Meet Jonny

Since the weather (all things considered) was downright gorgeous yesterday the Mister and I headed down to PS9 to meet a few of the cats from Empty Cages Collective.

The one that stole my heart above all others (and this is no small achievement— there were many a heart stealer to be had*) was this guy. His name is Jonny and he was rescued from the euthanasia list at the Center for Animal Care and Control. His crime? Having Feline Leukemia. The sad reality is any cat (or kitten) who is sick be it a mere cold, upper respiratory infection, Feline Leukemia or F.I.V. gets V.I.P. treatment at the CACC when it comes to joining this club. One which they (more often than not) enter and never leave.

But it is not the purpose of this post to be grim. There are a number of seemingly little things you can do to stop this from happening. Yes, I am asking that you “get involved” by…

1. learning more about trap, neuter and return and volunteering at your local feral cat colony.
2. Spay and neutering your pets. You want to end “Euth lists” (as they call them)? This is the way to do it!
3. Volunteering at your local animal shelter…
4. and perhaps, taking in a cat with special needs in your home.

Adopting a cat with Feline Leukemia is not for everyone. They cannot mix with “non-positive cats” as the disease is spread by saliva. In addition there are additional responsibilities that come with having a cat living with Feline Leukemia. The previous is not to suggest, however, that they cannot live long healthy lives or give lots of love. As you will see in this video of Jonny. Be sure to turn up the volume and listen to his crazy purr— I’ve never heard anything like it in my life!

Although someone has apparently filled out an application to adopt this wonderful dude nothing has been set in stone, so to speak. What’s more, he has lots of fellow Empty Cage cats who would very much like to call your home their own. You can meet them by clicking here.

Miss Heather

*A few of whom you can see by licking here!