Harski Ocicats - extraordinary cats for extraordinary people
27.3.09
Back from vet
We came back from the vet office half an hour ago.
I am so glad that Sophia Rose is home with us, she is a little brat with big mouth and huuuuge amount of luck.
Her spine in not injured, she has fractures without complications and she has to stay still for 2 weeks and rest.
Is there a bigger punishment for the ocibrat? Or the surounding staff?
We will do all we can to make it easy for her, she already has a little purse in which she will be carried around during the day, and a big transporter box has been transformed into her private quarters.
She really is something, she did not get anything to eat for the whole day, as we expected she will have to go to surgery, it really looked bad...she was hungry to the point of scraming for food. I got her a/d in vet's office, she just tried to covered it and decided to wait until we get home to have a snack.
I am grateful to my friends for helping out, a big hug to the sweetheart who got us the heating pad, it came so handy today. And another hug to the great friend who was a driver, a crying shoulder and a support today, I will never forget that.
I was in such a bad shape, I could not drive...and I did not want to risk returning home alone as I did not know what to expect....
A big thank you, of course goes to clinic in Ljubljana, Tristokomatih, we would just be lost without you!
I am so glad that Sophia Rose is home with us, she is a little brat with big mouth and huuuuge amount of luck.
Her spine in not injured, she has fractures without complications and she has to stay still for 2 weeks and rest.
Is there a bigger punishment for the ocibrat? Or the surounding staff?
We will do all we can to make it easy for her, she already has a little purse in which she will be carried around during the day, and a big transporter box has been transformed into her private quarters.
She really is something, she did not get anything to eat for the whole day, as we expected she will have to go to surgery, it really looked bad...she was hungry to the point of scraming for food. I got her a/d in vet's office, she just tried to covered it and decided to wait until we get home to have a snack.
I am grateful to my friends for helping out, a big hug to the sweetheart who got us the heating pad, it came so handy today. And another hug to the great friend who was a driver, a crying shoulder and a support today, I will never forget that.
I was in such a bad shape, I could not drive...and I did not want to risk returning home alone as I did not know what to expect....
A big thank you, of course goes to clinic in Ljubljana, Tristokomatih, we would just be lost without you!
Sophia Rose has had an accident
Sophia Rose has had an accident today, she felt while coming down from the cat run.
She has injured her back part and behind leg. It does look pretty bad, but vet is convincing us it can look bad and end up just fine.
Kittens have started to climb everywhere and I assumed that if they are able to climb up, they will be able to come down safely.
How wrong I was:(
I confess I panicked when I saw her limping, I was all tears and my brain shut down.
We are taking her to the vet clinic in Slovenia, and we hope for the best.
At home decision has been made, even if the worst scenatio happens, she will stay at home as loving pet.
We have lost a kitten, 5 years ago, due to the elbow fracture, a vet decided to put Max asleep. At the time we did not know better, and we trusted our local vet.
He was even so rude to say I am making a too big drama out of it, as it is only a cat.
We have learned the lesson, unfortunatelly the hard way, and this time we will do all in our powers for Sophia to get the best posible treatment.
I gave her Rescue remedy, Arnica 30 c, a drop of Metacam to take the pain away, and now we wait for the orthopedic surgeon to start working at 4 pm to take her to clinic. She is sleeping now, and does not seem to be in pain at the moment.
Other kittens are fine, they are at this time closed in my brother's bedroom where there is no place they can climb.
I am a bit paranoid now, even a ceiling tall cat tree we have on the coridor which they have been climbing for over a month now, looks like a treat to me.
I know accidents happen and I will have to let them go again to live their lives, I am just to afraid to do so at the moment.
She has injured her back part and behind leg. It does look pretty bad, but vet is convincing us it can look bad and end up just fine.
Kittens have started to climb everywhere and I assumed that if they are able to climb up, they will be able to come down safely.
How wrong I was:(
I confess I panicked when I saw her limping, I was all tears and my brain shut down.
We are taking her to the vet clinic in Slovenia, and we hope for the best.
At home decision has been made, even if the worst scenatio happens, she will stay at home as loving pet.
We have lost a kitten, 5 years ago, due to the elbow fracture, a vet decided to put Max asleep. At the time we did not know better, and we trusted our local vet.
He was even so rude to say I am making a too big drama out of it, as it is only a cat.
We have learned the lesson, unfortunatelly the hard way, and this time we will do all in our powers for Sophia to get the best posible treatment.
I gave her Rescue remedy, Arnica 30 c, a drop of Metacam to take the pain away, and now we wait for the orthopedic surgeon to start working at 4 pm to take her to clinic. She is sleeping now, and does not seem to be in pain at the moment.
Other kittens are fine, they are at this time closed in my brother's bedroom where there is no place they can climb.
I am a bit paranoid now, even a ceiling tall cat tree we have on the coridor which they have been climbing for over a month now, looks like a treat to me.
I know accidents happen and I will have to let them go again to live their lives, I am just to afraid to do so at the moment.
24.3.09
Kittens aiming sky high
Kittens have discovered curtains. They are amasing, it takes them just a couple of seconds to climb all the way up to the ceiling!
