Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014 by Jenni Ferreira

Kittycat online magazine

Thinking of

Getting A Cat? Beware

Kitten Scams

Breed Profile

Balinese FIRST

ISSU

Kitten

First Aid 2014 Cat Show

Calendar

January|February 2014

www.kittycat.co.za

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Contents Message from the Editor 1 Contributors 2 Breed Profile The Balinese 3 Just for Fun Legend of the Tabby M

Adding a kitten to your family Thinking of getting a cat? 17 Information for New Kitten Owners 21 Preparing for your new kitten 23 Keeping your Kitten Healthy 25 Kitten First Aid 29 Warning! Beware Kitten Scams 33 Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Got Talent Introducing Anet du Toit, Artist

Sharing your Kitty Tales How I met my Cat

Your Letters Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk about cats

Show Biz 41 Book Review 52 Rescue Stories Happy Endings 53 The Pink Pages Breeder and Pet Services Directory

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Message from

Message from The Editor

Pic of Jenni Ferreira

The aim is to help educate people e.g. potential cat owners and new kitten owners that don’t know much about cats, and those that would love to learn more about cats, by sharing cat stories, medical advice and tips from vets, and also to share cat show news and results with cat show enthusiasts. Readers are encouraged to submit stories about their cats, photographs and letters and questions are welcome at any time. Each issue will feature a specific breed of cat and Happy Ending stories.

Welcome to the very first issue of Kittycat Magazine. Cats ... I can speak about cats all day long! My cat friends can too! Some call me the Crazy Cat Lady and they probably wouldn’t be wrong. I’m owned by gorgeous Balinese cats, I’ve been a cat sitter for the last 7 years and enjoy cat photography. My cats are my children, they are part of my family, I love them to bits and will do anything and everything I can to make sure they are healthy, happy and safe. When Retha Scholtz, Founder of Kittycat, approached me about launching an online magazine for Kittycat, it seemed like the perfectly natural thing to do. Kittycat Magazine is a bi-monthly online magazine for like minded people that are passionate about cats. All cats!

Our first issue features the beautiful Balinese. There are lots of tips for new owners adding a kitten to the family as well as warnings about kitten scams that are doing the rounds at the moment.

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Jenni Ferreira kittycat.editor@gmail.com LAYOUT AND DESIGN Jenni Ferreira Janine Pillay WEBSITE Retha Scholtz CONTRIBUTORS Dr Laurence John Behrens Dr Arnold Plotnick Elizabeth van Reenen Etrecia Bester International Cat Care Johan Lamprecht Patsy Smyth PHOTOGRAPHY

Our medical feature this month is about kitten first aid and how to keep your kittens healthy.

Jenni Ferreira Zwenneke Landkroon

We introduce you to Anet du Toit, fine art artist and share stories and tributes from proud owners about how they met their cats.

kittycat.advertising@gmail.com kittycat.classifieds@gmail.com

I hope you enjoy reading the debut issue of Kittycat Magazine as much as I’ve enjoyed putting it together for you.

P O Box 1220 Randburg 2125 South Africa

See you in March.

Email: kittycatsa@gmail.com Fax: 086 428 5044 www.kittycat.co.za

Jenni

Meet

The Cover Cat

ADVERTISING

ADDRESS

The Publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy, safety or performance of the info or products presented. The opinions expressed in the Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor / Publisher or Advertisers.

Our cover cat this month is 9 year old Amber, a lilac tortie Balinese owned by Jenni Ferreira.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Balinese Lilac Tortie Point Photo by Jenni Ferreira

The Editor reserves the right to edit material submitted. All material published in Kittycat is copyrighted by Kittycat. All rights reserved. Reproduction of material is prohibited without written permission.

Message from

Dr Laurence John Behrens, has always had a passion for cats and whilst studying at Onderstepoort, was president of The Cat Interest Group which aimed at getting more vet students interested in Felines. He was in charge of feral cat programmes where feral cats were caught, sterilised and released to maintain stable populations in factories and other feral colonies, and is still passionate about feral programs today. Dr Behrens is owned by 3 cats: Calvin (3 yr male Sphynx), Decan (2 year male Bambino) and Eva (4 month old female Sphynx), the latest addition to his family and his first breeding queen. His favourite part of feline medicine is Reproduction and he works closely with a lot of fantastic breeders in Gauteng. He enjoys educating them and the public on feline health.

Dr. Arnold Plotnick MS, DVM, ACVIM Dr. Arnold Plotnick is a boardcertified veterinary internist, feline specialist, and the owner of Manhattan Cat Specialists. In addition to his medical work, he is an award-winning veterinary medicine writer. He is a featured article writer in Cat Fancy magazine, an advice expert on CatChannel, and authors the blog â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cat Man Do.â&#x20AC;?

Above: Dr Laurence John Behrens with his beloved Eva (4 month old Sphynx)

Photo by Manahattan Cat Specialists

Dr Laurence John Behrens BSc: Veterinary Biology, BVSc

Photo by Theresa Fouche

Contributors

Dr Plotnick is owned by 2 cats, Crispy and Mittens.

Above: Dr Arnold Plotnick with a patient

International Cat Care (Formerly the Feline Advisory Bureau) A charity with the vision of a world where all cats, owned and unowned, are treated with care, compassion, and understanding. They work closely with the veterinary profession through their veterinary division, the International Society of Feline Medicine. All their work is reliant on donations and legacies. Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Ayden, Balinese Chocolate Tabby Point Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Breed Profile

Balinese

Ashton, Balinese Blue Point Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Origin

Pioneer breeders were Mrs Marian Dorsey of California (Rai-Mar Cattery) and Mrs Helen Smith of New York (Merry Mews Cattery), with Sylvia Holland, an English lady living in California, most closely associated with the development of the breed under her famous “Holland’s Farm’ Cattery. At first the breed was referred to as the ‘long-haired Siamese’ but by the late 1950’s the breed was recognized

by the name Balinese and placed on the Foreign Long Hair division of the Cat Fanciers’ Federation. Over the years, Cat Fanciers’ Associations all over the world have recognized them. Since the early days, the look of the Balinese cats has changed quite dramatically due to out-crossing with their Siamese cousins to achieve a true long-haired Siamese. Many Balinese breeders make a practice of introducing Siamese blood into their lines to improve the type and eye colour of Balinese. The short-haired kittens born as a result of these crosses are referred to as ‘variants’. These variants can make a valuable contribution to improving the Balinese type. The Balinese cats seen today are the result of much time and effort by a dedicated band of hard working breeders. Physical Characteristics Apparently Mother Nature decided that the already gorgeous Siamese could be made even more gorgeous by adding the long flowing coat to

the sleek body lines of this graceful oriental beauty. The Balinese is a svelte cat with long, tapering lines and a light but strong body structure. The head forms a long, tapering wedge with a long, straight profile. Ears are large and continue the wedge. Aside from the coat, the standard for the Balinese is identical to the Siamese breed standard. The Balinese coat is medium in length, fine and silky, without a downy undercoat. It lies close to the body, flowing toward the rear where it ends in a long, thin, gracefully plumed tail. Balinese have deep blue almond shaped eyes and pointed colours.

Photo by Dr Mirjam Kessler

The story of the Balinese began in the United States in the mid 50’s, when a longhaired kitten appeared among its shorthaired Siamese siblings. Initially the long-hair was considered an unfortunate mutation, but a few breeders in the USA were charmed and intrigued by these long-haired kittens appearing from time to time in litters of Siamese. These kittens were Siamese in type but had longer, silky hair and when mated were found to breed true. They consequently determined to establish them as a breed and to work towards recognition by the American associations.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Feetje van Patser, Chocolate Point Female Balinese Photographer/Breeder: Swanneke Landkroon www.cattery-patses.nl www.foto-z.nl

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Aagje van Patser, Chocolate Point Female Balinese Photographer/Breeder: Swanneke Landkroon www.cattery-patses.nl www.foto-z.nl

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Helmi Flick Cat Photography, www.helmiflick.com SGC and NW Avalon Pendragon of Noahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ark, Balinese b21

All Balinese kittens are born white but gradually develop their colour on the face, ears, paws and tail. The rest of the body is lighter. The coat takes a full year to develop its adult colour. Today the Balinese can be bred in several different colours including seal, blue, red, cream, chocolate, lilac, tortie and the foreign white without any points. Graceful Dancers of Bali The graceful physique and balance of the Balinese inspired one of the original breeders, Mrs Helen Smith, to propose the name Balinese, in honour of the equally poised and elegant temple dancers of Bali. There is something very special about the graceful and elegant carriage of this cat. The blue eyes and exquisite coat on the long muscular body add to the aristrocratic expression. Affection Personified Devoted to their owners, the Balinese are sensitive, affectionate and endearing. They love company, despite solitude and require considerable love and affection. If you work or have

“Balinese love to be around their owners and don’t enjoy being left alone for too long”

to be out a lot, it is a good idea to keep at least two of these affectionate cats together. Balinese demand attention and are sometimes referred to as Velcro Cats. They adore their owners and like nothing better than a cuddle or a lap to sit on and will often follow their own3 ers around the house. When you sit down, so will your Bali, on your lap or next to you. When you go to bed, your Bali

will to, and if permitted, will sleep on top of the covers, or underneath them, pressed right up against you. Balinese love to live in groups and unlike most other breeds, seem to have no need for their own space. If you have a couple or more Balinese they will share their whole life in close friendship. If their owner is not home, you will often find them sleeping entwined around each other. They are generally very good natured and get on very well with other breeds or even other pets. Intelligent, Lively and Communative The beautiful Balinese is rarely content to just sit back and look pretty. Extroverted, acrobatic, and athletic, this cat is no shrinking violet, but an active participant in it’s owner’s life. The Balinese character is very similar to that of the Siamese, very intelligent, lively and with a strong personality. They are curious about almost everything and are happiest at the centre of activity and enjoy being part of the family. They learn extremely quickly and can often be taught retrieving tricks. Balinese are playful and remain so throughout their lives. They can amuse themselves all day long with all sorts of cat toys, and will generally make good use of a scratching post. Although more even tempered than the Siamese with softer voices, they are very communicative and love to speak to their owners. How to care for your Bali Balinese are easy to care for because they have a single silky coat that doesn’t tangle or mat. All that is needed is an occasional brush or comb and routine nail clipping. More bathing and grooming is necessary for the show cats.

Balinese are quite content to live indoors. To prevent boredom, plenty of toys must be provided and space for them to exercise. They should not be left alone for long periods without company. What’s so great about a Balinese cat? Everything! Ask anyone who is owned by one of these fabulous felines what is so special about this graceful breed and you will set off a glowing monologue that ends only when the speaker is exhausted. Balinese make delightful companions, loving friends and great playmates. They are chatty, persistent, entertaining and sociable. When you share your life with a Balinese, you will have a best friend for life! Information sourced from:

• • • • •

The Complete Encyclopedia of Cats, Esther J J Verhoef-Verhallen The Cat Fancier’s Association, Inc. The Balinese and Siamese Cat Club American Cat Fanciers Association Dr Mirjam and Harald Kessler, Switzerland

Kitty Quote There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats. - Albert Schweitzer

A good diet and plenty of exercise is essential to maintain the Bali’s firm, tubular body and silky coat. Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Balinese Seal Tortie Point Balinese Blue Point

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Balinese Seal Tortie Point

Gr. Int. Ch Brentelmaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ilo Ihana, Chocolate Point Female Male Photographer/Breeder: Zwenneke Landkroon www.cattery-patses.nl www.foto-z.nl

Balinese Chocolate Point

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Anjee, Balinese Seal Tortie Point Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

What is it like to own Balinese? My love affair with the Balinese cats started at our first cat show in 1998. My husband and I were showing our first domestic cat, Toby and whilst walking around and looking at all the cats we came across the most amazing cats! Just like the elegant Siamese, but softened with a long flowing coat. We decided then and there that at some point in the future we would have one of these gorgeous cats to grace our home. Little did we know that it would take us 14 years to find our 2 girls. During those years we started our human family and decided to start breeding Siamese and Orientals as we could not find any Balinese that I was happy with.

eyes at least) and assisted with all the logistics required in order to get our girls here. Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Just for Fun v.uberwald of Maverick (Faith) and Lean on me v.uberwald of Maverick (Leni) landed in May 2012 without any hiccups or problems. I was so excited to meet them at last and have not regretted the decision one bit. The Balinese are really special cats and the girls slotted into our busy lifestyle and home with ease. They are such friendly, affectionate cats and greet us every evening with flowing tails held up high in the air.

Before we knew it 13 years had flown past and I decided I had to bite the bullet and import my dream cats.

I feel so honoured and lucky to have these 2 girls in our home. We should have our first Balinese kittens later this year - we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait!

We found a breeder in Germany who turned out to be a real gem. She helped us find the perfect kittens (in my

Natasha Greaves Maverick Cattery

Maverick Cattery Siamese, Oriental, Balinese & Maine Coon

Natasha Greaves maverickcatery@gmail.com www.maverickcattery.weebly.com 9

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Kittens occasionally available to approved homes

Balinese are gentle, curious, intelligent, observant, very affectionate and real cuddle bunnies. They are busy, playful and can be fairly vocal at times, especially the Tortie points! Life with a Balinese is certainly entertaining. I’m crazy about my Balinese family and can’t imagine life without them. Owned by Jenni Ferreira

A Balinese is affection and elegance personified on four feet. A Balinese loves you, and you must be informed about this at frequent intervals. When you sit down, he sits, too-on or beside you! When you go to bed, so does he, - and if you allow-of course on top of your cover, or under them. They learn extremely quick, are curious about almost everything and you can be sure that they always have new ideas how to get your attention. This is why for many people “once an balinese cat, means always a an balinese cat”. Dr Mirjam Kessler Blue Moon Cattery Switzerland

Owned by Dr Mirjam Kessler

Owned by Karen Balkin Hohenstein

Angelika Kneifel Noah’s Ark Cattery, Germany Balinese are the most wonderful cats - very elegant, graceful, and also powerful! They find their way into your heart by just one look into their amazing blue eyes! If you like action in your house, lots of affection and a true lapcat, get a Balinese! Never keep a Balinese alone, they need other feline company, no matter what breed they are!

To have only one could be lonely, two is forever company and a playmate, and undoubtedly love comes with that. To own Balinese cats, is to live and love all over again. Karen Balkin Hohenstein

Owned by Angelika Kneifel

I love Balinese cats. My first cat was a Balinese. Isn’t first love always something special? They are great companions. They comfort when you are sad, heal you when you are sick, are there when you need them. They come from all sides. Nothing like a Maine Coon. Their coat is softer than expensive designer silk. Their blue eyes are as deep as the sea.

Being first time owners of Balinese cats, we were unsure of what we were in for. From the day we brought them home and 6 years down the line, our lives have changed. Our beloved Dijon and Angelique are our “laat lammetjies”. Unlike other cats, we have found our babies are highly intelligent and love to socially interact with us. They love to follow us around the house, comparable to that what they say about dogs. They communicate vocally with us, in a way that is completely understood, asking for food, asking to play as well as asking us to please open the duvet as they would like to sleep underneath with us.

Owned by Jenni Ferreira

Helmi Flick Cat Photography, www.helmiflick.com SGC and NW Avalon Pendragon of Noah’s Ark, Balinese b21

Jenni Ferreira

Owned by Kathrin Amsler

Kathrin Amsler, Switzerland Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

A Tribute to my Balinese SmudgeWillow I was introduced to the wonderful Balinese in 1992 when SmudgeWillow came into my life. I have been passionate about the breed ever since and cannot imagine life without a Balinese (or three) in it to make me laugh!

Animal Eyes Photography www.animaleyes.com.au

Smudge came into my life just after my Dad passed away. He brought such great joy and my introduction to the glorious Balinese. He was to sleep in the laundry we said. He lasted 1/2 hour, then he came into our bed where he slept for the rest of his life in my arms, including his last night. His very last sleep was in my arms, the last thing he saw was me, the last thing he felt was me kissing him, as it should have been.

The Old and the New Coco and SmudgeWillow.

Smudge was my very first cat and no matter who appeared he was The King and he let them know! He was always there through thick and thin, he knew when I was sad and would come up for a pump and a purr.

