The Cats of Parliament Hill Blog

by Klaus J. Gerken Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, North America, Planet Earth, the Sol Planetary system, the "Milky Way" Galaxy, the Virgo cluster of Galaxies, the Universe, and whatever is beyond or ever was before.

Latest update: Thursday, 7 February 2008

Preamble

IMPORTANT NOTICES Please under no circumstances abandon cats or kittens on the Hill or by the Cat Sanctuary. The cats will not readily accept newcomers and for the most part chase them away. Nor is it a given new cats will find the Sanctuary in search of shelter and food. Most abandoned cats are very disorientated and will just randomly wander off finding starvation and death - especially in the winter. If you can no longer care for your cat, please take her to the Humane Society where she can be well taken care of and put up for adoption. This is what we do for any abandoned cat we find. And it causes us great grief when we cannot capture one - which happens way too often. And if you give kittens as a gift for Christmas, ensure the person or the household you give them to can provide for them. If not, then you should reconsider your priorities. No kitten deserves to be abandoned like an unwanted toy. Owning a pet is a serious responsibiliy. If you don't share that feeling, you shouldn't own a pet. It's as simple as that. Abandoning your pet is a criminal offence with up to 2 years in jail. Perhaps you who would be so callous should think about that. Treat your pets well, and they will reward you with unconditional love for the rest of their lives. Should we all care so much as they care for us. Klaus J. Gerken Before you abandon a pet you can no longer care for, please contact these organizations:

Previous logs are available at the Library and Archives Canada:

All photographs by Klaus J. Gerken unless otherwise stated.

Comments are always welcome: Please send any comments to kgerken@synapse.net (We reserve the right to publish any comments on this blog).

Invitation I would like to invite anyone who has recollections or photographs of the colony before the present condos were built; especially any recollections or photographs of Irene Desormeaux before Rene Chartrand took over caring for the cats, or even prior to that, to send them to kgerken@synapse.net . We are trying to establish a definitive history of the cat colony for a book to be published in the next year or so.

A Brief History of the Cats of Parliament Hill There is a story that Colonel By brought hundreds of cats with him when he built the Rideau Canal in 1826, to take care of the rodent population, but unfortunately that cannot be confirmed. What can be confirmed is that cats were employed in the Parliament Building (as in many other building) as pest control until 1955 when they were replaced by chemicals. Until 1970 ground keepers fed the cats in various locations, when Irene Desormeaux began feeding the cats where the existing colony now resides. Rene Chartrand began helping her in the mid-nineteen eighties and began building some wooden structures (some of which can still be seen) for the cats to keep warm in. In 1987 when Irene passed on to take care of stray cats in a greater colony beyond this world, Rene took over and loyally fed the cats to this day. In 1997 Rene and a friend built the existing structures. Brian Caines began helping about that time, and I began helping out in 2003. That year brian and I decided to put together a support team to ensure that Rene would be ok (he's in his mid-eighties now) and that the cats would always be well provided for. We now have a team of eight caregivers who volunteer their time to this amazing cause. * The cast of characters: Irene Desormeaux (Who started it all in the 1970's) Rene Chartrand (Who took over when Irene passed on in 1987 and maintains the colony till this day -- he built the shelters in 1997) The Support Team: Brian Caines (Ensures the colony's health and welfare) Klaus Gerken (Official Photographer, and Keeper of the Blog - I do the weekend shift) Laura Jaremkow Lorraine Milobar Sally Sax Helene Pomerleau Kathryn Bunn Leyla Di Cori Heather Ferguson Sebastien Badour Christ Oliver - Author of "Fish Lecan, Maria Dorfinkley et les Chats de la Colline du Parlement" and the blog below:

