I am willing to bet that many of you who have cats in your household don’t give much thought to the idea of engaging in playtime with your feline friends. However, doing so on a regular basis strengthens the bond between you and your cats, and also benefits everyone’s physical and mental well-being. I try to engage my cats in interactive play by using toys which are attached to poles, enabling me to direct and monitor interaction. My cats absolutely love playtime, so much so that my 3-year old, Koji, will yell at me whenever I pass by the closet in which I keep the interactive toys.
Here is a breakdown of the numerous benefits which both you and your cats will enjoy when participating in interactive play:
Benefits for Cats and Kittens
Physical Exercise: Cats, especially indoor ones, need regular activity to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related issues. Play mimics natural hunting behaviors, helping them stay fit and agile.
Mental Stimulation: Engaging in interactive play keeps a cat’s mind sharp, preventing boredom and destructive behaviors like scratching furniture or excessive meowing.
Instinct Satisfaction: Cats are natural hunters. Toys that mimic prey—like feather wands or laser pointers—allow them to practice stalking, pouncing, and chasing in a safe environment.
Stress Reduction: Play provides an outlet for pent-up energy and can reduce stress and anxiety, making cats more relaxed and well-adjusted.
Socialization for Kittens: Kittens learn important skills through play, including coordination, bite inhibition, and appropriate interaction with humans and other animals.
Benefits for Cat Owners
Stronger Bond: Playing with your cat helps build trust and deepen your relationship, especially with shy or newly adopted cats.
Entertainment and Joy: Watching a cat chase a toy or do a playful leap can be highly entertaining and bring joy to owners.
Encourages Routine and Responsibility: Regular playtime helps owners establish a routine, making it easier to provide structure and care for their pet.
Stress Relief: Interacting with cats has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in humans, providing emotional benefits similar to meditation or relaxation exercises.
Better Behavior: A well-exercised cat is less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors like nighttime zoomies, furniture scratching, or aggression due to boredom.
Making Playtime Effective
To get the most out of interactive play, use a variety of toys like wand teasers, balls, and puzzle feeders. Rotate toys frequently to keep things interesting. Aim for at least two short play sessions a day, adjusting based on your cat’s energy level and age.
Incorporating interactive play into your daily routine creates a happier, healthier life for both you and your cat, ensuring a strong and loving companionship.
Cat litter comes in a variety of types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Below is a discussion of the main types of cat litter and an exploration of why some may be better than others for both your cat’s health and your own. I have a strong opinion regarding litter types which I will share at the end of this article.
Types of Cat Litter:
Clumping Clay Litter:
Made from sodium bentonite, a type of clay that absorbs moisture and forms solid clumps when it comes into contact with urine.
Pros: Easy to scoop and clean because of the clumping action, effective at controlling odor.
Cons: Dust can be an issue, and it’s typically not environmentally friendly. The production of clay-based litter can be environmentally harmful, and the clay is often mined from areas that cause significant ecological damage.
Non-Clumping Clay Litter:
Made from clay, but instead of forming clumps, it simply absorbs moisture and the liquid spreads throughout the litter.
Pros: Often cheaper than clumping litter, and less dust may be produced. Easier to replace the entire litter box because you don’t have to worry about clumping.
Cons: May not control odors as well, and can require more frequent changes. Less convenient since you can’t just scoop out urine clumps.
Silica Gel Crystals:
Made from silica dioxide, these litter granules absorb moisture and odor.
Pros: Good at controlling odor and moisture; often lasts longer than clay-based litters before needing a full replacement. It is low-dust and non-tracking.
Cons: More expensive, and not biodegradable.
Natural/Plant-Based Litters:
Includes options made from corn, wheat, pine, or coconut shells. These litters are often marketed as more eco-friendly. Wood pellets are low dust and thus are great for cats and humans who have respiratory issues.
Pros: Typically biodegradable and made from renewable resources. More economical than clumping clay litters and silica crystals.
Cons: Some natural litters may not control odor as well as other litter types.
Recycled Paper Litter:
Made from recycled paper, this litter is soft and lightweight.
Pros: Environmentally friendly, low dust, gentle on a cat’s paws, and good for cats with respiratory issues.
Cons: Can be less effective at controlling odors and may not clump as well.
