July Rogue Gallery

Scarlett (A07211194)
5-year-old female
Scarlett is an intriguing combination of affection and play. One minute she’s on your lap, the next she’s ready to stalk a toy. Scarlett is FIV positive, and can live a normal life with a few simple precautions.

Jennyanydots (A05756035)
3 ½-year-old female
Jennyanydots is a very special cat for a special home. She is amazingly affectionate, a lap-cat through and through. However, she has a few simple rules when it comes to petting – or she may nip a warning. She’d do best in an adult household.

Sharyn (A07456590)
10-year-old female
Have you ever felt shy and a little awkward at a party? Then you know how Sharyn feels every day. She’s a very shy lady who won’t feel really comfortable until she leaves the shelter for her forever home. Once there she’ll be her loving self.

Linda (A07467889)
2-year-old female
Linda is relatively young, but she’s had experiences that go beyond her years. Despite her tender age she recently gave birth to four healthy kittens.. Now that she’s raised her kids, she’s been spayed and is ready for the next chapter of her life. Linda is a love bug.

Monkey (A07532809)
16-year-old female
Such a silly name for such a dignified lady. We suggest you change it in the car on your way home. This lady makes a wonderful companion. She loves people and will still get out on the floor and dance a step or two.

Ms. Cleo (A07564676)
9-year-old female
Searching for the perfect dinner companion? Look no further. Ms. Cleo simply loves eating with people. Of course she has perfect manners so she knows she eats from the bowl on the floor while her humans dine at the table in human fashion.

Moe (A06447291)
11-year-old male
Yes, Moe is 11. He still hasn’t learned how to act his age. He’s a cat-on-the-go, who loves laps and loves play. Moe has a monster personality, and your life with him will be a time of discovery and joy. Don’t let this one get away.

Luna (A06405643)
5-year-old female

Luna has this thing about people. She loves them and she can’t get enough. If you can be with her throughout the day, and if you have friends who stop by from time to time, Luna will thrive. However, as much as she likes people, she’s not crazy about other cats.

Alma (A05739274)
10-year-old female
Alma is a beautiful tortoiseshell and you can forget all those stories you’ve heard about torties having an attitude. Well… maybe she does have just a touch. She craves attention. But let’s be honest, who doesn’t? Love her, she loves you. That’s the deal.

If you are intrigued by the magic of these amazing cats, contact Maddies Adoption Center at the SF/SPCA at 415 -522-3500

I'm Sorry, Did You Say Something?

By Daniel Quagliozzi


Most of us are used to our cats ignoring us. We try and try to get their attention, but they are too busy staring off into space or licking their paw to give us the time of day. Is kitty preoccupied with the art of zen or is Mr.Fluffypants just hard of hearing?

Believe it or not, it's not terribly uncommon for cats to lose their hearing, just like humans. In fact, they can get along just fine without it, but it does present interesting challenges for those of us who care for their special needs.

In addition to the usual causes of deafness, most people don't realize that a cats’ coloring often plays a huge role in the degree of hearing loss. Studies show that about 65% of white cats who have two blue eyes are deaf in one or both ears. White cats with just one blue eye have a 40% chance of being deaf, and white cats without blue eyes are deaf, or partially so at a rate of around 20%.

Our very own Snowpea, is the exception to the rule, being deaf in both ears with yellow eyes. Snowpea is a kitten with a very challenging life ahead of her. We are hoping to set the pace for a successful match with the right person who can care for her.

Whether the hearing loss is sudden or gradual, behavioral changes may alert the guardian to the possibility of deafness. The kitties compensate so well in many cases, that it may be a very long time before the hearing loss is noticed, particularly if it is a gradual loss. Hearing impairment can cause any kitty to become irritable, confused, easily frightened, skittish, and insecure. Since they can’t hear their own voice, cats may vocalize loudly and often. In some cases the hearing impaired cat may become mute.

In the case of Snowpea, she tends to get lost in her own world, sleeping most of the day, unless there are fun activities, playful interludes with people or the distractions that can only be provided by another cat.

Deciding whether or not a deaf kitty is better off as a single pet is difficult. While some cats will take behavior “cues” from other resident cats or litter mates, some will not. Some deaf kittens will play fight more aggressively, and swat and bite more because they cannot hear the cries of the other kittens. Deaf cats living with hearing cats and/or dogs may become the “victim” of surprise play attacks, and over-react causing friction in a multi animal household. In this stalking type of situation the deaf kitty may redirect his or her aggression toward the humans in the household. All in all, a deaf cat will probably do best as a single pet or with another kitty he or she has known all their life.