True Stories about the Cats on Parliament Hill by Christ Oliver

The Alta Vista Animal Hospital (For medical care). Purina for cat food. And a host of many others. And the cats: *Coco (RIP 2005) *LePune (Lost 2003 and perhaps sister to Brunette and Lulu) *Big Mama (RIP 1985? to 2006) The white mother and her brood: Thumbelina Snowball (AKA Six Toes - lives with the white mother on the east side of the Hill) *Kid Jr (lost 2006) *Blanchette (lost in 2003) Blackie Fluffy Brownie *Lulu (lost 2004 and sister to Brunette) Brunette Ti-gris Bebe (Integrated 2000) Bruno (2003/4 - adopted by myself Feb 2004 - and flourishing) *Smokey and her three kittens living in the West Block ( put up for adoption fall 2004 because they could not integrate, no matter how much Smokey tried) *Monty (lost 2004) *The black and white we never got to name who only stayed a month (summer 2004) Spot (Integrated 2004) *Samantha (Lost Nov 2004) Max (Integrated 2005) Shadow (Integrated 2005 - but probably there earlier and the father of Smokey's kittens)) *Penelope (Abandoned Christmas 2005 - taken to the Humane Society Feb 2006) Lillian-Wentworth (Integrated 2007) *Phoebe (The new white - taken to the HS by Brian and Laura 18 June 2007) *Hero (15 years old - abandoned - taken to the HS for adoption) *Mike the cabbie (Abandoned July 2007 - Named by Joanne Stanbridge) - Taken to the Humane Society 24 July 2005. And so many others who just walk in and out or are adopted when we can catch them.

Note for all: As Rene Chartrand is now in his mid-eighties several years ago Brian Caines and I decided to put together a support team so we check on the cats to ensure that Rene has been there to care for them on the previous day and to leave some food and water in case he would be unable to make it for whatever reason. To date Rene has not missed a day and is still, and always will be the primary caregiver. Besides, our help allows him to take the occasional well deserved day off, especially when the weather is bad.

The Blog

Klaus Gerken Tuesday, 1 January 2008 Happy New Year everyone! Cats well fed and watered this morning.

Approching the colony

Spot

Shadow and Fluffy

Everyone with their New Years day meal

Max and Shadow and the Parliament Buildings

Max, Shadow and Brunette

Blackie and the bench

The Summer Pavilion on my way back after feeding the whites

Fluffy, Bebe and Max in the back hamper

Shadow and Spot just before I left

Lorraine Milobar 04/01/08 2:06 PM Hi Gang: Just a short note to let you know that I was on the hill this morning feeding our little friends. Brian was also there but told him to go home as he was not feeling well. (Hope you feel better Brian!). Apart from Lillian attacking from behind Max whom you can imagine did not appreciate it everything turned out OK. Brunette stayed in her condo and Brian gave her share of the Seafood Supreme which was on the menue this morning. After feeding all of our little friends at the colony I prepared myself to bring the soft and dry food to the Whitemother and Snowball. When I arrived there and after calling only once or twice, the Whitemother appeared and looking at her face I could see that she did not have the strength to come up. So with a bit of courage I went down and with no problem I might add. I have to tell you the joy of watching and listening the Whitemother eating her Seafood Supreme made it all worthwhile. Snowball had vanished in one of the pipeline but I am sure after I left she came out and ate her share. You really had to see the Whitemother! Sebastien: This note is for you. Thank you for going down the first and letting us know. Unless of freezing rain it is feasible to go down. Have a lovely weekend all! Lorraine

Sebastien Badour 05/01/08 11:51 AM Hi Lorraine, Excellent news. I had been a bit concerned about White Mother during our two-day cold spell. Snowball had come up to see me on Wednesday, but it took her a lot of effort on her part to climb the hill. But there was no sign of White Mother. A quick glance on Thursday at the tracks in snow suggested that White Mother still had not come up to eat. So it's great that you were able to feed her on Friday. I'd like to let everyone know that earlier today I brought back the pet carrier and put it in the shed. The sight of me picking it up in my basement scared Thumbelina, who quickly ran back to her favourite hiding spot under the stairs. She is really terrified of that thing. Sebastien * Brian Caines 05/01/08 5:22 PM Hi S: Thumbelina must be becoming a real housecat. The only time Corry or Ebony run from us and hide is when they see the cat carrier. B

Klaus Gerken Sunday, 6 January 2008 Some photos from this weekend: Saturday, 5 January 07

Lillian-Wentworth when I arrived

Fluffy, Blackie and Brownie

The ground crew doing a fantastic job cleaning the area of snow

Max and Spot sharing a meal

Fluffy and Blackie

Brownie loves leftovers from the cans

Arrivals at the yearly "Student Parliament". Our future leaders?

Shadow as I was returning with the water

Blue fog beyond the Champlain Monument after feeding the whites

Fluffy, Spot and Max in the back hamper

View from the Noon-day Cannon as I was leaving

Noon:
Max

Lillian-Wentworth and visitors

Bebe and Helene

Lillian-Wentworth while I had Max purring on my arm

Rene

Helene and Fluffy

Lillian-Wentworth, Brownie, Max and Fluffy as Helene and I were leaving

Sunday, 6 January 2008
With mild weekend temperatures the snow is beginning to melt

Brownie the only one to greet me

Bebe and Max warm in the back hamper

Brunette is there but I haven't see Ti-Gris for a while

Brownie and Max

Max inspecting the water

Shadow on the bench when I got back from feeding the whites

More of our future leaders?

