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Our Mews Bulletin

Should I Adopt an Adult Cat?

22/1/2021

 
​You really want a kitten don’t you? You’re not alone. In 2015, it was discovered that adult cats are less popular among RSPCA adopters compared to kittens. Fortunately, they also 
learned that ‘a similar percentage of cats and kittens … [had been] adopted’ between 2018-2019. It’s a good sign, but it can it always be better. To make sure this happens, here are a few reasons for why you shouldn’t rule out adopting adult cats.  

They’re Excellent Houseguests 

​As adult cats are already fully developed, the likelihood of you having to deal with behavioural problems is reduced. The AWL credits adult cats with ‘understand[ing] how a home works.’ They are highly likely to have already been domesticated, which means they have an easier time adjusting to new surroundings. They will know not to scratch or bite you, your family or your furniture. This means less hand raising for you, and more time cuddling with your new friend on the couch. 
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Low Maintenance Pets

Their adaptable nature means that adult cats are independent animals who value space. While you go about your life, they’ll keep themselves entertained (leaving a toy for them certainly wouldn’t hurt) by sleeping, exploring and even hoarding! After a long day out, come home and you’ll see them watching you from a window. Did Mittens climb up the curtains and tear through them? Of course not! She was laying around, grooming herself and patiently waiting for you to return. ​
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You’ll Be the Hero of Their Story

​From 2019-2020, less than 2500 of the 45,364 cats admitted to the RSPCA had been reclaimed. While animals find themselves in shelters for a number of reasons (being surrendered or abandoned being the most common), many of them are perfectly fine. Perhaps they had wandered too far from home and were taken by rangers? Whatever the case, the main reason for why you should adopt an adult cat is the simplest one of all… you are giving them a second chance at life. 
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So, what are you waiting for? There are many adult cats in need all over Queensland and Brisbane right now, and they are waiting for you. Click through here to adopt a cat today!
Written by Matthew Leong for FFARQ.

Tackling the “Feral Problem”

2/3/2020

 
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Feral felines are domestic cats that have reverted to natural hunting instincts. They are cats that have persisted with limited to no human contact, and survive on their carnivorous diet of birds, lizards, rabbits, frogs, and insects. According to Pest Smart, feral cats can ‘take down prey matching their own body size’ and can easily adapt to many different habitats.

Feral cats are one of the main stressors that affect Australia’s native wildlife. Some figures in 2014 have reported that feral cats have contributed to the deaths of over 20 billion Australian native species a year. This was proven to be ‘unverifiable’ by the ABC News Network:
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‘There is no consistent figure on the number of feral cats in Australia, but estimates range from 5 to 23 million. Experts say the number is impossible to calculate because of density variation…the way the population fluctuates with prey availability and climate.’

Furthermore, recent research published in a new book, Cats in Australia: Comparison and Killer (2019), has compiled findings across hundreds of studies that suggest that feral cats could kill ‘more than 3 million mammals, 2 million reptiles and 1 million birds every day.’ Domestic cats are also not excused from the equation, as they can roam and track down prey to satisfy their own natural hunting instincts. Many cat owners have the misconception that their own beloved companions do not kill wildlife, yet GPS trackers suggest that cats can roam further than originally thought. Domestic cats that are allowed to roam have reportedly been able to kill more than 75 animals a year. 

In 2015, the Australian Government enacted a target to cull 2 million feral cats by 2020. It was reported that 211, 560 cats were culled during the first 12 months of the plan. This plan was met with some criticism and remarks of animal genocide. 
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Nonetheless, the feral population is a result of human behaviours. The topic of feral cats have particularly made a strong reappearance due to the recent Australian bushfires, as many native species are currently under threat.  The message of responsible pet ownership, including desexing and keeping cats indoors, has become significant now more than ever. 

Organisations such as the Australian National Desexing Network have initiatives that give pet owners access to low-cost desexing. This not only is beneficial for the environment and the economy, but also addresses the huge pet overpopulation problem within our own pounds and shelters. Desexing is the single most humane thing we can do for the cat population in Australia.

