Quinn is a gorgeous 10-year-old tuxedo/mix with adorable crossed eyes. Rescued from a dangerous situation, she came to CAPS. She is a bit shy but very sweet.
Provided to the LVN
Dear reader, recently it came to my attention that a new cat breed has been making big news in America. The Black-footed cat is the smallest species of wild cats found in Africa. They are smaller than other wild cats weighing in at 2-4 pounds and measuring 14-20 inches in body length. However, don’t let their size fool you, because they are deadly killers.
They get their names from the black or dark brown pads on their feet. The Afrikaan language calls them “ant-hill tigers” because during the day they often rest in hollow termite mounds. Avoiding them is wise because if cornered they become as fierce as tigers.
These cats are nocturnal and are voracious hunters. The bold small spots and stripes on brownish fur provide excellent camouflage especially on moonlit nights. Black-footed cats kill an average of 8-14 meals per night and 3,000 rodents per year.
Amazingly, the cats can jump up to five feet high and 6.5 feet in distance. They roam between 3 to 10 miles nightly in search of small rodents and birds. They can catch birds in flight by jumping and will attack mammals much heavier than themselves. They have a hunting success rate of 60 percent outpacing bigger cats who have a 20 percent hunting rate.
Part of the Black-footed’s success in hunting is their sharp night vision. Sporting the largest-sized eyes of all cats, their vision is enhanced by a mirror-like layer called the tapetum lucidum, which is behind the retina. This feature makes double use of minimally available light. In almost total darkness, they are able to see their prey.
Healthy black-footed cats don’t drink water, because their kidneys are highly effective at recycling fluid, although they frequently develop AA Amyloidosis, a disorder that leads to kidney failure.
They are on the endangered species list and there is an active push to breed them in captivity. Presently, the Hogan Zoo in Utah is home to two black-footed cats. There is no pussyfooting around; we need to save them.
ATTENTION
Paint Your Pet Night is Saturday, Feb. 10, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Old Post Office. Come and create a portrait of your pet. All supplies, beverages, and appetizers provided for only $40. All proceeds go to CAPS. Text Genevieve at 801-694-0059 to attend this fun-filled evening.
LOOKING FOR A HOME
We have two handsome 15-month-old male puppies. BG and Diego are shy guys! They have lived their lives at CAPS but are anxiously waiting to find a forever home. Cat lovers, we have two nine-month-old kittens. They are cute!
IN NEED OF
• CAPS is actively 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. You can make a difference! Call 775-423-7500 for details.
• Bleach, laundry detergent pods, toilet paper, and paper towels.
• XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.
• Would you like to foster animals? Call CAPS for details.
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
Gevevieve for facilitating Paint Your Pet Night. All tails are wagging for you!
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
January Holiday: National Answer Your Cat’s Question Day.
To view our wish 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.