Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Scratching the trees outside...



“Dear Cocoa,

I am an inside/outside feline, and I love to sharpen my nails on the bark of trees.  I love how sharp they come out and how much better the shedding goes when I dig at the rough bark.  Recently, my pets purchased a funny looking pole-like thing that they put catnip all over and then tried to get me to scratch it.  Now why would I want to scratch that thing when I have all the trees in the back yard to scratch on?  Are they missing the point of being outside, or are they just a bit ignorant as to what felines do?  Please explain,

Signed Loves to Scratch Real Trees”

“Dear Loves to Scratch Real Trees,

Sadly, your pets are very ignorant about outside felines.  They are probably trying to work towards keeping you inside because they feel it will be safer for you.  In some instances it might be; however, we felines are usually very good at living in the outside world.  I would ignore anything they give you to scratch on inside (including their soft chairs and couches) and continue to scratch outside for best effect.  Perhaps they will decide that outside is best for you afterall. 

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Chasing leaves


“Dear Cocoa,

I am an outside cat that just loves being outside.  I don’t have any pets to answer to and I don’t have to pretend to love someone to get my food.  I love to hunt; I love to sleep under the stars; and I love to crawl into tight places and discover bugs.  But I wanted to write to tell you my absolute favorite thing in the whole wide world--chasing leaves.  When leaves fall from the trees and fly through the air, they are wonderful entertainment.  I follow them where ever they go and I track them when they land.  I have a great track record of catching them while they are still in the air.  Once down, I can rip them to pieces and then seek another ‘victim’ for my entertainment.  I hope all of your feline readers get a chance to chase leaves at least once in their lives. 

Signed Leaf Chaser”

“Dear Leaf Chaser,

Oh look, a leaf.
Oh the memories came flooding back for me with your exciting letter.  I remember, back when I was very young, chasing leaves through the yard as the wind picked them up and swirled them about.  What fun.  Yes, I do love a good chase now and then and that was a perfect opportunity.  I am glad you wrote in to let other readers know the thrill of the chase and the fun of the catch.  Sadly, though, many of my readers do not live in an area where leaves fall; however, perhaps your enthusiastic letter has given them an idea of what it might be like.  Thanks for writing in. 

Signed Cocoa”

Monday, October 29, 2012

They can play with the nuts......


“Dear Cocoa,

I just wanted to share with you and your readers about this time of the year.  I live in the New England area and every year at about this time, the air starts to get colder and my pets bring in fun things to play with.  For example:  just recently they brought in tiny pumpkins that I could bat around and chase off the table.  Soon they will be bringing in those things the squirrels play with all the time.  They put them in a bowl and leave them out just for me.  What Fun!  I can’t wait until those toys come out this year because my pets cleaned out my stock pile that was under the bureau earlier this year.
Image by Hans

Signed Loves the squirrel things”

“Dear Loves the squirrel things,

Wow, what a wonderful letter you have sent.  I know there are many felines who have pets that bring in these things; however some don’t realize that it was brought in for their entertainment.  I am glad you brought it up.  I hope you have the opportunity to replenish your stockpile for plenty of winter fun. 

Signed Cocoa”

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Playing with a writing stick



“Dear Cocoa,

I love to play with all of the things my pets leave hanging around like the sticks they use to mark paper.  I knock it on the floor and chase that thing all over the house.  What I find confusing is this:  I knock that thing past my pets ten/twenty times and they never say a word; but then they go to the table and start screaming because they can’t find their writing stick.  They saw me playing with it, why would they be upset about it now?  I mean all they have to do is look under the fridge where I store all of my toys when I’m done playing with them.
 
Signed Why don’t they look”

“Dear Why don’t they look,

Your pets, I am sorry to say, are not that intelligent.  No pets are very intelligent which is why they are pets and not superior individuals.  Often they don’t see things that are right in front of them because they are too busy with something else (usually something very unimportant by my way of thinking).  If you are playing with something you are relatively certain they will want eventually, try leaving it near where you found it:  like on the kitchen floor if you found it on the table in there.  That way you can still play with it, but your pets will still (it is hoped) be able to find it when they need it.  One thing though, pets are not too observant, so if they fall by stepping on the item, RUN!