Written by Claudine Prior for FFARQ.

Visiting the Vet: How One Trip Can Improve Your Cat’s Life

19/1/2020

 
By Tyler Smith for FFARQ 
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While a human can pick up a phone and book a doctor’s appointment to have their medical concerns taken care of, our feline companions lack the ability to easily access healthcare this way. By taking your cat to the vet every year for a check-up from nose to tail, you can help them live a long and healthy life purring beside you. Here are some things that make this trip important:

Teeth
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Wild cats take care of their teeth by eating meat from carcasses, the bones of their prey acting like a toothbrush and removing debris and plaque from their mouths. However, domestic cats’ diets of biscuits, wet food and treats often forget to take care of their teeth. Providing cats with dental treats and brushing their teeth regularly can prevent your cat from developing dental problems, but it is always best for a professional who sees kitty teeth every day to check them and make sure your friend’s teeth are ready for more food.

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Vaccinations

Keeping your cat’s vaccinations up-to-date is vital to ensuring preventable diseases don’t stop your cat from chasing their favourite toy. Top-ups of cats’ vaccinations are needed to keep them effective. Whether your cat spends their time inside your home (as we recommend) or outside, vaccinations can save your cat’s life and your bank account from the expensive vet bills associated with treating diseases. Furthermore, most boarding facilities require up-to-date vaccination records of your cat before you go on your holiday. So if you plan to take a trip this year and send your cat on a vacation of their own, make sure they’ve had their shots. 

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Weight
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Keeping a cat on the scales in the vet’s examination room long enough to weigh them often proves a challenge, but the task is just as important as everything else in the check-up. Most cats love food and find it easy to overeat and become overweight, however if too much weight is gained they can find it difficult to move and have issues breathing. Underweight cats often have an underlying health issue that is decreasing their appetite, and a visit to the vet can ensure that nothing sinister is going on under your cat’s fur. 
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Coat 

Almost every breed of cat is covered in a coat of fur. This seemingly mundane part of your cat’s body can actually hold a great deal of insight into your cat’s wellbeing. A coat that is dirty, full of loose hair and hasn’t been cleaned in a while by your cat can indicate that your cat is feeling down, while anxiety and boredom can lead to an overgroomed coat with bald spots. Having a vet check over your cat’s coat can show them what’s going on in your cat’s mind and can help you discover how you can improve their happiness just by paying a little more attention to their coat. 
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5 Craziest Ways to Cat-Proof your Christmas Tree

14/12/2019

 
Nothing says Christmas more than an artificial Christmas tree to celebrate the season of giving. After all, where would Santa Paws leave his treats for all the good little kittens and cats of the world?
 
From the sparkling ornaments, to the impressive twinkle of an LED fairy light, you could almost understand the appeal to scale the synthetic and scratchy limbs of a pine branch to a feline who is up to no good.
 
Don’t let a cheeky ball of fur curb your Christmas cheer! Here are 5 crazy ways to keep your Christmas decorations safe and sound this holiday season. 

1. The Upside Down Christmas Tree
Not the most convenient, we’ll admit, but this little trick will definitely keep the toe beans at bay!
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Source: Imgur
2. The Plastic Wrap Christmas Tree
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All paws will definitely be off this festive season with this genius hack!
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Source: Pinterest
3. The Bottomless Christmas Tree
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A minimalist approach that is both cat- and child-proof.
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Source: Meowingtons
4. The Caged Christmas Tree
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Keep your cats off the naughty list with this clever hack.
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Source: Animal Channel
5. Festive Cat-mas Tree
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When all else fails, make your beloved companion the star!
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Source: Imgur

Feline Friends: A Must in Aged Care

22/7/2019

 
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The RSPCA estimates that there are 3.9 million pet cats across Australia. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare from 2017 to 2018 approximately 229,000 people, “began using aged care services” with two thirds of that number receiving residential care.
When entering such care, it is a sad truth that many pets are not permitted to accompany their beloved owners. Sabine Kloss, spokesperson for the Animal Welfare League, stated that one of the hardest responsibilities that falls to their organisation is to assist elderly pet-lovers in surrendering their furry companions.