So here lies our dilemma: At the tender age of 4 months, we have to decide if Snowpea will be the target of sneak attacks or the ruler of the roost. I guess it's all a matter of who shows interest. The time is NOW to make this decision!

If you are thinking about adopting Snowpea or a deaf cat in another shelter, remember the following:

Hearing impaired cats will do best with routine handling and an out pour of love. I know, what a hassle right? Cuddling them close to the human’s body and speaking will possibly allow them to “hear” your voice through vibrations. You may even experience a closer relationship with your cat as a result of all of this body to body interaction.

Hand signals similar to the ones used in dog training may be effective with some cats while others may not rely on it as much. If you are at close range and clap your hands sharply, the air might vibrate enough to attract their attention. Some people have noticed that their deaf kitties learn to respond to lights being turned on and off as signals that someone is entering a room, etc. Maybe a laser pointer will help to signal your arrival or dinner time? You will surprised how resourceful a cat can be when dinner is served. The ears may not work but the nose never breaks!

Adopting one of these “special needs” kitties is totally a rewarding and admirable responsibility to take on, as long as you are aware that it will require a bit of extra work. These cats cannot be allowed outdoors as they would be unaware of the dangers around them and fall prey to a myriad of hazards. If you're the type of person who can learn to predict a cats behavior while being a predictable schedule planner at the same time, you may just be the personal assistant a deaf cat needs. Interested in the job? Call the San Francisco SPCA at 415 522-3500 and ask about Snowpea!

Purrrrride Weekend!!!

It was Gay Pride weekend in our beautiful city and the SF/SPCA came out in full force to support the community! We even unveiled our brand new van and brought our mascots, Miss Emmy & Sloan to please the crowds.



Check out the day in pictures:

The New SF/SPCA Van will help us reach out to shelters all over the Bay Area

Getting prepped to walk the Purrrrade

Festive friends

Oops, almost revealed our mascots identity!

Our mascots will out-cute your mascots.

Tugging the "Senior Shuttle"

The March Begins!

Miss Emmy needs a helping hand

All good times must come to an end.

The San Francisco SPCA wishes to thank its sponsors: Fifth Age of Man, Pedigree and The American Humane Association for our amazing new van.

Mingle, Meow, A Match Is Made!

By Daniel Quagliozzi

This week's CATNIP mixer at the San Francisco SPCA's Maddies Adoption Center was a smashing success. Cat lovers from all over the city came to Meet their Matches and mix it up with our fabulous felines. The event went off without a hitch and we are so glad that we got the chance to reach out to our supporters in such a fun way.

Attendees line up at the Catnip bar for delicious cocktails, wine and refreshments

Cat Behavior Specialist; Jamey Walker scores the Meet You Match Survey

Our Catnip Party was themed around our Felinality Program which is very user friendly and helps people to match themselves with appropriate feline companions based on their answers. It is not a test and there are no right or wrong answers — only questions intended to gauge your expectations in a pet and determine what type of cat would be best suited to your home. It's also a helpful tool in matching a new cat with any cats already in your home.

When the survey is scored, SPCA volunteers are able to determine what "felinality" suits you best. For example, most folks grade out as ideal Sidekick guardians. In turn, most of our cats grade out as Sidekicks, a middle-of-the road cat who's social and affectionate, deals fairly well with new situations and enjoys play.

Two party-goers check out the descriptions of each Felinality on our wall chart

After getting their score and finding out which cats they were compatible with, potential adopters were free to roam the halls, enjoy some finger food and begin the meet and greet portion of the party. Our ever-ready volunteers made sure to guide each person to their appropriate match. Of course, there were plenty of detours on the way. There are always distractions in a building filled to the roof with beautiful creatures.

Another match made in just minutes

The SF/SPCA has a huge variety of cats in the summer months. Not only are we flooded with kitten cuteness, but we also have some very unique adults that need a special someone to take them home. Cats like Jennyanydots are just waiting for the right moment to show you their talents.

Who says the personals are just for people?

Well folks, the party may be over, but we still need your help. The San Francisco SPCA appreciates all the support we have received during Adopt a Shelter Cat Month. We just want you to know that every day of the year is a great time to open your home and your heart to an animal that needs you.

I'm still waiting. Don't forget me, ok?

Mix It Up & Meet Your Match

Did you forget that the SF/SPCA was hosting a wicked cool party this Thursday? Well, now you have no excuse. What, you have laundry to do? You're washing your hair that night? How can you say such things when there are 100 + Festive felines waiting for you to take them home?

