confessions of a cat breeder

The Three Musketeers

2012-02-12T19:35:00.001Z

This is my last week with these three adorable kittens. We have seen Christmas and new year together and I have had the most wonderful time getting to know them. The comings and goings of the festive season has made these kittens bomb proof. Even the little girl Luna isn't phased by anything and girls are often a lot more cautious about changes in routine.They are all equally gentle, loving and playful...and occasionally naughty. The other day the kittens secretly found their leaving bags, I thought I hadn't seen them for a while only to discover they had emptied the contents of the bags and were merrily playing with the toys, the bit that got me was when I appeared they all scarpered as though they knew they were being naughty and had just been caught...They are amazing.

Amos in the Snow

2012-02-08T22:00:00.001Z

I just have to share a photo I have been sent of Amos enjoying the snow from the weekend. His first experience of snow and what a brilliant expression he has on his face.
A beautiful boy.

Merlin (fishing) and Minnie

2012-02-08T06:57:00.000Z

Merlin and Minnie are two wonderful Russians who live together. I always said these two were Yin and Yang and they have grown to be just that but they compliment each other perfectly.

Merlin was always a spirited playful character, when Merlin was here I remember him jumping at the window trying to catch rain drops, everything was a game for him. He is currently pestering the plumber in his forever home during a bathroom refit...I can almost hear the poor plumber muttering his frustrations from here. Minnie is the opposite though a real home bird, a little shy with strangers but very very loyal to her family.

Eris on Show Day

2012-02-04T17:26:00.001Z

What a great first Show Eris has had. She won first in her open breed class and was awarded a CC. Eris needs 3 CC's before she becomes a Champion. We are a third of the way there, not bad for her first ever show and she is still very much a baby at only 10 months of age.
I did think that Eris was not going to like her day as it started with her getting a little fractious at the vet during vetting in. Eris remained a little tense as the cat in the show pen next to her was a very mature boy and hormones where definitely in the air. Poor Eris was apprehensive with the smell of boy next to her but by midday I had convinced her that she was safe. Eris began to settle and by the end of the day Eris and I were having cuddles. We also met Amos Sebastian Blue's family there. He is young Russian cat who has just celebrated his first birthday. It was lovely to see his family enjoying the cat's and offering their support to Eris. Amos' human mum, dad, grandma and aunt where all there and I know for sure their cats Amos and Henry have a huge goody bag full of cat show treats in store for them.

Luna at 9 weeks and looking stunning

2012-02-02T23:35:00.000Z

Leaving day is fast approaching for my 3 musketeers. What a privilege it has been to get to know these 3 wonderful kittens, watching them grow and see their very individual personalities develop, I have loved every second of it.
Eris, my lovely Russian girl of 10 months of age will be entering her first show on Saturday and I can't wait. It will be her first ever show day so it's very exciting.
The Show kit is washed and packed ready for Saturday.
I had to turn the house upside down however, trying to find her vaccination card as I had put it somewhere safe!...I did eventually find it thank goodness. In preparation for the judging, I have managed to clip two of Eris' nails on each paw and I am ever hopeful that Eris will let me complete the job before Saturday

Cat in a bag

2012-01-28T22:08:00.001Z

I have had an Anushka update and this is a picture of her playing in a paper bag which for a cat is the with the next best thing to a cardboard box.
Anoushka's devoted owners also bought her a fish tank full of fish just for her amusement. With those stunning green eyes she certainly has her two leggeds absolutely under the paw.
On the home front I have managed to get my cat show entry in for the Shropshire Show next Saturday. It will be Eris' first time out and I am really looking forward to seeing how she does on the Show Bench. I haven't been to a Show for a while, no doubt I will come home laden with lots of cat treats and toys from the show as a shopping spree is obligatory, fingers and paws crossed for a good day.

2012-01-24T06:59:00.000Z

This picture of young Walter was taken last year in his forever home. I adore the way he cuddles his baby be teddy, apparently he still loves teddy and although he is getting older they remain firm friends.
I also have to say what a handsome boy Watler looks...gorgeous.

2012-01-21T10:15:00.003Z

This is Balazs, one of the boys who celebrated their birthday last week. I was also sent a video of Balazs sitting on his owners back whilst making his owner carry him everywhere....I wonder who is in charge in that household! It was lovely to see them all having fun, Russian's may be quiet but they are certainly very interactive.

I am currently scanning the GCCF website and plotting the Show calender and wondering where Eris and I can make an appearance in the Show ring. Due to lots and lots of commitments both at work and at home over the festive period, I haven't managed to enter shows much to my disappointment. If I get a riddle on I can just about get my entry in on time for the Coventry and Leicester Show at the end of February. The distance is a bit further than I like but I have missed so many shows of late and I am definitely having Cat Show withdrawal symptoms.

Amos Sebastian Blue, Milo's brother...birthday boys

2012-01-17T17:02:00.002Z

Milo

2012-01-15T17:49:00.000Z

Luna looking very pretty

2012-01-15T14:56:00.000Z

The kittens are growing fast. They now have the freedom of the house and are up to mischief. They are all very cute and I am making most of every minute of them.
Today is also the birthday of kittens past. Amos, Olive, Milo and Ollie. Many Happy returns to the motley crew. Those kittens, now cats have brought me some smiles and I hope they are entertaining their human cat slaves today and receiving lots of Dreamie treats of course.

Cat Highway!

2012-01-07T23:25:00.000Z

I have just put up a series of floating shelves that form a "cat highway" in the kitchen.
Cats don't naturally want to co-habit together and it requires a lot of tolerance from the cats and some sensitivity from us humans to make it so that everyone rubs along nicely together.

Russian's feel particularly safe when they have the advantage of height, I have therefore arranged a set of shelves and a walkway that will enable the cats to climb and sit on top of the cupboards should they wish to.

It might not be to everyone's taste but the cats love it and anything that gives the felines some enrichment in their day makes me happy and altogether a more contented household all round.

A very shaky video of Luna hunting her toy followed in close pursuit by her brothers Dante and Sol

2012-01-03T13:12:00.001Z

Luna almost 6 weeks

2012-01-01T19:54:00.000Z

Happy New Year to all!

I wonder what 2012 will bring. I have plenty cat shows planned and I am really looking forward to showing Eris. She is still only young and as wonderful and as friendly as her dad Boris. I know there are a lot of wonderful young female Russian cats on the Show Bench this year and the competition is better than I have ever known it, but if Eris is anything like her dad she will charm the judges and make show days great fun.

Frost my other young feline is over one year old now and after spending the later half of last year at a few shows it is time for her to have kittens of her own. Hopefully there will be the patter of baby Frost paws in the spring.

As for the present 3 babies, all are doing well. They are still learning to use the litter tray but are all enjoying solid food and growing fast. They are a tenacious bunch of explorers and great fun.

I have been very privileged to have met some exceptional kittens in 2011, thanks to Boris and the girls, I hope 2012 will be just as wonderful

2011-12-28T17:40:00.000Z

This is young Luna enjoying the new kitten scratch post.
These kittens are extremely confident and I put it down to them having to put up with all the chaos Christmas brings.

The grown up cats and Pixie the puppy have finished off the last of the turkey today. I don't know how I am going to explain to the pets tomorrow that the turkey has all gone and they are back on Kibble until the New Year leftovers are available.

The Kittens are growing fast

2011-12-27T13:19:00.000Z

This is Sol, one of the three kittens having some "free" time in the living room..
They are growing fast and are at a very cute stage. The kittens are now better co-ordinated and often stand on their back legs whilst grappling like a bear with their siblings, very amusing to watch.
The kittens also desperately try to tease mum by pulling her ear and swiping at her tail. Mum is as patient as ever.
I have found mum hunting smelly socks from the wash basket and try to feed the sock to her kittens as Prey! Fortunately the kittens prefer their Royal Canin.

Christmas updates

2011-12-24T08:50:00.001Z

Angel guarding her stocking....has he been yet?

Samson inspect's the Christmas Tree

2011-12-23T21:57:00.002Z

I have had a wonderful update from Samson's family, what a lovely picture

This is Samson, ever so gently removing the bells from the tree. Once he has them they provide him with endless entertainment. How sweet of his family to put up a tree full of cat toys just for him!