Besides the obvious companionship that a pet provides, studies have shown that animals—such as cats—have had profound positive effects on both mental well-being and the often tragic symptoms of aging.

The Australian Companion Animal Council’s report, ‘The Power of Pets’ found that professionals had been examining the positive affect pets can have on humans since the 1960's. This report—and others like it—have demonstrated the direct positive impact cats and other pets can have on a person’s quality of life.

One example is the simple act of petting a cat. Doing so stabilises the heart, which prevents the rise of blood pressure – a common health concern among the elderly. Pets have also been proven to increase morale and reduce mental health conditions such as anxiety, stress, and depression.

With an estimated 49% of Australian aged care residents suffering from depression it is a wonder that more facilities do not allow their residents to reap the benefits of pet care or (at least) pet visitation.

Seasons Aged Care, a pet-friendly aged care home in Queensland, has seen these benefits in action. Pet care alone requires elderly residents to groom, bathe, walk, feed, and otherwise physically care for their animals. These actions maintain joint flexibility and increase exercise and even social interaction, as reluctant residents begin to interact with other pet-lovers both in conversation and physical activity.

For those residents who are nonverbal, immobile, or without visitors, the mere presence of a gentle pet (such as a cat) can distract residents from chronic pain and loneliness. Welcoming pets into residential care facilities is one of the only permanent ways to, “deliver a noticeably improved atmosphere”, as the Animal Welfare League attests.

At Villa Maria Catholic Homes in Melbourne, dementia sufferers have also found comfort and distraction in cats and other familiar animals. As Dementia Australia explains, their organisation’s namesake can result in behaviour changes including aggression, anxiety, and resistance. Staff at Season Aged Care have reported the incredible improvement pets have had on their residents. One elderly female—who had kept cats as pets—began smiling, eating, and talking after once again interacting with the familiar species. She had previously refused to eat or drink.
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Cats and other pets can anchor residents by providing familiarity, structure, and companionship. For the family member forced to watch a loved one’s decline, the confused dementia sufferer, or the lonely resident unable to leave care: the countless benefits a pet can provide is surely an invaluable resource to aged care facilities everywhere.

Beginner's Guide to Surrendering a Cat

8/7/2019

 
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Certain circumstances can lead to the heartbreaking result of surrendering a beloved companion. It is never an easy decision for any pet owner to make. This quick guide will highlight some of the responsible actions you can take before making the final call. 
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Consider the alternatives 
RSPCA provides helpful strategies that you could potentially incorporate based on your current situation. In a bit of a time crunch? Why not hire a pet-sitter, or ask a close friend to watch your pet for the afternoon? Currently renting? Consider a pet CV for your landlord. 

Network with friends and family 
Your cat may already be familiar with those in your immediate circle. If you have truly exhausted all your options, have a chat to a close friend or relative to see if they would be willing to rehome or even foster your pet. This will ease the adjustment period all pets face when they enter unfamiliar territory. 

Utilise the power of social media 
Get the word out by reaching out to friends on Facebook. Provide photographs and include accurate details, including breed, desexing and vaccination status, appealing qualities, and reasons for rehoming. Facebook group pages are also a great way to reach a larger audience. When all else fails, turn to traditional media and spread the word through the local newspaper and community noticeboards.

Prepare for rehoming 
Get your pet’s health checked, and make sure your cat is desexed, treated for fleas, vaccinated, and well-groomed. Go through a meet and greet with potential candidates and complete a home and reference check. This will give you peace of mind and ensure your little feline friend is brought up in a good environment. Don’t forget to also update the necessary paperwork (council registration, change of ownership forms, microchip details etc.)!