Signed Cocoa”

Saturday, October 27, 2012

A traded and lonely kitty,


“Dear Cocoa,

Never thought I would be writing anyone like you for advice; I am, after all, a very smart feline.  But, here goes:  I have been recently loaned to another pet family (my family abandoning me just when I was getting used to them) and I have found that there is one pet that has a wonderful smell; so wonderful in fact that I can’t seem to leave her alone.  The problem is this:  whenever I try to cuddle up with this pet, she pushes  me away after a quick rub.  What can I do to get this pet to cuddle me and pet me the way I deserve?

I'd prefer a good pet, lady....
Signed Traded and alone”

“Dear Traded and alone,

The key to getting the attention you want and deserve is----DON’T GIVE UP!  All pets (well, perhaps most is a better word) have a built-in sense of love that will well up and cause them to grab you up into their arms and cuddle you until you have truly had enough and wish to rest from your exertions.  So brush on them, climb on them (no claws if possible), purr a lot when they are near, reach for them often, and sleep with them when the lights go down.  Before long, they will be grabbing you up first thing in the morning and loving you until you can’t stand it anymore (until the next time, of course). 

Signed Cocoa”

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Outside or in?



“Dear Cocoa,

I’ve been around, but I don’t announce it everywhere I go.  I like the outside for the excitement and adventure it provides; however, I also like the inside for it perks and safe environment.  I am torn between the two.  I don’t know what to do.  I have a loving family, but I want to go out every time they open the door.  What should I do?  I can’t decide.  Please help me.

Signed Don’t know what to do”

“Dear Don’t know what to do,

The sun does look inviting, doesn't it?
You are suffering from “deciditis”.  It is a swelling of our pride in our ability to survive under harsh conditions even when safe conditions exist.  Feel your pets out; they may actually be alright with you going out so long as you return to them.  A few dashes out the door and up a tree then a return at the end of the day might encourage them to let you run free while the sun is up.  Of course, I cannot guarantee that this will be the case since pets are so inconsistent with their decisions.  Good Luck. 

Signed Cocoa”

Cats are often lured by the outside world since they enjoy a good chase and the challenge of catching their own food.  They also like the feel of the sun on their fur and the taste of fresh greens in their diet.  If you have a relatively safe environment, you might want to allow you felines to go outside during the day.  If not, you might want to go to Petco or Petsmart and purchase an oustide enclosure that will allow your beloved felines a chance at the outside without the dangers it poses.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Window sitting


“Dear Cocoa,

I am a very versatile feline and I was wondering something about my pets that I can’t quite figure out.  Here goes:  I love to sit in the window and watch everything going on outside.  It is safe, warm, and fun to do.  My pets, on the other hand, will actually go out there.  I worry about them out in that big wide world.  Is there any way I can stop them from doing such a dangerous thing?

Signed Pets in danger”

“Dear Pets in danger,

You are a great feline for thinking about the safety of your pets; however, there is nothing you can do.  The simple fact of the matter is--if your pets don’t go out into the dangerous world, they cannot bring home the food, and pampering-tools that keep you happy and healthy.  So, though your pets are going out into the dangerous world, they are doing it for you.  Take heart in the fact that they come home every night, just as you would do if you were out and about.

Signed Cocoa”

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Climbing stairs as a toy???


“Dear Cocoa,

First, I would like to thank you for all of the great advice you have been giving all of feline kind over the last several months, what a wonderful gift!  Second, I wanted to ask why our pets have such wonderful play areas that they never seem to enjoy?  For instance:  They have a great set of climbing steps that they can run up and down on, chase each other and peek around corners from, yet they are always so ‘business-like’ when they use it.  Why is that?

Signed Why is that”

“Dear Why is that,

Thank you for the praise, my friend, I am glad I have been able to help so many.  Now, on to your problem:  pets are not like felines; they must be ‘business-like’ at all times in order to serve feline-kind better.  They allow the felines to play on the steps while they clear up the messes, organize the area for better challenges and prepare our meals.  And, of course, don’t forget the pampering that must be done.  Enjoy the steps and let your pets do their work, it works out much better that way.

Signed Cocoa”

Monday, October 22, 2012

Halloween time?!?!


“Dear Cocoa,

I have been living with my pets for a couple of years now and I was wondering about their annual ritual of dressing up in silly costumes and putting paint all over themselves.  Is this a normal thing for all creatures and I’m just not in the loop; or is this something strictly for human pets? 