Joggers on Metcalf street on my way home

Sally Sax Wednesday, 9 January 2008 10:20 AM Hi everybody, Just a quick note to tell you that Wednesday's feeding went well, and almost everyone came out to grab a bite to eat. I ran into Brian too, who had come to treat Fluffy's eye. I didn't climb down to get to the whites, but since the rain is holding off I put some food at the top of the hill for them. I called but neither the mother or Snowball came up; I suspect they couldn't hear me over the wind. sally

Brian Caines Thursday, 10 January 2007 1:54 PM Hello All: I got to the Hill a little later than usual and they were all waiting expectantly, even Ti-Gris. All were enjoying the sun, as was I. I treated Fluffy's eye and I do believe that it is improving although it is still weeping somewhat. Please try to clean it should he make himself available. I went to feed the whites and I noticed that a couple of bowls around the entrance to the vent so I went down. Both Snowball and the White Mother were there and I thought the WM didn't look any worse (or better) than when I last saw her. I left them plenty of dried food and some wet as a treat. They seem to be quite comfortable in their hideaway. Brian

Klaus Gerken Sunday, 13 January 2008 Some photos from this weekend: Saturday:

Laura, Bebe and Lillian-Wentworth

Lillian-Wentworth in a playfull mood...

Brownie and Blackie having a moment

Shadow trying to stare Lillian-Wentworth down. LW just ignored him

Brian arriving on the Hill around 930

Max wondering what's going on

Brian and Laura administering some meds to the cats

Brian and friends

Laura, Lillian-Wentworth and Brownie

Lillian-Wentworth trying to follow Laura home

Sunday:
Since I wasn't going to the Hill till 9, I went for a walk and took this photo of a deserted Bank street and awnings near Somerset

Blackie and Brownie still having issues - but good to see Ti-Gris

Laura and Lillian-Wentworth

Max jumping over Fluffy

Laura said "A falcon!" I said "Where?" and took the photograph

A close up

The cats oblivious to a dog visiting the colony

Yours truly by Laura

Lillian-Wentworth and Brunette drinking together

Brian checking Max's eyes

Bebe and Lillian-Wentworth playing

Lillian-Wentworth

The National Arts Centre, Elgin at Queen streets on my way home

Amy Kaufman Monday, 14/01/08 4:18 PM Dear Klaus, My colleague Nancy McCormack forwarded the link to your blog today, and we wanted to let you know how much we both enjoy it! As librarians, we were excited to see a fellow librarian as a member as well. What a great thing you all do - those cats look like they have a good life. Cheers, Amy Amy Kaufman Public Services Librarian Lederman Law Library Macdonald Hall Queen's University Kingston, ON * Sally Sax Monday, 14 Jan 08 4:34 PM Hi Klaus! I just got a wonderful phone call from two law librarians at Queen's University in Kingston; they wanted to tell me how much they enjoyed the cat blog. I told them to send you an e-mail, so you'll probably hear from them soon. Sally

Brian Caines Tuesday, 15 Jan 08 11:30 AM Hello All:I was at the Hill yesterday and today to feed da puddies and I must admit that today was much more pleasant. Although it was colder than yesterday there was no wind and it was quite sunny. Just a perfect winter's morning. The cats were all there of course, waiting to be fed. I notice that they seem to enjoy the warm water even more than food. Tea for cats! They all enjoyed their breakfast and my visit. As I was leaving, Lillian, Fluffy, Brunette and Max were in their sheds, looking out with their eyes closed against the bright morning sun, absorbing its warmth. Life is good. On Saturday and Sunday Klaus, Laura and I met on the Hill to administer the roundworm medicine. We got all that we expected over the two days, even Spot who immediately after the liquid squirted down his gullet, made a mad dash to escape, banging against the roof of the condo. Luckily he suffered no ill effects. We decided not to give the medicine to the two dowagers, Ti-Gris and Brunette, as it would be much too stressful for the two old gals (and for us). And we wouldn't even attempt to get the White Mother or Snowball. All the cats of the colony, including those four, received the tape worm pills in November so I am pleased with that. In two weeks the three of us will return to the Hill to give them the second course of medicine and then it will be done. Wish us luck. Brian PS. Don't forget to check the Blog for photos. * Pergrine Falcon Postmaster Thursday, 15 January 08 11:44 AM Hi Klaus Thank you for your observation and update. Nice photos! Actually, your feathered friend is a Coopers hawk given its size and markings. The long rounded tail is another give-a-away as to the birds identity. I have attached some additional info that you may help you with the ID. Thank you for sharing this with us. Sincerely CPF Postmaster The Canadian Peregrine Foundation