Why Non-Clumping Litter Can Be Better:
Non-clumping litter has several advantages over clumping litter, though these benefits depend on the context and the specific needs of your cat. Here’s why some people prefer non-clumping litter:
Less Dust: Non-clumping litters often produce less dust, which is better for both cats and humans with respiratory issues.
Easier to Dispose Of: Because non-clumping litters don’t form solid clumps, you need to replace the entire litter more frequently. While this may sound like a disadvantage, it can be seen as an advantage because you’re ensuring that your cat’s environment is more hygienic with fresh litter each time you change it.
No Chemicals or Additives: Some non-clumping litters (especially natural varieties) do not contain the chemicals or fragrances that can sometimes be added to clumping varieties for odor control.
Less Waste: Some non-clumping litters are biodegradable or made from renewable resources, making them a better environmental choice in some cases.
However, non-clumping litter does come with its drawbacks, including less effective odor control, and the need for more frequent full replacements of the litter box.
Why Clay-Based Litter Can Be Harmful:
Clay-based litter, particularly the clumping kind, has come under scrutiny for a few reasons, mainly due to the dust it produces and the environmental impact of its production:
Inhalation of Dust: When cats (or humans) inhale dust from clay-based litter, it can cause respiratory issues. The fine particles in the dust can irritate the lungs and exacerbate pre-existing conditions like asthma. This can be particularly dangerous for both cats and humans with compromised respiratory systems.
Heavy Metals: Some clay-based litters, particularly those using sodium bentonite, may contain trace amounts of heavy metals, such as silica dust, which are harmful when inhaled over long periods. Prolonged exposure to this dust can lead to respiratory disease in both humans and animals.
Environmental Harm: The extraction of clay for cat litter has a significant environmental impact. Mining processes can cause habitat destruction and contribute to soil erosion. Furthermore, the litter itself is not biodegradable, which means that it can contribute to landfill waste.
Toxicity to Cats: If a cat ingests clay litter (for example, by licking it off their paws), the minerals and chemicals in the litter can be toxic. This is particularly a concern with certain types of clumping clay litters.
Conclusion:
While clumping cat litter is often preferred by many cat owners for its convenience and superior odor control, non-clumping litter has its own advantages, particularly when it comes to reducing dust and being more eco-friendly, especially in natural or biodegradable varieties. However, when using any litter—particularly clay-based litters—it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with dust inhalation, the environmental impact, and the health concerns related to long-term exposure.
If you’re particularly concerned about the dust or environmental impact of clay-based litter, consider switching to a natural, plant-based option or silica gel crystals, which are often less dusty and more sustainable. I steer clear of all clumping litters, and I also do not use clay-based litters. There are two types of cat litter which I use in my home: silica gel crystals, and plant-based wood pellets. I use silica gel crystals in 2 boxes, and have found that the crystals are extremely effective in combating odor. Crystal litter also doesn’t have to be changed very often, which is especially nice since this type of litter tends to be the most expensive. I use wood pellets for the other boxes in my home, and strongly favor them for a multitude of reasons which I mentioned above, including their low cost, their eco-friendly aspect, and the fact that I don’t have to worry about my babies breathing in harmful dust.
I hope you enjoy reading this wonderful article, written by Camille Johnson of Bereaver.com
Maintaining healthy habits often feels like an impossible task when life is filled with constant demands. However, a busy lifestyle doesn’t have to stand in the way of your well-being. By incorporating practical, time-efficient strategies, you can make healthy choices part of your daily routine without added stress. The key lies in finding small, actionable steps that seamlessly fit your schedule, helping you prioritize health even on the busiest days.
Enhancing Your Routine with Time-Blocking
Incorporating time-blocking techniques into your daily routine can significantly improve your ability to maintain healthy habits. By dividing your day into dedicated time slots for specific tasks, you ensure that each activity receives the focus it needs. For instance, setting aside time from 9 am to 10 am for exercise can help prioritize this important habit. This approach not only provides structure but also aids in organizing and prioritizing tasks, transforming a hectic schedule into a more manageable one.
