FFRC Blog Week Ending November, 1, 2025

Two months left before the end of the year. Where has the time gone? Mother Nature has on her best and brightest clothes. The leaves are at their peak color now in Ohio. Hope everyone remembers to set their clock to the correct time. Spring ahead, Fall back! 

Adoptions: 

River & Paprika: On 10/27, our beautiful kitties, River and Paprika were adopted together and are settling in great. River is an Inky female that was brought to FFRC by Shalin. She was born and rescued from a local Lowes. Her date of birth is 6/20/25 and arrived at FFRC on 7/7/25. She was hand fed and is very sweet. Her new name is Boop. Paprika is a brown tiger. She was a surrendered to Dr. Darcy’s office with health issues. Her date of birth is 5/29/25. She arrived at FFRC on 9/25. She is now called Beep. Please wish Beep and Boop a happy life with their new family. 

Rochambeau: Out little “Moo” kitty was adopted by a local family on 10/29 at 1pm. He is white with a few black dots and is very lovey. His date of birth is 6/16/25. He was found wandering the streets and brought to FFRC. His new family has two other cats, who are a little older, but still playful. His new name has not yet been determined. 

Wispy & Rosa Maria: On 10/31, the lovely Wispy and Rosa Maria were adopted together. These ladies now live in Tennessee! The family was expected to adopt Wispy, but upon arrival, fell in love with Rosa Maria, too! There are no other pets in the family. Wispy is a beautiful floofy girl! She is a long hair gray dilute tortie. We all know her as Popsicle, Eric and Amy’s Mom. She arrived on 2/28/25 with her little babies. Her date of birth was 10/30/23 (Happy Belated Birthday!) Her parents will be keeping her name. Rosa Maria is a fluffy American-Shorthair brown tiger with orange accents. She was found in Michigan and brought to Defiance. She arrived at FFRC on 8/9/25 for some emergency medical treatment. She has melted purple plastic/epoxy poured on her left side. The substance had hardened. With some effort, Megan was able to remove it, but this caused some skin damage. Rosa Maria is all healed now!! Her date of birth is 6/29/25. Her name may change. 

Intakes: 

Snickerdoodle: A new pretty girl arrived from Dr. Darcy’s office this last weekend. Her date of birth is 9/9/25. She is a floofy dilute tortie. She has various issues: ear mites, lice, and conjunctivitis (corneal ulcer). She was a little shy, but does like to play. She weighs in at 1 lb. 10 oz, mostly fluff and one FFRC belly. She is in good hands at the FFRC Miracle Center. Her name came from the Name a Cat program and was submitted by SonJa. 

New Inky Boy: We had an inky dropped off on the property on 10/30. He is about 6-7 months old. This inky has a few white spots and needs to neutered. He has a very shiny coat and no issues with ear-mites or fleas. It looks like he will be a big boy based on the size of his feet. Name to be determined. 

Health Updates: 

Glory crossed the rainbow bridge on 10/18/25. She lived in the Cove with all of her wonderful friends. Glory is a long hair inky with some white splotches. Glory had a heart murmur and passed with Cindy and Megan at her side. 

We will miss her. Juniper had dental work done on 10/27 and is doing fine. 

Kim Kitty also had a vet appointment on 10/27. She had an eye flush. 

Starlight is a bit snarky (snotty nose). She will be OK, but needs to get on meds. She doesn’t like the one that will fix her right up. 

Betty is still recuperating from her dislocated hip. She continues to be kept in a cage to prevent her from further injuries. 

Zoey is Megan’s Boxer. Not a cat, but still part of the FFRC Nation. She was taken to the emergency vet near Ft. Wayne on last Friday night, into Saturday morning. It was determined that she has a tumor in the back of her throat. She was given a steroid to help shrink the tumor. Please keep Megan, Eric and Zoey in your thoughts. 

Peapod and Fudge: These little rascals have graduated to the Big Kids Room and have been seen wandering around the center. They are around two months old now. 

Holds: 

Ludwig: Ludwig’s adoption date has been postponed from 10/1. The family and Ludwig are all fine, just looking for a suitable date. Hopefully, the adopters have plenty of springs for Ludwig to play with. He loves them!!! His potential family won’t be able to pick him up until the week of Thanksgiving. Because we don’t like to hold a kitty for more than two weeks, he is technically now off hold. If he is still available, he will go to this family. 

Megan has approved a number of adopters. We have been seeing a lot of adoptions recently. This is a wonderful thing, although can cause Happy Tears! 