Tsar waiting for Santa

2011-12-21T20:32:00.000Z

Yesterday was Tsar, Brian, Suki and Misti's 2nd birthday. They are amazing kittens, all very different characters but wonderful in their own special way.
Tsar and Brian are very special to me for different reasons and I am very privileged to have known these two incredable felines.
It is lovely to have updates and to know they are safe and well.

The three little kittens that are with us at the moment are proving lots of entertainment. The are 4 weeks old and have just started to eat kibble and use the litter box. When given "free" time they are charging around like Olympic athletes. they still have fat wobbly bottoms though soo cute. Astra, one of the boys is very very vocal which is unusual for a Russian. He is always getting attention and I do believe he will be spoilt rotten when he goes to his forever home as he will have something to say if his human slaves don't see immediately to his every whim!

Katie cat and Brian at Christmas

2011-12-16T21:03:00.002Z

I have had a wonderful festive update of Katie cat looking majestic in front of the Christmas tree. Brian on the right is being his typical grumpy self and eating his Christmas hat in protest of the expected jolly festivities.
Brian may be a grump but he certainly doesn't lack character!

2011-12-14T07:27:00.000Z

Grandma Ana steals kittens!!

2011-12-12T10:03:00.000Z

Grandma cat Ana (in the back of the picture) is on a kitten stealing mission. Ana is being retired from breeding as she is now 5 years old. To aid the transition she has been on hormone tablets to stop her "calling". This did lead to a recent phantom pregnancy where Ana nursed a stuffed toy frog. Things seemed to settle down but today I have found her trying to nurse the three little kittens that we are currently blessed with. Poor mum cat was at a bit of a loss but she didn't seem to mind the respite too much.
I can report that mum has since fed her little ones and she is happy to let Grandma contribute to the cleaning and cuddling of her brood.

Frost loving the Christmas Tree

2011-12-11T15:31:00.000Z

The Christmas decorations are up and to my amazement the cat's are loving them. The season of goodwill seems to have influenced the cats behaviour and they are all so relaxed and loving the cosiness of the house.
Frost and Eris are still quite young and excitable. I expected the tree to be upside down within hours but instead the animals seem more chilled than ever. I would recommend the SSScat though for anyone who has a cat or kittens that wants to climb their Christmas tree. The SSScat is a device that has a motion centre that releases a jet of air when triggered. I know from experience that the device really works as I use the SSScat for potential problem corners when kitten training.

2011-12-04T20:47:00.000Z

This is the little girl who was born just over a week ago.
The kittens are all doing well and now have their eyes open and are becoming more mobile by the day.
Socialising kittens around Christmas time always makes for bomb proof kittens as the hecticness of the festive season becomes their norm.
I must admit the Christmas tree might be a little problematic as the kittens will be reaching their naughty stage around the 25th.
The grown up cats won't help with good behaviour around Christmas time as they adore the twinkle lights and can often be found attacking the baubles!

Snow and Anita

2011-11-29T21:40:00.000Z

It has been such a busy time with preparations for Christmas, it is slowly all coming together but for a working mum the season of goodwill is ultimate chaos.
I have received a wonderful update of Snow in Taiwan which helped to lighten the mood. Snow looks amazing in the photograph and to think she is only just over 5 month old, beautiful.
I can also announce we has kittens! They are only a few days old, but the two little boys and one very silver little girl are all doing well. Mum and kittens are in the cat basket in my bedroom just sleeping and feeding. There is no better way to fall asleep than to listen to three warm little kittens nestling into their mum with mum purring softly in the background.

Grace

2011-11-20T20:50:00.002Z

I recently had an update from Grace's owner. Grace and her feline friend Heidi have had a professional home photo shoot and with wonderful results, what a lovely keepsake.

I have also had an Indy and Nik update and I have been promised a festive photo update for Christmas. I can't wait to see how the boys are looking. Nik remains very settled with the bachelor crew which also includes another Russian named Atom. There is the occasional grumpy old man spat but they always end the day snuggled together.
The three feline musketeers, Indy, Nik and Atom

GRAND CHAMPION REKSIF DANUBE DANCER (Boris)

2011-11-12T21:40:00.000Z

Boris was awarded his third Grand Champion Certificate today at the Chester Cat Show making him an official Grand Champion.
The competition amongst the Russian cats is very strong and at Grand Champion Level we have to compete against other foreign varieties as well.
To be awarded his Grand Champion status is an amazing achievement.
I am so proud of my beautiful Brilliant handsome feline friend.
Thank you so much Boris.

Ana

2011-11-11T21:55:00.001Z

Ana has been on medication to prevent her coming into season and "calling" as she is now 5 years old and needs to start retiring from breeding.
Despite the medication Ana still went on to have several frantic "calls" and I was beginning to think the medication was ineffective. For the last two months however Ana had stopped calling and seemed more content. Her tummy began to swell and she started to show all the signs of pregnancy. I was quite concerned as I absolutely do not want Ana to have kittens. It turns out Ana is having a phantom pregnancy. She is currently nursing a stuffed green frog! Apparently she will begin to settle and return to normal bless her but for now our new addition is a little green amphibian.

2011-11-06T18:33:00.002Z

Luka

2011-11-02T07:24:00.003Z

I received some lovely pictures of Luka. He was the only boy in the litter that celebrated their first birthday yesterday.
He looks so handsome. Luka is spoilt rotten and often sits on the shoulders of his humans, at night he even sleeps IN their beds!
Luka loves the outdoors and he is pictured here on his harness.
I must admit it has been a sad year for cats who have tragically died due to cars and two cats from the same litter but different families going missing. The kittens are very well socialised but the downside of this is they are over confident and perhaps too friendly for their own good. I have come across a gadget that might help people find their pets should they go missing. It is a radio controlled collar and receiver called Loc8tor Pet. If people do want to give their cats the freedom of outside I would strongly recommend this gadget. Cut and paste this link for a look at gadget, it's expensive but might offer the reassurance needed.
http://www.thecatgallery.co.uk/acatalog/info_86861.html

Grace, 1 today

2011-11-01T20:23:00.001Z

Happy Birthday to Grace, Kate Luka and Frost, all 1 today.
This litter has a very special place in my heart as I kept Frost for myself. I often look at Frost and try to imagine what her siblings look like.
Kate is adored by her family and is a loving companion to the other Russian in the house, Brian.
Grace also lives with a gray feline companion and together they adore each other's company. Grace is also a treasured companion to her human mum and family.
Luka, the boy in the litter lives with his family in Ireland and I am sure he will be headbutting his way into having as many birthday treats as he can.
Happy birthday kitties.

Brian and Kate

2011-10-30T19:45:00.001Z

I have had more updates this weekend. This is Brian and Kate having cuddles after a recent house move. Unfortunately Kate has been under the weather. Initially it was thought that she had a urine infection brought on by stress but after further investigations it turned out she had nibbled on some fresh flowers, rhododendron's, and apparently these are toxic to cats. Kate's first symptom was peeing in strange places. This is so often perceived as a cat being naughty but when a cat who is previously litter trained starts to void in inappropriate places it is almost always a cat trying to tell you something is wrong. Cats communicate by smell and they are trying to tell you they are unwell or unhappy about something. Thankfully Kate's mum is very well tuned in and picked up on this straight away and Kate was taken to the vets.

I have also had a wonderful update on Ferdinand in Singapore. His family are smitten with him. He is already sleeping with the children at night and has cuddled and played his way into everyone.s heart.

Amos and Milo

2011-10-27T09:22:00.000+01:00

This is Amos and Milo, two very beautiful growing young boys. Amos on the left was the little kitten with the "bling" collar, his name in diamante's no less around his neck. I can't believe how much the bling mister has grown. Young Milo too with his dashing good looks staring intently at the camera. It's wonderful to receive such lovely updates. I only remember them as kittens so to see them as "the boys" happy and settled in their individual homes is very heart warming.

