“Catman” Saves The Day for Feral Kitties in His Neighborhood

by Lori Ennis

Published: November 1st, 2017

catman saves the day for feral kitties in his neighborhood

A ‘Super’ little boy is using his caped crusading skills in Philadelphia to help care for homeless cats and kittens, and it’s the cutest thing ever.

A little boy who has some super-human love in his heart for cats has joined forces with his aunts to rescue homeless kittens and cats in Philadelphia. Their rescue charity, Kolony Kats, fills food bowls and water dishes for over 50 stray cats in the area, and helps to care for them.

Kolony Kats #1 Superhero! Catman Shon! ❤️❤️ Also, if you look a bit closer you will notice that Catman Shon's mask is ear tipped!

A post shared by Kolony Kats (@kolonykats) on Sep 23, 2017 at 4:50pm PDT

Since he was three, young “Superman Shon” or “Catman” has helped his aunts Kia Griffin and Kris Papiernik take care of homeless cats and kittens who live in various places in Philadelphia’s Northeast side, all the while donning a cape and showing off some pretty super fabulous animal love.

A SuPURRhero never leaves without making sure all of The Kats get treats! Kolony Kat Striper has all eyes on the treats!

A post shared by Kolony Kats (@kolonykats) on Sep 4, 2017 at 1:29pm PDT

Aunt Kris Papiernik said that she worried the first time he joined them because feral cats can be a little overwhelmed and rambunctious, but they warmed up to Shon quickly and easily–even when they’d not been so friendly with his aunts.

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN SHON making sure The Kats have plenty to eat! Kolony Kat Striper is first to the table!

A post shared by Kolony Kats (@kolonykats) on Aug 22, 2017 at 5:29pm PDT

Aunt Kia Griffin says that when Shon shows up, the cats instinctively know he has a big heart and he just has a magic touch with the cats. They aunts neuter the cats and get them back to their feral colonies that are cared for by the ladies and Shon.

Shon has always been a fan of superhero costumes, so Kris says that the name Catman was just sort of a given. The ladies are raising funds to build a stray cat shelter, and Shon is in on raising awareness for the need.

Superman Shon will always protect you!

A post shared by Kolony Kats (@kolonykats) on Aug 14, 2017 at 10:23pm PDT

Shon says he has a ‘superpower scratch’ that makes him special to the cats. He says that being kind to cats and giving them gentle love under their chins just shows how compassionate his heart really is. Their dream is to have Shon go on the Ellen show and have her dress as Bat Girl so they can rescue stray cats together and then go to Chuck E. Cheese for dinner after.

Our nephew Shon aka Ninja Turtle handing our treats to The Kats!

A post shared by Kolony Kats (@kolonykats) on Aug 14, 2017 at 9:59pm PDT

Until she agrees, however, Shon will continue to work tirelessly for the feral cats of Philadelphia, though he does plan to take a break for trick-or-treating.

Hey, even superheroes deserve a little time off!

Lori Ennis

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An unlikely ‘stray’ animal took up residence at the home of a Kansas grandma, and the Internet fell in love with the sweet little orphan! Several years ago when visiting my husband’s grandmother, she told us of the feral ‘kittens’ she was feeding from her garage. She’d named them ‘Patches’ and ‘Pockets,’ and we loved how adorably she cared for those little things, even making them cozy beds to rest their weary heads. Related: ‘ Catman’ Saves The Day for Feral Kitties in His Neighborhood Except, when we investigated a bit more, turned out she was mothering a pair of orphaned possums, and they didn’t like outsiders messing up their good thing! And that’s exactly what happened to Eric Hertlein when he visited his grandmother in Kansas. She was known for letting strays take residence on her porch, and even named some of them as they were ‘regulars.’ But one of Grandma’s stray kitties wasn’t a kitty at all…she was an orphaned possum! Grandma had named the possum Tete, and said that she’d been caring for Tete since he was a baby. She’d set up a nice and warm cat bed for Tete, and he hangs out with his brothers from another mother the other kitties like he’s one of the family.