They are really keen on adrenaline sports, this one raises heart beat to some members of our family fast and predictable.
Yet, we are persistent in taking them gently off curtains and keeping them busy with something else, and for now it works!
They are really keen on adrenaline sports, this one raises heart beat to some members of our family fast and predictable.
Yet, we are persistent in taking them gently off curtains and keeping them busy with something else, and for now it works!
23.3.09
To microchip or not to microchip
As our babies are growing, and are almost ready to leave for new homes, we still have some decisions to make.
And we want to be able to make the best choices, even the smallest detail is not left for random choice.
A scientist in me does not take anything for granted, I researched vaccines and imunological response before we decided on vaccinations, I did my homework on homeopathy and early neutering, and now I wanted to check out the microchips before chiping the babies.
Some of the things I have read made me worried, like following article http://www.antichips.com/cancer/
I do not have enough data to form my opinion on this point, but will be sure to do a bit more of reading before making a decision.
And we want to be able to make the best choices, even the smallest detail is not left for random choice.
A scientist in me does not take anything for granted, I researched vaccines and imunological response before we decided on vaccinations, I did my homework on homeopathy and early neutering, and now I wanted to check out the microchips before chiping the babies.
Some of the things I have read made me worried, like following article http://www.antichips.com/cancer/
I do not have enough data to form my opinion on this point, but will be sure to do a bit more of reading before making a decision.
Instructionsto new kitten owners, or What I wish we were told before Harski arrived- Appartment preparation
I get many questions from our kitten's new owners, as well as from the people on the waiting list, about the preparations they need to do before kitten arrives.
I am glad that they care so much, and I also understand that preparing your home and shopping for your kitten before it arrives is a very special time.
I can still remember clearly how excited we were before Harski came, I think we did not go to a city without visiting pet shop.
Of course we overdid it at the time, for Ulla we bought just a couple of toys, as there was still a bunch of things still unpacked left over Harski's baby days.
Yet there were things we had to learn while going, and we had it ready for Ulla, but Harski learned by his and our mistakes.
House preparation
The first thing that comes to my mind is...if you have ceramic cooking sruface, or any kind of cooking surface that stays hot for extended period of time after you are done with cooking, you need to find a way to cover it.
Harski got burnt once, I still remember the smell of burnt hairs on his paws, and it is not a nice memory.
You can cover it with extralarge pot cover, or place a large pot over it when you are done with cooking, just do not leave it hot and unprotected, especially for the first days.
Plants...our cats have this plant obsession thing. Maybe all cats do, but anyway, do not risk having a cat toxic plant in the house. There is a good chance your kitten will have a snack, and then you will both have a hard time.
So be sure you donate all the plants that are not cat friendly, and double check the ones you keep.
If you think you can keep them on high surfaces, where kitten will not touch them, I am sorry to inform you, it is ocicat kitten you are getting, not a ragdoll, so there is such place as " it will not be reached ".
And remember to get some cat friendly grass too. You can use oat seeds too!
In case you opt for picking it outside, be sure to wash it before serving, you can bring all sorts of parasites to your precious kitty with it!
Cat scratching post...we were dumb and tried with small scratching board. One destroyed chair later, we finally realised we needed a cat tree. You cannot avoid it,and do not go for a cheap one, as in the end you will hav to get a sturdy, well built, high quality one that will last for years, so why buy twice.
Your ocicat kitty will grow into a large, athletic, active cat. My suggestion is, get a tree that is fixated in the ceiling so it will not trip over, or be sure it has a large base and is not above your shouolder height if you go for a self standing one. It might not be a bad idea to fix it in the wall too.
When it comes to chosing a tee, take one that gives your kitty a chance to climb all the way up to the ceiling, but also gives platforms for safe descent.
If you can chose, platforms need to be soft and made in such a way that you can remove them and have the material washed in the washing machine.
You are buying a cat tree that will last for many many years, so being able to wash it from time to time is a good thing.
Do not go for one with cones less of 12 cm in diameter, and position it in such a way to give the kitty the view on the whole room, and maybe out of the window too.
A great cat tree placed in a dislocated aerea in the house will not be used enough, and also you will not have the chance to enjoy seeing yourcat playing.
We positioned our cat trees in such a way to allow cats to run, develop speed and then climb.
Should I say there is nothing nicer and more relaxing than watching your spotted kitten running and playing? It is like an Animal planet in your own living room.
And a bonus...no furiture damage whatsoever. Give to an ocicat its own furniture and it will not touch yours!
Sisal cones are great too, and cats love them too.
Heat pads....our kittens love to sleep on warm. If you have acces to ebay there are wonderful heating pads from UK, they heat up on 37 degrees andhave aditional plug in for car too. They are economical and safe.
They are very useful in case of any kind of accident, so you can keep your kitty warm on the way to vet and back, but lets hope you just use it for trips and home pampering time.
Cat toilet...go for as big as you can get. Be sure base is deep enough. We do not cover it, as seeing a cat "on a duty" tells you a lot of its health. Also, raw fed kitties do not have stinky pooh.
If you have more than one cat, you will need more than one toilet.