Signed What is it”
Image by han

“Dear What is it,

I was wondering when this particular question might come up, especially during this time of the year.  Human pets are very much into colors and fashions.  Once a year, the fashion trend changes to reflect the ugliness or cuteness within each human; they dress according to their behaviors during the year.  But don’t worry, this phenomenon only lasts a few days and then your pets will be back to their normal selves (and hopefully nicer so next year’s trend will be cute rather than nasty).

Signed Cocoa”

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Awful Drinks Stink


“Dear Cocoa,

Never thought I would be writing to an advice cat, but here goes:  My pets are fond of having others over to the house.  They get wild and drink awful smelling drinks.  After a few of those horrid drinks, they start doing outrageous things.  I have learned to hide when that awful smell comes around because I never know what they will do.  What is that stuff and why do they drink it (it must taste absolutely horrible considering how bad it smells)?

Signed Awful Drinks Stink”

Image by Nemo
“Dear Awful Drinks Stink,

I don’t profess to be the all-knowing feline of the world; however I do know a thing or two about pets.  In answer to your question, your pets are drinking their equivalent to our favorite nip (catnip, of course).  They drink several of them and then, feeling quite giddy, they begin to play like they should have been doing all along.  It is a chance for them to actually break out of their shell and become (almost) feline.  Of course, as with our nip, some take way more than they should and become incorrigible.  Hiding is your only option when that happens; and, to be honest, I encourage all felines to hide when the ‘pet nip’ comes out. 

Signed Cocoa”

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Why don't they climb, pets I mean?


“Dear Cocoa,

While I am not a worrisome feline, I am, on occasion, confused by the world around me.  For instance:  Why do human pets use those funny stepping things to reach high places?  Don’t they know how to actually climb?  I checked out their claws, and I must admit they are wide and clumsy looking, but they do have them, so what is the deal?

Signed Pets Using no Claws”

“Dear Pets Using no Claws,

Sometimes pets are very difficult to understand, and sometimes there is just no answer for the things they do.  However, I do actually know why they don’t use their claws to climb.  You see many many years ago a pet discovered that if she trimmed and decorated her claws, others noticed and admired them; by the same token the male of the species didn’t want people ohing and ahing over his claws so he cut them.  The tradition continued, though why I don’t know; but the pets are still following that tradition.  Some cut them, some bite them, some decorate them, and some just plain leave them alone; however, because of the tradition, their claws are no longer strong enough for them to use them for climbing.  I hope this helps,

Signed Cocoa”

Friday, October 19, 2012

What is that little box?


“Dear Cocoa,

I never thought I would ever be writing to a complete stranger to ask a question; but you seem to know so very much that I was hoping you could answer this question, because no one in my family seems to know and I, and my family, would like to know very much.  Here it is:  What are those silly boxes that our pets often hold to their ear and speak into?  At first we thought they had a small creature in there, but then we notice that they didn’t feed it.  We thought, perhaps it was a toy of some sort, but they carry it around like it was important.  Can you tell us what it is?

Signed What is it”

“Dear What is it,

Ah, my friend, some things are never easy to understand, especially when it comes to our pets.  You see, our pets have these little quirks that no one can understand and they behave strangely because of them.  Those little boxes you speak of are not a creature or a toy, they are a security blanket of sorts for our pets.  You see, they are very shy and uncomfortable when it comes to their abilities, so they carry this box around and use it to give them courage and strength to do the things that must be done by speaking their fears into the box and then the box takes them away.  Quite a powerful instrument, I dare say, however felines would never use such a device because Security Blankets are for those with fear and felines have no fear (except, of course, vets). 

Signed Cocoa”

Thursday, October 18, 2012

A....marking stick?


“Dear Cocoa,

I love my pets and find that living with them is wonderful; except for a few minor things that still confuse me.  One of them is this:  my pets have these long cylinder-like things that they somehow use to make marks on things.  I have tried to check these things out, but every time I get close enough, my pets take it away.  I mean, I even hid it under the couch so I could study it and they searched the entire room till they found it.  What are these things?

Signed Wondering”

“Dear Wondering,

You have stumbled upon a ‘marking stick’.  Yes, human pets love these marking sticks.  They use them for everything.  And they have so many different shapes and sizes that trying to figure them all out will make your head spin.  And the worst part is, they have some kind of spell or something on these marking sticks so that only they can make them work.  I have studied them for years and cannot figure that part out, but I promise you, I will.  And when I do, I will devote an entire column on it.