Energizing Your Morning with a Nutritious Smoothie
Kickstart your day with a vibrant super greens smoothie that not only boosts your energy but also enhances mental clarity. By blending nutrient-rich greens like spinach and parsley with almond milk, you create a wholesome alternative to caffeine. When selecting a greens powder, prioritize those made from organic vegetables and free from artificial additives to ensure purity. Additionally, review the best greens powders and find one that includes probiotics to support gut health. This simple morning ritual fuels your body and sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
Strengthening Your Brain and Energy with Smart Nutrition
Incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your daily meals can significantly boost your cognitive abilities and energy levels. Essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin D, probiotics, and polyphenols improve memory and reduce inflammation, crucial for optimal brain function. By ensuring a steady intake of these nutrients, you provide your brain with the necessary fuel to stay sharp and focused. This not only aids in better decision-making but also supports your ability to adhere to new routines.
Embracing Mindful Eating for a Healthier Lifestyle
Mindful eating offers a refreshing approach to cultivating healthier eating habits, especially for those with busy lifestyles. By immersing yourself in the sensory experience of food, you become more attuned to your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues. This awareness can lead to better portion control and a reduced tendency to overeat. Unlike traditional dieting methods, mindful eating encourages you to savor each bite, promoting satisfaction and reducing stress. This approach, rooted in the Buddhist concept of mindfulness, fosters a positive relationship with food and supports a balanced dietary lifestyle.
Building Habits That Reflect Your Core Values
Incorporating self-reflection into your routine can be a powerful strategy for developing habits that align with your core values. By understanding what truly matters to you, you can make intentional choices that resonate with your authentic self. This practice supports personal growth and enhances decision-making skills, allowing you to invest in habits that support your long-term goals.
Discovering Patterns Through Journaling
Journaling is a powerful tool for uncovering the behavioral patterns that influence your daily life. By consistently recording your thoughts and experiences, you create a personal narrative that helps identify why certain habits persist. This practice can illuminate emotional triggers, such as stress or anxiety, that might lead to intense reactions. Embracing journaling as a means of self-discovery boosts your emotional intelligence and empowers you to cultivate healthier habits.
Prioritizing Meaningful Habits for a Balanced Life
To truly enhance your daily life, focus on habits that genuinely boost your well-being and productivity. Start by evaluating your current routine and identifying activities that offer little value. By eliminating such non-essential tasks, you create space for pursuits that align with your personal goals and values. This approach boosts efficiency and enhances overall happiness, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Building healthy habits within a busy lifestyle isn’t about drastic changes but about creating routines that work for you. With consistent effort and a focus on small, achievable goals, you can seamlessly integrate wellness into your daily life. Remember, every positive choice adds up, and even minor changes can have a significant impact over time. By staying committed and flexible, you can cultivate a healthier, more balanced life regardless of your schedule.
Elevate your wellness journey with expert nutrition and fitness plans from Dr. Stacey Naito – your destination for transformative health and lifestyle solutions!
The lockdown of 2020 still hasn’t worn off for some people who have continued the habit of staying home all the time. After developing patterns of behavior which caused us to focus on home-based activities, the idea of becoming more socially active can be daunting to say the least. Here are some ways people can ease into becoming more social, and venture out of their homes:
1. Start with Small Steps
Go for Short Walks: Start with simple outdoor activities like going for a walk in a nearby park or just around your neighborhood. Gradually increase the time you spend outdoors.
Errands or Short Trips: Instead of staying inside, you can plan a trip to the grocery store, library, or café. Doing errands can help get you out of the house while feeling like it’s part of a regular routine.
2. Set Achievable Social Goals
Meet with One Person: Instead of jumping into large social events, try meeting one friend or family member for coffee or a meal. Even if it’s a short interaction, it can help build your confidence in socializing again.
Join a Group Activity: Consider joining a small group or class, such as a book club, fitness class, or hobby-based meetup. Being part of a structured group gives you a reason to leave home and offers opportunities to interact in a low-pressure setting.
3. Create a Routine
Schedule Outings: Put specific events or activities on your calendar, like going to a museum or attending a community event. Having these planned in advance can make it easier to commit and can help you stick to a routine of leaving the house.
Set Time for Socializing: Block out time in your schedule for social activities, whether it’s a phone call with a friend or joining a social gathering. Having these moments planned helps combat the urge to isolate yourself.
4. Focus on Enjoyable Activities
Pursue Interests Outside: Think of activities that you genuinely enjoy that happen outside your home—maybe hiking, seeing a movie, or attending a concert. The more enjoyable the activity, the more likely you are to make it a habit.
Volunteer: Volunteering for causes you care about is a great way to break the hermit cycle. It’s a positive way to interact with others and can help you feel connected to your community.