Alumni Updates: 

Amy’s dad just sent Megan a picture and a note. She’s getting a bit of a tummy and still has the silver ticking. 

Recent Facebook pictures show Jacci getting more confident and comfortable in her new surroundings. She is quite the night owl, and likes to roam while her family sleeps. Heinz was comfortable from day 1. 

Events: 

The last fundraiser for October was wrapped up on 10/31. There were ten baskets that were sold for $5 per ticket. Each basket was fall themed and included a print by Mark Gibbens. Dawn E had his paintings printed and framed. The total raised was $5,645-before bump-ups. $4,540 in additional bump-ups. Total $10,185. Thanks everyone for participating!!!! Results: Basket A: Pumpkin Patch Basket, 132 tickets for $660. Winner: Karen and Gilbert Basket B: Hello Fall Basket, 76 tickets for $380. Winner: Lauren P Basket C: Fall Leaves, Acorn & Squirrel Basket, 168 tickets for $840. Winner: Cindy W Basket D: Fall Leaves & Cheese Basket, 243 tickets for $1,215. Winner: Bob & Linda Basket E: Pumpkins, Flowers & Gnome Basket, 39 tickets for $195. Winner: Selena Basket F: Fall is my Happy Place Basket, 47 tickets for $235. Winner: Beth AHR Backet G: Festive Fall Basket, 55 tickets for $275. Winner: Beth AHR Basket H: Gnome Sweet Gnome Basket, 49 tickets for $245. Winner: Richard R for Kim Basket I: Always Thankful Basket, 70 tickets for $350. Winner: SDF Basket J: Jack-O-Fun Basket, 250 tickets for $1,250. Winner: Cindy W Consolation Prizes-Diamond Paintings donated by Ethel Wings and Hubby. Basket A: Diamond Painting. Winner: LynnMarie Basket B: Blankie. Winner: Sondra A Basket C: Diamond Painting. Winner: Greg R Basket D: Diamond Painting. Winner: Eilen C Basket E: Blankie. Winner: Jenny B Basket F: Blankie. Winner: Mandi NI Backet G: Diamond Painting. Winner: KB TX Basket H: Blankie. Winner: Kitties Mom Basket I: Blankie. Winner: Bobbie L Basket J: Diamond Painting. Winner: Shawn/Sean RU 

There have been a lot of fundraisers recently due to unexpected expenses. Please do not ever feel that you need to participate by donating. You can help the rescue by subscribing to our YouTube channel…LIKE, COMMENT and SUBSCRIBE. This helps tremendously, and doesn’t cost the viewer anything. Also, JUST BE KIND! 

Halloween Shenanigans hosted by Gem and Mary Braids started a bit after 3 on Friday, 10/31. The show began as soon as the table was set up. We had 1, 2, 3, + cats on the table at a time. It was quite the “catwalk”! When Mary arrived riding (what else) a black cat, the kitties scattered. Poor Spiker got ran over by the exiting kitties. They probably had never seen such a large kitty. Next Gem appeared as another big black cat. The kitties didn’t seem to fear the Gem Cat. Megan came as an English barmaid. Debbie came in as Sister Mary None of That! Ella and Shalin wore beautiful masks and added to the merriment. Games played: Guess the number of candies, winner Kat Blind-fold build a jack-o-lantern, winner Shalin Move an Oreo from your forehead to your mouth with no hands, winner Abram There was lots of laughs, so the FFRC Nation was the real winner! 

The annual staff and volunteer party will be held on 11/15. The camera will be lowered and the sound muted. There are approximately 25 staffers that will be celebrating at this time. If you would like to donate, please note “Staff Party” on your donation. 

Kitty Christmas will be on December 6th and starts at 10am. Kitty Christmas is one of the largest annual fundraisers for FFRC. This is the time that we request food, snack and cleaning supply donations to help the center close out the year and also start out the new year with a full pantry. Please mark any upcoming donations if they are to be included in Kitty Christmas. All boxes will be pre-opened and names read on this day. Also on the 6 th, there will be loads of activities and games. It will be a fun day for all! 

Current Needs:  

Here are this week’s needs: Miracle Nipple Syringes KMR Heat Lamps Canned Wet Food Royal Canin Mother & Babycat Dry Food Canned Chicken and Tuna Appetizers Bisques, Broths and Stews Cat Treats 6- and 9-inch plates Bleach OdoBan The list is kept up-to-date on the Amazon Wish List found on the FFRC website. 