Cat litter choice. We opt for wooden pellets mixed with clumping sand. Clumping sand on the bottom, pellets on the top. They all mix together and are easy to scoop.
Cat litter scoop. Forget about the pet shop ones. Get yourself a nice scoop for taking fried potatoes out of the pan, a metal and strong one.
Cables, as in computer, tv etc cables...sometime might be chewed upon. If you want to be extra safe, especially for the first days, protect them in plastic tubes.
Nothing else will work, we got the off! spray, Harski licked it right after we sprayed it, and we almost passed away from the smell.
If you do not protect them with tubes, be prepared for patience and saying no! many times, it will work fine too.
Kitten arrives in the new home at the teeth changing time, and their gums are itching, so it is natural that they will look for something to chew...keep their little mouth occupied with chicken wings or necks, and your cables should be fine.
I am glad that they care so much, and I also understand that preparing your home and shopping for your kitten before it arrives is a very special time.
I can still remember clearly how excited we were before Harski came, I think we did not go to a city without visiting pet shop.
Of course we overdid it at the time, for Ulla we bought just a couple of toys, as there was still a bunch of things still unpacked left over Harski's baby days.
Yet there were things we had to learn while going, and we had it ready for Ulla, but Harski learned by his and our mistakes.
House preparation
The first thing that comes to my mind is...if you have ceramic cooking sruface, or any kind of cooking surface that stays hot for extended period of time after you are done with cooking, you need to find a way to cover it.
Harski got burnt once, I still remember the smell of burnt hairs on his paws, and it is not a nice memory.
You can cover it with extralarge pot cover, or place a large pot over it when you are done with cooking, just do not leave it hot and unprotected, especially for the first days.
Plants...our cats have this plant obsession thing. Maybe all cats do, but anyway, do not risk having a cat toxic plant in the house. There is a good chance your kitten will have a snack, and then you will both have a hard time.
So be sure you donate all the plants that are not cat friendly, and double check the ones you keep.
If you think you can keep them on high surfaces, where kitten will not touch them, I am sorry to inform you, it is ocicat kitten you are getting, not a ragdoll, so there is such place as " it will not be reached ".
And remember to get some cat friendly grass too. You can use oat seeds too!
In case you opt for picking it outside, be sure to wash it before serving, you can bring all sorts of parasites to your precious kitty with it!
Cat scratching post...we were dumb and tried with small scratching board. One destroyed chair later, we finally realised we needed a cat tree. You cannot avoid it,and do not go for a cheap one, as in the end you will hav to get a sturdy, well built, high quality one that will last for years, so why buy twice.
Your ocicat kitty will grow into a large, athletic, active cat. My suggestion is, get a tree that is fixated in the ceiling so it will not trip over, or be sure it has a large base and is not above your shouolder height if you go for a self standing one. It might not be a bad idea to fix it in the wall too.
When it comes to chosing a tee, take one that gives your kitty a chance to climb all the way up to the ceiling, but also gives platforms for safe descent.
If you can chose, platforms need to be soft and made in such a way that you can remove them and have the material washed in the washing machine.
You are buying a cat tree that will last for many many years, so being able to wash it from time to time is a good thing.
Do not go for one with cones less of 12 cm in diameter, and position it in such a way to give the kitty the view on the whole room, and maybe out of the window too.
A great cat tree placed in a dislocated aerea in the house will not be used enough, and also you will not have the chance to enjoy seeing yourcat playing.
We positioned our cat trees in such a way to allow cats to run, develop speed and then climb.
Should I say there is nothing nicer and more relaxing than watching your spotted kitten running and playing? It is like an Animal planet in your own living room.
And a bonus...no furiture damage whatsoever. Give to an ocicat its own furniture and it will not touch yours!
Sisal cones are great too, and cats love them too.
Heat pads....our kittens love to sleep on warm. If you have acces to ebay there are wonderful heating pads from UK, they heat up on 37 degrees andhave aditional plug in for car too. They are economical and safe.
They are very useful in case of any kind of accident, so you can keep your kitty warm on the way to vet and back, but lets hope you just use it for trips and home pampering time.
Cat toilet...go for as big as you can get. Be sure base is deep enough. We do not cover it, as seeing a cat "on a duty" tells you a lot of its health. Also, raw fed kitties do not have stinky pooh.
If you have more than one cat, you will need more than one toilet.
Cat litter choice. We opt for wooden pellets mixed with clumping sand. Clumping sand on the bottom, pellets on the top. They all mix together and are easy to scoop.
Cat litter scoop. Forget about the pet shop ones. Get yourself a nice scoop for taking fried potatoes out of the pan, a metal and strong one.
Cables, as in computer, tv etc cables...sometime might be chewed upon. If you want to be extra safe, especially for the first days, protect them in plastic tubes.
Nothing else will work, we got the off! spray, Harski licked it right after we sprayed it, and we almost passed away from the smell.
If you do not protect them with tubes, be prepared for patience and saying no! many times, it will work fine too.
Kitten arrives in the new home at the teeth changing time, and their gums are itching, so it is natural that they will look for something to chew...keep their little mouth occupied with chicken wings or necks, and your cables should be fine.