Reach out to Reputable Rescue Groups  
Many organisations in Australia are more than willing to help find a new home for your pet. Do your research to find the right rescue group for you within your area. Once you get into contact with your chosen organisation, provide as much detail as possible to ensure your companion gets the best chance of adoption.  

Surrendering a pet can come with a rollercoaster of emotions, yet it is important to acknowledge that there is always support available to ease the process. At FFARQ, we are dedicated to finding forever homes for surrendered, stray and abandoned cats. If you are interested in surrendering a cat to FFARQ, you can contact us through the FFARQ Facebook page or submit a form through our website. 

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Written by Claudine Prior for FFARQ.

Message from our President

17/6/2019

 
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Furry Friends ARQ have strict policies in place regarding fostering
Dear Pet Lovers,

I am writing to you about issues presently confronting animal rescue groups in South East Queensland.

Recently there’s been media reports about two animal charities in SEQ whose members have been charged with animal cruelty after neglected animals were found in their care. Proceedings are pending.

Cruelty or neglect of vulnerable animals is appalling, especially in these circumstances, however I am concerned about the potential to undermine the genuine, diligent, volunteer work for vulnerable animals done by so many of us. As RSPCA Queensland has also said in the context of these cases: “We are grateful for the good rescue groups out there doing good work”.

This is why I am writing to reassure you all that at Furry Friends ARQ Inc it’s our policy to moderate fostering to a reasonable capacity and to govern our organization with integrity. We are careful to support our foster carers and other volunteers wherever we can. Kind, empathetic people, after all, have great difficulty saying ‘no’ when they see a sad soul needing help and can easily swamp themselves. So we try to care not only for the animals, but the people in our team. As I’ve seen a few hoarders and rogue ‘charities’ over the years, I’ve ensured that our team members know the limit of their capacity, and that our animals are vetted quickly after arrival, and with our donations we will continue to uphold our standards and values.

On a brighter note, I am so excited for our team’s success with adoptions for May. We have managed to find homes for over 12 cats and kittens. Those animals have been given a second chance and that’s worth a celebration!

I will sign off now with my sincere thanks for all your continuing encouragement and support.

Many thanks,

Minnie – President; Furry Friends Animal Rescue Qld Inc

Cats and Queensland Councils

21/12/2018

 
PictureCats and Queensland Councils
You’ve fallen in love with one of our adorable foster kitties, and you're all set to take them home on the spot. But before you grab that cat carrier, make sure you know what the pet ownership regulations are in your area of Queensland.
 
How many cats can I own?
Queensland is not a cheap place to be a crazy cat lady. Brisbane City Council allows you to keep up to three cats and two dogs without a permit. A kitten is considered a cat at three months of age. There are several restrictions you need to meet to be able to get a pet permit, and it renews annually ($171 per year). Gold Coast Council is even more stringent, allowing you two cats only without a permit, and Ipswich Council allows two cats, or up to four if the property housing them is 2000m2, before you need a permit.
 
Get a chip on their shoulder
Microchipping is a permanent form of electronic identification, where a rice-sized microchip is painlessly implanted under the pet’s skin. The barcode on the chip allows lost cats or dogs to be identified easily whether they have a collar or not. Under State Government laws for pet owners, microchipping is compulsory when you acquire a cat or dog in Queensland. Dogs and cats must be microchipped before the age of 12 weeks. Whenever you move address, you will need to update your details with your microchip registry. 

Desexed is best
Having your pet desexed is not compulsory or enforceable by law. However, all three councils recommend desexing pets as part of being a responsible pet owner. This reduces the overpopulation of cats and protects our native wildlife. It also prevents males from wandering during mating season. During the procedure the vet inserts a small tattoo in the animal’s ear to identify it as being desexed. Many councils offer incentives and subsidies to desex cats and dogs.
 
Councils have a number of fines they enforce to encourage responsible pet ownership. Make sure you are aware of what your local council’s requirements are before you adopt. All of Furry Friends Animal Rescue Queensland's foster cats are adopted fully vaccinated, microchipped and desexed. 

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