Worked in a shelter some years ago where this was the MO (sort of- each cat was given a set amount of food, but it was far more than necessary for maintenance purposes, so for all practical considerations, they were essentially being free-fed), and while it worked fine for those cats who were quickly adopted, the longer-term residents tended to pork out.. which did not help their adoption prospects any.

So glad to hear that they’re making strides in the cat-handling department! Our shelter was staffed almost exclusively by dog people who did an admirable job with the canines, but were utterly clueless when it came to the cats. Was very frustrating.

Show cats, schmo cats - the respect for those shelter/rescue cats that you could hear in her voice and see in the way she handled them demonstrated that she is a true cat lover, a cat “fancier”. We need more people in the world who respect cats for the amazing animals that they are.

When I first began training cats in the late 1970s people dismissed it but if you look at all the animal actors—or those cats at the shows—you get a better idea of what can actually be done with a critter.

Ultimately, it benefits the animal.

As for diet, shelters tend to be pro kibble but dietary needs of felines are a bit more complex and it boils down to convenience, preference, and how the animal responds.

Otherwise, I see no need to offer canned food. It is messy and smelly, messes up their coats and the cages.

Poor Twyla- and you went to the ER because of a scrunchy. That’s something I would do!

Oh and ended up forwarding the link to all the shelter folk plus a great local cat rescue person.

I see so much incompetent dog handling — by shelter staffs, volunteers, “professional” animal control officers. I am not permitted to watch a certain program about a “sanctuary” that runs on the cable teevee because of the violence that ensues on our household goods when I witness paid “trainers” mishandle and misread dogs for the benefit of the viewing public. No understanding of how to use pressure and release to move a frightened animal, how to avoid triggering an aggressive or fearful state, how to set up the physical space to minimize stress and risk, how to handle dogs in groups, introductions, etc. Just basic stuff.

Cat handling — a whole ‘nother country. So glad to hear that someone is providing good instruction on this. Even happier to hear that it is someone from the balanced background you describe. Sorry to hear that someone in the audience thought that normal feline social development was for “show cats.”

Pepper really wants to be the only dog in the house, but she doesn’t seem to mind if we add cats, so my cousin and I are brushing up our skills so that in the next year or so, we can start to foster kitties. Articles like this really help. Thanks!