Animal Eyes Photography www.animaleyes.com.au

He will live on forever as my cattery is named after him. There will be many SmudgeWillow kittens in the future! He even loved the new babies that would come out, even though he pretended he was the boss! I miss him so much, every single day, and am so glad that I met him and that he started my passion for this beautiful breed. ANCATS Diamond Db Gd Ch ANCATS Diamond National Db Gd Ch SmudgeWillow Honky Tonk Man (aka Bonkers Honkers as named by Chelsea my daughter)

Coco and his friend SmudgeWillow Pimpernel Pugh (Honky’s Mum) Linda Kitson Pawtraits lindakitsonpawtraits.com

It’s been hard to think of nicknames for this guy as his name suits him so much. I am soooo proud of him as he is a “home bred” cat. He is awesome on the bench, so funny, everyone knows who he is, just because he is!! I think he was Liberace in a past life as he’s such a showman! He has had an amazing show career, he went to his first show at 10 weeks in 2009 with his brothers and sisters!! He received his first Supreme Exhibit in Show at 4 1/2 months, the first of quite a few. First show as an adult (thinking we won’t do as well) he got another Supreme!

Honky loves a show ... especially with his Liberace feather boa Animal Eyes Photography www.animaleyes.com.au

Honky Tonk went on to win in 2010 ANCATS Reserve AllBreeds Cat of the Year, ANCATS Group 2 of the Year and ANCATS Reserve AllBreeds Alter Cat of the Year. Then in 2011 he hit it big with ANCATS AllBreeds Cat of the Year, ANCATS Group 2 of the Year and ANCATS AllBreeds Alter Cat of the Year. An amazing achievement for a wonderful show cat. I’m a firm believer in when you achieve the ultimate there is nowhere to go but down hence in 2012 and 2013 he wasn’t actively campaigned on the bench but still managed to achieve Reserve AllBreeds Alter Cat and Group 2 Cat of the Year in both years and in his

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Honky with his COTY 2011 Winnings

last show of 2013 achieved yet another Supreme Exhibit in Show!

Animal Eyes Photography www.animaleyes.com.au

He truly is the ultimate show pony and he adores them! But most importantly, he makes us laugh!! All the time!! ANCATS Diamond Db Gd Ch ANCATS Diamond National Db Gd Templeton Tutti Frutti (aka Princess Alice) We were so lucky to have this princess come to join our little family. We are proud to have benched Alice in 2011 as she was the first bi colour Balinese ever to be shown in Australia. And what a year she had! So many Best in Shows, Reserve Supremes and Supreme Exhibits I lost count. She is a delight on the bench, such a dainty little ballerina. She seduces the judges with her amazingly beautiful eyes. Her end of year results that year were amazing and she was only pipped at the post by Honky Tonk. 2011 2011 2011 2011

ANCATS ANCATS ANCATS ANCATS

Balinese of the Year Entire Kitten of the Year Third Entire Cat of the Year Reserve Group 2

She has been off the bench as she was supposed to have babies but unfortunately decided she really didn’t like boys and had been desexed and lives the life of a princess with her Mum. She developed cysts on her belly last year and so wasn’t shown, but they have disappeared and this year she will be coming out of retirement to have some fun on the bench.

Princess Alice looking fabulous

Animal Eyes Photography www.animaleyes.com.au

WNCA Diamond Gd Ch WNCA National Ch Norlyn Cococobana (aka Coconutcat, Dudie, Doodley) 29/8/2000 - 2/8/2013 This boy was my soulmate and I adored the ground he walked on! I met him at 10 weeks old and he came to live with me at 6 months due to being a monorchid, bad luck for the breed but such good luck for me. He was the ultimate show cat, a supreme gentleman on the bench. In his 9 1/2 years on the bench he had won many BIS and Supreme Exhibits under both local and overseas judges. He loved going to shows and got so excited when he had his bath. He even presented his paws for nail clipping. He was also my daughters first cat to present for Junior Handlers when she was only 5 and could barely see over the top of him. At her first show she had to climb into the crate to bring him out! I feel so lucky to have shared my life with him and he made showing such a pleasure. He will always be a superstar in my eyes. He is my inspiration and every Balinese I breed I hope lives up to Coco’s standards! Jen Rogers SmudgeWillow Balinese & Oriental Longhairs Australia

Honky at 10 weeks at his first show. Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Just for Fun

Legend of the Tabby M

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Author Unknown

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

One Christmas Eve about 2 millenniums ago, a man and a woman [who was heavy with her pregnancy] were making their way to Bethlehem, for the census. Their going was slow, and they were late arriving. The only accommodation available was clean straw in a stable barn.

blessings of God, and she touched him on his forehead. There, to this day, you will find Mary’s mark of the letter “M” on the forehead of all tabby cats. (The “M” sits between the eyes on the forehead).

That wonderful night, the tired lady gave birth to a baby boy, whom she called Jesus. It wasn’t very comfortable in the stable. They were sharing it with animals and the noise kept them awake. The baby was quite fussy because of all the commotion, and because the straw was scratching him. His Mother wrapped him in some fine linen to try and alleviate his fussiness. A few streets away, there were some stray cats out looking for a meal. They [like everyone else] knew that something really big and special had happened, and they could hear a baby crying, not too far away. They made their way towards the noise and commotion, curious as to what was happening.

“There, to this day, you will find Mary’s mark of the letter “M” on the forehead of all tabby cats.”

The scene was beyond anything they had ever seen. The stabled animals had settled somewhat, but there were throngs of people gazing at the child, and the night was like day because of the brightness in the heavens. But, still the baby fussed. One of the stray cats went towards the baby, and climbed in to the makeshift bed with the child, and offered him a warm soft place to lay his head. The child was comforted and fell asleep right away. The Mother was of course Mary, and she was so thankful that the cat had settled her baby. She thanked him profusely, and said that henceforth, all of his progeny would bear the Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Thinking of getting a cat?

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Article courtesy of International Cat Care www.icatcare.org

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Having a cat can mean different things to different people. Some want a cat to cuddle and sit on their laps; others are happy to live with a very independent cat which spends most of its time outside and doesn’t want too much human interaction. What is important is that you try to find a cat that will interact with you if you want it to. All cats are not the same and how each individual cat behaves with you can depend on its inherent personality, early experiences (or lack of experiences) which can make it fearful or confident with people and life in general. The environment in which you keep a cat is also extremely significant - for example if it lives with many other cats which do not get on, then it will be stressed and will react differently than if it was on its own. While there is no guaranteed way to choose the perfect cat for you and your lifestyle, understanding your expectations as well as what makes cats tick will help you to bring home a cat that should be able to cope with its new environment and be the pet that you want too. To care for a cat you will need to: Provide plenty of human companionship Provide regular, suitable meals with a constant supply of fresh water Provide a clean and comfortable bed Provide the cat with outdoor access or be prepared to empty and clean a litter tray on a daily basis Provide it with a stimulating and safe environment Groom it regularly. Longhaired cats require daily grooming Have it neutered between 4 and 6 months old Vaccinate against the major feline diseases regularly Worm regularly and provide treatment for fleas Take the cat to the vet when it shows

any sign of illness Insure your cat or make sure you can afford the cost of any veterinary treatment it may need How much care and attention does a cat need? As pets go, cats are relatively low maintenance compared to dogs which need companionship, walking, training etc. However, like any pet, they do need care, and some cats need more care than others. Do you want to spend a lot of time with your cat, do you want it to be demanding, or do you have limited time? Cats can fit into busy, modern lifestyles more easily than dogs, as they are pretty independent, can be left alone much more easily and are more suitable for smaller flats or houses. Cats are often chosen by people who have busy and stressful lifestyles and who want some companionship when they go home to relax. What do you want from your relationship with a cat? If you’re the kind of person who really needs to have a close relationship with your cat and to be able to handle it and have it interact with you, then you’ll be disappointed if you take on a nervous cat that hides every time you come into the room. You may want to think about one of the pedigree breeds which can be more interactive and perhaps more needy of human company than some moggies. This may however become a problem for the cat if you are out at work all day and only available to give attention on evenings or weekends. Some cats need to know exactly what’s going to happen when, in order to feel relaxed. Such cats would be quite happy living with an old lady who rarely has visitors and leads a very quiet life, but would probably find it quite stressful living in a home full of kids and other animals with lots of visitors and activity. Other cats, however, might thrive on different interactions with lots of people and fit in perfectly well in a busy household. If you’re not likely to have the time or inclination to groom a cat on a daily basis, don’t even think of getting a Persian or a cat with a long coat. In

pedigree jargon, any cat with a longer coat, aside from a Persian, is called semi-longhaired because the coat is not as full as the Persian’s and does not have such a thick undercoat; however, it is still long and requires grooming. In addition, if you are extremely house-proud, you may not want lots of hair everywhere. A shorthaired cat is a much easier option, as most cats are fanatical about their coats and keep them in immaculate condition. That’s not to say that they don’t leave hairs around – bear this in mind if you’re thinking of getting a white cat but have dark furniture, or vice versa. Likewise, a cat is quite likely to sharpen its claws indoors, often on the stair carpet, sometimes on the furniture or even on the wallpaper. Whether your cat does this can depend on the cat itself and also the environment you provide for it; however there are things you can do to try and deal with this, but it is best to acknowledge from the outset that your cat is an animal with free will and natural behaviour that may not suit someone who needs to have an immaculate house. Can I keep a cat on vegetarian food? Are you a vegetarian and want your cat to be one too? If you want a vegetarian pet that won’t challenge your beliefs, then it would be better to get a rabbit – a cat is a carnivore first and foremost, and looks and behaves as it does for just this reason. A cat is what is called an obligate carnivore – it has an absolute need for some of the nutrients found in meat and all of its senses of smell and taste are atuned to being a carnivore – it would be unfair and very dangerous to health to even attempt keeping it as a vegetarian. Is there a type of cat which doesn’t hunt? You may have a great aversion to your cat hunting outside. Perhaps you are a bird lover, or are simply unable to deal with small carcases on the floor. Hunting is normal behaviour for cats. Keeping a cat indoors may prevent it actually killing anything, but it will still need an outlet for this, its most Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

instinctive behaviour, and not all cats will be happy with an indoor lifestyle. Likewise, if you’re simply getting a cat to keep vermin at bay, you won’t want to find yourself with one which isn’t especially interested in huntin’, shootin’ and fishin’ and prefers being a couch potato! Older cats are likely to hunt much less than younger ones and some cats don’t bother at all, but there is no easy way to know how a cat will behave. Can I keep a cat indoors? If you think about the lifestyle of a cat which has access outdoors you will realize that being outdoors brings a huge variety to its life and allows it to use all of its hunting behaviours if it wants to. Of course there are risks outside for cats, but you need to balance these with the very positive aspects of physical and mental stimulation and an outlet for natural behaviour. Can I have a cat with a baby or young children? There is no reason not to have a cat or kitten if you have children. It is up to parents to teach their children from the very beginning how to approach, stroke and handle cats and to treat them kindly. Many children have fantastic relationships with their cats and learn about respecting other creatures and being gentle – it is done successfully all the time, but it is up to parents to lay down the rules. Perhaps taking on a new kitten when you have a new baby or a toddler might be a lot to handle at once, so ensuring you have time for all the parties is part of a successful relationship. Likewise if you are pregnant there is no need to get rid of the cat. Simple and basic hygiene precautions and common sense management of the cat while the baby is small can ensure all cohabit happily and safely. Should I get an adult cat or a kitten? A kitten gives you the opportunity to take on an animal right from the beginning and treat it and care for it so that it gets the best start in life. And you will be able to get some idea of its character. However, kittens require a

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

lot of attention and some forethought to prevent them getting into trouble. If you leave them alone you have to make sure they will be safe while you are away. You may also have to organise neutering, initial vaccinations and so on, depending on where you get your kitten from. While kittens have a huge ‘cute’ factor, it is worth remembering that they don’t stay kittens for very long – just six months out of a potential 14 years or more. With adult cats, it is at least clear if they are long or short haired. You should be able to get a good idea of a cat’s personality, although if it is being kept in less than ideal circumstances and is stressed or frightened it may act very differently compared to when it is relaxed. A confident adult cat is likely to move in and settle down quite quickly; a nervous one may take more time. It will be much easier to leave an older cat alone in the knowledge that it is not going to get itself into trouble, and it will generally be much less hard work and worry than a kitten. An adult cat will probably already be neutered and vaccinated. What sex of cat should I get? The sex of a kitten doesn’t really matter, as long as you neuter your kitten before it reaches puberty (at about four months of age) when the influence of sex hormones kick in. Un-neutered cats may exhibit unwelcome reproductive behaviours. For example, un-neutered male cats will mark their territory with strong smelling urine while un-neutered female cats can come into season every two weeks if they do not become pregnant.

If you are getting just one cat or kitten, it doesn’t matter which sex you choose. Equally, if you want two kittens and you are getting two from the same litter, the sex of either cat is probably not important. However, if you have a resident cat and are getting just one kitten or another cat, it may be worth considering going for one of the opposite sex to try and remove some of the competition factor. A kitten may be a better option than another adult cat in such cases as the young cat’s immaturity seems to re-

move this competition factor - for a while anyway during which time you hope they will get to like each other! Neutering also removes the need for so much competition and makes the choice of sex much less important. Should I choose a specific breed or moggie? The majority of cats kept as pets are what we call moggies or domestic short or long haired cats – that is they are a random mixture of lots of different cats, we have often have little idea about their parentage (well the father anyway). This means we have no control over the colour, body shape, coat length or anything else that the kittens can inherit from their parents. So, for example, if your kitten is from a moggie mum but its father is unknown, it may develop a longer coat than you desire if the father was indeed longhaired. There is more to choosing a pedigree cat than just liking a certain coat colour or length – there are ethical considerations with some breeds if you really want to consider the cat’s welfare. There are also health issues which you need to check with the breeder and things you need to ask. Good breeders aim to breed healthy, people-friendly cats and avoid (or seek -friendly cats and avoid (or seek to deal with) inherited disorders which arise. What breed of cat should I choose? There are many different breeds, some of which will require extra care and attention, for example if they have a very long coat or even no coat at all. Some pedigree cats are more people orientated and may not like to be left alone for long periods if you are out all day at work and it may be worth getting two kittens together for company – do your research about the breed you are interested in. Always make sure that health comes first, no matter what the ‘look’. Can I have a cat if I have a dog? If you have other pets there should not be a problem in getting a cat, but you just need to make sure that you take everything into consideration. If you have a dog you just need to make sure that you make introductions carefully so that your new cat is

not chased or injured while the dog gets used to it. Not all dog types make good companions for cats. How many cats can I have together? It’s very easy to ‘collect’ cats – they’re addictively beautiful, they’re small and they’re quite easy to care for. Even if they don’t get on, they tend to remove themselves from the situation rather than fight. However, there may be a great deal of tension between cats which owners just don’t pick up on. Cats originate from a largely solitary species and although they can live in groups these are usually related individuals or self-selecting – cats are not sharing space with cats that they don’t get on with. Cats may start to spray or soil in the house because they’re trying to deal with a situation where they feel under stress because of other cats, and this might be all that owners notice. If you have two cats living together very successfully then think very carefully before you add more. If you have three cats living well together then thank your stars and quit while you’re ahead! The trouble with adding more is that it might not be just the relationship between the resident cats and the new one that causes problems; it may upset the whole equilibrium of the resident cats’ relationship and introduce difficulties even between the original cats as tension and stress levels rise. Any new cat needs careful introduction. The best way to have two compatible cats is to choose siblings. These will have grown up together, and this usually bodes well for a good future relationship (although never guaranteed!). What does it cost to keep a cat? If you are buying a pedigree cat then there will be associated costs and these may be quite large. Pedigree kittens usually come vaccinated and in some cases already neutered. If you are getting a cat from a rescue organization then they may ask for a donation or a fee and again it will probably come already neutered and vaccinated.