Sally Sax Wednesday, 16 January 2007 8:43 AM Hi all, Just a quick note to tell you everything was fine on the hill this morning, although Lillian did jump on Spot at one point (much to Spot's dismay). The whites didn't come up when I called so I just left some dry food in the bowl for them as the wet would have frozen pretty quickly. I'll give them some wet food at lunch if they're around. Sally

Brian Caines Friday, 18/01/08 7:27 PM Hello All: I fed the cats this morning as Lorraine was unable to do it and I was happy to so. I went a little later than usual, at around 10 AM, and what an unusual morning it was. While walking along Wellington Street I could hardly see in front of me because of the blowing snow, but by the time I had arrived at the colony, the clouds had cleared and the sun was shining, although unfortunately the wind hadn't died down. When I got to the colony an angel (Helene??) who had already been there and cleared the snow from the front platform and had left da puddies a few bowls of water. All I had to do was sweep the back platform and put out the grub. The gang was happy to be fed. I went over to see the Whites and I was blessed that both of them climbed up to see me. WHOOPEE! And as there were two bowls at the feeding spot I was able to serve each of them separately and they both got to enjoy some wet food. Yesterday I had attracted Snowball by shaking the food in the bowl and "puss pussing" her. Today I attracted them both. Progress. I notice that Lillian is still experiencing some problems integrating into the group. Let's hope that the testosterone clears out of his system sooner rather than later. Ti-Gris (!!!) takes exception to his being at the colony; even to the point of chasing him. The old gal still has it in her! And today Shadow attacked the boy from behind. I was able to separate them by clapping my hands and screaming at them. Max was excited and hissing and he seemed to want to join the fray, but I was able to keep him off. It seems that this is a regular occurance as the other cats continued eating and ignored the whole thing. At least they don't object to his being there. Max was quite affectionate and he rolled on in back to have his tummy rubbed and tickled. What a pleasure it was for me as I had forgotten my gloves at home my hands were pretty red and cold. His fur was a wonderful hand-warmer. And I am pleased to report that Fluffy's eye seems to be much improved. When I left to go to Bridgehead for my morning coffee most of the usual suspects had settled into their condos and they were enjoying the sun as only cats can do. Have a good weekend all. Brian

Klaus Gerken Sunday, 20 Jan 2008 Some photographs from this weekend. Saturday was a wonderful day and I spent some time on the bench with a of the cats. Lillian-Wentworth went after Spot and later, Max - a terrible row. Sunday was brutally cold, but the cats didn't seem to mind. They love sunshine and soak up the sun no matter what the temperature is. Saturday Morning:

Max, Fluffy and Brunette out to greet me

The gang waiting for the grub

Lillian-Wentworth after he chased Spot from the compound

Everyone getting their vittals

Lillian-Wentworth in the cubicle he's claimed as his own - only Max dares to challange him for it (and often wins)

Lillian-Wentworth and friend

Max as I was leaving for home

Saturday Afternoon:
Approaching the Hill from the West Block

Visitors by the colony

The pigeons are taking over!

Max hiding after Lillian-Wentworth went at him with a vengence

"And I hate pigeons!" - A visitor makes some new friends

Brownie making a point with Spot

Sweet Brunette

Shadow and Lillian-Wentworth

Rene arriving around 4pm to feed the cats

Rene

Sunday Morning:
Approaching the colony on a brutally cold morning

Everyone got a good feed

Fluffy and Max sharing

White steam over the Alexandria bridge

Everybody snug and settled in

Sunday noon:
No matter how cold, the cats love to soak up the sun

Everyone's happy and relaxed - only I was freezing

Lillian-Wentworth

Blackie

Visitors

Bruno waiting for me when I got home

Sunday afternoon:
Lillian-Wentworth and Fluffy enjoying the blanket I put out for them