U.S. Embassy In Australia Accidentally (and Hilariously) Sends Out Cat

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Elderly Cats Saved Thanks to Cat Retirement Village

Animal shelters and rescue organizations often struggle to find homes for older cats, leaving them at risk for euthanasia. However, a UK rescue is stepping up to address this growing problem and offer a new ray of hope for senior cats caught up in the rescue world. Shropshire Cat Rescue is a large regional cat rescue and rehoming organization that has been providing shelter, veterinary care, and compassion for stray, abandoned, and otherwise “unwanted” cats since 1989.Recognizing the growing number of elderly cats needing assistance during their most vulnerable years, the organization decided to create a sanctuary specifically for these aging kitties. Known as the Retirement Village, it consists of six luxury cat chalets, each designed to house up to four cats. Additionally, a larger house, called “Moggies Mansion,” extends the number of lives they can change.Cats housed in the Retirement Village are weighed and vet-checked weekly, allowing the organization to provide for all their medical needs. They are also groomed as needed.“The shelter was intended to create an area for cats who were too elderly or had ongoing health conditions that needed regular treatment and monitoring to live out their days in comfort,” explained Susie, a volunteer vet with the organization.Each of the cat chalets features comfortable beds with cozy pillows and blankets, litterboxes, and shelter from the elements. A cat door on the front allows the cats to explore outside in the Retirement Village, where they can bask in the sunshine and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, once a month local children visit the sanctuary to spend time with the cats, reading to them and providing much-needed socialization.“It also opened the door for people who had elderly cats and were going into a nursing home and couldn’t take them with them,” explained Susie. “It gives a different option and eases a stressful upsetting time by finding somewhere the cats could live out their final days.”Occasionally, cats from the Retirement Village are adopted into new homes, but most of the residents will live out the remainder of their lives happy and healthy under the organization’s care.While the Shropshire Cat Rescue’s Retirement Village is located in the UK, there are other similar sanctuaries operating in the United States. In Lutz, Florida, Terry and Bruce Jenkins created their own retirement community, Cats Cradle, in their backyard. This community began with a repurposed children’s “Frontierland” play area, including a hotel, a general store, a saloon, and a sheriff’s office.“Most of them have come from hardship situations, and we don’t adopt out,” explained Terry. “Our mission is to rescue senior cats that need a home.”Since they created their retirement community, the couple has rescued and cared for over 350 cats, providing them with the best possible quality of life during their golden years. The cats come into their care largely through veterinarian’s offices and private homes when their owners are no longer able to provide care for their beloved furry family members.You can make a donation on their website or join their Guardian Angels program, committing to monthly donations to access 24-hour live streaming of the cats.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can A Dog Be Autistic?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects humans and can be manifested in a variety of ways, most of which are related to challenges with social skills, communication, and interaction with the world itself. While the many sides of the autism spectrum are well understood and documented, there’s a lot that remains a mystery, such as the question if autism is specific to humans – or more precisely: can a dog be autistic?Canine autism is still not officially recognized in veterinary medicine in the same way it is in humans, however, there are some behaviors in dogs that can resemble traits associated with autism in humans, leading some pet owners and veterinarians to use the term "autistic" in order to describe them more specifically. Here is all that you need to know about this complex topic.Can a Dog Be Autistic?Some dogs may exhibit behaviors that are similar to those seen in autistic individuals. For example, some dogs may exhibit repetitive behaviors. This might include excessive licking, tail chasing, pawing, or pacing. In fact, they get so repetitive that it quickly becomes abnormal. Besides all this, some “autistic” dogs can have difficulties with social interactions. In these cases, they might be less responsive to social cues, avoid eye contact, or prefer being alone. Similarly, some dogs can have overwhelming sensitivity to various stimuli. This means that certain dogs might be overly sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch – things that seem ordinary in most cases. These behaviors could be due to various factors, including genetic predispositions, developmental issues, or environmental influences. Some dogs may also be affected by canine-compulsive disorder (CCD). Similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans, dogs with CCD engage in repetitive behaviors that are difficult to interrupt. This can contribute to autistic behaviors. The same goes for dogs with sensory processing disorders. In such cases, they might have abnormal sensory processing, making them overly reactive or unresponsive to certain stimuli. Ultimately, though not well-defined, certain neurodevelopmental issues could lead to behaviors reminiscent of autism. Either way, in the case that your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. Working with a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist can help you address problematic behaviors and deal with them efficiently. After all, autistic dogs can be as happy and normal as all other pets. Providing mental and physical stimulation through toys,  puzzles, and regular exercise is very important, however, as it ensures that they remain happy and active. 