5. Challenge Negative Thoughts
Address Social Anxiety: If fear of judgment or social anxiety is keeping you at home, consider working on these feelings. Sometimes, it helps to remind yourself that people are often more focused on their own lives than on scrutinizing others.
Shift Your Perspective: If you’re accustomed to staying home, you may have developed thoughts that reinforce this habit (e.g., “I’m more comfortable alone” or “There’s nothing for me outside”). Challenge these thoughts by reminding yourself of past positive experiences or new opportunities.
6. Use Technology as a Bridge
Start with Virtual Socializing: If leaving home feels overwhelming, begin by engaging in virtual social activities like online classes, group video chats, or forums. It can serve as a way to ease into in-person interactions.
Track Progress: Consider using a tracking app or journal to keep a record of your efforts to leave the house. Tracking your progress can help you celebrate small victories and motivate you to keep going.
7. Get an Accountability Buddy
Find a Supportive Friend: Find someone who understands your struggle and can encourage you to get out more. They might help by inviting you to do things or checking in on your progress, making the transition easier.
Join a Fitness Challenge: Participating in a fitness challenge or committing to a workout buddy can motivate you to leave the house regularly for exercise or outdoor activities.
8. Redesign Your Space
Create a Comfortable Environment Outside: Sometimes, creating a space outside of your home that feels inviting can help make the transition easier. If you enjoy reading, consider sitting at a park or café instead of at home. If you’re into photography, explore new outdoor spots for photo opportunities.
9. Address Underlying Causes
Reflect on Why You Stay Home: It’s important to look deeper into why you prefer being a hermit. Are there emotional or mental health factors that are keeping you isolated? Addressing things like loneliness, anxiety, or depression with the help of a therapist can be crucial in breaking this habit.
Practice Self-Compassion: Don’t be hard on yourself. Moving out of isolation takes time and it’s okay to take gradual steps. Celebrate any progress, even if it feels small.
10. Engage in Group or Public Activities
Attend Public Events: Participate in community events, such as fairs, farmers’ markets, or outdoor festivals. These events offer a casual atmosphere where you can interact with people without pressure.
Take a Class: Whether it’s a cooking class, pottery, or a dance lesson, learning something new in a group setting provides both a reason to leave your home and a chance to meet new people.
By combining these strategies, it’s possible to break the cycle of isolation while respecting your pace. Each step taken, no matter how small, can lead to a greater sense of connection, improved mental well-being, and a healthier balance between solitude and socializing.
Since one of my biggest interests lies in houseplants, I thought I should cover the health benefits of growing greenery within a household. Houseplants offer a range of health benefits, both physical and mental, making them a great addition to any home or office space. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Improved Air Quality
One of the most well-known benefits of houseplants is their ability to purify indoor air. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through photosynthesis. Additionally, certain houseplants, such as peace lilies, spider plants, and snake plants, are known to remove toxins from the air, including formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. This can lead to cleaner, fresher air indoors, which may help reduce respiratory issues and improve overall health.
2. Stress Reduction
Several studies have shown that being around plants can help reduce stress and anxiety. The presence of greenery has a calming effect, potentially lowering heart rates and blood pressure. Simply interacting with plants—whether it’s watering them, trimming leaves, or just admiring their beauty—can trigger a relaxation response, helping you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed. Houseplants offer a range of health benefits, both physical and mental, making them a great addition to any home or office space. The best part of having a large collection of houseplants is that my home has a Bohemian, Zen-like feel to it which people find relaxing and welcoming.
I will say that watering the plants in my collection is a bit of a hassle, even considering the fact that I only water half of the plants each week. Part of the issue is that I have over 100 plants inside my home, and many of them are suspended from ceiling hooks, making it necessary for me to cart around a stepladder on plant watering day. However, as long as you have a manageable assortment of plants in your residence, the task shouldn’t be too strenuous.
3. Enhanced Mood and Mental Health
Houseplants can have a positive impact on mental well-being. Studies suggest that spending time around plants can improve mood, reduce feelings of fatigue, and increase feelings of calm and contentment. The act of caring for a plant, and the sense of responsibility that comes with it, can also boost feelings of accomplishment and purpose. For people experiencing mild depression or anxiety, the nurturing of plants can offer therapeutic benefits, acting as a form of mindfulness or relaxation practice.