Signed Cocoa”

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

The meaning of life?


“Dear Cocoa,

What is the meaning of life?  I have always wondered about that and I thought you might be able to tell me.

Signed Really Curious”

“Dear Really Curious,

That, of course, depends on your point of view.  For instance:  pet’s meaning of life is to find a wonderful feline to care for and pamper.  But if, as I believe, you mean the meaning of life for felines then it is as follows:  to play continually, to eat as much as possible, to sleep as often as possible, to keep our pets busy, to check out the entire world around us, to be cute and cuddly.  Finally, we are on this world to rule it with an iron thumb; however, purring and cuddles work much better than fear and pain, so we cuddle, purr, and be the felines we were meant to be.  I hope this answers your question.  If not, feel free to write back and let me know.

Signed Cocoa”

Tuesday, October 16, 2012


“Dear Cocoa,

I believe that I am a learned feline, having been around for many, many years; however, my pets have been doing something that confuses me.  I know about the moving pictures on the box that sits in the big room, every feline knows that it is called a ‘moving box’ thing; but when they sit at a funny shaped table in front of a smaller box and tap away at a flat thing that clicks when they tap on it, I can’t figure out what they are doing.  Are they playing with the flat thing?  Are they watching a mini moving box thing?  Are they crazy?  When I tried to check the whole thing out my pet tossed me on the floor with an angry sound coming out of their mouth.  What is this thing?  Should I be worried?  Please help. 

Signed What is this thing?”

“Dear What is this thing?,

Image by JamesDeMers
I understand your confusion, since I was also confused the first time I saw those things; however, it is nothing to worry about.  I have found that my pets have unusual taste in toys.  Rather than chase around a ball or feather-covered bird, they prefer to tap on these oblong flat boxes which make symbols of some sort on the moving-picture box in front of them.  I wondered a great deal about this process until one day I was on the flat box while my pet was away and was amazed to see things moving on the screen.  I was fascinated by it and remained until my pet returned.  Try this examination yourself and you will feel much better about your pets using this item.  It is, after all is done, just a toy for them.

Signed Cocoa”

Monday, October 15, 2012

Advice for cat owners

Hi everyone, I thought today I might address some of the letters I keep getting about cat furniture and toys.  Cats are very playful, curious and loving creatures.  They need stimulation for many reasons, and exercise if one of the top needs.  To keep your cat stimulated and happy, get them lots and lots of furniture and toys to play with.  I have listed several below, but you can also search Amazon.com, Petco, Petsmart, EBay, Walmart and so many others.  The choices and availabilities are endless.

I recommend some of the following for the reasons listed:

The litter box shown here not only looks appealing, but it has a cover to prevent scattering of the litter and help control odors. There are always cat trees to give your pet lots of exercise, this one is very elaborate, but simple ones will work as well.  Just be sure they have lots of things to keep the cats busy.  The toy displayed here is also a great way to keep your cat occupied and give them lots of exercise.  Keep these in mind when shopping for your pets needs. Signed Cocoa




Sunday, October 14, 2012

A feline cuddling a human?


“Dear Cocoa,

I have just been invited into a home filled with other felines and I have a huge dilemma.  The other cats, though totally feline, actually cuddle, and cuddle often, the pets of the house.  What is worse, they seem to like it.  I am lost!  Why would a feline rely on a pet for the attention they should be seeking from a significant other feline? Besides, aren’t humans usually mean and rough with felines?

Signed Do not understand”

“Dear Do not understand,

You are definitely new to the circuit if you have no idea of the attentions given by pets.  Pets are not like the humans you meet when you are an outside feline.  Pets can pet the whole feline body and scratch under the chin in just the right manner.  Also, pets, though not quite as warm as us, can actually help a feline warm up after a full day of romping.  Finally, when felines cuddle with their pets, they are actually increasing their pet’s desires to make them happy.  Join the cuddle club and find out for yourself--you will, I think, be pleasantly surprised.

