Thursday, November 10, 2016

#Feline Foraging Devices--#Cats This Week by Karen Rose Smith


My feline photos this week are action shots. Indoor cats are more susceptible to health problems such as obesity and diabetes because of their sedentary life style. An eat and sleep pattern is not necessarily a healthy one. Also, cats are natural predators who tend to eat many small meals throughout the day. When I read about "foraging devices" for cats, I knew I had to obtain one...or two...for my furry crew. The package arrived this week, and the "fun" began.

The devices I ordered are round or oval in shape.  They have an opening to deposit dry food or a favorite kibble treat. The holes on the sides are adjustable to control the amount of food that dispenses when the ball is rolled across the floor. You can make your own by cutting holes in an empty water bottle.


Paddy was the first to master puzzle. She immediately smelled the kibble inside and figured out the secret to dispensing it. 






Zoie Joy watched from afar then took her turn at rolling the device. 








Halo remained rather aloof, signaling that she preferred to be served her meals on a glass plate, although she was curious enough to give the ball a chance to satisfy her hunger.



The novelty may wear off, but hopefully in the process, the cats will become adroit enough to quickly dispense kibble when they are hungry between wet food feedings. For now, the kibble toy seems to have been a worthwhile investment, a way to provide some natural instinctual opportunities to forage for their food...and get a little exercise in the process.        


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The holidays are growing nearer and shopping, decorating and choosing or crafting gifts will be our focus for the next two months. My new boxed set, HOLIDAY FOREVER-AFTERS, features three feel-good holiday romances that will put you in the holiday spirit and offer the perfect gift for that special ebook lover on your Christmas list.   

NOW AVAILABLE!






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USA TODAY Bestselling Author Karen Rose Smith is an only child who delved into books at an early age. She learned about kindred spirits from Anne of Green Gables, solved mysteries with Nancy Drew and wished she could have been the rider on The Black Stallion. Yet even though she escaped often into story worlds, she had many aunts, uncles and cousins around her on weekends. Her sense of family and relationships began there. Maybe that's why families are a strong theme in her novels, whether mysteries or romances. Her 97th novel will be released in 2017.
Karen and Paddy

Readers often ask her about her pastimes. She has herb, flowers and vegetable gardens that help her relax. In the winter, she cooks rather than gardens.  And year round she spends most of her time with her husband, as well as her four rescued cats who are her constant companions. They chase rainbows from sun catchers, reminding her life isn't all about work, awards and bestseller lists. Everyone needs that rainbow to chase.

Karen looks forward to interacting with readers. They can find her at the links below. 





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