How do you know you have too many? The threshold of “too many” cats is a personal determination that takes into account one’s daily routine, the comfort and well-being of the cats, and the suitability of the living environment. It should not be influenced solely by the opinions of others.

My Herd

At this moment, as I sit at my desk, typing on the keyboard, I am surrounded by the purrs and meows of eleven felines. Each one holds a special place in my heart, and their stories of how they came to be a part of my life are as varied as their personalities.

Six of my feline companions were adopted from local animal shelters. Through organizations like AniMeals, the Humane Society, and Animal Control, these fur-babies found a second chance at a loving home. Their pasts may have been uncertain, but now they bask in the warmth of a stable and caring environment.

One of my furry companions, a gentle tabby named Tanna, has a particularly remarkable story. She was discovered by a friend of mine, badly injured and stuck inside of a pickup truck’s engine compartment with big dogs hovering. With a heavy heart, my friend brought Tanna to me, and together we nursed her back to health. Today, Tanna is a thriving and playful member of our household, a testament to the resilience of both body and spirit.

Four of my cats are AniMeals’s recipients of Gaia’s Landing program. This innovative program provides a sanctuary for felines who, due to age, illness, or other special needs, require a more supportive and nurturing environment. In Gaia’s Landing, these precious felines receive individualized care and attention, allowing them to live out their golden years with dignity and comfort.

Each of my eleven fur-babies brings a unique blend of joy, affection, and entertainment to our home. From the mischievous antics of the kittens to the wise and patient presence of our senior cats, they fill our days with laughter, love, and the gentle reminder that even in the midst of life’s challenges, there is always beauty to be found.

The detailed descriptions of each one of them can be found in the posts under the “Confessions of a Cat Herder” category.

Why Do I have So Many?

There are several reasons why I have so many cats. Firstly, to me, having eleven felines doesn’t seem like a big number. In fact, there was a time when I had fourteen cats at once, which was the maximum number I’ve ever had simultaneously for about five months.

Secondly, I have a deep love for cats. They are fascinating creatures that bring joy and companionship into my life. I find their independent nature and unique personalities endearing.

Thirdly, I make a conscious effort to set aside time each day to care for my cats. I provide them with food, water, and a clean litter box. I also play with them and brush their fur regularly.

Finally, my experience running a housecleaning business has taught me efficient and effective ways to clean my home, which makes caring for multiple cats manageable. I have a system in place that allows me to keep my house clean and organized while still providing my cats with the love and attention they deserve.

My Herd Has Shrunk…Temporarily

The feline population in my household has dwindled over time due to several factors, mainly the natural passing of my beloved cats as a result of their advanced age. The natural end of life is a common cause of cat population decline. Other contributing factors include the departure of two of my cats due to their inability to adapt to the environment and their disinterest in integrating with the other cats. Both cats found new homes, thanks to the re-homing efforts.

Furthermore, I have not actively sought to adopt another cat at my own expense due to several reasons. One primary consideration is my current financial situation. Without straining my financial resources, I can provide for a limited number of cats, approximately six to eight, ensuring their well-being and meeting their needs. Exceeding this number would put a significant strain on my finances and potentially compromise the quality of care I can offer them.

Additionally, the decision to adopt another cat involves careful consideration of various factors:

• the overall dynamic of the household
• the personalities and preferences of the existing cats
• ensuring that any new addition would integrate harmoniously into the family

Rushing into a decision without thorough thought and preparation could lead to potential conflicts or stress for both the cats and myself.

Although the number of cats in my household has decreased, it is important to note that each cat leaves an indelible mark on my heart. My decisions about my cats are based on practical, emotional, and commitment factors to provide the best life possible.

Keys to Flourishing as a Cat Herder:

• Having adequate financial resources
• Maintaining optimal health and engaging in a consistent exercise routine
• Working at home provide flexibility
• Having adequate catification facilities
• Being vigilant in keeping the house clean
• Spending quality time with the cats
• Having the responsibility to provide and to administer medications
• Welcoming Solicitous Distractions

Do’s and Don’ts In Cat Herding

Do

• Spay and neuter
• Provide annual veterinarian checkups
• Develop a routine feeding strategy
• Feed canned or wet food for meals
• Demonstrate affection through cuddles or provide gentle, nurturing care.
• Have a savings account for the felines
• Keep a record of weight and medications
• Keep the floors and cat boxes clean
• Provide toys
• Stay in touch with your family and friends

Don’t

• Declaw
• Punish
• Dress them except for medical purposes
• Yell at them for scratching furniture
• Let them roam in the neighborhood unsupervised
• Wear perfume or scented lotions
• Smoke cigarettes in the home

Making Sacrifices

Eight years ago, I made the life-changing decision to have a large feline family. This commitment required significant sacrifices and dedication to my passion for cats. My journey began with bringing home a kitten and training it to walk on a leash, adapt to travel, and prepare for the expansion of my feline family. I gradually brought home hospice care cats and eventually transitioned to fostering cats, progressively expanding my feline household.

Over those years, I devoted time to creating cat-friendly environments and developing cleaning techniques. Engaging in catification projects allowed me to better grasp feline behavior and medical concerns through firsthand experience and observation.