Signed Cocoa”

Cats are normally nocturnal animals and will often sleep during the day and play at night.  That is why they are often willing to climb into the lap of human friends, curl up, and go to sleep.  If your  cats are wanting to cuddle too much, try purchasing a cat bed similar to the ones pictured below and sprinkling catnip inside.  This will draw the cats in and before long they will be happily sleeping away leaving your lap free.




Saturday, October 13, 2012

Communication issues


“Dear Cocoa,

Communication is a big problem in my house.  I can’t seem to get my pets to understand anything I say.  I meow and meow at them but they don’t listen.  How can I get my points across to them if they won’t even listen?  I am so frustrated that I am considering leaving the house and seeking other pets to live with.  Please help me,

Signed Trouble Communicating”

“Dear Trouble Communicating,

A nice reminder gift
Image by Nemo
Humans do not speak our language that is soo very true; however, there are ways to communicate with them without uttering a sound (or maybe a few small ones).  For instance:  if you are hungry and your pet is ignoring your attempts to get fed, try going after their food.  I mean, I know it is horrible tasting, but they might just begin to see that you are hungry.  Another idea is to stand beneath their feet and meow loudly while weaving in and out.  This will frustrate them into paying attention to you and you can then indicate what the problem is.  When they haven’t cleaned your box--try leaving them hints and suggestions on their bed or their favorite chair.  The possibilities are endless, just use your imagination and before you know it you will be communicating without any effort at all. 

Signed Cocoa”

Friday, October 12, 2012

What are my pets to me?


“Dear Cocoa,

I have read your letters since the beginning and I love the advice you have given.  Today I thought I would ask a question of my own.  I have always wondered, during my tenure as an inside feline, what my pets are to me.  I mean are they real pets; or are they owners as they feel; or perhaps they are my parents in human form; I really don’t know. 

Signed Please advise”

“Dear Please advise,

Humans serve many roles in the lives of felines; however, if you are an inside feline, then you are definitely Lord and Master of your realm!  Be sure your pets are aware of the fact!  Make them bow to your every whim-make them wait on you hand and foot-make them pet you when you wish……or you could just enjoy their company and let them pamper you as they wish.  I, myself, find that because I am feline I am automatically pampered and forcing bows etc. is completely unnecessary. 

Signed Cocoa”

If you like to pamper your cats, try Petco or Petsmart for your felines every wish, or just for their fun.  I find that watching my cats play is better entertainment than some TV programs.  

Thursday, October 11, 2012

It's vacation time!


“Dear Cocoa,

I have loved the time I have spent with my new pets; the love, food, and warmth have been incredible and well worth the loss of my outside freedoms.  However, lately, things have begun to change.  My pets used to leave me alone inside while they were out for the day and then when they came home they would pet me a bit and then ignore me--no biggy, I just went and slept somewhere.  Now, though, over the last few days, my pets are putting me outside during the day--AND staying home!  I don’t know what to think of this change.  As you know, feline’s hate change and I am no exception.  Besides, I can’t quite figure out what they are trying to do since they have been letting me back in at night.  Can you explain this strange behavior.

Signed Strangely Concerned”

“Dear Strangely Concerned,

I believe you have very little to worry about.  Your pets will, most likely, change their behavior back to what it was shortly.  I believe they are on what the pets call ‘bAcAtoon’ where they don’t have to follow their usual schedule and can remain home for a few days.  They will be resuming their normal schedule very shortly and you will once more be king of the roost.  However, you might want to consider remaining out during the day for the thrill of outside living and then come in when they come home.  Hope this has helped you,

Signed Cocoa”

Cats do not like changes in their routines and take time to adjust to the difference.  If you need to change your schedule, be sure to show your cat lots of love so they will feel comfortable with the new changes.  Be sure they have plenty of things to lay on and play with that smell like you in order to help keep them comfortable in the new surroundings.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Pets are always picking me up, cries a feline in trouble.


“Dear Cocoa,

My pets are somewhat strange, but they feed me well and I can play all I want.  The problem that I have is that my pets never let me sleep.  Every time I find a warm cozy spot to curl up in and finally start to relax and doze off, my pets swoop in and pick me up--and they aren’t nice about it, either.  They just grab and swing me up and over their shoulder and begin to bounce me up and down with such force I have nearly (nearly mind you) lost my latest meal.  How can I stop this behavior?

