Snow and Solstice

The long-awaited snow arrived two days before Solstice. The kitties were surprised, even the ones who have been through several winters of snow. Like me, they seemed ecstatic by the white land and bounded about for short bits. The cold on their paws kept their glee to brief times outside, but when they did venture out, it was with energetic enthusiasm.

First thing, I swept some pathways to food, water, and loose dirt that they use for litter. Before the snow came, I made a makeshift roof over one of the favored litter places. Because our snow is very dry, it doesn’t take much effort to sweep it or to keep some areas clear of it. During the first day, it kept snowing, so I kept sweeping. For the smaller cats, it must seem that there is a mountain of snow piled up--an inviting tunnel to run through.

The biggest challenge with feral cats in the winter is to keep unfrozen water available. Housing and food are the easy parts. When the water freezes within ten minutes of putting it outside, it’s unlikely they will get to it to drink. Because the group here is tamer than the wildest, I can manage. I put some in the kitty casita where several were hanging out in a clump. When I see Tiger or Trixie show up, I put out both food that is unfrozen and warmish water in a warmed bowl without fear of their running away.

This year, they are all fat. And I know they have good places to hole up during the worst of the weather. Our storms usually don’t last more than a day. By the second day, we have sun, which means there are some warm spots and water melting.

I suppose the greatest challenge for them is what to do with their built-up energy. Hence the running and leaping outside, one over the top of the other, a snow leap-cat. Watching their antics, seeing their gorgeous winter coats against the snow, and feeling the freedom of their play--this is the finest Solstice celebration.

From me and from these fine felines, we wish for you all great freedom of play and leaps of celebration is the coming year!