Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Leo's Lifestyle

Some people may be curious about Leo's lifestyle. He enjoys being outdoors and indoors, and typically wants to go outside each morning for adventures, and returns in the evening for TLC. Sometimes he stops by during the day for a visit. When he's home with us, he is fed two large meals per day of high quality canned cat food, and has high quality dry food available 24/7. Basically, he has as much food as he wants to eat, and does eat hearty meals. We monitor the eating process to assure that both our cats are getting their fair share of food. We have noticed that he has put on some weight this winter, which we think is great since he needs it to stay warm. With his active lifestyle, he is still in great shape, and he'll likely slim down in the spring like he did last year. Outdoors he has access to a screened in porch if he wants to be away from other animals or take a little nap, and on this porch is a heated house and a heated water bowl. If we are not home, he can still stay dry and comfortable in his heated home. We check regularly during the day and evening to see if he's ready to come indoors. Following the advice of our vet for keeping an indoor/outdoor cat healthy, he is up to date on his vaccinations, and he is protected from tics, fleas, and parasites. This lifestyle has evolved as we have gotten to know Leo and what makes him content. While his breed (Bengal) is very social and loving, there's also a 'wild side' to him that makes him love being outdoors. We're trying to keep a good balance between the two.

2 comments:

CatGirl said...

I don't usually contribute to blogs...in fact this is my first time...but I can't resist Leo! It sounds like there has been some controversy surrounding the cute little guy, and as a cat owner and lover of all things feline, I thought I would throw in my 2 cents.

I can see that some posts have been deleted, but I gather that some people think a neighbor is harboring Leo. I really don't think that is the case, because a cat lover would never retrain someone else's pet (which would be confusing to the cat and cause the owner much worry), and someone who doesn't like cats wouldn't want one around! I'm sure your neighbors would bring him home to you, especially since you have things so comfortable there for him. Leo sounds like he has quite a wild side and just loves the outdoors.

Good luck and try not to worry, I know it's upsetting when your baby doesn't come home at night!

Cheryl Rosaen said...

Hi Catgirl, You sound like a genuine cat lover! I'd love to see a picture of your cat sometime :)