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MISCELLANEOUS TIPS FOR CAT OWNERS
One in a Million Makes a Difference

Despite the joy and health benefits cats may provide, more cats endure short lives in a shelter than happy lives in a comfortable home with a loving family. Cats are America's No. 1 pet - there are about 75 million felines living in our homes - but nearly 70 million cats are homeless, according the American Humane Association. Experts agree that welcoming a cat into the family has numerous benefits.

"Cats make great companions for children, teaching them responsibility and the unconditional love an animal can provide," according to Rose Ordile, professional animal trainer for film and television. "They're naturally inquisitive and can be low-maintenance. Most cats amuse themselves and short hair cats require minimal grooming. Additionally, there is typically a minimal financial investment with a cat - food is inexpensive and as with any pet, an annual visit to the vet is recommended."

Studies indicate that owning a cat may have serious health benefits as well. Cats enhance positive self-esteem and concentration in children, including those with Attention Deficit Disorder. Adopting a cat can also help adults combat loneliness, depression, Alzheimer's and heart disease. That's why cats are routinely brought into nursing homes to be caressed and cuddled by residents who need a little love, according to the study, Love, Miracles and Animal Healing.

From the Shelter to the Spotlight
With endless magazine covers displaying celebrities with pampered pets adorned with rhinestone collars and infinite love and attention, it's easy to forget about those who don't have homes. One in particular, in spite of his fame, has never forgotten where he came from. Morris®, the 9Lives® cat who's gone from the shelter to the spotlight, is wielding his considerable celebrity status to give back to his fellow felines across the country.

This effort brings Morris' real life shelter story full circle. In an era where 3 out of 4 of his fellow felines that enter shelters do not leave alive, Morris is working with 9Lives to launch "Morris' Million Cat Rescue" - and he's asking cat lovers and families everywhere to join him in the mission to find safe, loving homes for 1 million homeless cats.

Source: Metro Creative

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