Cats are frequently portrayed in popular culture and the media as selfish, careless, and self-centered house pets. These depictions are exaggerations of stereotypes about our feline friends. Cats, in reality, have a wide range of personalities and behaviors, and they frequently form strong bonds with other pets and their owners. Most cats are highly social and affectionate animals, and many cat owners will tell you that their pets enjoy petting, cuddling, and playing. They frequently express their gratitude to their fur parents by purring and gently kneading.
And those characteristics are not limited to house cats. Cats in shelters or foster care require human interaction as a form of enrichment as well. Having people visit rescued cats improves their quality of life and encourages them to interact with others. Petting, playing, and conversing with cats in a similar setting adds comfort and excitement to their otherwise mundane days.
CARA Welfare Philippines encourages volunteers to spend quality time with their resident cats, some of which are available for foster care and adoption. I went to CARA one afternoon to meet some of the 150 cats that are currently housed there. Before going, I went to a pet store and bought cat treats. I was advised to purchase treats that are not in tube or paste form because the cats, especially the young ones, may become overly excited and jumpy.
When I arrived at the CARA headquarters in Mandaluyong, I was greeted by the resident cat receptionists. Ronald, a lap cat and member of the welcoming committee, was already up for cuddles, a sign that the afternoon was going to be fantastic. He kept me company as I waited for the go signal to visit some of the resident cats.
Glenda, a CARA assistant, then led me to cats who have been diagnosed with feline immunodeficiency virus or FIV. Cats with FIV have a weakened immune system and are more susceptible to secondary infections. I was led to the back of the facility, where the cats are kept. To prevent infection, the cats with FIV are kept in a large cage located a few steps away from the main cattery.
There are at least eight FIV-infected cats in the cage, all of whom are very curious about the new random guy who has entered their home. Though most of the cats are approachable some are distant, so I made sure to respect their space. The cats showed no signs of aggression, making my interaction with them enjoyable. I spent the rest of the hour giving them treats, pets, and playing with them. Inside the cage, they have toys that I used to engage them in interactive play. I hope that by spending time with these cats who have an incurable illness, I was able to stimulate them mentally and physically.
Supporting the cats and giving them an enriching experience does not have to be expensive. Cat visitation and simply making time for them is already effective in keeping the cats interested and reducing their stress. Personally, knowing that I was able to spend my time doing something worthwhile gave me a sense of joy and fulfillment.
For future cat-vocates, there are a number of reasons why you should consider visiting the cats in CARA:
- If you’ve been meaning to foster or adopt a cat but are unsure or aren’t in a position to do so, this is a good opportunity to see if you’re up to the task. Depending on the day of your visit, you will be able to practice feeding or bathing the cats so that you will be prepared when it comes time to care for your own;
- It’s also a good idea for first dates or for getting together with friends. You learn more about the people around you with how they treat animals. So, before going out to bars or coffee shops, stop by CARA first. This could also be an opportunity to meet others who share the same passion for our four-legged friends;
- Lastly, it’s a wonderful experience to spread compassion and love by making the cats, who are still looking for their forever homes, happy.
So, if you have some free time, why not spend an hour or two surrounded by cute and lovable felines to make your day, and theirs, a little bit better.
Story by Leo Alexis.