Everyone else enjoying the sunshine

Cats on my lap

How wonderful these cats are - truly special

Fluffy and Lillian-Wentworth as I was leaving

Brian Caines Monday, 21 January 2008 2:08 PM Great photos on the Blog from the weekend Klaus. I am surprized that the camera operated on Sunday as it was so cold. Laura and I met up on Sunday morning after you had left. I could only manage to stay for half an hour because of the cold although Laura had been there for at least an hour before I arrived. (Farm girl you know!) We both enjoyed the warmth of Bridgehead afterwards, let me tell you! I don't believe it was much warmer at the colony this morning. The gang was all there waiting to be fed and watered. It was pretty hard cleaning the bowls as everything had frozen solid. I managed to clean a few of them; enough to give them food and water. How I hate the dead of winter!!!! I also went and visited the Whites, both of whom came up to see me after I leaned over the vent shook the food in the bowl and called them. Hopefully no human saw me!! I also treated them to a little wet food, just enough for them to eat as any remaining would have frozen solid. The two of them really enjoyed it. When I returned to the colony they were all in their sheds so I gladly left for coffee. Brian PS. Funny about LW and the other cats. Sometimes da puddies seem to tolerate each other while at other times it seems one or other of the males has to show off his macho prowess. Not much diferent that human males in that department.

Klaus Gerken Tuesday, 22 Jan 08 13:23pm Off work with some kind of bug...Snowstorm...no updates from the team. Must be tough out there.

Snowstorm from my window

Bruno certainly knows how to keep warm

Sally Sax Wednesday, 23 Jan 2008 11:02 AM Hi Klaus, I met the cats and Helene on the hill this morning and everyone was out and happy. I didn't see the whites but I did leave them a big bowl of dry. Sally

Kathryn Bunn Friday, 25/01/08 4:50 PM Hello fellow cat fanatics. Has been a while since I have seen any of you. Still seeing my little furry friends on a somewhat consistent basis after my classes in the morning. Thought I would say hello and tell you all that I am still alive in case you were wondering. I have attached some pictures of the felines I have taken so far this month. I will thoroughly admit I have a Lillian-Wentworth bias and there is a disproportionate number of LW pics. However, the other felines still get my attention :) Have been continuously adding kitty photos to the Facebook group "Cats of Parliament Hill". Anyways. Just hope you guys like them. Regards, Kat

Lillian-Wentworth (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Fluffy (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Fluffy and Brownie (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Max (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Brownie (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Lillian-Wentworth (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Lillian-Wentworth and Fluffy (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Lillian-Wentworth (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Max (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

Brunette and Ti-Gris (Photo by Kathryn Bunn)

* Perry M. Dueck Friday, 25/01/08 6:46 PM Hiya! I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for the Cat's Of Parliment Hill blog, and all the pics of the cool cats that are on that blog. I look forward to checking it out every few days...and it really brings me happiness! :) I plan on visiting Ottawa in late spring or early summer, and one of the places at the top of my list to tour (other than my sister's place out there), is the Parliment Hill cats. :) I grew up with cats, my sis has house cats, I used to have a house cat, and I think they are the best animal on earth! :) Anyways, thanks again, I really like the cat's blog. :) best regards, Perry from Steinbach, Manitoba, Canada

Klaus Gerken Sunday, 27 Jan 2008 Since I'm still not 100%, Brian and Laura are feeding the cats this weekend. * Sebastien Bador Sun, 27 Jan 2008 17:31:32 Hi, I just wanted to provide everyone with a quick update on Thumbelina. Even though she has access to the whole house, she continues to spend 99% of her time in my basement. Although I can't read her mind, I can only presume that she likes it down there. Except when I use my central vacuum of course (which is located in the basement). With a little encouragement, she does come up to the den on the first floor occasionally. This is where I took the attached pictures. Sebastien

Thumbelina (Photo by Sebastien Bador)