Snow, my last kitten went to Parair (pet export company) yesterday to be vetted and made ready for her long journey to Taiwan, so the Amos and Milo updates couldn't have come at a better time, a purrfect way to cheer me up!

Snow will begin her journey tonight, an overnight flight which is a blessing. No doubt I will be awake most of the night tracking the plane and I will not settle until I know she is happy and well at the end of her journey.

Balazs update

2011-10-21T14:19:00.001+01:00

Ferdinand has arrived safely in Singapore and he is getting to know his new family. He is purring already...what a relief. I must admit I have been beside myself with worry and have been hitting the refresh button on his flight status constantly.
During my state of anxiety I had a wonderful update about Balazs, it was just the distraction I needed. Balazs looks so handsome in his picture. Along with good looks Balazs is also a bit of a character. he can open doors and apparently when he wants to play he will drop his toys at peoples feet in order to get them to interact with him! The only thing I have concerns over though is that he occasionally sleeps in the bathroom sink. His update certainly made me smile.

Ferdinand's big adventure

2011-10-20T21:45:00.002+01:00

My daughter and I have taken Ferdinand to Heathrow airport today for the start of his new life in Singapore.

The car was cleaned and spruced in order to enhance his chauffeur driven journey to the airplane. We put toys and his favourite treats in the car. It's a four hour journey from my home to Heathrow and he travelled really well.

Ferdinand and I had extra cuddles before the gentleman from Parair, the animal export company arrived to book Ferdinand on to his flight.

My heart is in my mouth as he starts his 12 hour journey in the air. I am following his flight in an attempt to gain some reassurance that he is OK. It's crazy to think I will go to bed and when morning comes Ferdinand will still be in the air.
All the kittens are exceptionally well socialised and they know very little fear but this is a big ask. I know Ferdinand is a brave confident kitty with a big purr, I am sure he will be OK, and to think I have this all to go through again next week when Snow, my last remaining kitten flys' to Taiwan.....hankies at the ready.

Please come home Percy

2011-10-18T20:14:00.001+01:00

Percy was outside doing his usual rounds in Newcastle under Lyme where he lives almost two weeks ago when he was caught up in one of the worst weather days of the year. There where very high winds and extremely large hailstones. Percy must have taken shelter in a place he isn't used too and hasn't been seen since.
I was hoping that if he was stuck in someones shed or garage he would manage to escape this weekend as people would be home from work and doing the gardening chores before winter and the dark nights arrive. Unfortunately Percy still hasn't returned home. His owners are beside them selves with worry. Our cats are more than pets in the background of life, they are our companion's and very much part of our families.
I hope Percy finds his way home soon. He is microchiped and does wear a very distinctive collar.
Please go home Percy your family are missing you so much.

Ferdinand inspects his passport

2011-10-16T10:41:00.001+01:00

Ferdinand became an official British citizen this week and was issued his very own pet passport. Ferdinand's family have a home here and abroad so he is going to be jet set cat and has his very own official passport.
He will be off to his family this week and I am really going to miss him.
Yesterday I went to bed early as I was a bit under the weather, Ferdinand followed me to bed and put his head next to my leg. He streched out his paw and gently placed it on my hand. Ferdinand stayed there for at least two hours and only left when I started to snooze. He is such a gentle, loyal little guy.
Walter the kitten left this week and I think Ferdinand and Snow are making the most of the extra attention they are getting now that they are the only two kittens left. Walter is a great character and I am sure he will bring his family lots of smiles. Walter has a real passion for Dreamie treat's and would search out and steal the treats from the cupboards eating them all his self. No Packet of cat treats was ever safe with Walter around.

Kitten Cuddles

2011-10-09T14:26:00.000+01:00

This is Walter giving Snow cuddles.
Kittens are so sweet and I am exceptionally lucky to have them around.
It has been a cold wet rainy weekend and it has been great having lazy days with the cat's and kittens.
Lots of Dreamie treats all round

Snow

2011-10-08T13:44:00.001+01:00

This is beautiful Snow. The photograph really doesn't do her justice. She is one of the prettiest kittens I have come across and I am so proud of her.
Her forever home is going to be in Taiwan with Anita who has waited a very long time for this little girl. Snow has a few more weeks with me yet but I am sure she will bring Anita as much joy and cuddles as she has me

Walter

2011-09-30T07:53:00.000+01:00

This is young Walter giving my eldest daughter hugs. Little Walter is fast asleep and is tucked into Jennie like a hot water bottle.
Walter is soon to go to his forever home, it is always a difficult time for me when they leave but it is lovely to see the enthusiasm and joy that the kittens bring to their forever families.
I do treasure the special moments with the kittens especially as they grow older. I am very aware that the kittens have their own adventures ahead of them were they are going to be the centre of attention with their very own "two leggeds" to care for their every whim.

Boris Wins his Second Grand Champion Certificate

2011-09-25T13:59:00.000+01:00

Boris and I had a fantastic day yesterday at the North West Cat Show.
Beautiful Boris won his second Grand Champion Certificate and was nominated for Best in Show. I am as proud as punch for my amazing charming young man.

Prior to the show Boris had turned himself terracota by rubbing himself against the chiminea, shown in the photograph. I was a bit worried that the colouring wouldn't come out. Fortunately it did and show day was brilliant success.

Only one more Grand Champion certificate needed then Boris will change from being a Champion to Grand Champion Reksif Danube Dancer.
Well done Boris.. who by the way is the greatest Champion of all in my eyes...I am biased.

Gabriel sadly passes

2011-09-21T17:50:00.001+01:00

I have a very heavy heart today with the sad news that Gabriel has been knocked down by a car and has sadly died.
Gabriel was just over a year old. He was a small kitten with a huge heart. He chose his very special owner from the outset and they were the closest of friends. Gabriel was always a very intuitive kitten, and was able to form an exceptional bond with his human companions.
Gabriel owner is a classical musician and as part of his socialisation as a kitten he/we listened to lots of classical music. Whilst I was out at work the CD player would be on lulling all the kittens into a peaceful rest. Gabriel was so accustomed to music by the time he left that he would just curl up and watch his humans as they practiced their music. Despite all the wonderful culture Gabriel was expossed to, I did think however that he had a real passion for Show Tunes and I am sure he is in heaven prancing around to as many Show Tunes as he can.

Good Night sweet Gabriel. Thank you for the wonderful memories, never forgotten x

Pixie, the Cavalier King Charles Cat!

2011-09-18T08:10:00.006+01:00

Boris, my beautiful Champion Russian Blue boy is due to go to a show next week but there is a problem, he seems to be covered in terracotta paint!
He is now a Russian orange, I think I may have to change his entry card to an experimental breed.
It's never a good thing to bath a Russian before a show as their fur goes a little strange but it's either that or take an orange cat. I am hoping the orange is just colouring from the chiminea in the garden and that it will wash out, otherwise I will have to call him Garfield instead.

Angel

2011-09-11T06:05:00.001+01:00

I had a fright yesterday when Ana decided to have a tour of my neighbours garden.
The cats have free run of a small but secure netted garden.
I had been cutting back the ivy in the garden which had gone a little wild over the summer. This had left the smallest of gaps, and I had noticed Ana looking with intent at the gap but I convinced myself that she wouldn't dare try or even fit through the gap. How wrong I was, within the hour my neighbour came round banging on the front door exclaiming that there was a gray cat in her garden.( everyone is well aware of the gray cats in the crazy cat ladies house and that those cats are far too posh to mix with the street cats!)
A frantic search began, but Ana was nowhere to be found, I was sick with worry. After a very long hour my 10 year old daughter spotted Ana in our garden but she was trapped between the secure-a-cat fencing and Boris' stud house. Ana must have seen the neighbour and jumped back into my garden. She was stuck in the narrowest of gaps. The fencing had to be taken down in order for Ana to get free and back to safety.
Ana will be staying in for a while, her own choice, and the fence has been repaired....this time without gaps!