Other Updates: 

Sunday evening Cheri has been ill. Keep her in your thoughts. She is expected back on 11/9. Morning Kim is back. All of the kitties were glad to see her—especially Popsicle and Eric. They sure did enjoy their ride on the rug around the center. The TV in the Kabana bit the dust (hmmm kitty-related?). A new one has been ordered and should be in soon. The dead tree in the farmyard (where the geese roam) was removed on 10/31. Yeah, safety first! 

As always. Special Thanks to all that provided so much during this week’s Box Day!

​Closing: 

When I look into the eyes of an animal, I do not see an animal. I see a living being. I see a friend. I feel a soul. Anthony Douglas Williams

FFRC Blog Week Ending October 25, 2025

Another reminder: Please make sure that your outside fur babies are protected from the extra car, golf cart and foot traffic during this and all seasons. HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Keep our Fur babies safe! 

Adoptions: 

Gandalf: Gandalf found his furever home on Wednesday, 10/22. Gandalf is a very friendly brown short hair with Bengal-type spotted markings and big beautiful eyes. He was returned on 7/5/25, by a friend that had other FFRC kitties. But was just a bit too aggressive for his house. He needed to go to be in a single cat home, so that he could be the main attraction. Gandalf is a little over 2 years old. Gandalf is now named Finn. 

Nigel & Ruffles: Nigel and Ruffles were adopted together on 10/24 around 3:30. Nigel is a kitty that is mostly white and has gray accents. He arrived at FFRC on 9/15 and was covered in blood. It was determined that he had most likely been hit by a car and had a rupture eardrum and a third eyelid which protruded on one eye. He has since healed and his eyes are normal. Nigel was born on 3/29/25, currently weighs 6 lbs. 11 oz. Nigel’s new name is Nash. Ruffles is a mostly gray kitty with white markings. He arrived at FFRC on 7/1/25, when he was only about a month old. Ruffles was found in a wood pile. His date of birth is 6/6/25 and has a new name: Chip. 

Ali: This adoption was listed as a Mystery, but it was our own sweet Ali. Ali’s date of birth is 3/30/25, the day is the same as her new mommy. Ali arrived on 4/2/25 with her sibling, Lilo. They were only a few days old. Ali and Lilo were brought to FFRC from the local Humane Society. Folks there were unable to take care of the newborns. Auntie Debbie bottle-fed both babies until they were old enough to eat on their own. Ali will live about an hour and a half away from FFRC with her 12-year-old brother, Theo. 

Intakes: 

 No intakes this week. 

Health Updates: 

Bonbon crossed the rainbow bridge early Wednesday, 10/22. Chatters notified our wonderful Mods that Bonbon was very lethargic. The Mods contacted Megan who was able to be by sweet Bonbon’s side when she passed. Bonbon was about 5 months old. She was a very pretty petite brown tiger. Megan suspects that her passing was a result of very fast moving FIP. 

Allen is recovering from his full dental that was done on 10/20. He was a bit dopey upon return to FFRC and was kept in a cage for a few days to help in his recovery Derecho also had a full dental done on 10/20. He had previous dental work done, so there were fewer teeth to extract. Derecho was seen on the floor on Tuesday, ready for this next meal. 

Betty, our Huntress, was booped by a car as she crossed Power Dam Road on 10/15. Betty’s favorite hunting site is on the far side of the road, near the river. Our staff was able to get medical treatment to Betty quickly. She has a dislocated hip. Dr. Marina at Fountain City Veterinary Hospital was able to “pop” her hip back into place. After a brief stay at the vet, she is in her own small pen for recovery where she will be watched carefully. She will then move to Dodgers Pen for another few weeks, with the hope that she will heal completely without further treatment. 

Alma is doing wonderful. It is great to see her eating well and moving around. 

Finney is now undergoing FIP treatment, but don’t tell him. He feels just fine and is as playful as ever. His treatment should be complete on 12/6/25. He is a rascal. He likes hiding under his bed or pillow. When he hears “Where’s Finney?” he peeks out to remind everyone that he is still there and wanting to say HI to all. 

Mitzy: Not a health update, but still… Mitzy has a new favorite hiding place in the office. She now enjoys napping in the office trashcan. Mitzy is about 1 ½ years old and is approaching her terrible twos. 

Holds: 

River: River was officially on hold; however, her family had expected a boy kitty and will be considering a different cat. However….. River and Paprika: Woohoo, River is on hold again!!! This time he is being adopted with Paprika. The adoption is schedule for 10/27 at noon. 

Wispy: Wispy will be moving to Tennessee soon. Her adoption was originally scheduled for 10/25; however, this has been moved to next weekend. 