4. Improved Productivity and Concentration
Research has shown that having plants in the workspace or at home can improve focus, cognitive function, and productivity. Plants can increase attention span, enhance memory retention, and even promote creativity. In offices, employees with plants in their workspaces often report higher satisfaction, fewer sick days, and improved mental clarity. The presence of plants can help people feel more connected to nature, even in an urban setting.
5. Better Humidity and Temperature Regulation
Houseplants naturally release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration, which can help maintain a more balanced level of humidity in the home. This is particularly helpful in environments where air conditioning or heating systems dry out the air. Proper humidity can reduce the risk of dry skin, sore throats, and respiratory irritation. Additionally, plants can help moderate temperature fluctuations by absorbing sunlight and releasing moisture, leading to a more stable and comfortable living environment.
6. Better Sleep
Certain plants, like lavender and jasmine, have been shown to promote better sleep. The calming scents emitted by these plants may help to lower anxiety levels and encourage relaxation before bedtime. Moreover, the act of caring for plants and spending time in nature can also help you develop healthier sleep habits by reducing stress during the day.
7. Boost to Immune System
Some research suggests that exposure to plants and nature can have a positive effect on the immune system. Spending time in green spaces, even within your home, can increase the production of white blood cells, which help defend against illness. Additionally, houseplants can encourage you to spend more time in your living space, which could lead to healthier habits, such as better hydration, nutrition, and sleep, all of which support a stronger immune system.
8. Reduction in Noise Pollution
Houseplants can also absorb sound, which helps reduce noise levels in indoor environments. In a busy home or office, the presence of plants can create a more peaceful atmosphere by dampening echoes and muffling background noise. This can lead to improved concentration and overall well-being, particularly in noisy urban environments.
9. Connection to Nature
Having plants in your home helps foster a sense of connection to the natural world. In urban environments, where access to parks and green spaces may be limited, indoor plants can provide a touch of nature, helping to counteract the effects of “nature-deficit disorder” (a term coined by Richard Louv to describe the negative impact of disconnection from nature). This connection can improve your mental and emotional well-being, helping you feel more grounded and centered.
10. Aesthetic and Environmental Benefits
In addition to the direct health benefits, houseplants also improve the aesthetic value of a space, making it feel more welcoming and vibrant. A well-decorated home or office with plants can enhance your environment, making it feel more lively and positive. This positive visual impact can indirectly boost your mood and contribute to a healthier mindset.
Final Thoughts
Integrating houseplants into your environment can be a simple yet effective way to enhance both physical and mental well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve air quality, reduce stress, boost productivity, or just make your home more inviting, the presence of plants can have far-reaching benefits for your health. And the best part is that they require relatively little effort to maintain, making them an easy and accessible way to improve your overall quality of life.
I had no idea that I would become fully obsessed with Voluspa candles, to the point where I have the majority of their 56 scents. Though I am not a fan of every single Voluspa candle fragrance, I own and enjoy over 40 of them. Voluspa candles are made with eco-friendly coconut wax, burn well, and most of the aromas have good throw, meaning that they permeate at least part of the room nicely.
In the span of three weeks, my Voluspa candle collection grew from 10 Voluspa candle varieties to over 40, thanks to the purchase of a candle warmer which increases the throw of smaller candles. I ended up purchasing many smaller candles in an attempt to accumulate the bulk of the Voluspa line. Obviously, my love for candles expanded into an earnest hobby which I enjoy immensely.
There are smaller candles in the wooden boxes on this shelf…
To give you an idea of which fragrances I have in my collection now, here’s the list:
I always make sure to have my candles displayed in such a way that they aren’t too conspicuous, and actually look like they are part of the decor. This is critical to me, because I abhor the idea of having clutter which isn’t organized in a clever way. The images on this post feature the main candle groupings I have scattered throughout the second floor of my home. As you can see, I have established candle mini zones so that I can display/store my collection in a manageable way. You can’t tell that I have over 40 Voluspa candles in my home! Incidentally, I also have several other candles from other candle companies as well.