Edwin pushes mum in a box

2011-09-04T07:42:00.001+01:00

We have kittens at the moment and I think Edwin has been watching Youtube as he decided to shove his mother in a box! This cardboard box has been an endless source of entertainment for the cats and kittens. Soon after removing the contents from the box, I went to dispose of the box in the recycle bin, I went to open out the box in order to squash it flat, only to find kitten Bluebell fast asleep inside it. She so nearly ended up in the bin. Kittens are such fun but they are a worry, I have to do endless head counts.
I have kept the box which is proving to be better than any catnip toy.

2011-09-03T13:43:00.000+01:00

I adore this picture of Miya in the garden at her home where she is absolutely the centre of attention. After her yearly check up the vet has apparently advised a few less treats for this young lady due to her rather plump bottom. I don't know how resilient Miya's owners are going to be, but with the look in Miya's eyes they don't stand a chance and I can almost guarantee there will be a minimum reduction in treats!

Bully Cat Stuffs cat in a box!!

2011-09-01T10:20:00.000+01:00

I just have to share this...the plight of a multicat household....and did I see a lion??!!

Mother and baby,so sweet

2011-08-29T09:28:00.000+01:00

Saturday was show day again for Boris and Frost.
Boris won first in his open but the Judge withheld his GC certificate which was very disappointing. I am avidly awaiting the Judge report to find out why.
Frost came second in her class to a beautiful Russian feline. Frost looks lovely for a 9 month old cat but the girl who came first was stunning...saying that the judge withheld a Champion certificate on that wonderful Russian...Both frost and Boris didn't mind though and we all enjoyed the day.
I have just sent off Eris' entry for the Supreme Cat Show (Cat Crufts). Eris has never been to a show before and making her debut at such a huge event is a big ask but Eris is a really laid back cat I am sure she will just lap up all the attention of the day.

2011-08-21T16:57:00.000+01:00

This is Milo. He has grown into a very handsome young feline and as he is still under nine months he is technically still a kitten. I adore those whisker pads and I do think he would make an impression on the show bench.
Milo is very much a pampered pet and is adored by his owners. He is due to go for his little boy operation tomorrow so fingers and paws crossed all goes well

Handsome Percy

2011-08-17T22:47:00.000+01:00

Percy the cat who had come for a visit whilst his" two leggeds" where on holiday and Merlin and Minnie the kittens who had also come to kitten camp whilst their family where on holiday, have all now gone back to their homes.
The house is so quiet without them. Merlin had to get up to antics though, right up to the second he left. Merlin has a fascination with the washing machine and this afternoon he sat on top of the machine looking down and used his paws to press as many buttons as he could changing the programme whilst the washing machine was mid-cycle. That kitten sees wonderment in everything and danger in nothing. I will miss his wonderful spirit. Minnie is so regal and sweet but don't be fooled that little Princess has master Merlin under her paw. It is actually her who really calls the shots. Like all good relationships, she just lets Merlin think he is in charge.
Percy is a gentleman who adores to interact and play. Occasional grumpy, but never for long and will always end and start every conversation with a head butt. It was so lovely to see them all again .

Percy comes to stay

2011-08-14T21:19:00.000+01:00

Percy has come to stay whilst his owners are away. it is lovely to see him again all grown up and looking very handsome indeed.
Percy has a TV, radio, toys and as much company as possible to keep him happy.
Nothing is quite like home but I have done my best to make Percy as settled as possible. My daughter and I have watched lots of DVDs with Percy. He has been subjected to everything from The Kings Speech, through to the The Wizard of Oz and The Simpson's. Percy has of course has had his own Cat programmes as well.
Cat's, like me don't do well with change. They like their own routine and their own smells. I am sure it must feel strange and uneasy for them when they have to go "on holiday" themselves. At least Percy has some familiarity here and I hope he has some distant memory of me...

Yesterday was Show day for Boris and Frost. Frost at nine months was in her adult class and she did very well getting a second in her Open Class. The competition was extremely tough and the overall best in Show was an very handsome Russian Blue neutered boy..he really was wonderful. Boris won his Reserve Grand Champion Certificate and Best of Breed, a really great day. the best bit of all was how wonderful Boris and Frost where. They headbutted and purred their way through the day. It is so much to ask our cats to travel, sit in pens next to strange tom cats, be picked up and inspected by Judges and poked at by the public. Boris and Frost were so lovely, they just settled back and lapped up all the attention. I am so lucky to have such amazing cats.

Just have to share this...Attack of the killer apples!!

2011-08-10T19:01:00.001+01:00

Pets that bathe together stay together!!

2011-08-07T10:10:00.002+01:00

It was bath time for Pixie Puppy yesterday and Merlin the vising kitten had to share the tub! Who said cats don't like water. Pixie wasn't too sure about bathing with a friend but I don't think she had much choice really.
Merlin is one of the most mischievous kittens ever. Not only has he had an impromptu bath, Merlin has also rearranged my computer settings by dancing on the keyboard, he has also climbed on top of the fridge and knocked everything to the floor. Yesterday he pushed the shopping off the kitchen top onto the floor which ended up with a full 6 pints of milk spilling everywhere. A game of him and his furry companions trying to lick as much milk up as they can before I can clean it up began. At the moment though Merlin has his chin on the laptop whilst I type this and he is purring very loudly...sweet little boy.

Rainy days in Lancashire

2011-08-02T10:03:00.001+01:00

Merlin and Minnie have come back for two weeks whilst their family is off to sunny Florida.
Merlin knows for sure he is back in rainy Lancashire, the heavens have opened and Merlin being Merlin has even made the bad weather a game.
Merlin and Minnie have come back as confident as ever. Minnie has a quiet energy but even she is enjoying playing with all the other cats, and Pixie puppy of course. Merlin is so naughty though, absolutely nothing can phase that kitten, he is playful, cheeky, but thankfully very affectionate. How can you stay cross at a kitten for pinching a sandwich when he immediately smothers you with purrs and headbutts. Merlin and Minnie are definitely Yin and Yang and together they are a perfect combination of energies.

Tsar and Angel

2011-07-28T22:50:00.000+01:00

I have had the most amazing update about Tsar and Angel. I am very fortunate that their owner is also a fantastic photographer.
They look so sweet together. Tsar is a very special cat and I am sure his affection for his people is as genuine as his love for Angel.

Happy Birthday Kittens

2011-07-17T18:27:00.001+01:00

Percy, Angel, Hugo, and Samson are all 1 today.
Happy Birthday sweet kittens.
Percy is the cat in the photograph, he is amazingly handsome, what a wonderful picture of him. Percy is coming for his holidays soon and I am really looking forward to seeing him.
Angel is happy and healthy living with her older Russian companion Tsar.
Samson is still the centre of his families attention and although not quite as giddy as he was as a kitten I am sure he is still managing to get his own way far to often.
Hugo sadly went missing from his home some months ago, hopefully he has been mistakenly taken in by some well meaning person. Wishing you a happy 1st Birthday Hugo where ever you are.

Boris wins his first Grand Champion Certificate

2011-07-16T19:20:00.000+01:00

Today we have been to a cat show in Wales. Beautiful Boris (Champion Reksif Danube Dancer) was awarded his first Grand Champion Certificate. I am as pleased as punch and Boris loved every minute of it.

A couple of months ago the stray entire male cat that had been prowling the neighbourhood broke through the cat netting in the back garden. Boris has free run of the garden which is secured with specialised netting to stop Boris wondering off and other cats coming in. On this occasion the stray tom was so determined that he managed to rip the netting and once in the garden he attacked Boris. Boris was badly beaten, he had blood oozing from his ears and several marks on his head. Pixie puppy barked frantically to alert us that Boris was in trouble and Pixie proceeded to chase the tom cat away. Boris was given antibiotics and lots of TLC. Poor Boris also had to have blood tests as obviously the stray cat would not have been immunised. All came back clear but Boris had tufts of fur missing from his head and ears. I wasn't sure the fur would grow back and I did think that was the end of his show career. Fortunately it did grow back and today's result was well worth the wait. This was an extra special win, one that I did think I would never have. Thank you Boris

Cat's and Boxes

2011-07-07T07:35:00.012+01:00

This is Grace at home playing with a cardboard box. What is it about cats and boxes? You can buy them the most expensive toy there is and they will love the box it comes in the most.
There is a great "Simon's Cat" cartoon about a cat and a box, and it is so true to life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKvNqe8cKU4
(skip the initial advert)

I had a bit of a fright yesterday with the visiting kitten Olive. I had just started eating a banana when the door bell rang. I left the banana on the coffee table and answered the door. when I went back into the living room I realised Olive had eaten my banana. I have never had a cat eat fruit before and was in a panic as I didn't know whether it was safe for cats to eat bananas. I after some frantic research I found out bananas are safe but mushrooms can be deadly. I can well imagine a cat polishing off some left over stroganof but never have I had a cat with a penchant for fruit.
Olive is fine and I am keeping a watchful eye on the fruit bowl....in fact when Olive first went to her for ever home she fell asleep in a fruit bowl, it was obviously a sign of things to come.