Kittens or cats from friends or neighbours don’t usually come neutered or vaccinated, wormed, treated for fleas or anything else and it will be up to you to register with a vet and get these things done. Neutering is obviously a one-off cost, but several vaccinations will be required to make sure that a kitten is protected from infectious diseases; thereafter a regular booster vaccination will help to protect it during its life (requirements depend on the cat’s lifestyle and risks associated with that – your vet can advise you). Then there is food, preventive health care regarding treatment for fleas and ticks and worms, cat litter if you want or need an indoor litter tray, beds and grooming equipment if you take on a longhaired cat. Microchipping is also recommended in case your cat goes missing. We recommend that you also insure your cat so that if an accident or illness happens then you do not have to worry about the costs. Choose your insurance carefully to make sure you get what you expect or need. I am allergic to cats – is there any breed which is better than others? Many people think it’s a cat’s hair that causes us to react to them by sneezing, wheezing or itching. In fact it’s a protein or allergen called Fd1, present in feline saliva, which causes the allergy. Because cats groom themselves regularly they have saliva all over their coat. This dries on the coat and when the cat scratches, moves or brushes past objects the dust or dander and the hairs which contain the allergen are spread about. Cat-lovers who really want to have a cat but are allergic sometimes think that by choosing a breed with less, little or no coat they can avoid the problem. However, as it is saliva that causes the problem, this is unlikely to help, and although longhaired cats do seem to cause more allergic reactions that’s probably only because, having more hair, they’re also covered with more allergen.

act or who have family members who are allergic. What should I do with my cat when I go on holiday? If you go away on holiday you also need to consider who is going to look after your cat. If you are only away for a day or two you can ask a neighbor to pop in and feed it and check it is OK. If you are away for more than this you may want to consider a boarding cattery, as many cats may wander looking for company. If you have a nervous cat it may hide when the feeder comes and he or she may not be able to be sure that everything is all right. A good boarding cattery will keep your cat safe and you can relax while you are away. There are bad boarding catteries however. When should I get a new cat? If you are considering getting a new cat or kitten, choose a time when it is quiet in your house (not in the middle of a family celebration etc) and perhaps when you have a day or two when you can help it to settle in and be there while it finds its way around, not just before you go on holiday etc.

The best way to have two compatible cats is to choose siblings.

Where do I get a cat from and how do I choose it? Once you have thought about the responsibilities and costs of keeping a cat and what type you want, then consider where you are going to get it and how you are going to choose your cat or kitten.

It’s worth trying out different cats by visiting friends with cats to see if they elicit less of an allergic reaction. Unfortunately it’s a very difficult problem to get around for people who reKittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Info for New Kitten Owners A General Reference Guide for New Kitten Owners Dr Laurence John Behrens, BSc: Veterinary Biology, BVSc (Pretoria)

This series of articles serves as a general reference point for new kitten owners, primarily written to be read before the kitten is adopted or bought, the information should be useful to anyone who is planning on getting a kitten or who has just got a kitten.

ety of kittens to choose from but be aware that these kittens MUST be tested for virus’ like FIV (Feline immunodeficiency virus) and FeLV (Feline Leukaemia virus) before being introduced into your household as we want to protect the pets you already have.

Getting a new Kitten?

Shopping for kittens online is definitely not a good idea.

Getting a new addition to the family can be tricky and finding the right fit is important. Deciding on a new kitten should be done slowly and not a brash decision as finding the PURRRfect fit will take time. Unfortunately the choice of kitten is often more an emotional choice than an objective one. Kittens and all pets need the best provided for them from a good food to annual health checks, if you can provide for all the needs of your new pet, happy hunting for the next addition to your family. Where to get a new kitten? Kittens are available from many different sources. Many people who want pedigree kittens must buy them from catteries with a good reputation and register kittens with SACC, CFSA and CASA. Buying kittens from a back yard breeder or a so called ‘bad breeder’ is a recipe for disaster. Find out from friends and family where they have had positive experiences adopting animals, even enquire at your local vet of any good breeders in the area of the breed kitten you are looking for. Welfare organisations or people fostering kittens also have a vari-

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

When going to a breeder to look at what kittens they have available for you, many good breeders will put you under the microscope to evaluate you and they want to know what type of home their kitten is going to. I also like to reverse this situation where the new pet owner should evaluate where the kitten is coming from with regards to cleanliness, cat health, parentage of kittens, etc. If a breeder won’t show you the parents (where both are available) they are hiding something and I would tend not to support this breeder. You get so many fantastic breeders out there with great breeding ethics and feline care, but you also get some bad breeders which should not be supported. In my experience, many people go to a breeder and see a cute kitten and fall in love with this kitten, not thinking about the situation logically and adopting/buying this kitten for emotional reasons. Try not to fall into this trap. Never buy a sick kitten: this is a recipe for heart break as this new kitten could have a variety of things wrong with it from FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis), birth defects, FIV, FeLV, Snuffles, Ringworm, as well as infect the rest of your cats established at home.

Don’t pick the smallest, sickest, weakest kitten in the litter as these are all signs of something wrong and you will not only be buying a kitten but problems associated with that sick kitten. Find out if the kittens have been vaccinated by a VET and hence checked out by a vet. Many kitten breeders vaccinate the kittens themselves and the kitten has never seen a vet and had a proper health check. Kittens should be vaccinated at least twice where the first vaccination is given at 6 to 8 weeks and the second 3 to 4 weeks later. Enquire what the kittens have been vaccinated with as various different vaccines are on the market. This will hopefully be a discussion in later issues of the magazine. Deworming is just as important, as any area where there is a high burden of animals, parasites are going to lurk, even in the cleanest of homes. Deworming as mentioned should be done routinely in young kittens as all the nutrients they consume, need to go into building blocks for growth.

At what age should you get/ adopt a new kitten: Many new owners want kittens as young as possible for various different reasons. It is very important in the social developmental process for the kittens, that they stay with the queens for the first 10 weeks at least. Many social cues are taught by the mother from 4 weeks of age starting from her teaching the kittens how to interact appropriately with her, then other cats and lastly other species like dogs and people. A kitten obtained very young often does not have well developed social behaviour and can become very needy, not interact well with other cats, inappropriately interact with people and other animals. This can be one of the many causes of aggression in an adult cat.

I got all my cats at 12 weeks old and they are well socialised with each other and have established a hierarchy within my living space. If a breeder wants to sell you a kitten at 5 to 6 weeks, ask them if they can keep your kitten longer so the kitten can learn from its mother. Many pet shops/breeders sell kittens as early as possible and take the kittens away from their mother at this early age as they want to sell these kittens before they require their first vaccinations and hence they make a bigger profit. With a long life ahead of you with this new kitten, a few weeks delay in introducing the cat into your home is negligible if you think about the years of problems you can have with a cat who has poor social development.

Why Own a Cat? There’s a danger you know. You can’t own just one, for the craving will grow. There’s no doubt they’re addictive, Wherein lies the danger, While living with lots, you’ll grow poorer and stranger. One cat is not trouble, and two are so funny, The third one is easy, the fourth one’s a honey The fifth is delightful, the sixth ones’s a breeze. You find you can live with a houseful, with ease. So how ‘bout another? Would you really dare? They’re really quite easy, but Oh Lord, the hair! With cats on the sofa and cats on the bed, And crates in the kitchen, its no bother, you said. They’re really no trouble, their manners are great. What’s just one more cat and one more little crate? The sofa is hairy, the windows are crusty. The floor is all footprints, the furniture’s dusty. The housekeeping suffers, but what do you care? Who minds a few noseprints and a little more hair? So let’s keep a kitten, you can always find room. And a little more time for the dust cloth and broom. There’s hardly a limit to the cats you can add, the thought of a cutback, sure makes you feel sad. Each one is special, so useful, so funny, The food bill grows larger, you owe the vet money.

Be sure to read the March/ April issue of Kittycat magazine for Part 2: Food and Diet, General Kitten Care and Early Spay and Neuter.

Your folks never visit, few friends come to stay, Except other cat folks, who live the same way. Your lawn has now died and your shrubs are dead, too. Your weekends are busy, you’re off with your crew. There’s cat food and vitamins, grooming and shots And entries and travel and motels, which cost lots. Is it worth it you wonder? Are you caught in a trap? Then that favorite comes up and climbs in your lap. His look says you’re special and you know that you will, Keep all of the kittens in spite of the bill. Some just for showing and some just to breed, And some just for loving, they all fill a need. Late evening is awful, you scream and you shout, At the cats on the sofa, who refuse to get up. The cats and the cat shows, the travel, the thrills, The work and the worry, the pressure, the bills. The whole thing seems worth it, the cats are your life. They’re charming and funny and offset the strife. Your lifestyle has changed, things just won’t be the same. Yes, those cats are addictive and so’s the cat game! Author Unknown

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Article courtesy of International Cat Care www.icatcare.org

You have decided on the cat or kitten you want. What do you need to prepare? How do you ensure you will be a good owner? The best way to attend to your cat’s wellbeing is to understand the needs of the species and use that knowledge to create a suitable environment. Some of the things that make a difference are very simple, but owners are often unaware of their importance. Sometimes it is easy to confuse what cats might want with what we want. But a cat is not a person. As you start to think like a cat other things will make more sense and you’ll start to look at your cat and its reactions in a very different way. Understanding its needs will help you to prepare well for your new cat or kitten. One thing we need to realise as owners is that, to the majority of cats, their environment is much more important to them than the humans that inhabit it! A good owner needs to understand how a cat’s environment impacts on it and makes it feel secure – this will

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

always improve the cat human relationship.

pet cats could also survive in the wild if they had to).

Safe territory

Think about the ‘den’ we call our homes, where we aim to give our cats safety. We think they’re safe inside and they may feel that way too. However, we may be unaware that another cat is ‘visiting’ through the cat flap or an open window, or causing anxiety by looking through the glass windows in the conservatory where the cat’s litter tray is sited. Perhaps the nextdoor cat waits outside the cat flap to pounce on your cat as it emerges. All of these things can make your resident cat feel very threatened and insecure.

Though we may think of cats as ‘domesticated’, we’re merely fiddling with millions of years of evolution of a creature that was, in the not too distant past, a solitary animal. Unless you’re a lion, or part of a related group still under maternal care, then as a cat – large or small – your natural instinct is to carve out a bit of the landscape big enough to provide you and (if you were female) your kittens with enough wildlife to feed you. Having done this, you don’t want another cat around to poach from your larder. So naturally, you’re very territorial, because it’s a matter of life or death. A wild cat or a feral cat (a domestic cat which lives a wild lifestyle without the direct help of man) will have a large territory to roam in, a smaller area that it will defend vigorously, and a small den where it feels safe. A female cat will use the den to have her kittens. That instinct still influences our cats, be they neutered, pampered pets or cats living wild (most

If you’re aware of the importance of these things you can take measures to ensure your cat actually does feel secure, such as by positioning the litter tray in a safe place and preventing other cats from coming in. If you provide a way in and out of the house using a cat door or catflap, security can be ensured by giving the cat a ‘key’ on its collar using a magnet or a microchip or electronic device so that it can open its own cat flap but other cats can’t get in. Some people

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Preparing for your new kitten

don’t have a cat door but simply let the cat in and out as it demands. What facilities will my cat or kitten need? We all know that a cat needs food and water and, if it stays indoors or is fearful of going out, a litter tray. However, there’s a bit more to it than that. More often than not we line up the food, the water and the litter tray so that they’re all close together and convenient for the cat to find and use. What’s wrong with that? Well, given the choice, a cat will drink well away from where it eats and will definitely eat and drink far away from where it goes to the toilet. Understanding a cat means understanding the need to separate these important resources. Here are things you will need: A litter tray and litter A cosy bed - It is not just the shape, size or fabric of a bed that matters, it can often be simply the position of the bed that will either attract or deter a cat from using it. Cats feel better higher up from where they don’t have to worry about what’s above and can see what’s happening below. There are lots to choose from and the top favourite will probably be your own bed! Safe places - cats need to have high places within a house to retreat to or just retire to for a safe, quiet nap, or to get out of the way of some household activity or visitor (person or dog). For more nervous cats this can be a godsend – somewhere to relax. Of course, cats also love cosy warm beds and often those which they can hide away in, especially if the cat is a little nervous. Private places are important for cats to escape from any perceived dangers. Owners need to respect that and not disturb cats while they are choosing to remain hidden. Kitten pen – if you are getting a kitten then the purchase, hire or borrowing of a kitten pen can be a godsend. You can use on of the cages people use for dogs in the back of a car or purpose made kitten or puppy pens which are roughly about 1m x .75m x .75m. Inside there is room for a bed and a litter tray and to put food and water. If you haven’t had a kitten in

the house for some time you will have forgotten how they get into everything and how their curiosity drives them into sometimes rather dangerous situations. If you can put them in the pen when you go out or at night you can be sure that they are not getting themselves into trouble. The pen also gives them time out if you have dogs, other cats or children as kittens do need a lot of sleep. They feel safe inside and soon learn to snuggle up in their bed. It is also brilliant for making introductions to dogs, cats and children so the kitten is protected but other animals can get used to it. Carrying basket – essential for trips to the vet or cattery and of course for bringing your new cat home. There are lots of different designs but the most important thing is to choose one that is secure and is easy to get the cat in and out of. Toys – cats love to play and anything from a scrap of paper to a cat activity centre can be the trigger. It is a great way to interact with your cat and also to give it an outlet for energy and instincts. However, there can be problems if owners play in the wrong way with their cats.

“A good owner needs to understand how a cat’s environment impacts on it and makes it feel secure” Identification is important, especially if your cat is going to go outside. At International Cat Care we recommend that all cats are microchipped but you may also want your cat to wear a collar for visible identification or to carry a ‘key’ to the cat flap.

that are also lockable in or out, flaps that are locked until opened by a magnet or an electronic key on the cat’s collar, and cat flaps that are triggered a the cat’s microchip (or can be programmed for several microchips if you have several cats). In areas where there is a high population of cats International Cat Care recommends that the cat flap/door chose is one which can exclude strange cats from coming into the house. Scratch post – a cat will instinctively sharpen it claws and mark its territory using scratching. Most cats will do this outside but may do it inside as well. A scratch post will give the cat a place to do this and prevent it using the furniture. Keeping your cat safe If you have not had a kitten in the house before (or it is a long time since you last had one) then perhaps a quick audit of the house to highlight areas of danger would be a good idea. There are things which are poisonous to cats; there are products which will burn paws or skin; there are situations to avoid. It is best to remove poisonous plants and substances and make sure there are no small items such as needles and thread left lying around etc. Now you are ready for your new cat or kitten! Make sure you take your cat basket to pick up your new feline and do not have it loose in the car. www.icatcare.org International Cat Care (formerly the Feline Advisory Bureau) is a charity with the vision of a world where all cats, owned and unowned, are treated with care, compassion, and understanding. We work closely with the veterinary profession through our veterinary division, the International Society of Feline Medicine. All our work is reliant on donations and legacies.