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Dog Who Went Through Three Failed Adoptions Finds A Forever Home

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Can a Parrot Get Dehydrated?

The summer months are in full swing, and the temperatures are soaring high. Due to this, pet owners across the world are concerned about their furry and feathery friends and the possible adverse effects extreme weather could have on them. A group especially vulnerable to heat is parrots, who are usually small and don’t tolerate high temperatures. Like all other pets, they too need to have plenty of fresh, cool water available at all times, as it is essential for maintaining their overall health and also aids digestion and regulates body temperature. But how much water does your avian pet really need in the summer? Can parrots get dehydrated and can you prevent it? Here is what you need to know.Can a Parrot Get Dehydrated?Like all living creatures, parrots also require water, and without enough of it, they can certainly become dehydrated. Dehydration occurs when a parrot loses more water than it consumes, which leads to an imbalance in their body’s water levels. There are many reasons why this can happen. Most often it is insufficient water intake, excessive heat, sickness, or improper diet. To calculate how much water a parrot needs, you need to consider their size and weight – a majestic Moluccan Cockatoo will certainly need more water than a cute little Budgie. A good rule of thumb is to ensure they get at least 5% of their body weight in water each day.Dehydration in parrots can have serious health consequences, including kidney function, digestion, and overall vitality. That is why it is important to always provide them with a fresh source of water and monitor for signs of dehydration.Signs of Dehydration in ParrotsAll parrot owners need to know how to spot the symptoms of dehydration. This can be crucial for their health and allow you quick intervention. Some of the common signs are:#1 Sunken Eyes:When dehydrated, a parrot’s eyes can appear sunken or dull. This is one of the more noticeable signs and it needs to be addressed immediately.#2 Dry Skin and Beak:A dehydrated parrot can have dry or flaky skin and a dry beak. The skin can also lose its elasticity, and the beak may appear brittle.#3 Lethargy:When dehydrated, parrots can become lethargic or less active than usual. They might not show any interest in playing or interacting with their environment in the usual way.#4 Reduced appetite:A lack of water intake can lead to loss of appetite, as dehydration can cause digestive issues and general discomfort. #5 Rapid breathing:In an attempt to regulate their body temperature, dehydrated parrots may pant or breathe at a rapid pace.#6 Sticky mucous membranes:The inside of the parrot’s mouth may appear sticky or dry due to a lack of moisture.#7 Weight loss:Over time, dehydration can lead to noticeable weight loss, as the parrot’s body struggles to maintain its normal functions.Preventing and Treating Dehydration in ParrotsOf course, it is equally important to understand what can cause dehydration in parrots in the first place. This can also help you to prevent it from occurring. The number one cause is inadequate water supply. If a parrot’s water source is not easily accessible or is often empty, they may not consume enough water. Make sure that their waterer is always clean, easy to use, and made from parrot-safe materials.

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Microchip Helps Reunite Owners With a Lost Cat 5 Years Later

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Missing 80-Year-Old Woman Found Thanks to Her Loyal Dog

