 Many of the same qualities which make Hillcrest a great neighborhood of human occupants also benefit our companion animals. Hillcrest is largely a pedestrian-friendly habitat with abundant, diverse, mature vegetation covering the concrete jungle which makes up much of Southern California. The domestic cat (Felis domesticus) appears to adapt rather easily especially if provided some outdoor space to occasionally explore and lounge about. Our cat insists on her (at least) daily inspection of both the front and back gardens of our home. There are numerous plantings to sniff and the added experience of chance encounters with other neighborhood kitties. When introducing new cats, it's best to insure that all parties involved are comfortable and confident they are free to retreat to a safer location should initial gestures of introduction be unacceptable. The aridity of Southern California can be hard on cats. Always insure yours has plenty of fresh drinking water available. Our neighborhood cats all seem fascinated and drawn to water. The fountains, buckets and puddles in our gardens draw the cats for endless inspections and, if approved, a drink. Moving, flowing or bubbling water water is preferred over still — and the challenge of reaching elevated or hidden pools of water is just part of the draw. If you live in an apartment of condo, check with the building manager to insure that no harmful chemicals are added to the water that pets might drink. Playtime is also an important ritual for your cat — and a fun way for their human companions to relax! The uptown neighborhoods have numerous stores selling great pet toys. We also make simple toys from household objects. Strings and ribbons are always interesting for a bit. If you have (or find) a feather, attach it to the end of a spring stick for a great low-cost playtime treat. Domestic cats and dogs have been responsible for the endangerment and extinction of numerous native animals in San Diego County. Many of these animals one lived in the untouched canyons and chaparral that used to make up Hillcrest. Now these animals have largely disappeared, either gone extinct or retreated to those few special undeveloped habitats within the county. Please keep your pets under your control out out of the bits of few remaining wild habitats in our neighborhood. And especially always remember, the most important thing that you can do for your companion animals is to cherish them and aim to express this love to them through your actions. |
