Cats sometimes find themselves in awkward positions. Here at Tabby’s Place, some particular positions include “hopeless situations.” But, this is Tabby’s Place, where the focus is always on hope. Despite our close ties to Pandora and the last item remaining in her box (no, not the litter box), it is awkward physical positions that run rampant. At least, to the human eye, they seem like they should be uncomfortable positions.
Take Leo, for example. One day recently, he was spotted lounging in the window of the staff lounge (Check out the header!). Nothing unusual there: cats like windows; cats like lounges; cats like lounging. Plus, window lounging is especially encouraged with cozy bedding inside and bird feeders strategically placed outside. In just such a setup, Leo, in his infinite wisdom, decided that a small, wood box would make an excellent pillow. It may not seem comfortable for a people, but it was, evidently, a perfect choice for a cat.
Elizabethan collars (aka cones of shame), however, are less ideal for any creature, although their use is often necessary. For example, later on the same day that Leo was caught lounging, Mikey was spotted in a very unfortunate state of affairs. Through no fault of anybody’s, but very most definitely in Mikey’s best interest, this adorable kitty was collared like a 16th century queen and caged like a common criminal.
Quel dommage!
Mikey is a big, sweet boy! He looked so unhappy and squished that it was impossible to turn away until much love was lavished. Happily, this uncomfortable state of incarceration was of short duration. Mikey has been freed! Except, Mikey is crated at every meal time when wet food is on the offering.
C’est terrible!
Alas! Again, it is not because of anything Mikey has done that he is thrust into lunchtime confinement. Rather, he is crated for the duration of his meal to enable daily enjoyment of fish mush while also protecting Xena‘s tummy. For those unaware, Xena’s tummy is a no-fish-mush zone for everybody’s comfort, especially Xena’s.
At the sanctum sanctorum, comfort in every sense is taken very seriously. We all respect the bodily autonomy of cats that like to twist themselves like wrung out washcloths while they’re sleeping. We all understand that sometimes short-term indignities and discomfort are the path to long-term good health and well-being. We admire and commiserate proportionally and with respect to any given situation, no matter the reason or the season. But, really, have you seen Bello sleeping with his head in a cardboard food boat (You have now!) or with both ends drooping out of the cubby on a cat tree? Bello always seems content, but humans are left shaking their heads. Surely, that can’t be comfortable.
- PS: Wanting to show off some of their favorite positions, Sweet Pea (top left), zesty Robby (top right; ADOPTED!!!), and Prescott (bottom left) submitted photos too. Not to be left out, volunteer Russell L’s dog, Ricky, also sent in a picture!