22.3.09
Ilmari
I think it is pretty obvious by now, that I am in love with the boy:D. He is becoming more and more special as he grows up.
He has a strange habit of sleeping with his paws hanging, just like Harski used to do it when he was a kitten.
This one is my favourite, it was taken on saturday.
Isn't he adorable?
And look at the paws size...he will be a big boy:)
He has a strange habit of sleeping with his paws hanging, just like Harski used to do it when he was a kitten.
This one is my favourite, it was taken on saturday.
Isn't he adorable?
And look at the paws size...he will be a big boy:)
Sunny day
Spring has arrived, bringing sunny time and free access to the balcony for kittens.
Today they did what they do best. Fuzzy and Ilmari were sunbathing together in their basket, while Kamala and Sophia Rose were being restless in front of the window.
Some photos, just to share the atmosphere :)
Take that camera out of my face
Oh, you with camera again
In the meanwhile, the sweetest ones of all were modestly sleeping in their pink basket on the balcony :)
Today they did what they do best. Fuzzy and Ilmari were sunbathing together in their basket, while Kamala and Sophia Rose were being restless in front of the window.
Some photos, just to share the atmosphere :)
Take that camera out of my face
Oh, you with camera again
In the meanwhile, the sweetest ones of all were modestly sleeping in their pink basket on the balcony :)
17.3.09
Ah-choo
First Fuzzy started sneezing, then her eyes and nose were running. As little Hansel and Gretchen could not be separated, Ilmari caught it too. He was cleaning Fuzzy's nose and wiping her running eyes, not leaving her side for a moment. Tonight she is feeling better, but she is taking care of him and not leaving their heated basket, instead of running around with Kamala and Sophia Rose.
I am not worried, as it is normal in the time of the imunity drop. I treat them with homeopathy, make steam bath so their noses can unclog, take care that they eat and are hydrated and let them rest.
They should be well soon.
I am touched by their loyalty for eachother. In this world where people think more of having then being, two spotted babies have lectured me a on love and devotion.
Ocicats do not leave behind the one they love. They do not get tired, need space, or feel like they are missing something if they stay and nurse the one who is sick.
Can we say the same for humans?
I am not worried, as it is normal in the time of the imunity drop. I treat them with homeopathy, make steam bath so their noses can unclog, take care that they eat and are hydrated and let them rest.
They should be well soon.
I am touched by their loyalty for eachother. In this world where people think more of having then being, two spotted babies have lectured me a on love and devotion.
Ocicats do not leave behind the one they love. They do not get tired, need space, or feel like they are missing something if they stay and nurse the one who is sick.
Can we say the same for humans?
15.3.09
Fuzzy has chosen her parents
We have had a kitten visit yesterday.
It did not feel like a kitten visit, it felt like a couple of old friends came by and Fuzzy just belonged with them.
Fuzzy will have a very nice home, she will not be alone after moving to her new family, her dad will stay at home with her for a while, and later on even might take her to work with him. Her mum will join the club of chicken grinders, and if Fuzzy ever gets sick, she will be treated with homeopathy, as we used to do it.
We will stay in contact, and we can com to visit her anytime we want.
I thought that letting kittens go will be very hard. And in a way it will, when I saw the first look Fuzzy and her mum exchanged, I had tears in my eyes.
But seeing the joy in the eyes of the new owners, and listening them talk about the things they will do to make Fuzzy's life nicer, made me feel warm inside.
In one instant it all made sence, troubles we had to find a proper match for Ulla, fear over Ulla's health after her pyo, complications with Watusi, satisfying Ulla's cravings during pregnancy ( one word- quail...as much as she can eat ), endless hours of delivery, the struggle for Fuzzy at the beginning, sleepless nights, fight to make her eat, cuddling with her and others under the blanket, every little thing we did and do for them out of love...it all makes sence when you see how appreciated she is for what she is growing to be. A treasured, pampered family member with wonderful life.
Before yesterday I was starting to suspect if my standards for new kitten owners were too high, and if our selecting procedure is too strict. But now I am relieved as I know that there are other people out there who will care for our babies like we do.
And I am relieved, as I will always feel responsible for wellbeing of every baby that has started its life in our home.
The only thing I feel sad about is Ilmari, as I know he will have a hard time when Fuzzy leaves.
Wehn he saw that Fuzzy has chosen her new mum, he tried hard to seduce them too, settled to sleep next to Fuzzy in her mum's lap, and did all he could to show them how much he loved Fuzzy. It was bitter sweet to watch his atempts, funny on one side, as he went as far as to sit on her head, but a bit bitter, as it reminded me on scene from orphanage when a brother tries to convince new parents not to separate him from sister.
I always worry about each kitten, but somehow I know that each girl is capable of finding her place under the sun. Even the gentle and modest Fuzzy, as she has the wisdom of a zen master.
But looking at Ilmari I see Harski as a kitten, resembelance is stunning, from looks to temper. He is growing into a feline version of A.I. with endless, unconditional love for his owners, and deceiving wild looks.