The Modkat

2011-07-06T12:46:00.002+01:00

The Modkat Litter Box has arrived. It looks great and it really does reduce all that litter tracking from the many paws that live here.
Annushka the 13 week old kitten was first to use it and just after 5 minuets of setting it up. The cats seem to like it so I would say the Modkat is a success although I still think it is a bit pricey.
Boris my stud cat also has a new product, Pethead deodoriser spray. It smells amazing and is made by the same company that does Bedhead Shampoo. Unfortunately entire male cats produce an oil that they spray, it has a really pungent odour and Boris can have a fair old pong about him which isn't good when on the show bench. Neutered males don't have this problem. I do find most of the male species in life have a certain odour, all helped by neutering. I reduced the male odour in my life by divorcing my husband and buying a cat although the thought of neutering my ex-husband does bring a smile to my face!

Room Service Please

2011-07-03T10:31:00.001+01:00

Olive has come to stay at Kitty Camp whilst her parents are away on holiday. It is lovely to see her again and to see what a beautiful cat she is becoming. This picture shows the amazing silver flecks that Russians have at the end of their "hairs". This is what gives the Russian's that ghost like sheen.
Olive settled back in with the gang very quickly but she isn't used to sharing and is making it known to the other cats that she requires special Princess treatment and is only here short term.

The kittens have been for another routine vet check this week and I mentioned to my local vet that two previous kittens had gone to their forever homes only to be diagnosed later with an undescended testicle. The vet explained to me that kittens testicles are mobile and it is very possible that the testicles where "down" when examined and that they can move back into the abdomen and out again several times. The vet said that a testicle could have moved up, grown and been unable to descend back down again. I felt so foolish and a little guilty for missing an undescended testicle. I must admit feel a little relived now that I know that it may not have been obvious....more learning.

Annuska's parents have bought her the trendiest litter box in the market, a Modkat. I had never heard of this before but after a swift googling I am very impressed with what I have read and seen. Apparently it is the Bee's Knee's of fashion and has a unique way of preventing litter being scattered out of the box.
I blow up my Bionare air filtering litter box last week as I had attached the wrong plug after cleaning the box. There was a loud bang and a blue flash...needless to say another litter box bites the dust.
This however has left a litter box vacancy.....Modkat has been ordered. Well I have to get Annushka familiar to her trendy litter box ready for her new home.

2011-06-28T23:35:00.002+01:00

This is a picture of Nik, Indy and Atom.
Nick is very happy with his Russian comrades.
On the subject of three special Russian's, the kittens Minnie, Merlin and Annushka are getting ready for their forever homes very soon. That has been a very swift but memorable three months. I learned so much from their little sister Ariel who sadly didn't make it. She was a wonderful little kitten and her traits of tenacity and charm are very apparent in her brother and sisters. This is Ana's last litter and they are as memorable to me as her first litter, Paddy, Hudson Taylor, and William Wilberforce. Sadly I think Hudson is no longer with us after he went missing from his home several years ago, but I am in regular contact with Paddy's family and often see pictures of him, definitely a spoilt rotten cat but that is no more than he deserves.

Henry, a very special cat.

2011-06-24T05:27:00.001+01:00

I have just found this picture of Henry reading up on Russian Blue cats.
Henry belongs to Suzie and John and earlier this year Henry had to share his humans with a Russian kitten by the name of Amos. Henry was an angel and accepted the small gray energetic ball of fur from day one. I think his ability to accommodate Amos was down to all that reading and preparation beforehand!
Henry is a very special cat.

Beautiful Miya

2011-06-22T19:29:00.000+01:00

Cat breeding does have it's up and downs and today was one of those down days.
William went to his new home last week and has been a little off colour. He is now fine and his vet seems to think it was just the initial upset of moving home. It is such a traumatic time for a kitten. I try to socialise my little ones to be able to cope with all that life throws their way but even the most confident kitten can have a bit of a wobble especiallly when leaving everything he knows to go on the adventure of a new life, understandable really but it is still such a worry. William's new vet also diagnosed William with a small hernia and a possible undescended testicle. All my kittens are vet checked twice but this is the second time a kitten has left me only to be diagnosed with an undescended testicle when they have been registered with their new vet, only this time a hernia as well. I rely and pay for the vets to do their job and feel gutted that these things have been missed. I also feel a failure that I haven't pick up on this myself. So today is one of those low days when I realise I still have a lot to learn.
I do take comfort though when I get updates of kitten's past. This picture is of Miya in her garden, looking beautiful as always and one of the reasons I will continue to breed Russian's.
Needless to say I will be using my local vet in future as appose to the vaccination and neutering centre.

2011-06-20T09:10:00.002+01:00

Ana's three musketeers. The kittens are all doing very well. They have all had there first vet check and have all been given the all clear. This is such a huge relief after loosing their sister Ariel at just a few weeks old.
Annushka, the kitten in the foreground is a beautiful independent kitten. She loves people especially when they are eating ham!!
Minnie is firm friends with Merlin. They always sleep together. Merlin is Minnie's night in shinning armour. He is her protector and defender. When Merlin is not being naughty he is always on the look out for his sweet sister.

Nik in his new home.

2011-06-19T16:22:00.000+01:00

Nik is settling well in his new home. The two other cats, Indy and Atom are being very patient with their new resident and all is going well.
Nik has endeared his self to the human occupants, he knows the best place to snooze is next to Paula on the settee.
It was such a difficult decision to make but I am so glad I made it. It would have been selfish for me to keep this handsome wonderful boy although I really wanted to. Nik already looks much happier in his new home.

Eris (Loveblues Lola)

2011-06-17T09:40:00.002+01:00

I was contacted by Debbie from Loveblues Russian's to say she had a wonderful kitten who is beautiful and has an amazing temperament....would I like her. Um..let me think ...yes was the answer. Therefore introducing Eris. She is all the above but her character is extra special. She is a bit of a pirate cat and spends as much time as she can perched on my shoulder. She also has the loudest of purrs. Eris wasn't too keen on Pixie the dog initially but she has soon got a handle on the situation and now Pixie is very compliant to Eris's demands. I hope to start showing Eris in September so fingers crossed that she meets the judges expectations. i am sure she can speak to them in purrs and woo them into submission.

On a different note, Nik the adult cat who I acquired back at the age of two years has been unable to settle.
Integrating adult cats into a multi cat household is exceptionally difficult. especially if that household has entire girls.The girl cat's have been making his life a misery. It has been over six weeks now and no amount of bribery and corruption will make Ana accept the lovable Nik. The heart reaching decision was made to rehome him. He has gone for a trail to friend's Paula and Ian. They already own Nik's brother and another amazing Russian named Atom. Nik always got along with my male neuter so I am hoping he will mix well with Paula's boy's. So far so good. The boys seem ok together. Nik is such a loving boy and desperately needs legs to slalom around and an arm chair to call his own..fingers toes and paws crossed.

Brian and Kate best of Friends.

