Dear reader, I have a feline visitor who literally knocks at my window to get my attention. It is actually adorable seeing her little paw patting on the screen. Occasionally she will come in for a visit. She enjoys being pet, because she will purr, lick my hand, and sometimes I get a gentle bite. It is confusing and I wondered why?
First, not all bites are equal. Cats bite to assert dominance, stop unwanted human attention, or to respond to threat. However, in this situation she is purring, licking, and biting. This was my introduction to the love bite. If your cat licks and then gently bites you, it is a love bite. In fact, she may be trying to show you affection or asking you to give her attention.
A common interaction among cats, especially kittens, is licking and gentle biting; it is part of feline communication. Cats are independent and usually have their own idea of how they want to interact with you. They definitely know how to get attention and how to avoid it.
Cats can be over stimulated and this happens when you touch cats in areas they do not like. It is important to observe any signs of discomfort when petting your cat. Keep the stroking sessions short. Otherwise, you may get a sharp reminder.
When your cat gently bites or licks you, she may just be grooming you. In cat colonies, grooming is a way to socially bond. When cats groom each other, they lick and nibble to free up hair mats. You are your cat’s family, so enjoy the experience of the love bite. It’s the cat’s meow!
ATTENTION
Thursday, Feb. 29 is the last day for CAPS $75 fee for dogs. All our dogs are microchipped, have current vaccinations, and are spayed/neutered. As a bonus, CONNECTED K-9 is offering free or reduced training.
March 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., we are having a spaghetti dinner and silent auction at Epworth Methodist Church 280 E. Stillwater. The cost is $15. Come out and support CAPS!
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have one seven-month-old white and black puppy to adopt and four fluffy white puppies to foster. Call for details. 775-423-7500.
Cat lovers, we have cats galore. Come out and meet them because they are fabulous!
IN NEED OF
• Would you like to foster animals? Call CAPS for details.
• CAPS is seeking board members. We need energetic, enthusiastic, community-minded folks to serve on the board. Please consider being part of our team, we only meet once a month. Call 775-423-7500 for details.
• Bleach, laundry detergent pods, toilet paper, and paper towels.
• Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.
SHOUT OUT TO
• Blueberry and Co., for their generous donation of toys, harnesses, treats, and accessories. Pooch Smooches to you!
• The anonymous person who donated funds in honor of Pete “Roy” Peterson. Kindness never fails.
OVER THE RAINBOW
Kali the Goddess of the dog park left us on Feb. 18. Loved and missed by Roger, Ginger, and Lila she will be remembered for her sweet disposition and gentle ways.
COME SEE US
CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.
DON’T FORGET
• February Holiday: National Dog Biscuit Day.
• View our wish list at Chewy.com.
• Would you like a newsletter? Call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.
• CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are likeable.
Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.