Once Harski jumped of the pier as Samo was leaving in a boat and he could not stand to be left behind. He did it without, he saw boat leaving and he knew he had to be with his human...so he jumped, risking to fall into the water.
I see a spark of it in Ilmari too. And I will do all I can to help him find a family who appreciates him.
It did not feel like a kitten visit, it felt like a couple of old friends came by and Fuzzy just belonged with them.
Fuzzy will have a very nice home, she will not be alone after moving to her new family, her dad will stay at home with her for a while, and later on even might take her to work with him. Her mum will join the club of chicken grinders, and if Fuzzy ever gets sick, she will be treated with homeopathy, as we used to do it.
We will stay in contact, and we can com to visit her anytime we want.
I thought that letting kittens go will be very hard. And in a way it will, when I saw the first look Fuzzy and her mum exchanged, I had tears in my eyes.
But seeing the joy in the eyes of the new owners, and listening them talk about the things they will do to make Fuzzy's life nicer, made me feel warm inside.
In one instant it all made sence, troubles we had to find a proper match for Ulla, fear over Ulla's health after her pyo, complications with Watusi, satisfying Ulla's cravings during pregnancy ( one word- quail...as much as she can eat ), endless hours of delivery, the struggle for Fuzzy at the beginning, sleepless nights, fight to make her eat, cuddling with her and others under the blanket, every little thing we did and do for them out of love...it all makes sence when you see how appreciated she is for what she is growing to be. A treasured, pampered family member with wonderful life.
Before yesterday I was starting to suspect if my standards for new kitten owners were too high, and if our selecting procedure is too strict. But now I am relieved as I know that there are other people out there who will care for our babies like we do.
And I am relieved, as I will always feel responsible for wellbeing of every baby that has started its life in our home.
The only thing I feel sad about is Ilmari, as I know he will have a hard time when Fuzzy leaves.
Wehn he saw that Fuzzy has chosen her new mum, he tried hard to seduce them too, settled to sleep next to Fuzzy in her mum's lap, and did all he could to show them how much he loved Fuzzy. It was bitter sweet to watch his atempts, funny on one side, as he went as far as to sit on her head, but a bit bitter, as it reminded me on scene from orphanage when a brother tries to convince new parents not to separate him from sister.
I always worry about each kitten, but somehow I know that each girl is capable of finding her place under the sun. Even the gentle and modest Fuzzy, as she has the wisdom of a zen master.
But looking at Ilmari I see Harski as a kitten, resembelance is stunning, from looks to temper. He is growing into a feline version of A.I. with endless, unconditional love for his owners, and deceiving wild looks.
Once Harski jumped of the pier as Samo was leaving in a boat and he could not stand to be left behind. He did it without, he saw boat leaving and he knew he had to be with his human...so he jumped, risking to fall into the water.
I see a spark of it in Ilmari too. And I will do all I can to help him find a family who appreciates him.
If I ignore it, will it go away?
Kamala not really amused by the appearance of my father's last fishing trofey.
They did eat it in the end...grilled and all bones removed, of course. Are we raising them naturally, or what? :D
They did eat it in the end...grilled and all bones removed, of course. Are we raising them naturally, or what? :D
13.3.09
To grind or not to grind, that is a question
Yup, it was food preparing day today.
Kittens have apetites of starved termites, and freezer is getting empty with light speed.
" I am hungry!"
I have tried to cheat a bit, not only in hope to stay away from washing meat grinder for a while, but also in hope to introduce diferent tastes of commercial foods, and make new parent's lives easier.
We stock up on diferent brands of canned food and decided to give it a try.
So over past two weeks, babies were served Royal Canine kitten mousse ( they loved it, but they cost 2 euros each, and we need at least 3 for a meal ),
R.C. Kitten ( they came, they sniffed, they went away. Sophia Rose covered it up and looked through me. Then they demanded something to eat.)
Hills kitten variety of tastes ( not an eyebrow was lifted when it was served. Sophia Rose accidentally came across the plate later during the day, made a gesture of covering it up, and gave me The Look. Ouch. It was the one and only time kittens stole food from the table, Kamala managed to get hold of a piece of pancake. With Nutella. They must have been desperate. )
Sheba supreme, 80 grams, chicken ( it was close to victory, Ilmari came and licked )
Happy cat and Shiny cat, chicken and chicken with shrimps( they were so enthusiastic about it: Look, the jelly is cool, it almost bounces!)
DM brand kitten food ( I do not know why, but my cats love this brand. I am not happy with quality, of food and the air around them after they had it...if you know what I mean )
Almonature ( only drumsticks in broth passed the test, but it is not complete food! just a treat )
The only one who was gaining from this experiment was Harski. Weight.
Two brands got green light.
Bozita jelly- chicken and rabbit ( Ilmari was throwing up on it in the begining, and it made their pooh lose. They did eat 10 bricks in 7 days, but they left it untouched last two days. I might try it again after a while, because I have 20 bricks left, in case raw is not handy. There is nothing more frustrating then opening cans of food that nobody would eat) and Porta 21, pure chicken taste ( my favourite from above, and on www.zooplus.com price is ok too, but the feeding costs are significantly higher than with raw. We consider it best option from above listed )
We did not try Whiskas, even if those new tastes in jelly look jummie. Our vet thinks it was one of the triggers for Harski's illness in November. It has cost us too much tears, sleepless nights, worried and a little fortune in vet expences to gamble with it again.