A cat flap? The cat flap has been the making of cat keeping – it allows the cat free access to the outdoors without having to leave a door or window open, so the house is still secure and the cat doesn’t have to live outdoors until it’s let in. There are now a wide range of flaps available, simple flaps Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Keeping your kitten healthy Symptom Solver – A Short Reference Guide to a Kitten’s Symptoms Dr Arnold Plotnick MS, DVM, ACVIM www.manhattancats.com

Recently, a good Samaritan brought me a lone kitten that she had found huddled near some garbage cans in a parking lot close by her apartment complex. Scrawny and frail, with both eyes crusted shut, this tiny kitten was in rough shape. “I can’t keep him”, she said, “but I couldn’t just let him sit out there by herself”. Physical examination revealed a number of abnormalities. A thick discharge from both eyes had hardened, pasting both eyes shut. A similar discharge was oozing from both tiny nostrils. Both ears were brimming with dark, crusty material. Fleas could be seen scurrying through his dirty orange fur. After a brief discussion, my client agreed to relinquish the kitten to our hospital. As I work for a large humane organization, I explained that I would do my best to treat the multitude of ailments that afflicted this kitten, and if successful, he would be offered for adoption through our Animal Placement service. Named “Dandelion” by one of our technicians, we began formulating a treatment plan for his various troubles. Fleas, ear mites, and upper respiratory infections are but a few of the common ailments that tend to afflict kittens. A basic knowledge of the widespread kitten disorders and their symptoms, along with prompt veterinary care, is essential to ensure a successful journey through kittenhood. Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are very common in kittens. Usually caused by a virus, they often result in sneezing, ocular discharge, nasal discharge, drooling, congestion, fever, and poor appetite. The most common culprit is the rhinotracheitis virus; it causes profuse sneezing and a watery or mucoid nasal discharge. Calicivirus causes milder respiratory

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

signs, however, it can cause ulcers on the tongue and in the mouth, resulting in drooling and poor appetite. Conjunctivitis in both eyes often accompanies these symptoms. Conjunctivitis can also be due to chlamydia, a common bacterial pathogen isolated from cats with viral upper respiratory infections. Dr. Anne Sinclair is the owner of Cat Sense Feline Hospital and Boarding, Inc., a feline-exclusive veterinary hospital in Bel Air, Maryland. “Many of the kittens I examine have symptoms of an upper respiratory infection”, she says. “The worst cases tend to be in kittens obtained from places where crowding is a problem, such as a pet store or a shelter”. Treatment of URIs requires supportive care in the form of oral antibiotics and medicated eye ointments. After moistening and removing the matted material, Dandelion was revealed to have two bright blue (and very inflamed) eyes. We began oral antibiotics, and applied oxytetracycline ointment to both eyes. Luckily, most kittens recover from these respiratory infections. Kittens who have a hard time defeating a respiratory infection, or who get repeated bouts of these infections may have an underlying infection with a virus that suppresses the immune system, such as the Feline Leukemia Virus. The Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a serious pathogen with worldwide distribution. While there is a strong, natural, age-related resistance to FeLV in adult cats, kittens less than a year of age are at greater risk of infection. The virus can be transmitted through close contact, such as mutual grooming, sharing of food and water bowls, and litter pans. It may also transmitted from the mother to kittens in utero. The virus sup-

presses the immune system of cats, making them susceptible to a variety of diseases, such as respiratory infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and gastrointestinal disorders. As there are no successful treatments for infection with this virus, all kittens should be tested for FeLV as early as possible. Fortunately, Dandelion’s test was negative. Ear mites live on the surface of the skin, and are a common problem in kittens. The mites feed on debris in the ear canal. Ear mites are responsible for 50 – 84% of all ear infections in cats. Symptoms include scratching of the ears, head shaking, and a dark-brown, crusty ear discharge. There will often be some self-trauma around the ears and face, due to the intense itching caused by the mites. Many veterinary products, as well as over-the-counter products, require frequent application in an often uncooperative pet, making the process time consuming and labor intensive. Injectable medications, such as ivermectin, and topical products, such as selamectin, have made treatment of these pesky mites much easier for the average cat owner. Fleas have been a nuisance to pets and pet owners for ages. Although traditionally treated with sprays and powders, great strides have been made in the last decade in the development of safe and highly effective methods of flea control. Oral (e.g. lufenuron, nitenpyram) and topical ( e.g. imidacloprid, fipronil, selamectin) preparations, usually administered once a month, have revolutionized our ability to control fleas. Some of these products, however, have age and/or weight restrictions, and must be used with caution in kittens, especially those that are sick or debilitated. Such was the case with Dandelion. We played it safe, and simply removed all fleas from his hair coat by carefully and meticu-

lously combing them out with a flea comb. Fleas are also suspected to be involved in the transmission of Mycoplasma haemofelis (formerly known as Hemobartonella), a parasite that can infect red blood cells and cause anemia. Cats less than 3 years of age are at higher risk. Despite the name, ringworm is not a worm. It is a fungus that has an affinity for the haircoat of cats, especially kittens. Symptoms include small patches of hair loss, scaling, redness, and crusting anywhere on the body, although there is an affinity for the head, especially the hair around the eyes, ears, nose, and lips. Ringworm can be spread to other cats, as well as to people. Treatment usually involves a combination of oral antifungal medication as well as some form of topical therapy, such as a shampoo and/or ointment. Thankfully, Dandelion had no evidence of ringworm infection. Intestinal parasites have been a concern for veterinarians and pet owners for decades. Many kittens are infected with roundworms through nursing. Most infections produce mild clinical symptoms, although heavily parasitized pets may become quite ill. The classic symptoms include an unthrifty, “potbellied” appearance and diarrhea. Occasionally, the kitten will vomit up a roundworm, allowing for a rather graphic diagnosis. Hookworms are common intestinal parasites of puppies; kittens are rarely affected. Hookworms are blood-sucking parasites and can cause serious anemia if not treated promptly. Coccidia are protozoan parasites that are rarely found in adult cats, but are relatively common in kittens, especially those obtained from unsanitary, multi-cat environments, i.e. poorly run shelters, catteries, and pet-stores. Diarrhea, flecked with bright red blood, in association with straining and increased frequency of defecation are classic symptoms of coccidiosis. Giardia is a protozoan parasite that occasionally affects kittens, causing soft, light-colored, greasy stools. Severe infections can cause

growth retardation as a result of malabsorption of nutrients. Most intestinal parasites are relatively easily diagnosed, and there are many effective treatments for each of them. A stool sample obtained the same day Dandelion was admitted to our hospital was positive for roundworms, and he was dewormed soon afterward. Of the many viral diseases of cats, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is perhaps the most cruel, and maybe the most misunderstood. The disease is caused by a type of virus called a coronavirus, and many coronavirus strains have been isolated from domestic cats. Coronaviruses of low virulence that reproduce themselves only in intestinal cells have been called feline enteric coronaviruses (FECV). Feline enteric coronaviruses typically cause mild, self-limiting diarrhea in kittens and young cats. Considerable experimental evidence has shown that the intestinal coronaviruses occasionally mutate into a more invasive strain of coronavirus. This new invasive mutation is much more virulent, and can produce the clinical disease syndrome known as FIP. There are two major forms of FIP: the “wet” form and the “dry” form. The wet form is characterized by fluid accumulation in body cavities, such as the chest (less common) and/or the abdomen (more common). Fluid accumulating in the chest can cause breathing difficulties. Fluid accumulating in the abdomen can give a pot-bellied appearance, similar to that seen in cats with a high burden of intestinal worms. FIP also causes lethargy, poor appetite, weight loss, and a fever that does not respond to antibiotics. The disease can be difficult to diagnose, especially the dry form. There is still no blood test that can definitively diagnose the disorder, despite claims made by numerous commercial laboratories. Once diagnosed, there is no recourse for the patient. There is no effective treatment for the disease, and the outcome is invariably fatal. “I examine and treat hundreds of cats

and kittens a year”, says Dr. Sinclair. “Thankfully, FIP is a fairly uncommon disorder.” Fortunately, Dandelion had no symptoms of this terrible disease. Panleukopenia is a viral disease caused by a type of virus called a parvovirus. These viruses like to attack the bone marrow and the intestinal cells, causing severe, often bloody diarrhea and a very low white blood cell count. White blood cells are necessary to fight off infections, and cats with low white blood cell counts from this virus are susceptible to contracting other infectious disorders. The disease is most common in young kittens, although adults are occasionally infected. For many kittens, the disease proves fatal. The virus is primarily spread through contact with contaminated feces from infected cats, although objects such as food bowls, litter boxes, and other contaminated surfaces can play a role in transmission of the virus, as the virus can survive for prolonged periods (months, and possibly years) in the environment. Fortunately, there is a very effective vaccine against this disease. Cats that recover from infection are believed to be immune for life. Thankfully, Dandelion had no evidence of infection with this dangerous virus. Getting your cat past kittenhood can occasionally be quite a challenge, as bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic diseases seem to be lurking around every corner. An awareness of the symptoms of common kittenhood diseases, followed by prompt veterinary intervention, can maximize the chances of a kitten making it to adulthood with all of its nine lives intact. By the way, Dandelion never did make it to our Animal Placement department. After recovering from his upper respiratory infection, ear mites, roundworms, and fleas, the technician who dubbed him Dandelion requested permission to adopt him. Permission was granted, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Symptoms Caused by Common Kittenhood Diseases Symptom

Possible Cause

Sneezing

rhinotracheitisvirus, calicivirus,

Conjunctivitis

rhinotracheitis virus, calicivirus, chlamydia

Scratching

fleas, ringworm

Head shaking

ear mites

Diarrhea

roundworms, hookworms, coccidia, Giardia, Panleukopenia virus

Bloated abdomen

roundworms, hookworms, FIP

Pale gums (anemia)

hookworms, feline leukemia virus, Mycoplasma haemofelis (formerly called Hemobartonella)

Kittens are susceptible to a host of illnesses. The following chart should help alert kitten owners as to possible indications that something may be amiss in regard to their kitten’s health. Anne Sinclair, DVM, President and CEO of Cat Sense Feline Hospital and Boarding, Inc., recommends that kitten owners perform their own regular, brief physical examination on their kitten, looking for anything abnormal or unusual. Dr. Sinclair’s signs of good health are listed below.

young cat’s mouth. By six months, all of the permanent teeth should be present.

Rear end Cats and kittens keep the area under the tail very clean. There should be no evidence of soreness or diarrhea. http://manhattancats.com

The Signs of Good Health: Skin and coat The coat should look sleek and glossy, and the skin should be free of scratches, cuts, or fight wounds. There should be no evidence of fleas, redness, or hairloss. Eyes Both eyes should be clear and bright, with no discharge. If the “third eyelid” is showing, the kitten may be sick.

The ears should be clean and pink inside. There should be no accumulation of wax or dark crusty material. Nose The nose should feel damp, soft, and “velvety” to the touch, and have no discharge or crusty material on the surface. Mouth, teeth, and gums The gums should be pale pink, and the breath should have very little smell. As the baby teeth get replaced by the permanent teeth, you may occasionally see loose teeth when you examine a

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Ears

There is no need for a piece of sculpture in a home that has a cat.

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Wesley Bates

Kitten First Aid Dr Arnold Plotnick MS, DVM, ACVIM

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

www.manhattancats.com www.manhattancats.com

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Most kittens endure kittenhood relatively unscathed. A few, however, deplete several of their nine lives in the course of growing up. Knowing the principles of first aid can be invaluable in seeing that your kitten survives that turbulent first year of life. First aid is an interim measure before veterinary care becomes available. The objective of first aid is to prevent the condition from worsening, alleviate pain and suffering, and help the recovery process. Getting veterinary help remains the highest priority. The best way to treat emergencies is to prevent them. This is accomplished by “kittenproofing” your home. Kittens get into everything – closets, drawers, garbage cans, toilets, boxes, bags, sofa cushions, and more. If you have children, go

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

through your home and pick up all toys less than two inches in length. Also pick up any coins, paper clips, rubber bands, ribbons, string, tape, and other small objects a curious kitten might swallow.

The most common disasters that strike kittens are burns, electric cord injury, choking, bee stings, fractures, and poisonings.

Keep cleaning supplies and chemicals locked away. Be mindful of electric cords, as kittens enjoy chewing on them, risking electrocution. Household plants (fresh and dried) can be toxic. Make certain that your windows are always closed, or are fitted with sturdy screens. Kittens seek out high places, and an open window ledge can spell disaster in the form of “high-rise syndrome”.

Most kitten burns are thermal burns from hot objects like heating pads, heat lamps, or scalding by hot liquids. Kittens may jump onto stovetops and burn their feet or tail.

The few hours it takes to kittenproof your home may be the best investment in your kitten’s future. Despite our best precautions, we may find ourselves facing a kitten health emergency.

Burns

If your kitten experiences a burn, immediately apply a cool damp towel to the area for 30 minutes. Cover with a loose bandage and take to a veterinarian. Do not put ice directly on the area, and avoid ointments, as they are difficult to remove. Electric shock Kittens are most likely to chew or bite an electric cord because a

dangling cord is seen as a perfect plaything. Many incidents happen around the holidays. “The combination of Christmas lights and kittens as Christmas gifts increases the chances of this emergency occurring”, says Dr. Steve Baker, an associate veterinarian at the Pet Care Clinic in Meridian, Idaho. “We encourage our clients to kitten proof their trees, nativity scenes, and other holiday decorations. Nobody wants to spend Christmas Eve in an emergency clinic as a result of natural kitten curiosity”. Biting through an electric cord can cause, at the very least, a painful electrical burn on the mouth and tongue. These often become infected and require veterinary care. Severely shocked cats may go into cardiac arrest or develop pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs). Kittens that chew through electric cords should be taken to the veterinarian immediately, even if it only appears to have minor burns on the tongue or mouth. Choking If your kitten gets something stuck in its mouth or throat, it will cough or gasp suddenly. Kittens become frantic when scared, so wrap him in a towel and have someone else hold him while you try to look in the back of the throat. If an object is detected, try to spot it with a flashlight, then remove it with tweezers or a spoon handle; your hands will probably be too big for a young kitten’s mouth. Bee stings Kittens love chasing moving objects, including stinging bugs such as bees. “Bee stings or spider bites are often suspected but definitive diagnosis is uncommon unless the event is witnessed by the pet owner”, says Steve Marks, Associate Professor and Head of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine’s small animal medicine service. If bitten by a bee, immediately put ice on the bite to reduce pain and swelling. Try to find the stinger using a magnifying glass, as some bees leave their stinger in the skin. Pull it out with tweezers if possible. Clean the area and apply

an antibiotic ointment. After treating your kitten for the bee sting, monitor very closely for an allergic reaction (called anaphylaxis). Although uncommon, allergic reactions can occur, and the kitten can go into shock. The tissues of the throat may swell and obstruct breathing, and blood pressure may plunge. This is a life-threatening complication. “ In most cases, symptomatic care is appropriate. However, if the kitten has difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, the pet owner should seek veterinary advice immediately”, Dr. Marks says.

Kitty Quote “There is no more intrepid explorer than a kitten.” - Jules Champfleury

Fractured limbs Orthopedic injuries are common in kittens because kittens love to jump. When a kitten fractures a bone, the initial clinical sign is limping, holding the injured leg up, or walking on only three legs. Simple fractures (both ends of the bone remain under the skin) are not as bad as those in which the bone breaks through the skin (open fracture). The latter are at high risk of becoming infected. If you suspect a limb fracture, try to apply a temporary splint to immobilize the leg. A pencil, tongue depressor, or piece of heavy cardboard works well. To effectively immobilize the leg, the splint must span the joint above and below the fracture. For example, for a forearm fracture, the splint must immobilize the limb from the elbow (the joint above) to the wrist (the joint below). Wrap strips of clean cloth or gauze around the leg and the splint so that the leg cannot bend. Do not try to manipulate the bones back into place, and do not wash out open fractures. If the kitten becomes too stressed during splint application, stop and take it to the veterinarian immediately. Poisonings The average household contains many items poisonous to kittens. Common household toxic substances include ammonia, antifreeze, aspirin and Tylenol, bleach, gasoline, lye, paint thinner, rat poison, turpentine, rubbing alcohol, and others. Indoor and garden plants are a potential problem as well. Kittens love to

nibble on plants and dried flowers. Some plants merely cause an upset stomach. Others can be fatal. Cacti, dieffenbachia, mistletoe, poinsettias, acorns, English holly, tulip flower bulbs, oleander, honeysuckle, and most types of lilies are poisonous to some degree. A description of the specific treatment for each of these household and plant poisons is beyond the scope of this article. Always check with your veterinarian before giving or using any medication on your kitten. Signs of poisoning will vary depending on the type of poison and quantity ingested, but in general, you should be suspicious that your cat has been poisoned if you see signs such as excessive salivation, vomiting, loss of consciousness, or seizures. If you see your cat ingest a toxic substance, read the label to see if specific instructions for treatment are given. If not, induce vomiting using syrup of ipecac or hydrogen peroxide, one teaspoon per 5 lbs body weight. Don’t induce vomiting if a strong acid or alkali, or a petroleum distillate like kerosene was ingested. Call your veterinarian and be ready to tell him or her what the poison is, the active ingredients, how much was eaten, when it was eaten, and what signs your kitten is showing, if possible. Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

If you need to visit the vet, try to bring a sample of the suspected poison in its original container with you. If your vet cannot be reached, call a local or national poison control center for further instructions. First aid is not meant to replace veterinary care. Knowledge of basic first aid allows kitten owners to effectively handle emergencies until a veterinarian can be reached. Knowing the basics may someday save your kitten’s life.

Seven Signs that Say “Get Thee to a Veterinarian” Although some emergencies can be managed at home, others require immediate veterinary attention. The signs below, if present, usually indicate an emergency that requires immediate veterinary assessment.

Drooling profusely – electric cord burns to the mouth and tongue, contact with household poisons or plants, and nausea from other systemic illnesses can cause profuse drooling. Incessant vomiting – serious electrolyte abnormalities and dehydration may occur as a result of continuous vomiting. Intestinal obstruction from a ribbon, rubber band, or string is a common cause of chronic vomiting in kittens and requires immediate attention. Profuse diarrhea – severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can lead to rapid deterioration in kittens if not addressed promptly. Abnormal coloration of the gums – pale gums implies anemia; bluish gums suggest a cardiac or respiratory problem, and yellow gums denote red blood cell destruction or severe liver disease.