Signed Sick of It”

“Dear Sick of It,

You must hear me out before you get angry, my friend, because your pets are only trying to incorporate you into family functions.  They do not realize how much sleep is required by a feline to maintain their gorgeous beauty.  There are a few things you can try, however pets don’t learn very well, so you must be patient.  First, try losing your meal on their back.  I know this will make you hungry again, but if you do it enough, they won’t want to pick you up anymore.  Next, if that one doesn’t work, try scratching and growling when they pick you up.  If neither of those tactics work, you will have to get, well, un-feline-like and race away as soon as you sense them approaching.  Then find a real deep hiding hole and remain there for a nice loooong nap.  If you do that several times, they will begin to think you are afraid of them (I know we are never afraid, but we have to appear to be) and they will leave you alone.  Good luck in your efforts…

Signed Cocoa”

Monday, October 8, 2012

Cocoa takes a moment to speak frankly with his readers.

Today everyone, we are going to do things a little bit differently.  I thought I would impart some of my incredible knowledge for all of you to share, learn and grow.  So pick up your catnip (coffee for the human pets), lay down the cat toy (newspaper for the human pets) and listen (or read) up:

  1. Never, never, never let your human pets know that you love them.  This is a bad habit that will become an item that is taken for granted--humans, if your pet shows love to you, don't forget what they are giving up for you!
  2. Take your freedom casually on the outside but celebrate it on the inside--humans, cats are not supposed to let you know how they feel, they are supposed to keep you guessing.
  3. Make sure you are always showing your pets how hungry you are, even if you aren't--humans it is necessary for the felines of the world to keep themselves stuffed to the brim in preparation for any hard times that may come their way.
  4. Be sure to leave your scent on everything that comes into the house so that everyone knows it is yours by default--humans, cats must tell other cats who is boss so they must put their mark on everything.
  5. Sleep long, sleep well, sleep often-humans, it is necessary for felines to get as much sleep as possible because they must keep up their energy for possible dangers (or new toys).

Saturday, October 6, 2012

An ailment? Or missing something?


“Dear Cocoa,

I am sooooo depressed!  I can’t seem to keep myself going anymore.  My limbs are weak and tired; my head swims when I rise from bed; my tail drags on the floor as I walk about; and my nose is always cold.  What do I have, please tell me Cocoa, for I fear all is lost and I am about to pass on to that big catnip field in the sky.

Signed What’s wrong with me”

“Dear What’s wrong with me,

Oh no, my friend, I fear you are suffering from a terrible disease that affects many felines in their prime.  You are, oh, I can’t say it, but, I know that is what you are looking for so, oohh, uuhh, you are suffering from loneliness.  You are craving companionship from another feline (at least I hope that is what you are feeling, because if it is anything else, well then you might just as well find the most comfortable spot you can and take a long, long, long nap).  Wait, no, that is all wrong, you are not heading for the catnip field in the sky, nor are you lonely, you are BORED!  Try racing over your pets while they nap or climb the curtains in their presence.  Jump on the table when they sit down to eat, race around in circles like you are mad, and jump on and off the furniture like it is burning you.  It may take a bit (humans can be so dense sometimes) but keep it up, eventually they will get the message and buy you more toys to play with.

Signed Cocoa”

Friday, October 5, 2012


“Dear Cocoa,

I have always known that we felines are at the top of the heap when it comes to intelligence and abilities.  I mean we can survive through just about anything.  We can find food, shelter, and toys no matter where we are.  So why are so many felines seeking the assistance of the humans?  Are they truly satisfied being a slave to the humans’ everyday whims?  I find that hard to believe since, as I said before, felines are at the top of the heap.  Please advise…

Signed Are We Slaves?”

“Dear Are We Slaves?,

I believe you have answered your own question; however I will elaborate.  Because felines are at the top of the heap, they are smart enough to manipulate the humans into believing that they need to care for the ‘helpless’ felines.  Some felines, I grant you, do feel that the outside is the best place ever, but if you ever get tired of chasing your food, getting wet in the rain, and freezing in the snow give humans a try.  You might find that the easy life was what you needed all along.

Signed Cocoa”

Animals, especially cats, can get sick just like humans can, including HIV, Leukemia, and upper respiratory infections; and some of those illnesses can be passed on to humans.  If you have an animal, especially one that goes outside, please get him/her vaccinated before you allow him/her to go outside whether on a leash or roaming free.  Protect your animals as you protect yourself and your family.  It's important for them and for you.