2011-06-13T06:03:00.001+01:00

I recently had a Brian and Kate update. How sweet are these two. Kate was neutered a few months ago and a quarter of her left side was shaved for the operation. She has obviously healed well and looks as healthy as ever. Kate gets along well with her house mate Brian and her presence has helped calm him down and become a much more settled cat.
At my house Ana and Nik are still not friends. Nik doesn't understand Ana's signals. He really does think he is a human and I think he just doesn't speak cat. Ana is being given lots of Dreamie treats every time she is nice to Nik and Ana is looking very well for it. I do think positive encouragement is the best way to encourage Ana to accept Nik but it is one step forward two steps back at the moment. During the day Nik spends his time in the cat run, away from the pressures of the house. He does enjoy the secure garden and loves sitting in the sun watching the insects and birds. He is such a big lovable oaf

The necessity of insurance

2011-06-10T20:55:00.000+01:00

This is Miu (Star) who is now almost a year old. Miu has had a very interesting year. His family have written to me telling me how important Pet insurance is.
Miu broke his leg in two places after a possible fall/ car accident. Miu needed major surgery and had a permanent pin inserted into the bone to keep the fractures in place. He also needed an frame around his leg called an external fixater to help stabilize the fracture. Miu needed 7 weeks cage rest which drove both him and his family to distraction.
All had been going well with Miu's recovery until the day before he was due to have the external fixater removed. Miu managed to consume Lilly pollens which are highly toxic to cats. Poor Miu needed emetics to force him to be sick and was on a drip for two days.
Miu is now well and bouncing around in his usual lovable but clumsy way. He has apparently just knocked over and smashed a treasured vase. Miu's owners don't mind though, they love him unconditionally. The vets have got to know Miu very well, they say he has a very loving cat but perhaps not the brightest of felines. The vets bill is near to £2000 and I can guarantee this is one policy that will definitely be renewed.

2011-06-10T06:47:00.003+01:00

This is an update that was sent to me of Miya peeking out the wash basket apparently it is one of her favourite places..
I do adore Miya's eye colour. It is not the emerald green that most Russian's in this country have but I do think it is very striking, especially next to the silvery backdrop of the Russian coat.
Miya has her fathers eyes, they are so hypnotic.

Miya's love for the wash basket actually reflects her affection for her people. The wash basket is where her humans will smell the strongest and she will be seeking comfort from their scent. Beds also smell strongly of people and that is why most cats sleep there whilst there owners are out. They are feel safe and comforted when near their peoples reassuring scent.

Mishka enjoying the Sun

2011-06-04T19:32:00.001+01:00

This is Mishka who lives in the Isle on Man with her brother Hugo. They both looked stunning in the recent update that I received but Mishka particularly likes the garden as this photograph shows...beautiful : )

I have recently found the cattery of my dreams, unfortunately it is in America. The cattery is a first class cat hotel. The cat rooms all have extractor fans in their enclosed litter boxes. The rooms all have familiar furniture with draws to hide in and leather chairs to curl up on. They have fireplaces and glass doors so that they can be easily observed. All the surface's are easy to wipe clean and all the soft fabrics are washable. The best thing of all is that it has a web cam where you can watch the cats. My teenage daughter and I wasted a whole morning staring at the web cam spying on the cats whilst they where unaware. The best bit was when the cattery worker entered one of the rooms to "pill" a cat. The cat shot off a chase ensued and eventually the cat took the pill, only to be settled down with a nice bowl of wet food and a comfy arm chair ...brilliant.
If you do want to have a look at the cattery the web address is:
http://www.evergreencatlodge.com/index.html
Be warned though if you do decide to watch the web cam the day will be gone before you know it!!

Naughty Nik

2011-05-28T07:33:00.004+01:00

It has been a very busy week. Frost went to The Midlands Cat Show last Sunday and we had another red card day. Beautiful Frost won first in her open class and best of Breed along with another first in her side class and two seconds...Yeah. Most importantly though we both enjoyed the day. Frost was wonderful and remained relaxed and calm throughout the day.
There is a cat at home though who is not too relaxed. The two new cats, Nik and Miya who have been adopted back into the home have been here for two weeks now. Things are ok with their transition back into the fold but there are still a few teething problems. Nik has been accepted by all but one cat, Ana. Button-Thomas, the grumpy Siamese neutered male loves Niks company but Ana the matriarch is not that easily convinced. Every now and then she will confront Nik and chase round the house, chastising him for not looking away when she walks in the room. Nik has shown his unhappiness at Ana ruling the roost by peeing on my duvet! This has happened twice now so I thought I would take preventative measures and buy PVC mattress protectors to put over the bed.
In the bedding shop it struck me that it would be a good idea if I bought waterproof mattress protectors for all the beds than I could cover the children's beds with them and keep them fresh. I don't mind the cats sleeping on the beds during the day, in fact I think it's quite homely, I thought the PVC idea would keep the beds fresh ready for the human occupants at night.
I went to the shop counter with four waterproof mattress protectors, a double and three singles. The lady put on what can only be described as her counseling face and she quickly and discreetly put the covers in a bag. She must of thought I had a rogue enuresis gene and that I belonged to a family of nocturnal bed wetter's!
I am sure things with Nik will settle down soon, it is still very early days

Updates.

2011-05-16T18:32:00.004+01:00

Above is an amazing photo of Sadie at her home with her two Siamese companions

Above is Balazs at home in London

Above is Milo Chillaxing in his home

These two wonderful photographs are of Miya at home with her owners Nik And Kirsty. Miya is making the most of the recent good weather.

I thought I would remind myself of how wonderful cat breeding can be by posting a few pictures from recent updates that I have received. Gosh these cats look amazing...and all very happy

Ariel's Story

2011-05-13T18:17:00.000+01:00

A few weeks ago Holly, my ten-year-old daughter and I came back from a girlie day out at the shops. We had been out from dawn to dusk and had a lovely day.

In the morning prior to leaving all the cat chores had to be done. Boris my stud cat had his chalet cleaned, his TV turned on and his pen opened so he had the freedom of the secure netted garden where he could play and chase the insects and butterflies.

The indoor cats also had their water bowls cleaned, litter boxes emptied and food bowls toped up. All was fine and off Holly and I ventured. On our return, Boris was found sitting on Holly’s bed cuddled up next to Ana. Boris had peeled the rubber from around the PVC kitchen window which allowed him the smallest of gaps to squeeze through and meet the ladies.

Ana had been on medication to stop her becoming pregnant so although I was a little shocked I wasn’t too worried….. As the weeks went by Ana got fatter and sure enough 65 days later a beautiful litter of four kittens arrived, 3 girls and 1 boy.

Holly, a keen astronomer named the kittens after moons in our galaxy. Ariel, Vega Miranda and Umbriel

On day one I noticed a kitten outside the kittening basket, A bit strange I thought but maybe it had wondered out whilst searching for mum.

This happened a few times and then I noticed the kitten (Ariel) had been placed by her mum, next to my bedroom door. I knew then that there was a problem with her, Ana is such a good mum and would never reject her little ones without good reason.

Mother cats will focus all their effort and energy on kittens that are well; if there is a kitten that is not survivable they will reject it in order to give the rest of the litter the best of her milk and energy.

I kept trying to put Ariel back with mum but Ana would either move the other kittens elsewhere or move Ariel as far away as possible. After doing a bit of reading I realised that by putting Ariel back I was upsetting Ana and I was running the risk of Ana rejecting the whole litter. I know Ana would not abandon Ariel if she didn’t have good reason so I had to make a decision. My instincts told me nature knows best and I knew she should go to the vets to be put to sleep but just as I thought this Ariel looked up at me with a feisty glint in her eye and I couldn’t give up on her. Every bone in my being told me that this would end in heartache but I couldn’t resist her tenacity and felt I had to give her a chance.

Bottles were warmed, a box was lined with blankets and a heat pad and the weighing scales were at the ready. She didn’t like the bottle at first but when she was hungry enough she guzzled down the milk. When she suckled her ears twitched back and forth and after a feed she would rest totally content.

I carried Ariel around swaddled in a white fleece blanket. She needed 24 hour care. It was totally absorbing, feeding, sleeping washing her, but when she looked out of her blanket with her amazing expression the reward was immeasurable.

I awoke one night realizing Ariel hadn’t cried for her 3am feed like she usually did, I peeked into her box to find her alive but very limp and shut down. I gave her glucose syrup and tried to syringe feed her but I feared the worst. I kept her close to me wishing she would come round but after an hour she was still limp, breathing slowly with the occasional sigh. I cried my self to sleep only to wake as the day was dawning with a tenacious little Ariel snuggled next to me as right as rain.

