Some of the happiest cats in Tahoe are living at the new Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe shelter. With space for about 60 cats, HSTT has clearly figured out how to make these kitties purr. The cats have nice windows to look out at the world. They have new play structures with ramps, cool hiding places, and things to run and jump on. It’s like a cat skate park in there. I also like the semi-private restrooms. There is even cat television. They have this show where it’s just squirrels — squirrels running in the grass, having a picnic, and playing squirrel baseball. I just wanted to run right into the television. These weren’t some run-of-the-mill, backyard squirrels, either. These guys (and girls) had talent. Picture Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, only as squirrels. The other night after the squirrel show we watched some football. We were all rooting for the Bengals, but we also cheer for the Lions, Jaguars, and Panthers. My other favorite show is “The Real Pigeons of Nevada County.” I never thought pigeons could cause so much drama.
When I am not watching television I spend my time lying in the sun. I can pull a full eight-hour shift on the deck if conditions are right. Eventually I have to get up and get a drink. It may look like I am sleeping out there, but one of these days I am going to spring into action and catch me a squirrel. I got a better chance than the dogs that live at my house. You would think I lived with a herd of elephants. No tact. They couldn’t catch a one-legged squirrel.
Cats are just smarter and stealthier than dogs. I get premium, prescription-strength, canned cat food. It’s better than tuna. I get fed in the middle of the night, the early morning, pretty much whenever I want. Those dogs are still eating dry food on someone else’s schedule and they have to sit to get it. I just meow at the top of my lungs and the food appears. No tricks necessary. It’s great to be a cat.
One of my cat buddies currently living the good life is RJ. RJ is a handsome orange tabby that loves attention and affection. RJ gets along well with other cats and would make a fantastic lap warmer this winter. I don’t know how he is with dogs, so you’ll have to ask him when you meet him. RJ was patiently watching some cat television the other day when he finally decided to make a move. He leaped for a pigeon and smacked his head right into the TV screen. RJ wasn’t hurt, but I think he learned a valuable lesson. He still watches the TV but he tries not to get so wrapped up in the reality shows. One other cat I liked on my visit was Marco. Marco is a handsome Maine coon cat and he pretty much runs the place. If you want to change the channel you have to ask him. And he never shares the remote.
In other cat news, long-time HSTT office cats Ginger and Pie-Pie have found a wonderful home with sunny windows and a nice person to care for them. We are so happy for these great cats. If you are looking for your own awesome cat, stop by the new shelter. It really is a great place to meet a new friend, and it’s now open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more info, visit hstt.org. Have a great month.
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