* Brian Caines Sunday, 27/01/08 8:35 PM Hi S: Thanks for the photos and update. Thumbi is such a beauty. She seems to be settling in, even though she remains in the basement for most of the time. Lammert and I think that it was at least three months before Ebony, our adopted cat from the Hill, was comfortable enough to come down stairs for any length of time. However, the upstairs was her territory which she guarded vigantly. Finny and Corry, our other cats at the time, were quickly chased downstairs if they even attempted to reach the top of the stairs. It was quite funny to see them running down the stairs with their tails between their legs while Ebby looked triumphantly down on them from her perch on the top landing. But gradually she would come down to the main floor on her own. I remember one time when she did venture down and a friend dropped by, she somehow managed to hide herself between the stereo bench and the wall, a space of a few inches at most, where she stayed until he left. Quite a feat. But eventually she got used to the place and now she is now as happy as a clam where ever she is. She now allows cats and humans onto the second floor without a second thought. But occasionaly, she will remember that it is her floor and she will to try to chase any interlopers downstairs. Brian * Diane Sunday, 27/01/08 9:40 PM Hello Klaus! I noticed your blog saying you weren't feeling too well this weekend and noticed there were no cat updates. I was at the colony I was at the colony twice this weekend and finally brought along my camera. All the cats were out enjoying the sun and I even got Bebe sit on my lap for the first time. They are definitely warming up to me (or maybe it's just the snacks). Anyways, I hope you enjoy the pictures and get well real soon. Diane.
Flufy and Brownie(Photo by Diane)

Lillian-Wentworth(Photo by Diane)

Spot(Photo by Diane)

All snug and warm - Brownie, Fluffy and L-W(Photo by Diane)

* Julia Szymanski Sunday, 27/01/08 10:12 PM Hi Klaus, Thanks for your answer to that mystery! I'm glad she's in good hands -I would have made the same decision. : ) I couldn't help thinking that Lillian-Wentworth must have been somebody's favourite house pet, before becoming stray. He has so much personality and he knows what he wants! He crawled into my lap the minute I knelt down to say hello... I'll bet that everyone who comes to visit thinks he's going to follow them home! Cheers! Wishing sunbeams and good weather to all of the team, and to the cats, of course! J --- Quoting Klaus Gerken : Hi Julia, Thanks for your msg of support. Lillian-Wentworth is quite the cat, isn't he?... As to Brunette's syst, we have had a vet monitoning it for the past year... since it doesn't seem to bother her, we decided that an operation to remove it wd he too traumatic to the old girl (16 going on 20 - she is the oldest there). So as long as she's in no pain we'll leave it. k --- Julia Szymanski wrote: Hi there! I just found your blog page: it's great to see that those cats are so well taken care of! It's nice to be able to identify them too, from your photos. I spent a sunny afternoon on the hill this week with Lillian-Wentworth, mostly. Very social cat! One of the longhaired tortoiseshells, Brunette I think, seems to have a large abcess of some kind right beside one eye. I'm guessing your team is already well aware of this: I just wanted to make sure, in case medical help is in order. The cat was still very friendly, even though the lump looked big enough to be painful. It was Tuesday afternoon. Bon courage! It's great work that you do. Cheers, Julia

Sally Sax Monday, 28 Jan 2008 12:21 PM Thumbi looks great Sebastien, very content! Here's a relatively recent picture of Sweetie and Scooter, who are also adjusting to life off the hill pretty well. So far they have only destroyed the following: 1. a lamp 2. a jade tree 3. my slippers They're so cute and loving though, I can't possibly hold it against them. Awwwww geez. Sally

Sweetie and Scooter(Photo by Sally Sax)

* Brian Caines Monday, 28 Jan 2008 1:38 PM Hi All: Laura, her mother Sharon and I met on the Hill on Saturday to administer round two of the Roundworm medicine to the eight cats receiving it. We got them all, except Surprizingly Brownie who squirmed and twisted so much that we had to let him go and not so suprizingly Spot who disappeared as soon as he realized the jig was up. This morning I met up with Helene to get the two uncooperative fellows. I filled the syringe with 3 ml of liquid as Helene held on to Brownie. When I put the syringe into his mouth and squirted in about 0.5 ml, he moved and the rest went all over Helene's face and coat with a few drops landing on me. And then he disappeared with Spot not too far behind. Brownie did eventually come back to the colony but he kept his distance from me and I didn't see Spot again. We'll try later.... Brian PS. Helene is no worse for wear.