Ludwig: Ludwig’s adoption date has been postponed from 10/18 to a future date. The family and Ludwig are all fine, just looking for a suitable date. Hopefully, the adopters have plenty of springs for Ludwig to play with. He loves them!!! 

Megan has approved a number of adopters. We should see more adoptions soon. 

Alumni Updates: 

Achoo is getting closer with his siblings. He is going great. Jude rules the roost in Las Vegas. 

Events: 

All 10/15 Flash sale items were paid and shipped. Thanks to all donors and purchasers! A crafty evening was held on 10/22 at 6:30 pm. Details were kept a secret and not revealed until Wednesday evening. Mary Braids and Gem facilitated wonderful artwork that will be sold at future flash sales or fundraisers. Kitty footprints were painted on their own personal canvas bags. Proceeds from these items will be used to cover the dental expenses for our many kit- cats. Megan and Shalin assisted in the clean up! Scheduled artists were Ramsay, Gizmo, Derecho, Dagda, Egypt, Lucie, Spiker, Marilyn, Alma, Magic, Otter, Abba and Aponi. Not all painters were captured on camera. We were lucky to have had some pre-painted bags, which included our artist, Pania. Paint was water-based that is safe for animals according to the ASCPA. Thanks Ladies, that was fun! 

Mark Gibbons (UK Chatter and artist extraordinaire) has donated another of his watercolors which was used in a Kitty Servant Fundraiser. This framed painting is of the rear view of a beautiful Siamese, which looks like Pania. Tickets were sold for $5 each. A total of over $4,500 was raised from the sale of this painting. There were so many bump-ups that a Battle of the Bump-Ups was declared. The painting was won by Kay W. There were three consolation prizes awarded. 1: A cat and mouse mug brought all the way from Germany was won by Richard R for Kim. 2 & 3. Little Pollies were won by Paddy MU and Denise K. Paddy donated a Polly to the next adopter. It went home with Ali’s adopted family. Mark, thank you so much for sharing your talent with FFRC and thank you to all that participated. Also, thanks to those that donated the consolation prizes. 

The last Fundraiser of October is scheduled to for 10/27- 10/31. For $5 a ticket, ten baskets will be available to WIN. These baskets are from our friends Mike and Lola and also put together by other FFRC friends and staffers. All baskets are fall/Halloween-themed. Drawing for the baskets will be done at noon on Friday, 10/31. 

There have been a lot of fundraisers recently due to unexpected expenses. Please do not feel that you need to participate by donating. You can help the rescue by subscribing to our YouTube channel…LIKE, COMMENT and SUBSRIBE. This helps tremendously, and doesn’t cost the viewer anything. 

A Humane Ohio event was held on Thursday, 10/23. FFRC sent 19 females and 20 males. No FFRC kitties were sent this week. 

The annual staff and volunteer party will be held on 11/15. The camera will be lowered and the sound muted. There are approximately 25 staffers that will be celebrating at this time. 

SAVE THE DATE!!!! Kitty Christmas will be on December 6 th . More information to follow. 

Current Needs: 

We are low on Royal Canin Mother and Baby Cat Dry, Liquid Lysol, 6 and 9-inch Styrofoam plates, soups, stews, bisques, appetizers, paper towels, disinfectant wipes, Odoban, bleach and treats! The list is kept up-to-date on the Amazon Wish List found on the FFRC website. 

Other Updates: 

Sunday evening Cheri has been ill. Keep her in your thoughts. She is expected back on 10/26. Morning Kim has also been under the weather. (Popsicle missed his blankie rides!). She is expected back on 10/27.Special thanks to Mary Braids, Denise, Vanessa, Shalin, Debbie and Cheryl T for covering during this time. VENMO and other apps were down on Monday, 10/20. Funds were transferred; however, Megan was unable to respond that she had received them. All apps now appear to be working as expected. Mrs. Yacks 5 th grade class made posters for FFRC. Each poster showed a picture and a sweet description of an available cat. Thank you so much! Special Thanks to all that provided so much during this week’s Box Day! Megan returned from her vacation at Universal Studios on 10/18. She is REVISED, RELAXED and RESET. While she was there, she saw an orange flame in the sky. She later discovered that it was a space launch. What a wonderful thing to experience. Megan is nearly half way through her schooling. She has a couple of classes to take before she starts her internship. She is hoping to intern at the Ft. Wayne Zoo. WOW! ​

Closing: 

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. Maya Angelou

FFRC Blog Week Ending October 18, 2025

It’s almost Halloween! The leaves are turning and the daylight hours are getting shorter. During this Halloween season, please make sure that your outside fur babies are protected from the extra car, golf cart and foot traffic. 