My good friends are all well aware of how much I adore scented candles, because there is an assortment of them throughout my home. I am definitely not talking about candles from TJ Maxx or Marshall’s, or Yankee Candles, which are made with paraffin wax and soy wax and look and smell tacky. Thanks to my cousin Rose, who gifted me with two Voluspa candles on Christmas Eve 2020, I got swept up into the world of candles. Rose also inspired me to develop a nightly ritual in which I select a fragrance which resonates with me at that moment, light the candle, and enjoy the soft glow and wonderful aroma while winding down for the late afternoon into evening.
I have sampled other candle brands, but I keep coming back to Voluspa, which features eco-friendly and clean burning coconut wax. In addition, the vessels which Voluspa uses are absolutely gorgeous, so much so that it seems a shame not to repurpose every single one once the candle wax has completely melted. Lastly, the fragrances are outstanding, and they continue to add incredible new scents to their collection. At this point, I have ten favorites in their lineup, and two of them are relatively new:
Mind you, this is not a sponsored post in any way, shape or form. I simply love Voluspa candles, reed diffusers, diffuser oils, and room sprays, and intend to continue to feature their products in my home. What I love about Voluspa fragrances is that they are distinctive, unique, complex, and beautiful, similar to fine body fragrances. These aren’t cheap, flat scents, but layered, elegant, and deep olfactory journeys.
Taiko, a Platinum American Burmese Male – My first Burmese love…
Since 1986, I have had fourteen different cats, and cannot imagine life without felines in my household. Six of the cats I had have been of mixed breed, while the other eight were purebred. Of those pure breeds, I have had a Blue Point Birman (Natasha, b1991-d2000), a Snow Bengal (Abbey, b2002-2005 not due to death), a Scottish Fold (Sophie, b2000-d2009), two European Burmese (Kazu, b2009-d2023, and Sumi, born in 2023), and three American Burmese (Taiko b2001-d2009, Tenshi, born in 2008, Koji, born in 2021). From the moment I brought Taiko, a platinum male, home, I actually enjoyed how intensely social and needy Taiko was, and I completely fell in love with his doglike personality, which I quickly learned was characteristic of Burmese cats. It was enough to solidify my preference for Burmese cats, and now I insist on always having Burmese cats in my life.
Tenshi, my Blue American Burmese Male
Burmese cats truly are extremely friendly, need to be around their humans the majority of the time, and are so drawn to laps that they are referred to as “lap Velcro”. Having lived with Burmese since 2001, I can definitely vouch for the fact that these felines are attention whores, which is quite the opposite of what some cat haters think about cat temperament. My cats are social, playful, gentle, and intelligent, and they often want to cuddle, sometimes when I am trying to do housework or telemedicine! I’m also accustomed to having all my cats on my bed at some point during every night. These cats have tons of personality!
Kazu, my Cream European Burmese Female (4.2.2009 – 5.12.2023)
There are some minor physical differences between American Burms and European Burms, such as head shape (American Burms have more rounded skulls, while European Burms have a slight wedge shape), and there are colors which are unique to E Burms (such as Cream, which is what my Kazu was), but both Burmese versions are very similar and also feature the same loveable personality profile. It is much more difficult to find European Burmese breeders in the United States, so if you have your heart set on an E Burm, you will probably have to travel out of state to find one.
Koji, my Sable American Burmese Male
As a matter of fact, I flew to Philadelphia in June of 2023 to scoop up a beautiful cream European Burmese female, whom I named Sumi. Sumi very quickly adopted the dual roles of official greeter and main bed buddy, both of which my dear, departed Kazu performed like a champ. It was absolutely worth it for me to fly across the country to get another blondie, because Sumi truly has become a snuggly sweetheart and a welcome addition to the family.
Sumi, my Cream European Burmese Female
The following are breed descriptions from CFA.org and TICA.org respectively. The CFA recognizes the American Burmese, while TICA recognizes the European Burmese.
AMERICAN BURMESE BREED DESCRIPTON:
The Burmese breed first came to America in 1930 when Dr. Joseph Thompson of San Francisco brought a small walnut brown female cat from Burma. He named her Wong Mau and bred her to Siamese cats. Through selective breeding the unique solid brown colored coat, now known as Sable, was isolated. This work demonstrated that these Burmese cats were a distinct breed and ultimately led the breeders to request championship recognition from the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). Along the way, the other colors seen in the Siamese breed were also seen in litters. Over time and with much controversy, these other colors were accepted by CFA. The four colors we now recognize in CFA are Sable, a rich dark brown; Champagne, a warm beige; Platinum, a pale gray with fawn undertones; and Blue, a medium gray with fawn undertones.