Brian Caines Monday, 29 January 2008 11:01 AM Hello All: I got to the Hill this morning just as the bad weather hit. Not pleasant but I got the job done. The dowagers were curled up together and made no move to come out. I went to feed the two whites and after I called to let them know that breakfast was being served the White Mother made an appearance from the vent, looked up at me with an "Are you nuts?" expression and quickly returned to the warmth. These gals ain't stupid. Brownie ran away as soon as I arrived. He would come back to try to eat, only to flee again when I looked at him. The boy does not trust me. Laura and I will give it another go on Thursday morning but I cannot say how successful we will be with treating Brownie or Spot. Wish us luck. I wish those two would be as cooperative as Shadow whose eyes I have been treating for last last few days. He such an easy going beastie and even though he doesn't like it he lets me put the drops in without any problem. And I am pleased to report that his eyes are much improved. I phoned Rene to let him know that the cats have been fed and to take the day off. Let's hope he listens. Brian

Sally Sax Wednesday, 30 January 2008 8:35 AM Hello everybody! I went to feed the kitties this morning and despite the miserable weather, I received a very warm welcome. I didn't leave anything for the whites though since it was still raining and I figured anything I left would just get soaked. I will visit them at lunch and leave some food then. It is very treacherous with the ice and rain, so I don't recommend visiting t oday. Brian, could you give Ren‚ a call to let him know he can stay home? Sally * Brian Caines Wednesday, 30 January 2008 11:37 AM Hi Sally: Thanks! Rather you than me!! I spoke to Rene to let him know that you had taken care of the cats and not to bother coming to the Hill today. It's getting quite icy out there now as the temperature is starting to fall so be careful when you go up at noon. I will make sure that I wear my kleats tomorrow. Thanks. Brian

Sally Sax Friday, 1 Feb 08 836AM Hello everyone, All the cats were well fed this morning, including the whites. I'm relieved they all got a bite to eat before the big snow storm! I'll keep an eye on the weather and if need be, I'll go up at lunch and after work to do some digging. Sally * Helene Pomerleau Friday, 1 Feb 08 845AM Hey everybody! Sally: I'll go too after work (probably before 5:00) to clean the snow and to feed the cats for the long night coming. I'll be there at lunch too if you need a hand... Happy weekend all! Helene * Brian Caines Friday, 1 Feb 08 918AM Hi All:As my grandmother was fond of saying-Many hands make light work. Unfortunately I won't be able to make it to the Hill today at lunchtime as I have an appointment. I am glad to know that the Whites were fed; they will be sated and comfy in their hideaway waiting out the storm. And the others will be comfy in their condos, sleeping together if it gets too miserable. I will give Rene a call to let him know that the cats have been well looked after. Let's all hope the storm peters out before it reaches here! Thanks and have a good weekend, Brian * Sally Sax Friday, 1 FReb 08 214PM Hey everybody! It is crazy out there, so I hope you are all able to leave work early (or stay home, for those of you who aren't working)! I met Helene on the hill at lunch to give the shelters a first sweep, and I will head over around 5 to do some more digging, although I suspect with the amount of snow coming it will barely make a dent! Sally * Helene Pomerleau Friday 1 Feb 08 612PM Hello all! I went to the colony after work (around 4) to give the cats a good meal and some warm water before the long night coming. I brought 6 cans of food and they ate 5!!! There was nothing left!!! I also clean the snow. Even if Sally clean it at lunch, there's was a lot!!! After, I went to see the whites and they both came out when I called them, but went back in their spot right after when they say the bad weather. It broke my heart because I wasn't able to go down since there was a RCMP officer in his car looking at me... I wish I had been able to feed them down there but... Sally went to the colony too around 5 to clean again. Have a nice weekend! Helene

Klaus Gerken Saturday, 2 February 2008 Went down around 8, and as usual downtown is in chaos after a huge snow storm. The sidewalks weren't cleared, and the streets only half. So I had to trudge through about a foot of snow to get there. The Hill was even worse. Nothing had been cleared and the wind was autrocious. All the cats got a good feed, and I left some for the whites, although the snow there was pretty deep and they disn't come out when I called them. I went back again around 11 and met Brian and Laura who had cleared the compound of most of the snow. I stayed a while with Brownie on my lap and Shadow next to me before heading home.

Bruno proud and a bit confused after destroying my bedroom

8am
Approaching the colony through high banks of snow

Blackie coming out to greet me - Brownie and Spot...

Fluffy getting out of the way of the snow plow

Brownie giving me a big meow as I was clearing the snow from the platform

Blackie, Max and Fluffy just as the sun was coming through the clouds

Shadow seems to be twice the size of Brownie - is he ever getting big

The West Block from the colony

Max, Blackie and Shadow as I was leaving to get water

The East Block and piles of uncleared snow

One of my favourite oximorons: No stopping at any time and just a few yards away...a Stop sign!