If any of the comercial brands was offered at the same time as homemade meal, they will go for raw without thinking.
"feed me!"
They will also prefer yolk, goat milk and cottage cheese ( except Sophia Rose, she cannot stand diary ) and of course grilled fish compared to commercial food.
So I decided not to experiment again for a while.
It turns out that raw food is more economical, less time consuming ( I feed and I know that they will eat, do not have to open several cans, watch them like a hawk and feed the ones who are not so happy with it separately from hand ), better for their health ( in short terms :no vomiting, no cramps, so diarrheas like while trying canned, in long term..check links on the right to read more ) and what is most important it is soothing to my nerves, as I am sure that they will eat their meal and enjoy it.
There is one little thing to add; we feed raw for so long that I have completely forgoten how cat toilets can stink. I did not take 6th sence to guess if babies were about to, or have just poohed. It was in the air.
And giving it a second thought, I am happy to go and grind those chickens :)
Kittens have apetites of starved termites, and freezer is getting empty with light speed.
" I am hungry!"
I have tried to cheat a bit, not only in hope to stay away from washing meat grinder for a while, but also in hope to introduce diferent tastes of commercial foods, and make new parent's lives easier.
We stock up on diferent brands of canned food and decided to give it a try.
So over past two weeks, babies were served Royal Canine kitten mousse ( they loved it, but they cost 2 euros each, and we need at least 3 for a meal ),
R.C. Kitten ( they came, they sniffed, they went away. Sophia Rose covered it up and looked through me. Then they demanded something to eat.)
Hills kitten variety of tastes ( not an eyebrow was lifted when it was served. Sophia Rose accidentally came across the plate later during the day, made a gesture of covering it up, and gave me The Look. Ouch. It was the one and only time kittens stole food from the table, Kamala managed to get hold of a piece of pancake. With Nutella. They must have been desperate. )
Sheba supreme, 80 grams, chicken ( it was close to victory, Ilmari came and licked )
Happy cat and Shiny cat, chicken and chicken with shrimps( they were so enthusiastic about it: Look, the jelly is cool, it almost bounces!)
DM brand kitten food ( I do not know why, but my cats love this brand. I am not happy with quality, of food and the air around them after they had it...if you know what I mean )
Almonature ( only drumsticks in broth passed the test, but it is not complete food! just a treat )
The only one who was gaining from this experiment was Harski. Weight.
Two brands got green light.
Bozita jelly- chicken and rabbit ( Ilmari was throwing up on it in the begining, and it made their pooh lose. They did eat 10 bricks in 7 days, but they left it untouched last two days. I might try it again after a while, because I have 20 bricks left, in case raw is not handy. There is nothing more frustrating then opening cans of food that nobody would eat) and Porta 21, pure chicken taste ( my favourite from above, and on www.zooplus.com price is ok too, but the feeding costs are significantly higher than with raw. We consider it best option from above listed )
We did not try Whiskas, even if those new tastes in jelly look jummie. Our vet thinks it was one of the triggers for Harski's illness in November. It has cost us too much tears, sleepless nights, worried and a little fortune in vet expences to gamble with it again.
If any of the comercial brands was offered at the same time as homemade meal, they will go for raw without thinking.
"feed me!"
They will also prefer yolk, goat milk and cottage cheese ( except Sophia Rose, she cannot stand diary ) and of course grilled fish compared to commercial food.
So I decided not to experiment again for a while.
It turns out that raw food is more economical, less time consuming ( I feed and I know that they will eat, do not have to open several cans, watch them like a hawk and feed the ones who are not so happy with it separately from hand ), better for their health ( in short terms :no vomiting, no cramps, so diarrheas like while trying canned, in long term..check links on the right to read more ) and what is most important it is soothing to my nerves, as I am sure that they will eat their meal and enjoy it.
There is one little thing to add; we feed raw for so long that I have completely forgoten how cat toilets can stink. I did not take 6th sence to guess if babies were about to, or have just poohed. It was in the air.
And giving it a second thought, I am happy to go and grind those chickens :)
Ocicats and chocolate
Does anyone know if cats are allowed to eat chocolate?
I have just found out tonight that Kamala loves white chocolate. It does the same thing for her, as kibble pieces to Harski. And probably, the judgement will be the same, it is a no-no food.
Please feed me chocolate :D ( Fuzzy )
I have just found out tonight that Kamala loves white chocolate. It does the same thing for her, as kibble pieces to Harski. And probably, the judgement will be the same, it is a no-no food.
Please feed me chocolate :D ( Fuzzy )
12.3.09
Four Roses, four diferent tempers
Each one of the Roses has its own temper, it was obvious from their first days.
Fuzzy ( I should start calling her Marja, as she might, as a very dear breeder friend remarked, start feeling intimidated by her name ) is a brave researcher from the day one.