All of these conditions require immediate assessment by a veterinarian Fever – fevers in kittens are often due to infectious conditions. Fever increases a kitten’s fluid requirements, and often depresses their appetite. Malnutrition and dehydration is a dangerous combination. Kittens with fevers (temp greater than 103 F) should be examined promptly.

Familiarise yourself with the vets in your area and keep their telephone numbers handy. Emergencies often happen after hours, know where the emergency 24 hour vet practices are!

Below: Beautiful Maine Coon kittens from GeeDee Cattery

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Non-responsiveness – a nonresponsive kitten is usually in serious trouble. If you get no response or reaction when you call, stroke, or touch your kitten, immediately check its breathing. Airway obstruction, cardiac arrest, and poisonings are a few things that can cause nonresponsiveness.

Labored breathing – respiratory problems require immediate attention. Fluid in the lungs or the chest cavity can obstruct breathing, and kittens can go into respiratory arrest, followed by cardiac arrest, if untreated.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

“

AM NOT A VEGETARIAN”

“ DEMAND

“Iams gives me that” Animal protein helps build and maintain strong, lean muscle. Check your bag; chicken and turkey is our first ingredient ▲

Act 36 1947 Reg. No. V15774

ANIMAL PROTEIN ”

▲

excluding IAMS ProActive Light in Fat. Available at veterinarians.

For more information on your cat’s nutrition, ask your vet or call our helpline on Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014 9 Tel: 011 463 8140 or E-mail: iams@cuberoute.co.za

Beware Kitten Scams The Saga continues By Elizabeth van Reenen The email signature includes only cell and fax numbers, and often a street address. They are usually situated in out- of-the way towns such as Upington, Citrusdal, Hermanus etc. Once you do make your choice of kitten, you receive a very formal invoice, on a “cattery letterhead”. Bank details are sometimes (but not always) that of an “E-wallet”, rather than a standard bank account. The account is often in he name of the cattery. In some cases cat breeds that are not present in South Africa or not recognised for registration, are advertised.

We have been warning about a kitten scam doing the rounds, yet unsuspecting victims still fall prey. Herewith a further attempt to prevent you falling prey to this fraud.

More likely it is some-one sitting in a flat in Hillbrow, copying pictures off the internet and using the name of a perfectly legitimate registered breeder.

The Scam

The essence for the public in exposing a scam is therefore not in the first place to determine if it is a registered/legitimate/reputable breeder, but whether they are in fact talking to the real who-ever-the-name-ofthe-breeder is.

Scammers use the name and cattery name of registered breeders, create credible-looking email addresses and market kittens at prices maybe slightly below the going rate for the particular breed, but often with exorbitant shipping fees. Of course the kittens do not exist and once payment has been received, the ‘breeder’ vanishes and the number no longer works. Some complainants have mentioned “West Africa/French accents” when they did, in early phases of the buying process, spoken to these fraudulent “breeders”. Understand very well: this is not run by unscrupulous breeders; there are no breeders – unscrupulous or otherwise - in this picture, anywhere.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

The typical features of the process include: Upon enquiry, the enquirer receives a lovely long email telling how the breeder raises the kittens and how he takes care in finding good homes. A number of photographs attached, with the names of the kittens. An invitation to let him know your pick of the lot. An offer to fly/transport the kitten, sometimes with delivery at your door.

So how do you know whether you smell a rat? Google, common sense and good old gut-feel are your best friends. Greed and impatience do not share a bed with these! Do a Google search on the phone number. If it comes up with a whole range of adverts of various breeds in various towns, all red lights come on. Do a Google search on the name of the “breeder”/breeder. Look at blogs and discussion sites that come up, see if the person is being mentioned for similar scams. Some do kittens and puppies. Do a Google Image search on the kitten pictures that you received: Save the pictures to your Desktop. Open Google (www.google.com, NOT www.google.co.za) and go to “Images”. To the right-hand side of the search box, click on the camera icon. Then follow the instructions and upload one picture at a time, from your Desktop where you’d saved them.

Let Google show you on which website it finds it. Go to that website, see if the cattery name corresponds to the one you are corresponding with, and especially whether the cattery even is in South Africa. Do a Google search on the physical address. See if it is linked to some business, e.g. a guest house or office. Do a Google Maps search on the physical address. See firstly whether it does exist. If so, go to the satellite feature, zoom in, and check whether it looks like a residential area. Contact the 3 cat registration bodies in South Africa. Find the 1 (or more) where the breeder is registered, and get his contact details as per their records. If those do not correspond to the ones you have been using, RUN. The 3 registrars are: Southern Africa Cat Council (SACC) http://www.tsacc.org.za/ Tel 011 616Â 7017 Cat Federation of Southern Africa (CFSA) http://www.catfederationsa.co.za/ Cat Association of Southern Africa (CASA) http://www.casawcf.com/

There is obviously a purpose in advertising kittens from out-ofthe-way towns: no risk that a pro spective buyer would request to pop over on Sunday afternoon to see the kittens. Check the reaction if you do propose a visit and suggest a definite day and time. Do you hear the alarm bells sounding? Real cat breeders do it as a hobby. Our catteries are not registered businesses, and mostly we do not have bank accounts in the name of the cattery.

Surely, in these days of FICA, it is easier to fake some kind of documentation for a cattery rather than for a person of whom you do not have the identity document? There is no replacement for common sense! We often fly kittens within the country, if necessary. A flight for the average kitten would cost between R200 and R300. A per fectly acceptable carrier box could be bought at R250 to R400, from most good pet shops. There are no special and intricate permits required, apart from a vaccination certificate showing a Rabies vaccination. Self-defence tips Do not deposit money into an E-wallet; I believe such deposits can neither be traced not reversed. (Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bank on normal account deposits being reversible either, especially if it disappears out of the account as soon as you deposit it there!) It is better to look for a breeder in paid advertising media: the pet magazines such as Animal Talk, Cats Life, All About Cats; a paid advertising site such as Kittycat; and also on the websites of the 3 registration bodies. All reputable breeders would have to be registered with at least one of these bodies. This does NOT mean that you could not find a perfectly reputable (and registered) breeder via free advertising websites, because we do realize that those are the first places where the average person out there turns to when looking for something, including a pet. HOWEVER, if you use these sites you have to be much more alert, keep your wits about you and do due diligence.

We are just ordinary flesh-and-blood people. And our kittens are not goods that come with invoices and delivery notes. A bank account in the name of the cattery should alert you. (There surely will be exceptions, though; but be extra careful.) Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

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What to do if the rat has bitten you? This is clearly fraud. It is also not isolated cases of fraud, but a widespread scam. To start with, the police can do nothing without a case report. To report a case in person at a police station can be tedious, but you might want to try. As an alternative though: You can phone Crime Stop 08600 10111 to report (with evidence of course) when a FICA-compliant South African bank assigned a bank account to a fraudulent scammer; or when a RICA-compliant cell phone company assigned a cell number to a fraudulent scammer. Upon police instruction, banks and cell phone providers must immediately suspend the scamming accounts. PLUS get a reference number to enquire about progress. Phone often to check progress and

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

harass all concerned if they do nothing! Read more about Crime Stop 08600 10111 at: http://www.saps.gov.za/crimestop/ messge_div_common.htm#report You can also use Cybercrime.org.za to report a scam online: http://cybercrime.org.za/reporting Note though that this is merely publishing - only the police can act.

Contact Crime Stop 08600 10111

See also Scam Bustersâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; an independent site for posting scam content online: http://scambuster.co.za/ report-a-scam/report-a-scam.html All said and done, chances are you will lose your money, so be very careful before parting with it in the first place.

Regular Feature

You’ve got talent! Local Fine Art Artist

Anet du Toit Anet du Toit, a self taught local artist has been living in Bethal, Mpumalanga for the last 20 years. Anet took art in her final year of school, but only did pencil drawings. After school she did some leather carving and painted on the leather as well. She no longer does any leatherwork because her paintings keep her too busy. In 2007, a friend challenged her into painting with oils, which awakened her suppressed talent and thus she became a full time artist. Anet’s favourite subject is wild animals. She loves to paint detail and works in a realistic style, considering every new work as a challenge and learning curve. Being commissioned by people who share her passion for art, whether by photographs or detailed descriptions, she is able to show them what their ideas looks like through the eyes of an artist. Their satisfaction with the result is almost reward enough. She loves to share and receive different ideas and techniques with other artists, thereby finding ways to improve her work. Art has become her labour of love and a lifestyle. Her motto is: “If ever you feel your back against a wall, turn around and paint on it”, and that is exactly what she does. In 2014 Anet would love to paint as much as she can, painting every painting as if it will be her last, with all her heart, but most of all, wants to enjoy every moment!”

Readers are welcome to contact Anet on anetdutoit@gmail.com

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

How I met my cat? Hope “A glimpse of Hope”

As a child we always visited the south coast of Durban but as time went on we gradually stopped going there. My mom was given a weeks accommodation on the North coast last year August, so off we went. As it came to our last week we decided to drive up to Scottbourgh to see how things had changed. On our way home we stopped at the well known “shell shop”. There she was, sitting at the door of the shop. She looked terrible. My heart broke. As I walked around the shop “she” followed me. Rubbing her tiny thin wounded body up against me. Then we had to leave. Again she sat at the door watching as we drove away, me crying my heart out.

Kitty Quote “People who love cats have some of the biggest hearts around.” - Susan Easterly

That was the Tuesday. I contacted numerous rescue organisations asking for some sort of help, but had no luck at all. Until a cat angel came along. Sylvia from Persian Rescue, Durban. Hope was no Persian but Persian Rescue was the only organisation willing to help me. I collected a carrier from Sylvia, drove back to the shell shop and fetched MY cat. It was as if she knew I would return. I met Sylvia at her vet on the North coast. We had Hope checked out and tested for the 2 nasty diseases. She tested negative. She then spent the night with Sylvia at Persian Rescue as we were leaving the Friday morning. We picked her up on the way “home”. The whole way home she was calm and quiet. As if she knew she was going “home”. We stopped a couple of times so I could feed and give water and in return I got a great big purr. And that’s how she became part of my family. She stole my heart at the first glimpse of “Hope”.

Taryn Vlok

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

How I met my cat? Pikkie Eighteen years ago my wife discovered three little kittens in length of unused sewerage pipe in our back garden. We had been building at the time and the length of pipe had been left in a corner of the garden. My son Malcolm caught one of the kittens and kept it in a very large cardboard box for a few days. He still has the cat named Comet. I, on the other hand, did not catch a kitten. I encouraged him to come to me which he did after a few days. His name is Pikkie by the way. The third kitten was given to a friend by Malcolm. Pikkie grew up in our back yard and spent a lot of time in the company of our dog, Waldo, a cross between a Bull terrier and a Labrador. Pikkie slept in Waldo`s kennel with him. The kennel was situated on our enclosed back stoep so it was out of the weather all the time. I am convinced that Pikkie thinks that he is a dog as once Waldo passed on Jason, our Staffie, became his best mate. The two of them would sleep in the lounge together while we were watching TV. Seven years ago we acquired a puppy to replace Jason who had subsequently been put down due to his inability to urinate. The new puppy, Jonty, a Boston Terrier, gave Pikkie a hard time for about a year but Pikkie never gave up and he and Jonty have become the best of friends. They spend a lot of time together and sleep together on our bed during the day and in the kitchen at bed time. In the evenings Pikkie climbs on to my lap in the lounge and if I get up for any reason he does not hesitate to get on to my wife`s lap. He stays with us until bed time and then goes out for a while when we go to bed. When he returns he demands to be taken to the kitchen to join Jonty for the rest of the night.

Noel Stiles

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

How I met my cat? My Sphynx I don’t believe in love at first sight, well that was before I met my very first Sphynx. He immediately had me with his green/yellow eyes, the expression in those eyes and of course his head butt. I obviously chose the breed, but in many ways I think they chose me! The Sphynx breed is not for the faint hearted, if you live a relaxed and chilled life then the Sphynx is not for you. They are extremely energetic, it almost seems like they AdHD as they never tire! They are clown cats and love to play tricks, they loved to involved in the dynamics and goings on of the family unit! They are like dogs and are very loyal, they tend to shadow you were ever you go! They are also extremely vocal cats I have actual conversations with mine! They are also highly intelligent! Most people say the are ugly because of their lack of hair, this only makes them unique and even more special! They love food and are known to be thieves - they will steal food right out of your plate! And if you are tall you’ll make fantastic climbing gym! They also act as deterrents for any would be bugular, as most peole are scared of them! I could never imagine my life without a Sphynx it! They are little people! To own (or to be owned by a Sphynx) is a complete lifestyle change, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Aurelia Williams

Lady Cara The first time I saw Lady Cara, or just Cara to her friends, she was sitting in the back corner of a cat carrier in my room. She had just been rescued earlier that day from a rubbish dump where someone threw her away with the trash. As soon as I opened the door she came foward to greet me. You could see she was scared but somehow plucked up enough courage to come forward. I picked her up, she immediately started purring and I was hooked! She started her show career a few weeks later. She won her very first show taking the coveted award of Pet of the day. The competition was tough, but she won over the judges with her purr. Lady Cara has since grown up and has been placed in almost every cat show she has entered and won several. She placed 17th pet with CFSA Cat Of The Year. She also came second in SACC Gauteng Top Cat, where only the top 5 in each category were invited to attend. All in all, not a bad year for a little cat that that was thown out with the trash. Jennifer Blonk

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Let’s talk about cats Savannah Scam Hi there, I just happened to see your website, when I was looking for something else. I would just like to warn all your members of a scam that is going on – and I have been a victim. Kittens (pedigreed and quite costly) are advertised on Gumtree, and similar sites. I always wanted a Savannah kitten, but was told some years ago, that Savannahs are not legal in SA. So imagine my delight when I saw an ad for Savannahs on Johannesburg Gumtree last week. The kittens were R 2 500 each, and the breeders in P.E. I asked for the name of their cattery, and got a name that I also found on the SACC website.

Well – I am lucky, as I paid “only” a 50% deposit. No kitten ever showed up of course.

They also told stories about someone being ill, then in hospital, in a coma, and eventually dying.

Due to some stupidity of the scamsters, they mistakenly forwarded my proof of payment for the deposit to someone else who had paid the whole amount already.

So – cellphone not answered anymore, emails not responded to, so called pet transport agency and so called breeders disappeared.

That lady, and her friend, both paid the full amount, but then contacted me over Easter when they were asked to shell out a further 3k as deposit for a crate. That’s when every alarmbell started ringing. The other lady bought the same kitten that I paid a deposit for. The “breeders” then got quite upset when we asked for some proof etc, but we got a copy of an ID, and a copy of an SA passport.

We will lay a charge at the SAPS, we have contacted Standard Bank’s (where the scammers accounts were held), and so on. As I said – just a warning to your members. There are some very sick people out there. Oh and by the way – will get a cat form a shelter this afternoon! All the very best, Susanne

They also carried on about how religious there are, and that they would never defraud people.

Letter from a fan

Cat Enclosures

Dear Kittycat

Just wanted to tell you that I’m an ardent fan.

I want to make a safe cat enclosure for my indoor cats to access our garden, but have no idea who to ask.

I love your website and Facebook page. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the cat stories and love Kittycat of the Month. It’s great that you are always networking / sharing pics of the unfortunate kittens and cats that are looking for forever homes.

Can any readers give any advice on where to get something like this done in the Johannesburg area? Thank you. Sarah Prinsloo

Keep up the good work. Fond regards Mary Jane Lewis

We would love to hear from you. Send your letters to: kittycatsa@gmail.com Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Showbiz Ca

t Shows

Cat Shows in South Africa Cat shows provide an opportunity for breeders and cat lovers to network and discuss feline matters. They are are also held to educate members of the public and introduce them to all the various cat breeds. Statistics suggest that cat shows influence kitten buying decisions a large number of cat lovers bought their first pedigreed cat after seeing it on the showbench. Shows play an important part in maintaining standards of both the health and look of a breed. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for Breeders to know whether they are breeding to the correct standard for their breed. All pedigreed cats are judged according to a specific breed standard for that breed which includes a standard for coat and eye colour, head and body shape and ear size and position. By showing cats people have a benchmark to measure whether they are reaching the standard laid down for their breed. Cat Associations in South Africa These associations are the Cat Federation of South Africa (CFSA), The Southern African Cat Council (SACC), the Cat Association of Southern Africa (CASA) and the African Independent Cat Association (AICA). All of these groups have their own shows and their own award systems.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Cat Federation of Southern Africa (CFSA) The CFSA was established in 1997 to satisfy the needs of the ever growing interest in cats and the activities surrounding them. It has been formed on the basis of the highest moral and ethical principles to serve the needs of South African cat breeders and fanciers. It is a national registering authority for catteries and cats and has a national cat judges executive. Cat shows are held on weekends during the year where titles are awarded to the cats by qualified cat judges. The show year culminates in the very prestigious CFSA Cat of the Year show. Points are allocated to cats during the year and the top cats are invited to Cat of the Year. There the following titles are awarded: Male of the Year, Female of the Year, Neuter of the Year, Kitten of the Year, and from these four winners the CFSA Cat of the Year is chosen. The CFSA Pet of the year is also a wonderful award for non-pedigreed cats. South African Cat Council (SACC) SACC consists of cat clubs, breed groups, judgesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; panels, show managers forums, stewards forums, ethics committees and the South African Cat Register (SACR). The register is a central office that deals with all matters relating to the registration of cats and catteries.