Helping me in the fight to save Ariel was my friend from work and her adult daughter, we where taking turns during our work shifts and days off to care and feed for Ariel. This little kitten had a team of people willing her on. She put on weight and I began to hope she would make it.

Last night I woke at 3am as usual to feed Ariel, when I looked in the box Ariel’s breathing was rapid, she was gasping for air. I knew then that she had a real fight on her hands. I give the glucose syrup as before but it had little effect, I gave some subcutaneous fluids, but still it didn’t seem to help. Ariel was slipping away and there was nothing I could do to stop it. I lay on my bed and put Ariel next to my chest so she could hear the sound of my heartbeat and the gentle sighs of breathing. It was all I could do to let her know she hadn’t been abandoned and someone was with her as she slipped away.

Ariel died at 6.20 this morning.

Thanks to Debbie and her daughter, Ariel was given the best chance possible but it just wasn’t meant to be.

I am saddened at her passing, I won’t forget that sweet little bat eared face with that ever so cheeky glint in her eye.

Ollie in the bath!

2011-05-08T23:26:00.001+01:00

I have had an Ollie update. Ollie is the daftest kitten I have ever met. When he went to his new home I was a little worried as he looked apprehensive about the changes he knew where happening. I shouldn't have worried as he has now settled well and is very much up to Ollie antics. This is Ollie in the bath, he is making his owners smile but boy oh boy is he a worry!
My other news today is that I have two new cats, Maya and Nik. Their owners are off to Australia and for a life of adventure and I was asked if I would have them back. I collected them today and they are both wonderful. Maya and Nik will be two on Tuesday so it's a while since I last saw them. Nik is so big and handsome and Maya (not to be confused with Miya) is quite petite but pretty. it is a challenge to integrate adult cats but so far so good.I think it is because everyone is gray and they can't tell who is who!

Frost on show day

2011-05-07T17:57:00.001+01:00

This is Frost today at the Manchester Cat Show. We have had a brilliant day. Frost adored the fuss and all the attention which is so important. The best news of all is Frost's results. She won 1st her open class and Best of Breed along with another 1st and 2nd prizes in her side classes. Frost was so relaxed, she did absolutely brilliant. It has been an amazing day, I have come back laden with cat toys and I think a bottle of celebratory pink wine is in order. Well done Frost.

Teddy in Lebanon

2011-05-06T19:10:00.002+01:00

This is Teddy the kitten who travelled all the way to Lebanon to be in his forever home. He is looking the picture of health and it was wonderful to see he is doing fine. His favourite past time is enjoying the sun in the garden and his best friend is a Siamese cat.
My grumpy but lovable Siamese, Button Thomas hasn't put Teddy off befriending another Siamese then!

Tomorrow is show day for Frost. So fingers and paws crossed again that she has as much fun as I will. I must say I think she is looking very lovely at the moment and who knows, the judge might think so as well...here's hoping

2011-05-02T18:30:00.000+01:00

This is Amos the Bling Mistier at his home but I am sure this isn't the cat tree he is supposed to use!
The last of the big kittens have gone today with Ollie leaving for his forever home. The house seems quiet without them. Ollie was a big character, a little cognitively impaired but very loving. Ollie even tried to lick the newly painted walls last week! He did miss his siblings as they went to their excited new owners but today it was Ollie's turn. He did look ever so slightly apprehensive but I am sure he will soon settle. Like his siblings, Ollie deserves to be fussed over and made the centre of attention.
This litter was another very special crew and they have left me with amazing memories and smiles. Ollie's new owners are in for a treat, a Russian experience that will be second to none I;m sure.

2011-05-01T09:31:00.000+01:00

This is young Grace and her friend Heidi having morning playtime. Poor old Heidi has a lot to put up with having to cope with a playful youngster but apparently it is doing Heidi the world of good as she has become a fitter slimmer cat. It is not always easy for an established cat to share their home with a newbie but with gentle sensitive introductions even the grumpiest old cat can benefit from the playfulness of a kitten especially if that kitten is gray....Not that Heidi is grumpy but after several years of having her own space I am sure learning to share was a challenge.

2011-04-27T14:29:00.000+01:00

I haven't been able to sleep properly with the "stolen add" saga. The plot certainly thickened. Early this morning after much Googling I discovered that the same people had stolen 25 genuine breeder adverts and were passing the ads off as their own. I was horrified with the thought of someone selling 25 different breeds of kittens all in one go and the only thing I could think of was a kitten farm. I did become very distressed at the thought of what terrible conditions these cats and kittens must be in.
I did email all the genuine breeders involved to let them know what was happening so they could request Friday-ad removed the fake adverts. After some more digging however I discovered that it isn't a kitten farm, which is a relief but it is a scam. The dodgy people offer to deliver the kittens and ask for money upfront, obviously they never turn up with kittens. People are still being scammed out of money and the public are relating these scams to mine and other breeders pictures but at least kittens aren't actually being farmed.
I just had to post a picture though of sweet William asleep on his head in the sun. How can I stay worked up about things when I have the most chilled cats on the planet...thank heaven for Russian's.

Stolen Add!!

2011-04-25T17:51:00.002+01:00

My details have been stolen again to sell fake Russian blue kittens
www.friday-ad.co.uk/nottingham/pets/cats-and-kittens-for-sale/russian-blue/russian-blue-gccf-YI1109E6G
It incenses me that people are being taken for a ride and being sold who knows what whist using picture's of my beautiful kittens and this time even my wording saying that their kittens are socialised with Pixie puppy!
The time effort commitment and hard work it takes to give my kittens the best start in life is a labour of love but it really is hard work. I like to think my kittens have the best start in life and for someone to copy pictures and words from the website in order to sell their kittens is soul destroying. Not only are the kittens in the fake advert blatantly not pedigree but what life do the kittens have when they are being used like this and what heartache are the buyers going through when they find out their kittens are not pedigree but potentially sick kittens sold for profit, not vaccinated or socialised as promised....This is a picture of Tsar that was used in the fake ad.
These are possibly the kittens that are actually for sale and I have to say they are in very different conditions to mine . www.freeads.co.uk/sheffield/pets/cats/russian_blue/9950155/russian-blue-kittens/view

2011-04-24T16:27:00.002+01:00

I have had an update today from Flower, a kitten born in 2009. I remember Flower as a very pretty little kitten. She was petite but had the cutest chunky bottom and here she is all grown up but still very very pretty.
I have also had an update from young Luka in Ireland, he has recently undergone his little boy operation and is well. Luka is a bit of an Edmond Hillary character who loves to climb.

It is a very quiet sleepy Easter Sunday today and all the felines are snoozing in the sun. The house is very peaceful as the children are away and the only sound is that of little purrs...for now

2011-04-22T08:37:00.001+01:00

This is Balazs in his new home in the Big City (London).The video was taken within 24 hours of arriving and it is lovely to see him happy and playful within such a short time.

These Russian kittens are very much part of the family, they are all extra special felines. The benefits of kittens over children is they affectionate, playful but kittens don't need a college education, glasses or braces!

2011-04-21T08:53:00.001+01:00

This is young Kate after her "lady op." She looks very sorry for herself but I am sure she is milking it for every Dreamie treat she can.
Neutering is so important. Keeping a cat entire is unfair on the cat and the public!
My girls all lose weight, howl for England and have terrible tummy upsets when they "call". Thankfully I have patient neighbours who don't seem too bothered by all the noise from the girlie's.

At the moment there is a stray tom cat who is hanging around the street. The tom cat has taken to spraying against the front door. The smell is unbelievable not to mention his midnight and early morning howling outside my bedroom window.
Thank heavens for the Cats Protection Leauge who have give me a "please contact CPL" collar to put on the offending ? stray.. If no one calls they will hopefully neuter and rehome the handsome but noisy and very smelly rogue.