Ilmari is, and has been, a mum's boy. When games get rough, he seeks Ulla's or mine protection. And he still, loves nothing more than a place at the milky bar.
He reminds me of Harski, sometimes looking at him feels like looking back in time.
Kamala is completely unaware of her size or the fact that she is a cat. Sophia Rose is a real red head.
It is interesting how their habits vary in everyday activities.
When first solid meals were served, Kamala used to lie in the plate and growl on everyone who tried to approach, until she finished eating. She was equaly loud to complain when I used to clean her belly. Even today, nobody dares to mess up with her food.
Fuzzy is, from day one, slow on food. She was the skinny one, until we realised that she needs to be fed separately.
She has time, she does not like the crowd around the plate, she is a slow food type of girl.
Sophia Rose was meant to be a food critic, with her delicate nose who made her cover up Ulla's food at the time her eyes were not yet opened.
Ilmari is...Italian soul, he will eat anything, anytime, even if a glass is broken in the kitchen, he will not stop eating, but might eventually look up.
Toilet is a diferent topic.
We have had two accidents lately, but the problem was solved when an aditional toilet was added in the bathroom.
It turned out that girls did not let Ilmari to use their toilet. They used to play king of the castle, until poor guy could not hold it any longer. Now he has his own toilet, and everyone is happy. We did not instal newspapers holder yet, but I will suggest it to his future family.
It is fascinating to observe Kamala preparing sand for her everyday routine. She would be a valuable tool in finding oil, as every time she starts digging I have to check if she has managed to dig all the way to China.
Fuzzy ( I should start calling her Marja, as she might, as a very dear breeder friend remarked, start feeling intimidated by her name ) is a brave researcher from the day one.
Ilmari is, and has been, a mum's boy. When games get rough, he seeks Ulla's or mine protection. And he still, loves nothing more than a place at the milky bar.
He reminds me of Harski, sometimes looking at him feels like looking back in time.
Kamala is completely unaware of her size or the fact that she is a cat. Sophia Rose is a real red head.
It is interesting how their habits vary in everyday activities.
When first solid meals were served, Kamala used to lie in the plate and growl on everyone who tried to approach, until she finished eating. She was equaly loud to complain when I used to clean her belly. Even today, nobody dares to mess up with her food.
Fuzzy is, from day one, slow on food. She was the skinny one, until we realised that she needs to be fed separately.
She has time, she does not like the crowd around the plate, she is a slow food type of girl.
Sophia Rose was meant to be a food critic, with her delicate nose who made her cover up Ulla's food at the time her eyes were not yet opened.
Ilmari is...Italian soul, he will eat anything, anytime, even if a glass is broken in the kitchen, he will not stop eating, but might eventually look up.
Toilet is a diferent topic.
We have had two accidents lately, but the problem was solved when an aditional toilet was added in the bathroom.
It turned out that girls did not let Ilmari to use their toilet. They used to play king of the castle, until poor guy could not hold it any longer. Now he has his own toilet, and everyone is happy. We did not instal newspapers holder yet, but I will suggest it to his future family.
It is fascinating to observe Kamala preparing sand for her everyday routine. She would be a valuable tool in finding oil, as every time she starts digging I have to check if she has managed to dig all the way to China.
Little things that count
I have a knot in my throat when I think of kittens leaving.
It is not separating from them that worries me, it is a responsibility of finding a proper home for them, where they will be treasured and treated gently and with care, like they were while staying with us.
But there are families that melt my worries with every email they write.
A very nice couple has been watching one of the girls growing up, from before she has opened her eyes.
If all goes well, my little purring, sweet researcher will be moving to a wonderful home, and her new parents already love her so much that they will take free time from work to help he adjust to new enviroment.
It is important for us that kitten is slowly introduced to being alone, as ocicats do not like being left alone for extended periods of time, and kittens have never been alone before, there were always siblings and other cats, and at least one human maid on stand by.
I just feel the need to say it again...thank you for loving our baby so much even before you have met her.
It is not separating from them that worries me, it is a responsibility of finding a proper home for them, where they will be treasured and treated gently and with care, like they were while staying with us.
But there are families that melt my worries with every email they write.
A very nice couple has been watching one of the girls growing up, from before she has opened her eyes.
If all goes well, my little purring, sweet researcher will be moving to a wonderful home, and her new parents already love her so much that they will take free time from work to help he adjust to new enviroment.
It is important for us that kitten is slowly introduced to being alone, as ocicats do not like being left alone for extended periods of time, and kittens have never been alone before, there were always siblings and other cats, and at least one human maid on stand by.
I just feel the need to say it again...thank you for loving our baby so much even before you have met her.
Harski BIS, BOB 2, in show on Sunday,8th March
After a long break we hit the road again and went to a cat show. As a friend of mine was going, and my parents were happy to babysit for a day and a half, so I thought why not.
And I am glad we went.
Yes, Harski did great at the show,( I was so proud when a judge asked me what do I use for coat shine, and I thought to myself- raw food, omega 3 and love, as I did not even had time to bathe him :)) but what is more important, he had such a good time. He was happy to be alone with me again for a while, we slept over at a friend, and Harski was waking me up at night, just to show me how he can still make biscuits with all four paws while wiggling his tail in the process. He even slept under the blanket.
