The World Outside

One of the best things I ever did (for myself and my cats) was about a year and a half ago, when I  enclosed an approximately twelve by twelve by eight foot area of my back deck for the cats.   Prior to moving to my current home about six years ago, I had a townhouse nearby that was unique in two respects:  it had a small fenced yard that was perfect for letting the dogs out on late nights and early mornings AND a six by six by eight screened patio that Olivia, then the only cat, greatly enjoyed.  I couldn't really tell you why I waited so long to create this new enclosure, which the cats access from the french doors off my bedroom, but I wish I had done it years ago.

Prior to doing so, however, I had satisfied the cats' desire to be outdoors with my desire to keep them safe by outfitting them with harnesses and taking them on leashed strolls around the fenced backyard. All the cats really enjoyed this, but PE (post enclosure), we got out of the habit, I guess because of my own laziness and/or the belief that the cats didn't really need to go out on leash anymore since they could go out in the cat safe enclosure basically anytime they wanted, so long as I was home to keep an eye and ear out for any trouble.  

Last weekend, though, it was so nice out on Saturday that I decided to give each cat a turn about the yard (while the other two watched most enviously from the mudroom window).  Of course, it wasn't until I was about to bring Finn out for his turn that it dawned on me to grab the camera.  Needless to say, they all three had a great time, and I have promised them that I'll be much more diligent about making sure that they get this opportunity more frequently from now on.  

God made the cat in order that man might have the pleasure of caressing the tiger. 

- Fernand Mery 

Hey, what kind of scratching post is THIS?  

Tiger no.  Panther ... YES!  

Always take time to stop and smell pose in front of the flowers.

I am a house panther - see me stalk!