Friday, May 13, 2011

really?



It's mind boggling what devices/storage containers people will use to transport an animal to us. Yesterday, 'The King of Beers' was used to contain a queen (momma cat) and her 6 newborn kittens. 'Newborn' doesn't begin to describe the freshness of these tiny critters. See that blood stain on the box? Afterbirth baby. Call me crazy, but the last thing a newly delivered momma wants to do is be crammed inside a flimsy, hops residue-y box along with 6 hungry and confused souls who are clamouring for a teat. If i were to push 6 babies out of my vajayjay, i think i might appreciate being able to stretch a little bit- not be crammed tighter than a rolypoly bug.

  Moral of the rant? If you find a stray cat and need to bring it somewhere, AND you do not have felines of your own...call a neighbor or a friend. Chances are you do know someone who has a cat who you can borrow a carrier from for a little while (all you need to do to make it safe to return is simply clean it in a good bleach solution to kill any possible germs/parasites that may be lingering). Call your arrival spot and see if they have something you can borrow or rent- zip down to pick that up, gather the animal/s and see the carrier's return with the dropoff. IF you can't find any one with a carrier, you want to make sure that what you are using is a secure container. This box does not fit that bill....the wet cardboard is not strong enough to support an 8 pound cat. Mom can easily bust out of the top of the box. Babies can fall out of the gap where the "handle" is. We've had animals come in in rubbermaid containers and even pillowcases. A rubbermaid tote with handles that latch is a pretty good solution- just make sure to sacrifice the top for some air holes (a replacement can easily be purchased for $2 at most stores). Pillowcases are a bit rough, but if you can't find a carrier, and live under a rock where a tote is not in possession, they can be a somewhat secure solution- a knot around the top will keep Fluffy contained until she arrives to her nearby destination. Just don't knot it super close to the body- that limits the amount of air supply in the case.

  Bottom line, transporting a cat requires security, to keep Fluffy and you safe. Tap in to your inner Macgyver and consider your options with a discerning eye.

  This Bud's for you....not your cat.

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