It also keeps records on the progress of all cat shows throughout their careers and is an integral referring facility to prospective new cat owners. There are a number of cat clubs that hold cat shows through the show year and cats are given various awards. The SACC Cat of the Year takes place in Winter every year and the show seasons therefore runs from the first weekend after the Cat of the Year event has taken place until the weekend just before the next Cat of the Year show. At Cat of the Year the cats are placed according to their final scores and the Top Entire, Top Neuter and Top Kitten are awarded. The Cat of the Year is then either the Top Entire of the Top Neuter depending on which cat achieved the highest score overall. Cat Association of Southern Africa (CASA) In 2007 South Africa and the African continent joined the ranks of the World Cat Federation and the Cat Association of Southern Africa was born. South African cat lovers had never practically had access to international competition before. The WCF awards received at CASA shows are recognized internationally and an award attained in South Africa counts if the cat is exhibited in any other WCF show in the rest of the world. CASA, being part of the WCF, has an international cattery register and promotes animal welfare and the education of international judges. CASA has in addition formed 3 sub-clubs namely Capital Cat Club in Gauteng, Chats du Cap in Western Cape and De Baai Cat Club in Eastern Cape. They also run shows throughout the year and use the international WCF award system. African Independent Cat Association (AICA) AICA was formed in 2010. Their mission includes: To be an independent organization from Africa, for Africa, organizing cat shows without the restrictions of International rules not practical or relevant to the local conditions. To co-operate with all existing cat organizations, while retaining independence. To use the show and title system of Fife, WCF and European Independent clubs and recognize all titles and certificates from any organization using the same titles. To use all income from shows and other sources to improve cat shows and to promote cats in general without the need to spend large amounts on affiliation, licencing or other fees.

To recognize exhibitors as informal members of the club without the need to pay membership fees. To recognize judges with verifyable qualifications from all international and national cat organizations A list of cat shows held by all the associations during the year is published in Kittycat magazine as well as on our website: www.Kittycat.co.za

Breed Groups Breeders of Rex and Sphynx Landie Copperthwaite (Secretary) 082 699 1077 landiecop@gmail.com Maine Coon Interest Group (MCIG) Hanneke Bestbier (Secretary) 072 455 7610 Hanneke.Bestbier@sasol.com Natal Siamese/Oriental Club Carol Wood 031 903 1026 silversheen@mweb.co.za Russian Cat Interest Group of South Africa (RCIG) Solveig Klahr (Secretary) 083 272 2443 solveig.klahr@gmail.com SA Abyssinian & Somali Association (SAASA) Adrienne Swart (Secretary) 082 405 5437 aswart@acucap.co.za Siamese Breedersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Group of SA (SBG) Charlotte van der Riet (Secretary) 083 384 0285 charlottevdriet@gmail.com http://siamesebreedersgroup.weebly.com Sphynx Alliance (SA) Annemarie Redelinghuys (Secretary) 083 730 7666 Annemarie@cassell.co.za

Please note: Cat Clubs are listed in the Pink Pages (back of the magazine)

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

2014 CAT SHOW

Calendar

DATE

SHOW

SHOW MANAGER

CONTACT

01.03.2014

TCS

ATHYLLE CAW

011 234 0126 PM

01.03.2014

ECCC

JOHAN GROENEWALD

014 368 2948

01.03.2014

CASA and AICA (Durbanville)

JOHAN LAMPECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

08 03.2013

FFC (SINGLE)

TBA

15.03.2014

WPCC (SAASA)

IAN MOORE

021 712 2001 PM

15.03.2014

CCC (SINGLE)

JANE GOBLE

082 784 3126

05.04.2014

CFC (BRS)

GRANT LEIH

084 584 8922

05.04.2014

ABCC

LIANNE MULLER

082 490 7567

19.04.2014

CFC

INGRID DE WET

011 849 4870 PM

26.04.2014

NCS (DOUBLE)

TBA

27.04.2014

CLASA (George)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampre@mweb.co.za

03.05.2014

PCS

JANE GOBLE

082 784 3126

10.05.2014

CDC and AICA (Wellington)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

10.05.2014

SACC (KITTEN SHOW) GAUTENG

INGRID DE WET

011 849 4870 PM

10.05.2014

KZNCC (DOUBLE)

TBA

24.05.2014

ECCC

JOHAN GROENEWALD

041 368 2948

24.05.2014

TCS

ATHYLLE CAW

011 234 0126 PM

31.05.2014

WPCC

IAN MOORE

021 7122001 PM

31.05.2014

NCF/FS CC (KIMBERELY SHOW)

31.05.2014

FFC (DOUBLE)

TBA

31.05.2014

AICA/OSRBG (Kimberley)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

07.06.2014

PCS

JANE GOBLE

082 784 3126

07.06.2013

CCC (WCF)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

21.06.2014

TBCC

KIM CUTTER

021 461 9505 PM

21.06.2014

CCC (SINGLE)

TBA

28.06.2014

AICA/OSRGB (Kirkwood)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

2014 CAT SHOW

Calendar

DATE

SHOW

SHOW MANAGER

CONTACT

05.07.2013

ECCC

JOHAN GROENEWALD

041 368 2948

05.07.2013

AICA/OSRBG (Kirkwood)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

12.07.2014

SACC COTY 2013 (RCC)

JAN VAN ROOYEN

011 616 4687 PM

18.07.2014

WODAC (SACC) GAUTENG

JAN VAN ROOYEN

011 616 4687 PM

19.07.2014

WODAC (SACC) GAUTENG

JAN VAN ROOYEN

011 616 4687 PM

26.07.2014

FFC (SINGLE)

TBA

02.08.2014

KZNCC (DOUBLE)

TBA

09 08.2013

ABCC

LIANNE MULLER

082 490 7567

09.08.2014

CFC

INGRID DE WET

011 849 4870 PM

16.08.2014

NCS (SINGLE)

TBA

23.08.2014

WPCC

IAN MOORE

021 712 2001 PM

06. 09.2014

PCS

JANE GOBLE

082 784 3126

13.09.2014

SACC (KITTEN SHOW) GAUTENG

INGRID DE WET

011 849 4870 PM

13.09.2014

KZNCC (DOUBLE)

TBA

20.09.2014

ECCC

JOHAN GROENEWALD

041 368 2948

27.09.2014

TCS

ATHYLLE CAW

011 234 0126 PM

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER 11.10.2014

KZNCC TOP CAT

11.10.2014

CDC/OSRGB/SACATS (Robertson)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

25.10.2014

CCC/SACATS (Gauteng)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

CASA / AICA (Durbanville)

JOHAN LAMPRECHT

lampr@mweb.co.za

NOVEMBER 29.11.2014

Please Note! Dates are subject to change. Please check the relevant websites (SACC, CFSA, CASA/AICA etc) and also contact the show manager of the shows you would like to attend to confirm date, place & time.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Show Results

2013 CFSA Cat of the Year Results Photography by Jenni Ferreira

Top Females 1. Kisamee Delfi Cornish

Rex

Bicolour

Blue

Tortoiseshell Owner: N Strydom Breeder: N Strydom

Brettachtal’s Miss South Africa of the Catwalk

Spandau Fudge Parfait

Spandau La Paloma Blanca

Sphynx Mink Bicolour Black Tortoiseshell

Sphynx Bicolour Mink Red

Owner: W Hyman

Breeder: W Hyman

5. 2.

Ally’s Cat Maid of Brettachtal’s Miss Gossamer South Africa of the Catwalk Burmese Cream

L’ Exquisite Snowflake

LaMaska She of Seven Veils

Exotic Self Orange Eyed White

Oriental Bicolour Black Tortoiseshell

Owner: B Neukircher

Owner: M Burger

Breeder: B Neukircher

Breeder: M Burger

10.

Shakespurr As It Is

Shakespurr Such A Jewel

L’ Exquisite Develloppe

Persian Self Blue

Exotic Self Orange Eyed White

Persian Silver Shaded Black Owner: S Marsh Breeder: K Sinn

Persian Silver Shaded Owner: P Steyn Black Breeder: A Renwick Owner: S Marsh Breeder: K Sinn

Persian Tabby Harlequin Blue Tortoiseshell

Owner: H Rohrs

Breeder: H Rohrs

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Owner: B Neukircher Breeder: B Neukircher

Show Results

2013 CFSA Cat of the Year Results

Top Males 1. Brettachtal’s Maserati of the Catwalk Persian Silver Shaded Black Bred by K Sinn Owned by S Marsh

Zack Nova Axis Star, CZ of Shangri-la

RS* Rextasy Wanna Dance? of Kisamee

Tres Jolie Sweet Taboo

Maine Coon Mackerel Tabby Bicolour Black

Cornish Rex Bicolour Black

Persian Spotted Tabby Bicolour Black

Owner: V Wright

Owner: N Strydom

Breeder: W Choulikova

Breeder: M Rancic

Owner: C Danziger Breeder: C Danziger

Purr-n-Meow Absolutely Givenchy

Prazlin Azaro of Awesome Bengals

S* Just Catnap’s Lotus of Geedee

Persian Red Van

Bengal Spotted Tabby Brown

Norwegian Forest Cat Classic Tabby Bicolour Blue

Owner: E Bester & C Bekker

Owner: L Kennard

Owner: A Caw

Breeder: E Bester & C Bekker

Breeder: N Nemeth

10.

Shakespurr Every Inch a King

Doll Like’s Eskimo of Carmandale

Shangri-La Asani Rebel

Persian Spotted Tabby Blue

Exotic Silver Smoke Harlequin Black

Maine Coon Mackerel Tabby Bicolour Red

Owner: H Rohrs

Owner: S Armand & A Nortman

Owner: V Wright

Breeder: H Rohrs

Breeder: S Armand & A Nortman

Breeder: K & M Kristiansson

Breeder: V Wright

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Show Results

2013 CFSA Cat of the Year Results

Top Neuters 1. Cracker Unbelievable Persian Self Black Owner: R Van Wyk Breeder: A Visser & P Williams

Shakespurr Kiss’d the Wild Waves

Kisamee Damon Salvatore

Flamboyant Alvin L’Meur

Persian Van Blue Tortoiseshell

Cornish Rex Bicolour Black

Persian Silver Shaded Bicolour Red

Owner: Visser Family (Caitie)

Owner: N Strydom

Owner: R Van Wyk

Breeder: N Strydom

Breeder: M C Nel

Colorkats Key West

Shakespurr Tybalt, Prince of Cats

Geedee Cardinal De Richelieu

Persian Spotted Tabby Blue

Maine Coon Classic Tabby Black

Owner: C Grobbelaar

Owner: S Prinsloo

Breeder: H Rohrs

Breeder: A Caw

10.

Chattapaws Honeybee

Tres Jolie BellaDonna

Sha-Sume Geronimo of Chattapaws

Persian Harlequin Red

Persian Bicolour Black

Persian Harlequin Red

Owner: S Beesley & M Findlay

Owner: C Danziger

Owner: S Beesley & M Findlay

Breeder: H Rohrs

Maine Coon Classic Tabby Bicolour Black Owner: D Le Roux Breeder: D Le Roux

Breeder: S Beesley & M Findlay

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Breeder: C Danziger

Breeder: H Peplar

Show Results

2013 CFSA Cat of the Year Results

Top Kittens 1. L’Exquisite Incroyable Exotic Clasic Tabby Black Tortoiseshell Owner: B Neukircher Breeder: B Neukircher

Awesome Bengals Chesca-Belle

Spandau Vulcan

Pearl Caramello Koala

Bengal Spotted Tabby Brown

Sphynx Bicolour Chocolate Mink

Burmese Chocolate

Owner: L Kennard

Owner: S Fitzpatrick & A Van Doornum

Breeder: L Kennard

Breeder: W Hyman

Colorkats Leo

The Catwalk Kenzo

Maine Coon Classic Tabby Bicolour Black

Persian Golden Shaded Black

L’Exquisite ApresVous

Owner: D Le Roux

Owner: S Marsh

Breeder: D Le Roux

Breeder: S Marsh

10.

L’Exquisite Cracker Jack

Purr-n-Meow Tristano Onofri Fiori

Exotic Self Red

Exotic Harlequin Blue Tortoiseshell

Purr-n-Meow Madonna Truth or Dare

Owner: D Scheepers Breeder: B Neukircher

Owner: E Bester & C Bekker Breeder: E Bester & C Bekker

Owner: P Steyn Breeder: P Steyn

Exotic Silver Black Smoke Owner: B Neukircher Breeder: B Neukircher

Persian Tabby Van Black Odd-Eye Owner: E Bester & C Bekker Breeder: E Bester & C Bekker

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Show Results

2013 CFSA Cat of the Year Results

Top Pets 1. Melody Tortie Tabby & White Owner: J May

Meraiah Mechanic

Alaska

Yuki

Black Calico Tabby

Tortie Tabby & White

Black

Owner: K Peplar

Owner: J May

Owner: S Venter

Dinky

Miss Marilyn Monroe

Tinkerbell

Black

Blue Bicolour

Brown Mackerel Tabby & White

Owner: L Cronje

Owner: L Moodley & S Singh

Owner: J May

10.

Dexter

Lucy

Kiyana

Brown Tabby with White

Tortie Tabby

Silver Shaded Bicolour

Owner: J May

Owner: L Moodley & S Singh

Owner: J Blonk

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Show News CASA Show No. 45 Photography by Elizabeth Wentworth

Our 45th show was held again in our â&#x20AC;&#x153;home townâ&#x20AC;?, Durbanville and was a successful event as always. This was a first for South Africa - a tri-show event. Three shows held on one day, independently from each other and not as joint shows, but still affording the exhibitors, visitors and student judges the opportunity to attend three shows for the effort of one. Hills & Cats best gave generous prizes as sponsorship, as in the past and nobody went home emptyhanded, as all the exhibitors and judges received a can of kitten mousse. There were lots of stalls with interesting things to buy, good food and a good vibe throughout the day.

CASA Show No. 45 30 November 2013

Overall Winner SA Gr Ch Exposed Spots Bella of Anastacios

Gilly Wheatley, our Honorary Life member made the trip all the way from London to attend the show and to be bossy at the door. Thanks Gilly, for your efforts - you did a sterling job and we made more at the door than usual. The show year ended with a small, but thoroughly enjoyable afterparty at the CASA restaurant in the Willowbridge centre, near to the show hall. Thank you to the caterers, the helpers before and after the show and especially to Elizabeth Wentworth for the photographs.

Owner: S Lindeque Schwartz Breeder: A & T Aldum

Johan Lamprecht http://www.casawcf.com/casa-45.html

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Show News AICA Show No. 25 Photography Elizabeth Wentworth African byIndependent

Council

Cat

What an event! Our 25th show was a celebration, with a visiting judge from Gauteng, Daniel Gemishuis, a special cake, cages decorated in the theme and a special visitor from London, Gilly Wheatley, who (wo)manned the door. It was a lovely summers day and a festive athmosphere prevailed. We had lots of visitors and lots of stalls selling lots of cat related and Christmas related goodies. This was the first ever triple event in South African show history and the AICA show was followed by another Independent show, staged by the Oriental, Siamese and Related Breeds group - their 7th show. After the completion of this show, followed the 45th Internationlal WCF show of The Cat Association of Southern Africa (CASA).

