Your cat loves you more than food

I was absolutely delighted to see the results of recent studies about cats and their attitudes toward humans. The study, done by Oregon State University and Monmouth University confirms that cats do love socializing with us, not just because we feed them.

The study took both domestic house pets and shelter cats and gave them a choice of stimuli. The cats could choose between food, toys, scent or humans. Amazingly, the cats chose human interactions over food. What a shock!

The common perception is that cats don’t really care about humans or human interactions. This study defends cats, saying that the public perception is wrong due to a lack of knowledge. My knowledge of cats has been honed over the years by cats I have shared my home with. I have noticed that some of my cats have ignored food but crave petting.

Mr. Wolf was, perhaps, the most affectionate of all my cats. He was a beautiful, black, sleek shiny cat. Oh, what a brat! We would play tricks on each other, hiding behind the door, he would wait for me then streak out and land on my back. If I left him alone, he’d make a mess out of my home. He craved attention and did whatever it took to get it.

This study may give new meaning to the phrase “Cat got your tongue?” It certainly left me speechless.

LOOKING FOR A HOME

Rufus is a two-year-old male butterscotch tabby who has the heart of a saint. He gets along with everyone and everything. He loves to talk and cuddle. Rufus is one pleasingly plump laid back guy who is looking for someone to hang out with. If you have room in your heart and on your couch, he would love to be your companion. Come out and meet him, he’s just waiting for you.

IN NEED OF

Of monetary donations to take care of our puppies. We would appreciate all donations for the “Puppy Fund.”

Volunteers and sponsors for Bark in the Park. We have many duties that need to be filled. Come out and help and have fun. Call Amanda at 775-423-7500

Vendors for Bark in the Park, May 6. Bark in the Park isn’t just about cats and dogs; we also want vendors who cater to the people. Call Amanda at 775-423-7500. Volunteers to walk dogs or play with cats. We have enthusiastic dogs and cats just waiting to meet you. Call Rita at 775-423-7500 for details.

Aluminum cans, which we recycle to augment our shelter funds. We are unable to pick up cans because of trailer problems, but please continue to save them.

SHOUT OUT TO

Steve Ranson and the Lahontan Valley News for giving CAPS a voice in the community. Your commitment to our guests is wonderful. You are the reason many of our cats and dogs have happy-ever-after homes. A Four Paws Salute to you!.

The Fallon Community for your support of CAPS our home-grown shelter.

COME SEE US

CAPS will be at Walmart tomorrow with our Kissin’ Booth and an eager smooching pooch. Come by to get your smooch. We will also have caps, long-sleeved T-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts, so please check them out after you have been smooched.

DON’T FORGET

April Pet Holidays:

National Pet First Aid Awareness

To mark your calendar for Bark in the Park that will be held on Saturday, May 6.

Flower Tree Nursery will be raffling a 20-gallon tree of your choice on June 15, and the winner doesn’t have to be present to win. The raffle tickets are available at Flower Tree, and they are $1 for one ticket and $5 for six tickets.

CONTACT CAPS

CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89406. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are really likable.

Do you have questions, comments or a great story? Contact me jkwmil@outlook.com.

Kathleen Williams-Miller, a CAPS volunteer, contributed this week’s column.