Lillian-Wentworth and Max and the others snuggled in their cubicles

Ti-Gris making an appearance

Blowing snow on the Hill

Cat crunch - notice L-W in the top left corner

On my way to feed the whites

Shadow and Spot - with Blackie safely tucked away

And so with Max

Looking back on the colony over a hill of snow

11am:
Ti-Gris and Brian in the back

Laura with Lillian-Wentworth

Brian and Laura

Brwonie and Max

Lillian-Wentworth watching whil Brownie was on my lap and Shadow was sitting next to me

The compound just before I left

Bruno fast asleep when I got home

* Sebastien Bador Saturday, 2 February 2008 5:40pm Hi, I just want to let everyone know that I dropped by at around 10 this morning and fed both White Mother and Snowball. The snow was much too deep for them to come up to the path (Snowball made one attempt but after a couple of steps she gave up). So I went down and gave them a big can of wet food and the remaining Temptations that I had. White Mother in particular was very hungry. I created a path for them and in doing so started a mini-avalanche. The snow was two-feet deep (it really collects there because of the wind). Hopefully, they will be able to come up again without any difficulty. Sebastien

Klaus Gerken Sunday, 3 February 2008 Went down around 9 and met Laura and brian on the Hill. Stayed to talk to some visitors and sit with the cats.

O'Connor Street as I was leaving to feed the cats...just piles and piles of snow...

Brian and Laura already at the colony as I arrived

Laura and Brian admiring Lillian-Wentworth

Max rather frazzled

Brownie, Spot and Fluffy sharing breakfast

And don't forget the pigeons...

The gang

Lillian-Wentworth sleepy

Shadow curious

Lillian-Wentworth makes a friend

Brownie and Fluffy on the bench just before I left

Lillian-Wentworth watching Shadow

The Noon-Day cannon covered in deep snow

Brian Caines Monday, 3 February 2008 11:20am Hi All: I arrived at the Hill a little later than is normal and the usual suspects were there waiting patiently. They were all well fed and well watered before I left. As a bonus I got to see both Snowball and Mama White who came up to greet me. The pathway Sebastien blazed is working as it should. As a special treat they each got a separate can of wet food which they enjoyed. Eleven degrees tomorrow so I can't imagine that I'll have to shovel. Have a good week, Brian

Brian Caines Monday, 5 January 2008 11:27AM Hello All: A wet, sloppy, miserable morning. A lot of snow fell overnight; more than I had expected. I shovelled and then fed and watered them all. Again the Whites visited for a few minutes and enjoyed their morning meal! I telephoned Rene and gave him the day off! Brian * Heather Ferguson Monady, 5 January 2006 3:19PM Hi, yes, I still take an interest in the cats. I continue to be amazed at the services you all render the cats in all weather. Heather.

Lorraine Milobar Wednesday, 6 February 2008 9:20 AM Hi Gang: It was so nice to see all my little friends this morning. I had not seen them since January 8th. As I approached the fence, Fluffy was looking from his condo but I think was not sure who I was. Then I call him and well here they were all coming out of their little home. That made my day! They all had Seafood Supreme, left lots of dry food and warm water. I then went to see the Whitemother and Snowball. I did not even call them as I decided to go down with a full bowl of dry food and a can of wet. Both were there and did not ran away. One more great moment! I would like to thank Sally for taking over the period I was not able to feed our little friends. I know Brian would have done it but it is nice to have extra help. Thanks a million Sally! When can we meet...just let me know and I will be there...thanks again! Lorraine

Brian Caines Wednesday, 7 Feb 2008 12:39 AM Hi All: More snow on the Hill this morning so shovelling was in order. I am getting very tired of this! I believe this is the worst winter for snow in a long time. I don't believe it has been piled as high around the compound since I first started going there. The colony cats were all accounted for although the whites they did not venture out when Laura and I called for them. There were not any prints around the vent either so we have a feeling that Lorraine left them lots of food yesterday and they were staying put for the duration of the snowfall. We didn't leave any food for them as it was snowing so heavily we thought it pointless. I am still treating Shadow's eye and it is very much improved. Klaus and I were wondering over the weekend whether Shadow ever went into a condo. We have never seen him in one and we thought he was too big to go through the door. Well, we were wrong! This morning I saw him come out of one of the back shelters, looking rather sheepish at being caught. When Laura was shaking out the blanket in the hamper she found four copies of the book that Christ wrote Klaus about. There are two left. I telephoned Rene and told him to put his feet up today and to bother coming to the Hill. Brian PS. After leaving the cats I went to the National Gallery to see the Joe Fafard exhibition. Don't miss it. It is wonderful and very whimsical.