HUGO GOES MISSING

2011-04-18T07:17:00.001+01:00

I have had an update on Hugo and sadly he went missing almost three weeks ago from the Rochdale area in Lancashire.
This is Hugo as a kitten, he will be an adult size cat by now, in fact Hugo was always a bit of a bruiser and far bigger than his litter mates.
Letting your cat outside and have the freedom of natural play is always a big decision. It is wonderful to see them chasing the insects and stalking butterfly's. Nothing quite gets your cats attention as much as a noisey bird. It is wonderful to see but sadly there are risks involved when trying to give your cat a natural as possible lifestyle.
Hugo is a very friendly cat, as hopefully all my kittens are, and I think he may have been "picked up".
Thankfully he is microchipped and sooner or later he will be traced. But microchips are only effective if vets scan them. Please could everyone encourage their vet to scan for microchips as a matter of routine then hopefully more cats can be reunited with their proper owners

Amos in his Bling

2011-04-16T09:55:00.002+01:00

This is Amos the much loved kitten of Suzie and John, and soon to be companion to Henry the grown up cat.
Amos has settled quickly but then again Amos chose his owners at just three weeks of age so he new even then what sort of human slave would suit him best.
Amos has been adorned in a blue collar complete with his name in diamante. Nothing less would be suitable for this young superstar as he has already had his name read out on national radio with a dedication to him and his new family being made on the Steve Wright show yesterday.

Little Olive's first day in her forever home

2011-04-13T07:00:00.002+01:00

This is Olive's first day in her new home. She has a very posh bed but has chosen to sleep in the fruit bowl!
I think she knows the bowl is Olive green so obviously this is where a Russian Princess named Olive should sleep.

Grace at home with her family

2011-04-12T08:53:00.000+01:00

This is Grace in her home and she has turned out to be a Hudini cat!
Grace loves to hide in bags, boxes even sleeves and then she will pop out to suprise her devoted family.
Brilliant!

Santino

2011-04-10T04:36:00.000+01:00

I have had a kitten update from Santino and I just had to post this picture of him asleep in bed!!
He is a bit of a rascal apparently and is into everything, he loves to investigate.

His owners say that his personality is so adorable and playful . Santio favourite thing is playing hide and seek.

Russian felines are second to none.

Mothers day

2011-04-03T14:38:00.001+01:00

For Mothers Day the children bought me a Sony digital photo frame. I adore kitten updates and some of the photo's are amazing. Unfortunately I can't have more pictures of the cats than I have of the children as the kids would get jealous!

The children bought me the digital frame with the biggest memory so I can have endless Pictures of kittens past and present.

The photo on the Left is Tsar as a kitten in his for ever home and Miya having her photo taken by her owner whilst on a visit.

Ce petit chat Minou met son bonnet de laine

2011-04-02T17:56:00.000+01:00

Frost's first show

2011-03-27T04:47:00.001+01:00

Frost had a really good show day. It was her first show and thankfully she took to it like a duck to water. Frost remained calm and happy, she didn't seem the least bit bothered by the strange nosies, smells and strangers. She was relaxed and enjoyed her Applaws cat treats throughout the day.
Frost got second in her open and did quite well in her side classes so I am very pleased the day went so well.
The journey home was a bit of an event though with Frost escaping her basket in the back of the car and making an appearance on Debbie, my friends lap who was in the front seat of the car. We were traveling down the motorway at the time!

2011-03-25T06:41:00.004Z

Holly, my 10 year old daughter received a basic digital camera and a couple of photography books for Christmas.
She has finally decided to dip into her books and with some brilliant results. A pet photographer in the making.
On a different note, Minsk is going to her first show on Saturday so fingers and toes crossed she enjoys the day. Hopefully will might come back with a Rosette but the competition on the show bench at the moment is amazing. there are some wonderful young Russian felines out there at the moment. I am sure we will have a lovely day. A hall full of cats...nothing better

Milly sadly passes away

2011-03-23T12:00:00.001Z

This is Milly, sister to Fudge and daughter to Solo and Boris and owned by a lovely family now devastated and grieving her untimely passing.

Milly's death was the result of a tragic accident, she was only one year old when she died but she had made a huge impression on all those who knew her in that short time. She was a big character, confident, very pretty, a loving companion and a confidant to the two children of the family who adored her so much.

It is so difficult for people to understand the grief people can have after loosing a pet but Russian's have such a humanistic quality, an ability to read emotions and people that allows them to get under your skin and into your heart like no other feline can.
Good night sweet Milly and thank you for all the smiles and wonderful memories you have left us with

Frost saves the day

2011-01-09T21:02:00.002Z

My teenagers have gone back to University today after the Christmas break.
The house feels so empty. I am proud of the young adults they have become but I am also so sad they are not around getting under my feet.
I do still have my cat mad 10 year old daughter at home who is delightful and giddy, she keeps me on my toes.
Right on cue though, Frost the little kitten I am keeping for myself, sensed I needed a cuddle and has sat next to me most of the evening whilst her siblings played.
Frost reminded me, we have a busy year together and there couldn't be a more "purrfect" distraction to get me through the next few weeks.
Thank goodness for Russians

Gabriel

2011-01-08T16:00:00.002Z

I have just had an update about Gabriel. I was sent so many lovely pictures it was difficult to know which one to choose for the blog.
I met so many lovely people and helped some wonderful kittens find great homes last year.
This year I have a kitten of my own, little Frost. I am looking forward to showing her as long as she enjoys it as much as I do.
There is an awful lot of competition on the show bench at the moment in the kitten classes, but I think Frost is a bit a smasher.

Samson's best wishes helps England be Great!

2011-01-06T07:49:00.000Z

I received an wonderful update over Christmas about young Samson. Apparently he has taken to watching the cricket and what luck he has brought to the England team.
I absolutely put England's amazing success down to Samson's telepathic coaching ability!

Kate has been helping me decorate the hall!

2011-01-03T18:55:00.000Z

2011..Happy New Year to all, human and feline kind.
The festive season has been so busy with cats, kittens, many human visitors as well as Jess and Cal the cat visitors. Two of the children also returned from University. It has been a very special time and having kittens around has just added to the fun and chaos of it all.
The holiday season is almost over with so I thought I would use this Bank holiday to paint the newly plastered hallway. I tried to protect the carpet using plastic dust sheets. Kate, one of the kittens, now nine weeks old decided the dust sheet was a new form of entertainment and darted to and fro as well as rolling round the paint splattered plastic covers. Kate now has a Magnolia right ear, and two magnolia spots on her tail. My carpet also has a trail of Magnolia paw prints on it! She looks so sweet though, I can't even begin to get cross. The joy's of cat breeding!

Miya snoozing

2010-12-14T20:41:00.001Z

It has been such a stressful time. Checking tree lights, giddy children, Christmas shopping and endless wrapping. To top it all off I have had a broken laptop and camera.
Work has also been a nightmare with winter flu making lots of people very sick.
What a joy to come home to a Miya update. It is lovely to see her grow, she is such a special little girl.
I also have cat visitors at the moment with Jess and Cal who have come for Christmas holidays and I am so excited to see them again.
I also have good news for Brian the cat as he is about to get a new playmate named Kate....yes we have kittens. All are doing well and one of them, little Frost is for keeps....giddy giddy giddy.

Blue has evicted the dog and is having a nap in the dogs basket!

2010-12-05T18:04:00.001Z

This is Blue one year old already. Where does the time go? I remember this little kitten going to her new home like it was yesterday.

Life is such a rush around Christmas time and there doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day. it is lovely to come home to the cats. They have no extra expectations at Christmas. No presents or Christmas outfits to buy. No fighting through the Christmas shoppers to get the best tree or freshest veg. They just need food, warmth and affection. No demands just feline chill out time...purrfect!

Brian in the Snow

2010-12-01T20:51:00.000Z

I have had some lovely updates.
This is an almost one year old Brain enjoying watching the snow fall.
I have also have a lovely update of young Gabriel who is having a wonderful time in his musical home.
I remember Gabriel used to curl around my neck as a kitten and keep me warm. His behaviour hasn't changed and he loves nothing better than to cuddle up close to his human companions.
I have also had update from Angel, Gabriel's sister who is doted on not only by her human slave but also by Tsar her older Russian feline companion and protector.