Featured Animal: Levon
Levon is a 6-year-old grey tabby cat currently available for adoption through the city of Bloomington Animal Shelter. He was brought in from the street and spent over 2 months curled up and hissing in the back of his cage. Since coming into foster care in January, Levon has blossomed into a sweet, playful, and loving companion. He still has so much potential to grow, but already, he’s showing his true colors. He’s lively without being destructive, and affectionate without being clingy. Every night, Levon quietly tucks himself into his favorite cozy spot and sleeps peacefully until morning. When you greet him to start the day, get ready — his favorite thing in the world is cuddles! He purrs so hard that he drools from happiness. Levon loves calm, gentle company, so he needs a quiet home without other pets or children. Loud noises and sudden movements scare him, but if you earn his trust he will choose to be by your side. Whether it’s sitting near you on the couch, lying at your feet while you work, or even joining you for a yoga session (he’s an aspiring yogi and absolutely loves the mat)! While he isn’t a lap cat just yet, he’s getting closer every day. He’s also very clean, eats well, both wet and dry food, and can’t resist a little treat. Shaking a treat bag is a great way to call him when you need him. He understands “no” and is respectful of the home. Levon may not have had the easiest start, but he is making up for lost time with every little step forward. In the right home — quiet, safe, and full of love — Levon will be the most loyal, joyful companion you could ever wish for.
Featured Topic: Cat Body Language
Many people love to show affection to cats, but might not always understand their body language. It’s usually easy to tell when cats are happy, with purring, slow blinking, head rubbing, and an upright tail being the main indicators. They might lean into your hands and meow for more pets. However, cats can easily get overstimulated with petting so it’s good to watch for the signs. When boundaries are pushed, they will let you know with hissing, lowered ears, swiping paws, or swishing tails. Before this you may also notice skin twitching, ruffled fur, and dilated pupils. While some of these signs can also indicate excitement and wanting to play, it’s important to use context clues and get to know the individual cat. Try to observe the little reactions they have to stimulation in the environment, like during play, meal times, sleeping, cuddling, and when they hear loud noises or are otherwise disturbed. Take notes if you want to, and maybe you can explain it to friends, family members, and children with the capacity to understand, how they can better connect with your cat. It’s important to teach children that all animals have boundaries just like they do, and must use their body language to communicate. Having an understanding of animal body language is a great foundation for creating strong bonds.
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Lil BUB’s Lil Show is a co-production of WFHB and Lil BUB’s Big Fund
Segment production by Christine Brackenhoff, Stacy Bridavsky, and Lena Swayze
Audio support provided by Mike Bridavsky
Theme music: “A Friend” by Lil BUB