We’ve often written about how helpful our cats are. They take their household duties seriously, and none more so than Damian. Living in an artist’s live/work loft has given him many opportunities to offer his input and assistance.
When he was a wee lad, his main duty was to do a close-up inspection of paintings in progress. He did this by running full speed across the floor, leaping onto the easel, and scaling the painting until he ended up perched on top of the canvas. He was always quick to point out the newly-formed scratches and claw-holes that he found. Now that he has grown into his full 20-pound glory I try to discourage this type of inspection, but with his rigorous work ethic he is not easily dissuaded.
Enter the new scratching post! I found this pristine deluxe perch at a yard sale –a steal at $5!– and happened to put it near my painting area. Damian loves it, and it lets him examine my canvases at close range, and, best yet, even while lying down.
He still gets excited about his work:
And often offers unique perspectives in his critiques:
Maggie helps too. Her forte is wood-carving. She’s working on reshaping this stepstool:
Wildfires in Santa Cruz
On a more serious note, you may have heard of the wildfires in the hills above Santa Cruz. Town Cats, a no-kill shelter, is taking donations to help the Taj Meow Animal Sanctuary, which was completely destroyed in the blaze. Please click here if you can help.
[Another guest post by Melissa]
Melissa- I can’t wait to have the yummy adorableness of your babies come to live in our yard!! I’m already head-over-heels for Damian (please don’t tell Sparky).
Love your new painting. Is it from your trip down to Fort Hunter Liggett?
I am very impressed with your cats “work ethic”. I have two that are like that while I am knitting or beading. One insists on having her paw on my thigh as I knit, sitting as close as possible to ensure I don’t miss any stitches. The other lays at my feet in case the yarn gets too lively or falls! I wouldn’t know what to do without my two!
I am in love with Damian, what a cute cat!