing family to call their own, thanks
to an article in Senior Magazine.
Won’t you please join us in making the Cher
world a better place for homeless animals?
If you are not convinced, stop by today
and see for yourself the miracles that an
annual membership can bring.
Membership . . .
it’s a commitment to life.
With gratitude for your support,
Shelley Thayer
Executive Director, Cat Depot
Blackie now shares his life
with a brother named Vincent
and a family that loves him.
Twinkles
Newsletter Contributors
Editors: Linda Slavin, Shelley
Thayer
Guest Columnists: Michelle Furci,
Lauren Inderbitzin, Lynn Rasys,
Corey Roscoe
Photography: Lauren Inderbitzin,
Shelley Thayer
Layout & Design: Fran Topp
Proofreader: Meighan Monroe
Please open your
hearts this holiday
season donate, adopt and
volunteer
Help Save Lives • Please Donate
Krystine was the perfect
surprise birthday present for
her new owner and a wonderful
addition to their family.
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2542 17th Street
Sarasota, FL 34234-1905
Laurel Oak Country Club
Honor your veterinarian . . .
Buy your Pawpurr’s Ball tickets now!
Pawpurr’s Ball 2011
When:
Celebrate Our Honored Veterinarians
Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011
6:30-10:30p.m.
Where:
Michael’s on East
1212 East Avenue S. (Midtown Plaza), Sarasota
Attire:
Cocktail or London 1830’s attire
Reservations:
Only $67.50 per person
Music:
Tommy DiSarro
Full Swing Productions
Three ways to pay
• Call (941) 366.2404
• Go online at www.catdepot.org, and
click on “Events”
• Mail a check to: Cat Depot, 2542 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34234. Please include a phone number in
case there are any questions.
All proceeds go to help abandoned, homeless and injured cats and kittens with medical care, food and love.
Honored Veterinarians for 2012
Dr. Gary Berkowitz Veterinary Associates of Jacaranda • Dr. Terah Browning West Coast Veterinary
Center • Dr. Anne Chauvet Critical Care & Veterinary Specialists of Sarasota • Dr. Gilberto Corona
Parkway Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center • Dr. A. John Izad Ultra Mobile • Dr. Andrew G.
King Cat Hospital of Sarasota • Dr. John Kirsch Coastal Veterinary Surgery Specialists, Inc. • Dr.
Reagan McDonald Veterinary Emergency Clinic • Dr. Nina Dr Nina’s Animal Hospital • Dr. Howard L.
Rand West Cost Veterinary Center • Ranch Animal Hospital • Dr. Gary L. Reinhardt Veterinary Center
of Sarasota • Dr. M-A Salisbury Animal Eye Care, Inc. • Dr. Dave Smith Sarasota Veterinary Center •
Dr. Vargas All Pets Mobile Clinic • Dr. Heidi Ward Gulfcoast Veterinary Oncologists/Internal Medicine