Here's to feline moms who give their all

Cats are highly underrated creatures in this world. Many people who don't know them think that all of them are cold and independent and that they don't deserve our attention. We beg to differ.

Just like dogs and other pets, every cat has their own personality, needs and unique features that make them a truly lovable pet if they're matched with the right owner. True, some cats are independent but then again, some owners appreciate this characteristic. Other cats can be affectionate, strong-willed or playful. Some cats are known to be gifted clowns! And contrary to popular belief, some cats don't mind water and don't even mind being bathed.

This truth about cats is most beautifully illustrated through feline motherhood, which is a job fit for the most loving and endurant. Mother cats not only feed and clean their kittens, but they also need to keep them warm at all times. They're experts at stimulating their little bladders and bowels and at teaching them the fine art of hunting. Any human who has taken in orphan kittens knows how difficult this job is. Not surprisingly, some feline mothers become exhausted when they have numerous litters.

At this time of the year, the SPCA Laurentides-Labelle is sheltering numerous female cats and their litters. The mothers usually take loving care of their kittens who, more often than not, are adopted quickly while their mother is left behind at our adoption center. They can wait for weeks or months before they find a loving family to adopt them permanently. While they wait, some mothers will patiently take care of litters of precious cat orphans, feeding them, cleaning them and teaching them all about life and survival with as much love as if it were their own litter. Elsewhere, feline mothers have even been known to care for puppies, chicks, skunks and even a panda cub!

Whoever said that cats are cold and independent evidently never met these awesome mothers!

Loving mothers need a home

Here are four feline moms whose kittens have been adopted and who would love to find a permanent loving home. They've done a great job at caring for their litter. To give them some rest and help stop pet overpopulation, they have been sterilized, like all animals at our adoption center.

·         Divine was found last April in front of the SPCA LL with three kittens in a box. She's a calm, very affectionate cat who loves to be held. She enjoys the company of other cats and dogs.

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 ·        Lady has been with us since March, 2007. While she's a little shy with strangers, she enjoys human affection and will be playful with those she knows a little better. She's reluctant to being held and manipulated.

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·        Cathy was found with her two kittens in front of the SPCA LL last June. She's a one-year old loving mom who likes the company of humans (adults and children alike) and other cats, but she doesn't like dogs. Cathy is an affectionate cat.

·         Mel has been with us since the end of May. Her three kittens have quickly been adopted. This one-year old cat is extremely affectionate and is also quite talkative! She'll also walk with you if you put a harness and leash on her. Mel enjoys the company of other cats but doesn't care much for dogs.