Hills and Cats Best sponsored the prizes. Thank you, so much! Each judge could award one or two “Judges Best”, depending on the number of cats they judged. The Best Overall was a lovely surprise, with a first time ever win for a Burmilla! Congratulations, Alida Delport. The show had one of the biggest entries this year, with good representation in all the categories. Thank you to all the helpers who worked behind the scenes to make this show a success and to Elizabeth Wentworth who took most of the photographs. Johan Lamprecht http://www.africancatclub.com/ show-25.html

AICA Show No. 25 30 November 2013 Overall Winner Junior Ch Cherie-Shelldon Lenè of Cherie-Finesse Burmilla Black Shaded Owner: A Delport Breeder: Donald & Shelley Saunders 51

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Book Review The Dalai Lama’s Cat Reviewed by Patsy Smyth

This was definitely my favourite book of 2013. This award winning book has acquired over 158000 likes on Facebook; a 4 ½ star review by Good Reads; a 5 star review by Barnes and Noble. It’s been written from the cat’s viewpoint, with David Michie the translator and transcriber and is full of drama, cuteness and fun; from her dramatic and almost catastrophic start after being dumped as a tiny kitten unable to care for herself, into a rubbish bin, to her rescue, to becoming the Dalai Lama’s cat. In the process, she succeeds in changing the lives of some people around her, from the man in the street, to those in the upper echelons of life, using up a couple of her 9 lives in the process! At times I was moved to anger, at others to tears and in the end my heart felt warm & fuzzy. I didn’t want the book to end, so look out for a review on “The Art

of Purring”, a follow up book in 2014. I found this delightful book via Facebook where I was given a chance to read the first three pages. That was all I needed to get me hooked. I immediately ordered 2 copies from Exclusive Books – 1 for me and 1 for my Mom’s birthday. She loved it as much as I did. My Dad is the next to read it. I have no doubt that you will enjoy it as much as we did. It will be a great stocking filler for the cat lover. The title may give some the impression that it is a “preachy” book. This is far from the case. It does give some interesting insights into the Buddhist belief, but in no way is it a form of proselytising. I don’t want to give too much away, as I’d hate to diminish your enjoyment of the book. Suffice to say, I’d give it 10 out of 10 purrs.

We are focused on health and disease /parasite control. We promote sterilization. We offer 5 star boarding (all proceeds go to welfare animals) Tel: 011 447 5275 Banking details: FNB Melrose Arch (254405) • Account no: 62068805418 www.kittyshelter.co.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Rescue Stories

Happy Endings

Faith I rescued Faith, 2 of her sisters and her baby brother on Christmas eve three years ago. She was the tiny one in the litter and at a stage I honestly didn’t think that she would make it. So I named her Faith. Although all the kittens were bottle fed little Faith was the only one that had that extra special personality and she formed a very close bond with me. She is very talkative and extremely spoilt. When I’ve had photos taken of the cats at my house, Faith can’t wait to have her turn. Afternoon naps with her human is her absolute favourite and she is not afraid to give a few “slaps” when one of the other cats take up her space on the bed. She loves food and is very greedy all of the time. She lives in a household of 12 other cats but the household would never be the same without her because she is a character indeed! I love her to bits!

Lyndie Komossa

Send photos of your special cat and a tribute to Kittycatsa@gmail.com and we will publish your stories

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Rescue Stories

Happy Endings

Schatzi Five years ago I lost my Bonnie cat to a stroke. My heart was broken. I had another 2 year old cat (Monroe the Siamese) and he really missed his Aunt Bonnie and adopted the dogs as his mentors. He started displaying typical canine habits – sitting for treats, stealing chops off the neighbour’s braai, neglecting his ablution routine etc. There was just a big gap left for me and Monroe where our beloved Bonnie girl use to rule. So I decided to visit FORA. On my best behaviour with my best friend Silke in tow, I was excited to see which kitty would find me worthy enough to adopt as his/her human. As we entered the cat section my friend came to a dead standstill, pointing to something. There, in the corner of a cage, tumbling around with a selection for siblings, was Schatzi. “That’s the one, there is your new baby” my friend said. I went closer and immediately I could feel the gap left by Bonnie starting to get occupied by the smallest little bundle of black and white. I looked into her big green eyes and I could almost hear her say “So, what took you so long?” My friend named her Schatzi – Little Darling in German. We took Schatzi home and she wasted no time in letting everyone know who’s boss. Monroe and Schatzi have become best buddies and he is converted back to feline-hood fully. I met the love of my life 2 and a half years ago and Schatzi decided to become Daddy’s girl. She has Andre wrapped around her little paw and her favourite game is to call him to stand and watch how she eats. Her favourite spot is in the sun by the big potplant containing Bonnie’s ashes. Schatzi truly lives up to her name. She is little kitty angel full of love and has a great sense of humour. I feel honoured that I was the one granted the opportunity to adopt this Little Darling. Santhi Oosthuizen Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Breeders and Pet Services Directory

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210mm(W) x 148mm(H)

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105mm(W) x 148mm(H)

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105mm(W) x 74mm(H)

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

ADVERTISE HERE Advertise your cattery or pet services with Kittycat Magazine

Email: Kittycatsa@gmail.com

Kittycat Magazine’s Advertising Policy Adverts are only accepted from Catteries that are registered with SACC, CFSA or CASA. Kittycat accepts advertisements for the sale of products, services and cats/kittens in good faith. Kittycat assumes all distributors provide high quality products and healthy animals. Kittycat cannot be responsible for advertiser’s claims, distributors’ actions, inferior merchandise or the animals health. Buyers are advised to do any necessary research before making a purchase.

Kittycat Advertising Deadlines All ads are pre-paid Ads must be received on the 15th of the month prior to magazine being published i.e. 15 15 15 15 15

Feb for Mar/Apr issue Apr for May/Jun issue Jun for Jul/Aug issue Aug for Sep/Oct issue Sep for Nov/Dec issue

Kittycat reserves the right to refuse any advertising submitted, or to cancel any advertising accepted upon refund of payments made. The Editor reserves the right to make stylistic changes.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Shangri-la Maine Coons

Contact Vivian shangrilacats@gmail.com

American Curl

Bengals

Silkenclaw Grant Leih Randburg +27 84 584 8922 info@silkenclaw.co.za www.silkenclaw.co.za

Glimmermere Lilian Van As Johannesburg +27 83 634 4661 lilian@bengals.co.za

Silverleaf Cattery Marge Masson Randburg + 27 82 825 7936 info@silverleafcats.co.za www.silverleafcats.co.za

Balinese Kruin Cattery Angus Plumstead Pretoria +27 12 819 1696 +27 83 252 3766 plumsa@metroweb.co.za

Soulmates Cattery Marilyn Schramm Gauteng +27 11 965 0690 Cheryl Moss: 082 572 6969 malcher@iafrica.com www.ragdollcatsouthafrica.homestead.com

Birman

Maverick Cattery Natasha Greaves Roodepoort +27 83 236 5543 maverickcattery@yahoo.com www.maverickcattery.weebly.com

Divaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cattery Willie Strauss Pretoria +27 12 734 0196 +27 82 563 4527 crazycats@intekom.co.za

LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com

Heleen Lello Pretoria +27 833 041 565 +27 844 200 598 animalhaven@mweb.co.za www.animalhaven.co.za/

Bambino Catkin / Nakit Kathy Hoole Durban +27 31 464 8327 +27 835 921 302 catkin@saol.com http://kathyskitties.vpweb.co.nz KaalKatz Jon Goetsch Bloemfontein +27 51433 4112 +27 824460404 kaalkatz@bluexpress.co.za

Glitterkatz Dr. Wally Fogarty Mossel Bay +27 44 698 1794 +27 82 404 4222 wallyf@worldonline.co.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Karnaki Karen Pepler Gauteng +27 11 7951 711 after hours +27 82 5772 097 karnaki@gmail.com Nooitgedacht Birmans Sandy Gunst Malmesbury +27 22 481 3675 +27 826190466 sgunst@mweb.co.za Timshay Shirley Addison Midrand +27 83 627 3578 shirley@addwyn.co.za

British Shorthair Diva’s Cattery Willie Strauss Cullinan- Gauteng +27 82 563 4527 crazycats@intekom.co.za Feline Magic Fatima Bala Boksburg +27 11 894 2649 +27 82 707 5773 persiacattery@uol.co.za www.felinemagic.co.za

Burmese Mapantsula Denis Jansen Cape Town + 27 82 3742 719 zanddam@gmail.com Mela Burmese Jane Goble Kwazulu Natal +27 33 3434080 a/h +27 82 784 3126 goblejane@yahoo.com www.melacattery.com Paradyme Cattery Karen and Ian Davies Johannesburg +27 11 454 6773 +27 74 220 7568 paradymecats@gmail.com www.paradymecattery.homestead.com Soulmates Cattery Marilyn Schramm Benoni +27 11 965 0690 Cheryl Moss: 082 572 6969 malcher@iafrica.com www.ragdollcatsouthafrica.homestead.com

Chinchillas Cherie-Finesse Alida Delport Cape Town +27 21 919 7593 +27 83 628 2479 cheriefinesse@gmail.com www.cherie-finesse.co.za Chindy’s Cattery Cindi Edmunds +27 82 378 5893 cins4chins@yahoo.com www.chindys.co.za

Jalbertus Cattery Helen Middelburg +27 13 2453658 +27 82 4119583 helenvanschoor@webmail.co.za Zambili Cattery Petra Dippenaar Pretoria +27 76 548 6950 petradippenaar8@gmail.com

Cornish Rex Kisamee Naomi Strydom Nelspruit +27 11 84 470 4675 naomistrydom@gmail.com www.kisamee.co.za LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com Majikats Cattery Laura and Dave Cape Town +27 21 559 3807 +27 84 559 3807 comfycats@absamail.co.za Roar’n Cattery Robert Visagie Pretoria +27 82 579 0959 karen.visagie@gijima.com

Devon Rex Soulmates Cattery Marilyn Schramm Benoni +27 11 965 0690 Cheryl Moss: 082 572 6969 malcher@iafrica.com www.ragdollcatsouthafrica.homestead.com

Exotic Astrocatz Brendan Decker Highlands North +27 11 786 9553 +27 82 219 5737 astrocatza@yahoo.com Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Balouchi Persians Christelle Horne Durban North +27 83 300 2989 christelle@balouchi.co.za www.balouchi.co.za

Silkenclaw Grant Leih North Riding +27 84 584 8922 info@silkenclaw.co.za www.silkenclaw.co.za

Carmandale Persians & Exotics Shaun Armand & Antoni Nortman Johannesburg +27 82 719 0110 (Shaun) or +27 82 742 9366 (Antoni) carmandale@gmail.com www.carmandalepersians.net

Silverleaf Cattery Marge Masson Randburg + 27 82 825 7936 info@silverleafcats.co.za www.silverleafcats.co.za

ELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Vee Persians and Exotics Lisa Venter Bethal +27 71 602 0515 lisa.venter@sasol.com www.el-vee.com Moniqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cattery Monica Badenhorst Witbank +27 13 692 5872 +27 82 9274417 monicab@telkomsa.net Purr-n-Meow Persians & Exotics Etrecia Pretoria +27 83 442 1512 etrecia@gmail.com

Japanese Bobtail LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com Tjelu Henni Portwig +27 82 822 7431 henni.portwig@tiscali.co.za

La Perm LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Maine Coon Emalini Cattery Vera Clarke Radiokop +27 11 475 5541 +27 82 650 2302 vera.clarke@sasol.com www.emalini.com GeeDee Cattery Athylle Caw Gauteng +27 11 34 0126 +27 8365 80740 Athylle@mweb.co.za http://geedeesmainecoons.yolasite.com/ Highlanders Maine Coons Carol Middleton Cape Town +27 21 5569759 +27 82 4545302 HighlandersMaineCoons@yahoo.com Kernes Maine Coons Marianne Kernes Edenvale +27 11 974 3804 cooncats@telkomsa.net The Legends Petra Smith Cape Town +27 21 556 8251 +27 72 768 1373 mwpsmith@mweb.co.za Maverick Natasha Greaves Roodepoort +27 83 236 5543 maverickcattery@yahoo.com www.maverickcattery.weebly.com

Manx LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com

Munchkin CATKIN Kathy Hoole Kwa Zulu Natal +27 31 464 8327 +27 835 921 302 catkin@saol.com http://kathyskitties.vpweb.co.nz Divaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cattery Willie Strauss Pretoria +27 12 734 0196 +27 82 563 4527 crazycats@intekom.co.za LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com

Norwegian Forest Cat GeeDee Cattery Athylle Caw Sunninghill 27 11 34 0126 +27 8365 80740 Athylle@mweb.co.za http://geedeesmainecoons.yolasite.com/ Shangri-la Vivian Wright Gauteng 27 82 417 7215 shangrilacats@gmail.com www.shangrilacats.com

Kioko Nicole & Clifford Barratt Durban +27 84 677 2743 nicole@kiokocattery.com www.kiokocattery.com Kriss Cross Cattery Krystle Callaghan Cape Town +27 72 267 2900 krystle@krisscross.co.za Kruin Cattery Angus Plumstead Pretoria +27 12 8191696 +27 83 252 3766 plumsa@metroweb.co.za La MASKA Mariette Burger Pretoria (+27) (12) 998-8821 (+27) (81) 300-5229 marietteburger@lamaska.co.za www.lamaska.co.za Leoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anne-Marie Zwartkop +2712 663 1313 +2782 466 4175 gouspj@mweb.co.za LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com Li & Lo Cats Erika Bekker Benoni +27 11 969-1027 +27 828881527 liandlocats@8tamail.com www.liandlocattery.weebly.com

Oriental

Maverick Natasha Greaves Roodepoort +27 83 236 5543 maverickcattery@yahoo.com www.maverickcattery.weebly.com

Delilla Siamese & Orientals Karen Labuschagne Pretoria +27 82 824 2132 karen@delilla.co.za karenl@fidelity,co.za www.delillacattery.weebly.com

Minki Liu Nicole Earnshaw +27 86 632 9158 +27 83 784 1304 nicole@minkiliu.com www.minkiliu.com Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

MyEden Ivone Cape Town +27 21 559 2406 +27 82 836 8587 myedens@gmail.com www.myeden.co.za

Chattapaws Persians Susan or Mary Johannesburg 0764223070 083 4577182 sbeesley@mweb.co.za www.chattapaws.com

Paddy Paws Cattery Dawn Enslin Newcastle +27 3431 83207 +27 824910594 paddypaws@telkomsa.net or paddypaws1@gmail.com www.freewebs.com/paddypaws-cattery/

EL’Vee Persians and Exotics Lisa Venter Bethal +27 71 602 0515 lisa.venter@sasol.com www.el-vee.com

Roar’n Robert Visagie Pretoria +27 82 579 0959 Robert.v@iburst.co.za Siamese Gardens Cattery Dina Graaff Pretoria +27 797120330 or +27 824383351. siamesegardens@hotmail.co.za

Persian Achlin-Ve Roelien and Hansie Du Plessis Johannesburg +2782 859 4987 +2782 450 9068 roelien@achlinve.com hansie@consulmet.com www.achlinve.com

Incatique Ingrid Benoni +27 11 849 4870 incats@global.co.za Lauvander Cattery Laurent Van Der Merwe Milnerton +27 823791811 laurent@lauvandercattery.com www.lauvandercattery.com MilkWoods Adèle Breedt EAST LONDON +27 82 9751 721 milkwoods@telkomsa.net

Astrocatza Brendan Decker Highlands North +27 11 786 9553 +27 84 888 1020 astrocatza@yahoo.com

Monique’s Cattery Monica Badenhorst Witbank +27 13 692 5872 +27 82 9274417 monicab@telkomsa.net

Balouchi Persians Christelle Horne Durban North +27 83 300 2989 christelle@balouchi.co.za www.balouchi.co.za

Purr-n-Meow Persians & Exotics Etrecia Pretoria +27 83 442 1512 etrecia@gmail.com

Carmandale Persians & Exotics Shaun Armand & Antoni Nortman Roodepoort 27 82 719 0110 (Shaun) +27 82 742 9366 (Antoni) carmandale@gmail.com www.carmandalepersians.net

Flamboyant Persians Marianne Nel Lydenburg +27 13 235 1903 +27 82 667 6581 mcnel@mweb.co.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

RoyalPaws Annatjie Middelburg +27 1324 53547 +27 82 299 4243 dhconsul@mweb.co.za www.royalpaws.co.za

