Mew Years Pawsolutions

I love the holiday season, and I hated to see it end. Far too quickly they are over, with the excitement and novelty which generally reverts back to the dull and boring routine. Please don't misunderstand me; I am not saying that there is anything wrong with certitude.

Most of the time, just like my cats, I take comfort in my daily scheduling as it helps keep things orderly and less hectic, but I always miss that extra special time when schedules are put aside and I am more open to being more generous and spontaneous.

I don't know about you, but I have given up on New Year's resolutions. They are usually made in reaction to something I don't care about myself, or to put it in a more positive vein, to set goals which will keep me more health conscious, but no matter how hard I try to stick to them, I have found that resolutions have a way of backfiring on me. They even can create more inner turmoil as I berate myself for not living up to those promises I made.

So I came to the conclusion that the way I need to view this exercise is to look at them as decisions which will support a positive outcome. I need to learn to view them as enhancing my life rather than just an empty chore. But Pet New Year's Resolutions are something totally different. After all, we are talking about my cats here.

So I sat down the other day and made a list of things that will not only help me to be a better pet parent, but also to give my cats a richer experience. I also felt it would help to strengthen my resolve by sharing these "pawsolutions" as well. After all, you can always ask me if I am following through.

1. I will pay more attention to our cats. When I am busy researching and writing, I often lose track of time, but my kitties always remind me by their little "songs" that they consider I am neglecting them. Resolution: Set aside at least one hour a day for total attention to the cats

2. Making sure that my house is as cat proof as possible. I want to keep them healthy and safe. Resolution: Carefully examine all nooks and crannies for hidden dangers. I will keep an eye out for potential pet-hazards in my home. We recently had to replace all our push down doorknobs with round ones. I recently expounded on the subject of our talented Oriental, Hush Puppy's incredible obsession of defeating doorknobs.

3. Keeping my cat's nails clipped regularly. Since one of my cats "purrfurs" to sit on my shoulder, his needle like claws will be a constant reminder if I am neglectful.

4. Since regular brushing and combing our pets' coats not only facilitates bonding, it tends to keep fur at bay to help prevent those pesky hair balls. It also keeps cloth furniture more pristine. I know I will be reminded to keep this resolution when I see my couch becoming a mass of white fur.

Am I forgetting anything? Please add your ideas for prudent pawsolutions by leaving a comment. Perhaps we can establish some really excellent ideas to enhance our pet's lives.