Take the Felinality survey and match yourself up with the perfect cat companion. It's like a dating service only you don't have to make any small talk! Enjoy a refreshment, some delicious finger food and mingle with the cat-crazy community of San Francisco!

Catnip Mixer, Meet Your Match at the San Francisco SPCA from San Francisco SPCA on Vimeo.

Need some inspiration? See you at the Catnip Party!!!!

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Rescue, Recycle, Renew.....REMARKABLE RESULTS!

By Daniel Quagliozzi

After an amazing weekend of adoptions, animals & awareness, the San Francisco SPCA is proud to reveal the results of our Rescue, Recycle, Renew Adoption Fair. We hosted close to 20 local rescue groups on the grounds of the new Leanne B. Roberts Animal Care Center, drawing huge crowds of adopters, cat, dog and small animal enthusiasts and many, many mobile canine companions. It's too bad cats don't like to socialize as much!

In just six hours, the SF/SPCA found loving homes for 31 cats (Including Sugarfoot & Gus two long term LDYK favorites) & 11 dogs. Our sponsored rescue groups placed a combined total of 20 animals, including dogs, cats, chinchillas, rabbits and birds.

People came from all over the city & county to help out a really good cause. How could you say no a to face like the one above? The Adoption fair brought the unsung heroes to the community and really helped to put faces to the names of so many rescues that are working extremely hard during these very tough times.

As mentioned in blogs prior, this summer the homeless cat population has hit local shelters heavily. "Litter Did You know" is just a drop of water in a huge ocean when it comes to getting the word out and spreading awareness about cats, their amazing qualities and their plight for staying in loving and compassionate homes.

We couldn't let this picture go unnoticed. Sure, they are dogs, don't be a hater! Look at their cute "Adopt Me" vests. A cat would never tolerate wearing something like that in public. Instead, they would rather make you wear the vest with an arrow pointing at them. Oh well, the dogs are really adorable!

Adopt a Shelter Month is not over yet and it's not to late for you to make a difference this summer. Come to the San Francisco SPCA or any shelter in your area and adopt a cat that needs a home. Together we can make a huge change and put an end to homeless pets!

Dad Doesn't Want A Tool Set or a Tie....He Wants A Tabby!

By Daniel Quagliozzi

BABY A06201525

12 year old, Cougar on the prowl for forever love...I`m a brunette and blond, all rolled up in a tabby pattern, with lots of energy to join you in all the good things in life, like lap-sitting, following you around the house or chasing your shoelaces. I`m a little older and I don`t have many teeth left but I still have my looks, right? Please, just come in and sit with me for a while and you`ll see that I still have a lot of spark left in me. Bring a toy. I`m still up for a little playtime before relaxing with you. Looking for someone who is ready to shower me with affection and activity. Male or female, no matter. Young or old, I don’t mind. As a gal who’s been around the block, I know what’s most important! My only request is that I be your only cat. Do you think you're ready for me!?

Instead of struggling to find an appropriate Fathers Day gift this weekend, bring Dad to the SF/SPCA's Adoption Fair! There will be multitudes of torties, tabbies, tuxedos and twosomes to choose from. Let's not forget the beautiful black cats too! What's that? Dad would rather have a dog, bird, reptile ....or even a rabbit. We have that covered too! Fifteen rescue groups will be joining forces with us to make a big difference. All we need is you, Dad and all of your friends to come. Are you taking the bus? Tell everyone on board about it too!!! I'm sure the driver won't mind.

We need your votes! The San Francisco Bay Guardian is doing it's annual "Best of the Bay" awards. On page six of the ballot, you will find the following categories that the San Francisco SPCA qualifies for.

1. Best Local Blog: Litter Did You Know

2. Best Local Website: http://www.sfspca.org/.

7. Best Local Nonprofit: The San Francisco SPCA

14. Best Veterinarian: San Francisco SPCA's Leanne B. Roberts Animal Care Center

15. Best Camp for Kids: San Francisco SPCA's Humane Education Camp

*29. Best Local Animal Rescue: San Francisco SPCA

SCRATCH YOUR VOTE HERE

*Remember: go to page six! *

With your help and a few hundred votes, Litter Did You Know can gain some popularity and the SF/SPCA can help even more animals!

Do you have a few minutes to spare?
The San Francisco SPCA is asking friends to complete an online survey to help improve our communications and grow our programs and services.

Take the survey now.