Thursday, October 4, 2012


“Dear Cocoa,

I read your column regularly and I noticed that you never write much about us outside felines who risk life and limb on a daily basis.  Do you have any quick-witted wisdom for our benefit?

Signed Outside for Good”

“Dear Outside for Good,

So you can sleep in comfort
I do, indeed, have wisdom for the felines who wish to remain outside, because I have had a great deal of experience in that area as well.  For instance, I know how much fun it is to catch your food on the run and then revel in the victory.  I also know how much fun it is to chase flying leaves, butterflies, and bees.  And I know the pitfalls like no safe haven for when the big creatures come out to hunt.  But my advice to you, if you choose to remain outdoors, is to locate and mark an area that is yours and yours alone.  Fight for it with all your heart and that way you will know that you always have a safe haven---or you could convince a human pet to feel sorry for you and let you in their home at night. 

Signed Cocoa”

If you have a cat that loves the outside, be sure to protect them with updated vaccinations and a flea treatment that doesn't involve a collar-since collars can be a hazard to outside animals as they can get caught on things and create a choking hazard.  Spaying and Neutering will reduce the chance of injury from other cats as there will be no battle to mate.  Check with your local vet or you can contact the Humane Society.  For your information, Petco has great items for your outside cat-or any animals you have.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012


“Dear Cocoa,

Since you are such a learned expert on feline and human pet relationships, I was wondering if you could give me and your readers a list of things that make a great pet.  You know, how can we tell if we are going to get a good home or if they are going to toss us out as soon as things get tight. 

Signed What makes a good pet”

“Dear What makes a good pet,

This is a tricky question because, you see, there are so many things that make a great pet but you will never see all of them in one pet.  However, let me see if I can list the top five:
1.      They feed you while you are outside-this is important because if they take time to feed you outside then they will definitely feed you inside.
Now that's a good pet!
2.      They pet you even when you are dirty-you see most pets want clean fresh smelling felines, so if they pet you while you are dirty, then they will definitely pet you when you are clean.
3.      They talk to you-good pets will always talk to you.
4.      They are concerned when you limp or appear hurt.
5.      They don’t get angry when you rub against them.
I hope this helps,

Signed Cocoa”

Tuesday, October 2, 2012


“Dear Cocoa,

I don’t understand my pets at all.  They eat awful tasting food and drink awful smelling drinks and then they try to get me to ‘try it out’ with them.  Ungh, no way will I eat that awful stuff, I would rather spend the rest of my life eating boring cardboard tasting cat food than that stuff.  So how do I get them to stop trying to get me to eat it?

Signed Doesn’t want their food”

“Dear doesn’t want their food,

That is quite the problem, I grant you.  Many of the pets today think that their food is much better tasting and that we felines will want it before we want our own food.  The truth of the matter is, we don’t like how they singe the meat and drag it through all of those horrible tasting things like ‘seasonings’ and ‘sauces’.  If I were you, I would find me a deep dark hiding place that is hard to get to and difficult to find and when the food comes out, I would race to that spot and take a well deserved nap until the food is gone.  Of course, afterwards, you can always grab a taste of what was tossed in the trash to see if it was something you can snack on, just a thought.

Signed Cocoa”

Monday, October 1, 2012


“Dear Cocoa,

I  just love to sit in the window with the hot sun beating right down on top of me; however my pets are continually shooing me out of the windows and closing the blinds so the sun doesn’t even shine into the house.  I try to climb under the blinds but then my pets get angry because I have to force my way through.  I even tried to climb the curtains so I could get the sun from the top, but that wasn’t favored either.  Please, tell me what to do or I will never see the sun again!

Signed No Sun”

“Dear No Sun,

It must be hot outside where you live because it sounds like your pets are trying to keep the warmth out of the house (is it cold inside?).  You must begin to practice your stealth mode antics if you want to enjoy the sun.  Sneak into the window from the side as quietly as possible and then lay down and sleep.  If you do this when no one is in the room, it is even better.  When trying to reach the sun, try climbing up the curtains (with no one in the room) on the inside so you can’t be seen.  Also, if you hang on the curtains and get your friends to help you can actually pull the curtains down and then the sun will shine fully on the floor and furniture.  Good Luck. 

Signed Cocoa”