ShakesPurr Cattery Hannelie Röhrs Pretoria +27 83 963 4648 ShakesPURR@gmail.com www.shakespurr.co.za Sherazade Persians & Exotics Eugene & Miranda Cape Town +27 21 9062 568 +27 72 4020 472 +27 82 8754 818 sherazade2001@absamail.co.za www.sherazade.co.za Tibby-catz Friedel Johannesburg +27 11 887 6558 Cell: +27 83 295 3895 friedelm@netactive.co.za

Peterbald LaMaska Mariette Burger Pretoria (+27) (12) 998-8821 (+27) (81) 300-5229 marietteburger@lamaska.co.za www.lamaska.co.za

Ragdoll Ragtime Ragdolls Beverley Steyn Pretoria East +27 12 807 3253 info@ragdollcats.co.za www.ragdollcats.co.za Soulmates Cattery Marilyn Schramm Benoni +27 11 965 0690 Cheryl Moss: 082 572 6969 malcher@iafrica.com www.ragdollcatsouthafrica.homestead.com Waterlee Ragdolls Ivo Huisman Port Elizabeth +27 41-3735121 +27 82 651 5610 ivo@huisman.co.za www.ragdollw.co.za

Russian Azreal Leanne Hewitt Cape Town +27 21 685 3360 +27 83 703 8558 leanne@perform.co.za www.azreal.catz.co.za Moloko’s Russian Blue Nicole Gerstenberg Cape Town +27 82-2186664 +27 82-2186664 info@molokos.de www.molokos.de Silversheen Carol or Roy Wood Amanzimtoti +27 31-9031026 silversheen@mweb.co.za Swarovski Russians Saskia van Dongen KZN +27 795283023 sask@webmail.co.za

Scottish Fold Diva’s Cattery Willie Strauss Pretoria +27 12 734 0196 +27 82 563 4527 crazycats@intekom.co.za Karnaki Karen +27 11 795 1711 karnaki@mweb.co.za www.karnaki.com LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com Silkenclaw Grant Leih North Riding +27 84 584 8922 info@silkenclaw.co.za www.silkenclaw.co.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Selkirk Rex Silkenclaw Grant Leih North Riding +27 84 584 8922 info@silkenclaw.co.za www.silkenclaw.co.za

Siamese Ashway’s Cattery Enid Ashley Durban +27 31 465 2625 ghadlow@iafrica.com www.ashways.co.za/ Delilla Siamese & Orientals Karen Labuschagne Faerie Glen +27 82 824 2132 karen@delilla.co.za karenl@fidelity,co.za www.delillacattery.weebly.com Kioko Nicole & Clifford Barratt Durban +27 84 677 2743 nicole@kiokocattery.com www.kiokocattery.com Kriss Cross Cattery Krystle Callaghan Cape Town +27 72 267 2900 krystle@krisscross.co.za

LesBeauxChats Thea Lamprecht Cape Town +27 21 9769965 +27 82 393 0198 thealamprech@mweb.co.za www.lesbeauchats.com Li & Li Cats Erika Bekker Benoni +27 11 969-1027 +27 828881527 liandlocats@8tamail.com www.liandlocattery.weebly.com Maverick Natasha Greaves Roodepoort +27 83 236 5543 maverickcattery@yahoo.com www.maverickcattery.weebly.com Minki Liu Nicole Earnshaw Johannesburg +27 83 784 1304 nicole@minkiliu.com www.minkiliu.com MyEden Ivone Cape Town 7441 +27 21 559 2406 +27 82 836 8587 myedens@gmail.com www.myeden.co.za

Kruin Cattery Angus Plumstead Pretoria +27 12 8191696 +27 83 252 3766 plumsa@metroweb.co.za

Paddy Paws Cattery Dawn Enslin Newcastle +27 3431 83207 +27 824910594 paddypaws@telkomsa.net or paddypaws1@gmail.com www.freewebs.com/paddypaws-cattery/

LaMaska Mariette Burger Pretoria +27 (12) 998-8821 +27 (81) 300-5229 marietteburger@lamaska.co.za www.lamaska.co.za

Ribanni Sonja or Joseph Botha Centurion +27 12 667 3625 +27 84 329 1093 +27 82 371 5619 joshbotha@telkomsa.net

Leo’s Anne-Marie Zwartkop +2712 663 1313 +2782 466 4175 gouspj@mweb.co.za

Roar’n Robert Visagie Pretoria +27 82 579 0959 Robert.v@iburst.co.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Siamese Gardens Cattery Dina Graaff Pretoria +27 797120330 or +27 824383351. siamesegardens@hotmail.co.za Taigha Lucy Arends-Wagner Gauteng +27 11 453-4108 +27 82 856-7373 taigha@telkomsa.net www.taighacattery.com

Siberian ArtéKatz Siberians Cherylee Krantz Lonehill 11 465-3446 11 467-7157 82 569 5737 cherylee@artekatz.com www.artekatz.com

Sphynx Burlesque Sphynx Stephen White Alberton +27 (071) 352 4717 +27 (071 352 4717 info@burlesquesphynx.co.za http://burlesquesphynx.co.za Chaterley’s Cattery Ernie Bester Western Cape +27 22 487 2766 +27 82 576 5901 chaterley@telkomsa.net Disal Sphynx Elizabeth Swart Benoni +27 11 967-1458 (after hours) +27 082-450-4413 (after hours) eliz@lantic.net www.disalsphynx.com Diva’s Cattery Willie Strauss Pretoria +27 12 734 0196 +27 82 563 4527 crazycats@intekom.co.za

Moon Catz Charon Scheepers Bracken Gardens +27 11 867 4269 +27 82 901 0217 charon@sphynxmooncatz.com www.sphynxmooncats.com Nakit Kathy Hoole Durban +27 31 464 8327 +27 835 921 302 catkin@saol.com http://kathyskitties.vpweb.co.nz Spandau Cattery Wilma Hyman Pretoria +27 12 997 4101 +27 83 649 6851 wilmahyman@telkomsa.net Taldi Cats Johan or Ian Port Elizabeth +27 41 3682 948 +27 82 7041 650 taldicat@iafrica.com www.taldi.co.za

Tonkinese Ashway’s Cattery Enid Ashley Durban +27 31 465 2625 +27 31 465 4928 ghadlow@iafrica.com www.ashways.co.za Kitlings Jean Versfeld Johannesburg +27 11 482 4335 +27 82 546 7220 jeanversfeld@gmail.com Loeloeraai Tonkinese Jeanine Grobbelaar Cape Town +27 8266 33882 Tonkinese@afrihost.co.za Majikats Cattery Laura and Dave Cape Town +27 21 559 3807 +27 84 559 3807 comfycats@absamail.co.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Turkish Van

Breed Groups

Karnaki Somali, Munchkin, Scottish Fold, Skookum, Turkish Van Karen +27 11 795 1711 karnaki@mweb.co.za www.karnaki.com

Breeders of Rex and Sphynx

Turiska Mariska van Loggerenberg Ballito +27 83 651 5227 +27 83 651 5227 mariska@turkishvan.co.za www.turkishvan.co.za

Julie Banham (021) 790 1525 bayfield@iafrica.com

Landie Copperthwaite (Secretary) 0826991077 landiecop@gmail.com British Shorthair Group

Natal Siamese/Oriental Club Carol Wood (Secretary) 031-9031026 silversheen@mweb.co.za S.A. Abyssinian & Somali Association (SAASA)

Please Note

Adrienne Swart (Secretary) 0824055437 aswart@acucap.co.za Maine Coon Interest Group (MCIG)

Kittycat has not inspected any cattery and does not guarantee the health or genetics or pedigree of any kitten purchased from any breeder who advertises in the magazine.

Hanneke Bestbier (Sercretary) 0724557610 Hanneke.Bestbier@sasol.com Siamese Breeders Group of S.A. (SBG)

We recommend that when you purchase a pedigreed cat you first check that the breeder is registered with SACC, CFSA or CASA and make full enquiries. Breeders listed in the Breeder Directory are listed on the Kittycat website and will be published in the first issue only. Please email kittycatsa@gmail.com if you would like to have your cattery added, amended or removed.

Charlotte van der Riet (Secretary) Cell: 0833840285 Email: charlottevdriet@gmail.com http://siamesebreedersgroup.weebly.com Russian Cat Interest Group of South Africa (RCIG) Solveig Klahr (Secretary) 0832722443 Solveig.klahr@gmail.com Sphynx Alliance (SA) Annemarie Redelinghuys (Secretary) 0837307666 Annemarie@cassell.co.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Cat Clubs

Affiliated to SACC

Affiliated to CFSA

All Breeds Cat Club (ABCC) Cape Town Colin Bubb 082 374 6827

National Cat Society (NCS)

Cat Fancierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club Gauteng Stephen White 071 352 4717

Feline Fan Club of SA (FFC)

Eastern Cape Cat Club (ECCC) Port Elizabeth Rita Wiseman 083 267 4827

Kwa Zulu Natal Cat Club (KZNCC)

Northern Cape/Free State (NCFS) Kimberley Carol Kotze 082 719 1465

Cleopatra Cat Club (CCC)

Persian Cat Society (PCS) KZN Jane Goble 082 784 3126 Rand Cat Club (RCC) Gauteng Karen Pepler 082 577 2097 The Big Cat Club (TBCC) Cape Town Kim Cutter 021 461 9505 Transvaal Cat Society (TCS) Gauteng Gail Nel 082 446 8189 Western Province Cat Club Cape Town Jane Slabbert

Sandy Fitzpatrick (Secretary) mwpaws@mweb.co.za

Zayne Sullivan (Secretary) felinefanclub@gmail.com

Rachel Niemandt (Secretary) kzncatclub@gmail.com

Rialene van Reenen (Secretary) cleopatracatclub@gmail.com

Independent Cat Clubs Cat Lovers Association of S.A. (CLASA) African Independent Cat Association (AICA) The Oriental, Siamese & Related Breeds Group (OSRBG) The Nelson Mandela Bay Cat Club (NMBCC) The South African Cat Club (S.A.C.C.) Chats du Cap Cat Club (CdC-I) SAC@TS Breeders Group

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Chindyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boarding and Breeding Cattery

Cindi Edmunds 082 378 5892 Email: cins4chins@yahoo.com SACC Registered Chinchilla kittens occasionally available to approved homes. Boarding facilities available (Benoni)

ELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Vee Persians and Exotics

Lisa Venter 071 602 0515 lisa.venter@sasol.com www.el-vee.com

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Kittens available to pre-approved homes Selling only as Pets and to Show Homes

Serenity Persians Specializing in Bi-colours and Solids

Lyndie Komossa 081 705 0544

lyndiekomossa@gmail.com

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Mela Burmese Healthy, socialised kittens sometimes available to approved homes

Jane Goble 082 784 3126 goblejane@yahoo.com www.melacattery.com

Feline Fan Club (FFC) (affiliated to CFSA)

1st show of the 2014 season ! 8 March 2014 Venue: Discovery Recreation Centre, C/o Anstruther and Walker Ave, Roodepoort Show Manager: Etrecia Bester Contact details: felinefanclub@gmail.com / 083 442 1512 Entries closing date: Thursday 6 February 2014 Public welcome from 09h00 - 15h00, entrance fee R10-00 per person

Cat Association of Southern Africa THE SOUTH AFRICAN REPRESENTATIVE OF

THE WORLD CAT FEDERATION PROUDLY CELEBRATING OUR 7TH YEAR IN SOUTH AFRICA With more than 45 successful International Shows, members in all 5 Regions, many Grand Intl Champions & SA Supreme Champions, we continue to strive for harmony and enjoyment in the Cat Fancy, while using our energy to follow our passion and promote our beloved pets as an organisation complimentary to and not in competition with the rest of the Cat World, locally and internationally. FOR INFORMATION ON SHOWS, MEMBERSHIP & REGISTRATIONS SEE:

www.casawcf.com

Lauvander Cattery Pointed Persians from imported bloodlines

Laurent Van Der Merwe Deetlefs 082 379 1811 laurent@lauvandercattery.com www.lauvandercattery.com

Animal Travel Agency your trusted Pet Transport solution in South Africa. Moving pets safely and ethically since 1971!!

We offer a specialised and comprehensive Pet Travel service to families and furry friends travelling from South Africa to all destinations worldwide. We also assist with Pet Transportation into South Africa from all over the world, transits and local pet moving. Our first priority is ensuring that your furry friends arrive safely and comfortably. Purrfect partner in pet relocation. Tel: +27 (11) 026 2013 / 073 105 7869 Email: info@animaltravel.co.za Website: www.animaltravel.co.za

75 Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Animal Travel Agency was originally established in 1971 by Diane Veining’s as the first pet travel agency in South Africa. Diane realised that there were many travel companies for human’s but not accommodating our furry travellers, with her love for animals this was a perfect opportunity for her to do what she loved so much.

As animal lovers we are truly blessed to be able to spend time with such amazing animals, each with their own character and nature.

Since then Animal Travel Agency changed many hands and was then purchased by Samantha Cary, joining forces with her experienced partner Duncan Harmse who has over 18 years; experience in the industry. Taking pride in ensuring that all domestic pets are handled with the same care and kindness you, as the owner would give to your beloved pet. Offering a specialised and comprehensive Pet Travel service to families and furry friends alike.

Samantha Cary - Owner of Animal Travel in charge of all financial matters and business decisions. Always ready to resolve any issue that might arise setting our clients minds at ease. Her staff are all part of a very big family. Not only does she pride

Whether you are travelling from South Africa to any destination worldwide or transporting your beloved pet into South Africa from anywhere in the world Animal Travel Agency can assist. We also specialise with transits and local pet moving. Our first priority is ensuring your furry family members arrive safely and comfortably at their chosen destinations. As animal lovers we are truly blessed to be able to spend time with such amazing animals, each with their own character and nature. Many of them we have the opportunity to babysit even if just for a night and many spend weeks with us. Sadly we always become attached and always have to say goodbye leaving us as a team with amazing memories and heartwarming thank you from the loving owners who are too happy to get their babies back home safe and sound. Animal Travel Agency is blessed to have an amazing team who all share the same notion, ‘Our furry travellers always come first’. Fortunately our team are all animal lovers with the generosity and kindness a furry traveller deserves.

herself on the ethics of her business but the ethics surrounding any furry traveller and their owners. ‘I truly am blessed to be able to deal with animals each and every day, having my own personal zoo at home with 3 Cats, 3 Dogs, 1 Indian Ring Neck Parakeet and 1 Cockatoo, 3 snakes and 2 tarantula’s a few more pets at home is always welcome even if for a short period of time’.

Meet our Team Duncan Harmse - International Specialist who has actively worked in the industry for the past 18 years. His very first position as an Animal Travel Specialist was with the very company whom it is now a proud part owner. It takes a special kind of person to love his job as much as he does. It truly is for the love of the animal that he takes the care and consideration placed into every single relocation to ensure absolute precise details for the pet’s safety and travels

David Studd - Our trusted Pet Relocation Officer, always ready to lend a helping hand with a gentle disposition towards not only the stressed owner but also that of your furry family member. Ensuring the safe and comfortable travel of your pets throughout their entire duration of the journey.

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Meet our Team Scott Parker - Regional Specialist who has a genuine heart of gold despite his many artistic works of art; an individual always willing to go the extra mile, who would do anything to ensure the comfort of your furry babies. Not only is he fantastic with our furry travellers but great with the stressed owner who has to say goodbye. He has been actively involved in the industry for the past 7 years.

Samantha Powell - Our trusted Jack-Of-All- Trades. Who as you can see clearly loves animals and animals love her. Without hesitation she will always greet you with a smile and a helping hand never far away. Her cheery disposition makes each conversation and day a pleasure.

Meet some of our previous furry travellers! Bon Voyage!

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

SOUTHERN AFRICA CAT COUNCIL P O Box 28732, Kensington, 2101, Tel: 011 616 7017 Fax: 086 616 8294, sacatreg@iafrica.com, www.isacc.org.za

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

THE NEXT ISSUE ... Would you like YOUR cat featured in Kittycat magazine? Do you have a Happy Ending (Rescue) story to share? How did YOU meet YOUR cat? Do you have any Show news or Brags? Would you like to list your Cattery or Pet Services in our Pink Pages? Please send us your LETTERS.

We would love to hear from you.

The smallest feline is a masterpiece. Leonardo Da Vinci

Kittycat Issue 1 January/February 2014

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Email: kittycatsa@gmail.com

Photo by Jenni Ferreira www.jenniferreira.com

Advertise your cattery or your pet services here

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