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As loving pet parents, we do everything we can to keep our pets safe. From buying the best food we can afford to keeping their vaccinations up to date – we understand that our furry family members rely on us to care for them. Unfortunately, some illnesses make this more challenging. One example is the risk of deadly canine parvovirus (also known as parvo) in puppies. While there is a vaccine to protect dogs from the disease, there is a window of time before your puppy has received the complete series of vaccinations needed to be effective. It is highly contagious and spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, further increasing the risk during the curious stage of a puppy’s life. The disease was first discovered in 1978. It quickly spread, causing concern among veterinary professionals and dog lovers. During the pandemic, another concerning increase in cases was seen. Now, in 2024, veterinarians in several locations are sounding the alarm. In April, vets in Kansas City released a statement after The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City faced 20 cases in a week. At the same time, San Antonio Animal Care Services warned dog parents in the city that they, too, were seeing a rise in cases. Since that time, the areas of concern have continued to grow.What is Parvo? You may be wondering what parvo is and why veterinarians are so worried about the increase in cases. Canine Parvovirus is a disease that impacts a dog’s stomach and small intestines, disrupting their ability to digest food and absorb much-needed nutrients. It can also impact the lymphatic system, bone marrow, and heart. It is highly contagious and, when contracted, often severe or fatal. “Without treatment, up to 90% of animals will die,” explained Chief Veterinarian Melia Washington of The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City. “Even with treatment, we only tell people it’s a 50/50 shot.” Traditionally, treatment focuses almost entirely on supportive care, relying on the puppy’s ability to fight the virus naturally. However, in May 2023, the USDA granted a conditional license for the first-ever canine parvovirus treatment, which experts hope will change the outcome for many dogs. What are the Warning Signs? If your puppy does contract parvo, time is of the essence. The sooner you see a veterinarian and start treatment, the better their chance of survival. Watch out for these common warning signs: Vomiting Diarrhea (including bloody diarrhea)Loss of appetite Sudden high feverLethargyDepressionYou should seek veterinary care if you notice signs that something is “off” in a young puppy, especially if it occurs before the puppy has completed all recommended puppy vaccines. Puppies are vulnerable, and a minor illness can turn life-threatening very quickly when left unaddressed. How Can You Keep Your Puppy Safe? The most important step in keeping your puppy safe from canine parvovirus is to ensure that you stick to the recommended vaccination schedule. Puppies should receive vaccines at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, and the vaccine will not be fully effective until all three rounds have been administered. Socialization is crucial for puppies, but you must take extra care before they are fully vaccinated. Avoid high-risk locations like dog parks, kennels, and doggy daycares. If your puppy is being introduced to other dogs, ensure the other dog is fully vaccinated. The best way to socialize a young puppy with other dogs is to do so with dogs you know, like those owned by family and friends. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions or are unsure if a situation will be safe for your puppy. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Whether you want to take your cat on outdoor adventures or want to be sure your kitty will be easier to find if they dart out the door, a cat collar can give you peace of mind. The tricky part is training your feline to wear a collar. Although this can be a little challenging, it isn’t impossible, and some cats take to it more readily than others.Keep reading to learn about some of the ways to get your cat used to wearing a collar.

Pretty Plants that Will Stop Cats from Pooping in Your Garden

Whether you own a cat or neighboring felines like to frequent your backyard, chances are you have come across half-buried cat poop in your flower beds. Cat lover or not, you probably weren’t thrilled to discover these unsightly deposits in your garden.Although cat poop won’t harm your garden, it also won’t add much to the overall appeal of it either, especially if the cats decide to dig their own toilets in the middle of your flower patch. In addition to preserving the aesthetics of your garden, there are several other reasons you may want to stop cats from pooping in your backyard. Keeping cats away will ensure the garden stays clean and safe for young children to play in. Plus, it will help protect wild birds that visit your garden, especially if you have a bird feeder or two.Besides being unsightly, cat poop in the garden can carry a parasite, called Toxoplasma gondii, which is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and unborn babies. For this reason, it’s super important that you wear gloves when you clean cat poop from your garden. As an added precaution against nasty infections, always use gloves when gardening.Are you sick and tired of cats using your garden as their personal toilet? There are several things you can do to preserve your outdoor oasis that don’t include the use of cruel booby-traps or startling devices.All you have to do is buy the right plant - one that cats hate but will look great in your garden. Although technically a weed, the curry plant is one of the best plants to deter cats from pooping in your garden. Scientifically known as Helichrysum italicum, the curry plant is a small, bushy evergreen shrub with linear-shaped silver-gray leaves. The leaves have a strong odor, reminiscent of curry, that acts as a potent cat deterrent. When a cat brushes against a curry plant, its leaves release a strong odor that attacks a cat’s sense of smell. Plus, the curry plant also has a coarse texture that cats hate. Many gardeners agree that curry plants act as excellent cat deterrents saying that cats stopped pooping in their gardens after they planted curry plants. Since the curry plant is essentially a weed, plant it sparingly so it won’t spread and take up too much space. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to plant curry plants in your garden, plant lavender instead. A popular ornamental plant, lavender has pretty purple flowers and a delicate and sweet smell with herbal undertones. It’s that delicate smell that will help keep cats away from your garden!Cats have more than 200 million odor sensors in their noses and anything that emits a strong smell, like lavender, will be off-putting. Luckily, lavender is easy to grow and you can plant it in any part of your garden or containers. This gives you the freedom to plant lavender exactly where the cats like to poop to deter them. Many cats also dislike the smell of rosemary, rue, pennyroyal, citronella, oregano, geraniums, lemon thyme, and coffee. Any of these plants can act as a natural barrier and discourage cats from entering your garden and using it as a toilet. Although there are other ways to deter cats from pooping in your backyard, planting plants is an entirely natural and non-toxic option that isn’t harmful to the cats or you. It’s also cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

