Tips for Hosting a Summer Cat Social
Let the cats sniff at one another and get acquainted while you and their owners supervise. Have their own carriers nearby if they are looking for a place to retreat, and have ample guest litter boxes on hand. If a cat is upset and begins growling, help his owner secure him in a separate room until he calms down enough to rejoin the party.
Keep those cats cool: Offer plenty of fresh water in bowls with frequent additions of ice cubes, which some cats love to bat around. Air conditioning is a must, or fans if no a/c is available. Cats regulate their body temperatures by washing, but cool, moving air and water help. If you have a flowing pet fountain, set it up and watch the cats play with the moving stream.
Just like at those old-fashioned ice cream socials, provide guests, both human and feline, with cool refreshment choices. Offer several ice cream or sherbet flavors and toppings for DIY sundaes. Since cats should not eat ice cream, dice and freeze canned cat food to serve in small, icy chunks. Offer a small dollop of fresh plain yogurt on the side (some cats love it, others will snub it). Drizzle a little tuna juice over ice cubes, giving cats that popsicle-licking experience. Have plenty of bite-size treats in a variety of flavors. For people, offer beverages and goldfish-shaped crackers for a fun, feline feeling.
Cats love to chase laser dots, and their antics will entertain the humans while burning up some cat energy. Have several cat-favorite toy fishing poles with feathery lures, as well as the paper bags and tissue paper that all cats love.
Give everyone a party favor, maybe a large cat-shaped cookie for the humans (find cat cookie cutters in craft or bakery supply stores) and a small new toy for the cats. Send leftover refreshments home packed on ice, then plan another cat social for your cat's other friends.
Find Your Perfect Pet
Comments ( )