Burmese cats carry surprising weight for their size. Their coats are short and close-lying, and they have a very silky texture. They need very little grooming, usually requiring only some daily petting. You will see a range of styles of Burmese cats, with those with rounder heads and shorter bodies being the show cats. Their large, expressive eyes radiate an innocence that will seduce you, and they have an irresistible appeal that has won over many a person who thought he didn’t like cats. Burmese cats have an endearing quality that has won the hearts of those lucky enough to be owned by one. They have great affection for their people, wanting to be with them as much as possible without being overly demanding. Many Burmese will even play fetch with a toy, given the chance.
Burmese kittens can be quite spirited. They are playful and fearless, attempting feats beyond their means and landing on their sturdy little rear ends. A Burmese kitten will remain playful well into adulthood. As they mature, their unique intelligence will reveal itself as their personalities unfold. They will soon grow into confident and charming little executives who will rule the house and your heart. Burmese are soft-spoken beings who have little trouble making their wishes known. They adore their people and are known for being good with children as well as liking (or at least tolerating) the family dog. Burmese are extremely people-oriented companions. Their personalities are almost dog-like. They will follow you from room to room, and they greatly desire to give and receive affection. They seek out warm laps and gentle strokes of your hand, and they love to snuggle up with their owners when they are reading or watching TV. Come bedtime they look forward to sleeping in or on your bed if allowed. Burmese are convinced that it is their job to run the house. Females tend to demand center stage and take an active role in managing the household. Males on the other hand tend to be more relaxed, managing from a comfortable spot on your lap. Be forewarned – Burmese cats can be addictive! It is not uncommon for someone to acquire a Burmese and find one is not enough. Many people ultimately have two or more Burmese, one of each gender or of different colors. Being one of the most trusting cat breeds, Burmese should never be allowed outside. https://cfa.org/burmese/
EUROPEAN BURMESE BREED DESCRIPTION:
Burmese can be found in a range of solid and tortoiseshell colors: rich, dark sable brown; medium, warm blue; warm, honey beige chocolate with pink or fawn tints; lilac that ranges in tone from a bright pinkish grey to a silvery platinum with pink tints; reds of a light, golden apricot with melon-orange overtones; rich, warm deep creams with hints of apricot; and the soft mingling of red or cream with sable, chocolate, blue or lilac found in the tortoiseshells. In young cats, the points will be darker but as the cat gets older and the coat matures the body color becomes deeper and richer until there is only a very slight difference between its body and the color on the legs, head and tail. On Mar 29 1955, the first blue Burmese kitten, Sealcoat Blue Surprise, was born in England. Cats other than sable had appeared earlier, but most Burmese breeders chose to breed only the sable cats. It is now believed that Wong Mau also carried the genes for dilution and chocolate that resulted in the appearance of chocolate, blue and lilac kittens. The red factor was added later in Europe. The Burmese was one of the original breeds TICA recognized in June 1979.
I just stumbled across this video which I had recorded at the beginning of last year. It clearly shows my most robust Hoya linearis (nicknamed Superstar) in bloom, which was a lovely surprise. Alas, Superstar has not given me blooms since, but perhaps she will in a few months.
Bidets have surged in popularity over the past four years, primarily due to COVID lockdown restrictions and the toilet paper shortage. But while over 80% of households in Japan have bidets, the United States only boasts about 6% of households which feature bidets, even post-COVID. As someone who has a bidet, and had basic bidet attachments since 2016, I strongly believe that they are far superior to toilet paper and wipes for cleaning the area down under, and they result in a dramatic decrease in toilet paper use. Bidets are environmentally friendly, hygienic, and generally better for your bottom.
Since most American households don’t have bidets, I thought I would share the following video so that you will know what to do if you find yourself perched on a bidet toilet while visiting friends, and are curious about how to use one:
I encourage those of you who haven’t used a bidet before to try one when you get the chance. I know the sensation of having water shooting up your keister hole is very strange, but once you get over the initial shock, I promise that you will feel so clean after you use it. No amount of wiping with toilet paper will ever get you completely clean, but water will definitely wash all the residue away.
The history of the bidet is also quite interesting, as bidets were originally an upgrade from a chamber pot. For more information on the history of the bidet, check out this great article:
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