Description:
Lantz was originally a stray that was rescued by a good-hearted soul. And aren't we glad! This darling in a real keeper. Read this update from one of our volunteers:
"Lantz is the sweetest little man! He loves to purr and LOVES to be held. He sat in my lap for a good 20 minutes last night while I played with the other cats. He did not want to get up NO WAY, NO HOW... I actually had to get up from sitting on the floor with him in my arms because he just wanted to hang with me. He's soo handsome in person too. Every time I caught a glimpse of him from across the room he would be staring at me. He's TOO CUTE!!!!!!"

9/11 Volunteer Update:
Today I was e-mailed several photos of cats to add to the websited. The black shadow on the edge of them was Lantz. He Loooooves to have his photo taken. What a ham!!!!

The first twenty-four hours in your home are special and critical. According to the ASPCA, before you bring a new cat into your life, it helps to understand a little bit about how cats relate to their world.

For the cat, territory is of paramount importance. A cat views his territory the way most of us view our clothes; without them, we feel naked and vulnerable. Place us naked in a room filled with strangers and most of us would try to hide! It is common for cats, regardless of whether they come from homes or streets, to hide in a new territory. Very sensitive or undersocialized cats often hide for a week or more! You know that this cat is now a member of the family, but the cat doesn't.

You can help make the transition to a new home smoother and easier by providing some privacy for your new cat. If possible, start by preparing your home before you bring in the cat. Choose a room for the litter box; a bathroom works well. Set up the litter box with one to two inches of litter, and place it in a corner, if possible.

Now create a safe haven for the cat to hide in. You can buy a covered cat bed but a cardboard box turned upside down with two "doors" cut in it will work nicely. Why two "doors?" Many cats seem to feel more secure if they have a second "escape" route. Get a box big enough for the cat to stand up, turn around, stretch out and lie down in -- but keep it cozy! Place the box next to the wall or in a corner where the cat can see the door to the room. You don't want the cat to feel trapped. Place a sisal, cork or corrugated cardboard scratching post next to it. Finally, clear off a shelf for the cat to perch on to view his new world.

After you have prepared the bathroom, cat-proof every other room of your home. Are there raised surfaces for the cat? If the answer is "no," make some! Cats need to be able to jump up and survey their territory. Do you have valuable mementos that are easily broken? Put them away until your cat is happily moved in. Check out all the nooks and crannies. Are there places that could be dangerous for the cat to explore or hide in? If so, block them off. Finally, put a scratching post or pad in every room.

If circumstances require that you bring in the cat before your home is ready, keep him in his carrier until you have his room set up! He will be fine in there for a while longer. Opposite the litter box, place a bowl of fresh water. After the room is set up, place the carrier next to the "safe haven." Close the bathroom door before opening the carrier. Do not pull the cat out. Allow him to come out on his own and begin to explore his new home. Now, leave the room. Yes, leave...remember you are giving him time to acclimate. Go and prepare a small amount of a premium quality cat food. Quietly place it next to the water bowl.

Do not reach for the cat! Let the cat come to you. If he doesn't approach,