He liked the show hall too,as always he was sitting on the top of the cage, and we made some new friends.
I forgot how much he shines when he is in the center of the attention. (
If I had any doubts about keeping a baby from this litter and adding another member to our family, this weekend has put an end to it.
My cats are attention seekers, and all I have is 2 hands and my day lasts 24 hours.
But even if the weekend was great I really missed babies. I think they missed me too, as Fuzzy came running and purring like a little engine.
I cannot remember when last time it felt so good to be home.
And I am glad we went.
Yes, Harski did great at the show,( I was so proud when a judge asked me what do I use for coat shine, and I thought to myself- raw food, omega 3 and love, as I did not even had time to bathe him :)) but what is more important, he had such a good time. He was happy to be alone with me again for a while, we slept over at a friend, and Harski was waking me up at night, just to show me how he can still make biscuits with all four paws while wiggling his tail in the process. He even slept under the blanket.
He liked the show hall too,as always he was sitting on the top of the cage, and we made some new friends.
I forgot how much he shines when he is in the center of the attention. (
If I had any doubts about keeping a baby from this litter and adding another member to our family, this weekend has put an end to it.
My cats are attention seekers, and all I have is 2 hands and my day lasts 24 hours.
But even if the weekend was great I really missed babies. I think they missed me too, as Fuzzy came running and purring like a little engine.
I cannot remember when last time it felt so good to be home.
6.3.09
6th of March -4 years that Harski is with us!
Today is the anniversary of Harski's arrival. I will never forget the cute little face that looked at me at airport.
He won me head over feet on the first sight....and he still does it, every day again and again.
I always used to think, it is human to get used to beauty, but every time I look at Harski I am left breathless, over and over again, at how Nature could create something so beautiful and special.
He has brought so much sunshine in my life.
Thank you Merja and Marjo for making this huge gesture of trust and sending the little boy to the other part of the Europe.
This is one of the first photos...I am surprised every time I see how small he was:)
He won me head over feet on the first sight....and he still does it, every day again and again.
I always used to think, it is human to get used to beauty, but every time I look at Harski I am left breathless, over and over again, at how Nature could create something so beautiful and special.
He has brought so much sunshine in my life.
Thank you Merja and Marjo for making this huge gesture of trust and sending the little boy to the other part of the Europe.
This is one of the first photos...I am surprised every time I see how small he was:)
Precious time
What does an ocibaby do when there are no hands to scratch the spotted belly?
It is easy, find yourself a place, somewhere soft and warm, and Engage...purring is on :)
Kamala wrapped in my sweater, while I do the computer work...or try to, as nobody can resist this lovely face.
It is easy, find yourself a place, somewhere soft and warm, and Engage...purring is on :)
Kamala wrapped in my sweater, while I do the computer work...or try to, as nobody can resist this lovely face.
8 weeks :)
Babies are 8 weeks old now. They have been vaccinated on wednesday, and I am glad to say, all went well.
The only side effect we have noticed is increase in apetite. Real oci babies.
Now our home is opened to the visits of prospective kittens families.
As you can see from the photo, all our correspondence is carefully monitored...and it is kittens, not me who will have the last word in picking their new owners.
Kamala (in her ugly duckling coat )
The only side effect we have noticed is increase in apetite. Real oci babies.
Now our home is opened to the visits of prospective kittens families.
As you can see from the photo, all our correspondence is carefully monitored...and it is kittens, not me who will have the last word in picking their new owners.
Kamala (in her ugly duckling coat )
2.3.09
Ocicats and children
Ocicats and children play well together, I think they have equal amount of energy and smiliar view to the world.
This is one of my favourite photos, taken 2 days ago, my little niece and Sophia Rose.
This is one of my favourite photos, taken 2 days ago, my little niece and Sophia Rose.
Share a warm thought for special babies and their fight
Not so long time ago, I was up whole nights, fighting for the little Roses and their mum.
I am so grateful to all of you who were with us at that time, and will never forget what a little word of support, or a little ray of prayer could do when you are tired, sleepless, on the edge of endurance, yet you cannot give up as you know that the little lives depend on you.
A very dear friend of mine is fighting the same battle for her little sheeps at the moment.
Please feel free to visit her website, take a look under kittens, and send her and the babies a positive thought.
http://www.pointilistic.com/en/ here is the link.
Stay strong little ones, feel safe in the love that surounds you, and fight...every little breath you take is one whole mile closer to the wonderful playground that is called life.
I am so grateful to all of you who were with us at that time, and will never forget what a little word of support, or a little ray of prayer could do when you are tired, sleepless, on the edge of endurance, yet you cannot give up as you know that the little lives depend on you.
A very dear friend of mine is fighting the same battle for her little sheeps at the moment.
Please feel free to visit her website, take a look under kittens, and send her and the babies a positive thought.
http://www.pointilistic.com/en/ here is the link.
Stay strong little ones, feel safe in the love that surounds you, and fight...every little breath you take is one whole mile closer to the wonderful playground that is called life.
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