How Do I Get Cat Odor Out of the Carpet?

Cats are incredible companions and loving family members, but bringing a feline friend into your home can sometimes come with some unpleasant and unwanted odors. If you’ve ever dealt with the scent of cat urine or other feline-related odors in your carpet, you know how frustrating it can be.Fortunately, there are many effective methods to eliminate these odors and leave your carpet smelling clean and fresh, including both commercial cleaning products and DIY solutions.In this post, I will share techniques and tips to help you banish cat odor from your carpet once and for all, whether fresh or dried. Plus, I’ll address cleaning methods for other surfaces in your home that may be hanging onto odors, like blankets, clothing, and hard surfaces.Being a cat parent doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a clean home!Why Does Cat Urine Smell So Bad?If you have ever shared a space with a cat, you know cat urine has a distinct smell. This means not only bathroom accidents but even the scent of the urine in their litterbox. What gives it such a pungent odor? There are several reasons why this happens.Cats are believed to have evolved from desert animals, meaning their bodies have adapted to survive in hot climates with limited hydration. Their bodies are more effective at absorbing and retaining water to lower the risk of dehydration. As a result, their urine is much more concentrated than, for example, our urine. This makes the odor more prominent.As the urine sits, whether in a litter box or on your carpet, bacteria break down the urea in the urine. This process releases smelly gases that carry the characteristic ammonia smell. The longer the urine sits, the more it will break down and the more pungent that smell will become.Factors that Could Make Your Cat’s Urine Smell WorseWhile cat urine is known to have an unpleasant ammonia smell, there are factors that could make that smell less noticeable (or even worse). This doesn’t eliminate the risk of cat odor in your carpets, but it is an important consideration when trying to limit the smells in your home. If you have noticed your cat’s pee has a stronger or more unpleasant smell than usual, here are a few things you should consider:Urine ConcentrationWe mentioned that cat urine is more concentrated, but this doesn’t mean it can’t become even stronger and more intense in some cases. This is usually the result of severe dehydration (your cat isn’t drinking enough water) or kidney disease and complications that impact your cat’s ability to process or absorb water. Consider it a red flag if you notice the smell from your cat’s litter box is stronger than usual.Feline DiabetesIf your cat suffers from feline diabetes, their body fails to process and regulate sugar levels properly. This can make their urine smell sweeter or give it a fruity scent. On one hand, this may seem more pleasant as the smell is less troublesome than the typical ammonia smell. But it is a sign of health complications that should be addressed for your cat’s health and well-being.Urinary Tract Infection Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in cats, especially as they age. If your cat suffers from a UTI, their urine may have a more pungent or fishy odor. UTIs also impact your cat’s ability to pee normally, which can lead to more accidents outside of the box. The good news is that these infections are usually easy to treat. With antibiotics, most cats recover in 7 to 10 days. However, you need to contact your veterinarian to start the treatment process.DietYour cat's food can directly impact their waste, changing the smell of your cat’s urine. For example, you may notice a stronger ammonia smell if they eat a high-protein diet. If you recently noticed a change in the scent of your cat’s urine, take a moment to reconsider what they have been eating lately (including both food and treats), and you may identify the cause.Medical ConcernsThere are several illnesses and diseases that could change the way your cat’s urine smells. It could be because the illness impacts their kidney function or changes the chemical composition of their urine. The only way to rule out medical explanations is by making an appointment with your veterinarian.

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