>^..^< Adoptions: 

No adoptions this week with Megan on vacation. Intakes: No intakes this week with Megan on vacation. 

Health Updates: 

Allen is scheduled for his full dental on 10/20. Derecho will also have dental work done on 10/20. 

Finney is now undergoing FIP treatment, but don’t tell him. He feels just fine and is as playful as ever. His treatment should be complete on 12/6/25. 

Holds: 

River: River will be going to her family as soon as she finishes vaccines! She will be going to a local family. Getting closer to her adoption. 

Nigel (few more vaccines needed) & Ruffles (almost ready): Local family with the cutest grandson will be adopting soon. They came in with the expectation of adopting only Nigel but fell in love with Ruffles. Adoption has been scheduled for 10/24/25 at 3:30. 

Ludwig: Ludwig’s adoption date has been postponed from 10/18 to a future date. The family and Ludwig are all fine, just looking for a suitable date. Hopefully, the adopters have plenty of springs for Ludwig to play with. He loves them!!! 

We also have several people who are approved and will be working on dates to pick up their kitty/kitties! Stay tuned! Two different sets of approvers coming in after the 18 th . 

Events: 

All items were sold at the Halloween-Themed Flash Sale that was held on 10/15 at noon. The proceeds were over $1,400. Please make sure that you submit payment soon. Funds will be used to cover medical expenses. Sold were 2 bat cats, kitchen towel sets, drying mats, trivets, 2 strands of garland, a wreath, a Catopoly game, lots of t-shirts, a solar cat dangler, ghost pictures, a plush throw, little polly blankets, biggie blankets, pocket blankets and assorted ornaments. Hope I captured all of the items. Thanks to all that donated all of these wonderful gifts. 

There will be a fundraiser on 10/22 at 6:30 pm. Details are still a secret, but with Mary and Gem, it’s sure to be a good time. Proceeds will be used to cover the full dentals for Otter and Allen, plus any other medical expenses. Another fundraiser will be held around the end of the month. Most likely, will be a $5 per basket raffle. More details to follow on this one. 

SAVE THE DATE!!!! 

Kitty Christmas will be on December 6 th . More information to follow. Current Needs: We are low on Royal Canin Mother and Baby Cat Dry, Liquid Lysol, 6 and 9-inch Styrofoam plates, soups, stews, bisques, appetizers, paper towels, disinfectant wipes, Odoban, bleach and treats! The list is kept up-to-date on the Amazon Wish List found on the FFRC website. 

Other Updates: 

Sunday evening Cheri has been ill. Keep her in your thoughts. Special thanks to Mary “Braids” for working double shifts on Sundays. Morning Kim has also been under the weather; hopefully, she will be back soon. Saturday, 10/18 was her birthday! Lynnette celebrated her birthday on Friday, 10/17. The correct date for Rochambeau’s return is 10/10/25. He was returned through no fault of his own. He is such a beauty that it won’t be long until he is adopted. Paws Crossed. Special Thanks to all that provided so much during this week’s Box Day! Megan was on vacation until 10/17. Hope you are had a great time!!!! The Kitties all missed you and were sure glad to see you. ​

Closing: “Only if we understand, Can we care. Only if we care, We will help. Only if we help, Shall they be saved.” Jane Goodall

FFRC Blog week endig October 11, 2025

It’s Octo-BOO-ber and getting spooky!!! We have had a bit cooler weather and FOG! Have you noticed that the Kabana and Main Room are both showing off their beautiful Halloween décor? 

Adoptions: 

7-24 Rochambeau: Our Moo Kitty (White with grey spots) was adopted on 10/6. His date of birth is 6/16/25 and arrived at FFRC on 9/1/25. He was found roaming the streets and was reluctantly brought to FFRC. He has been renamed as Oliver (Ollie). Oliver’s new siblings (a brother and a sister) are both approximately 5 years old. Oliver has the biggest and most beautiful eyes. Unfortunately, Rochambeau, was returned on Friday, October 7 th . 

Intakes: 

10/6/25 Starlight – The date of birth for this beauty is 4/18/25. She was found under Debbie’s car and looks to have been left on the property. She is a white cat with grey tiger spots. She is a purr baby biscuit-maker. Her name was submitted by Angela G. Thanks!   

Health Updates: 

Allen is scheduled for his full dental on 10/20. 

Alma update: Sorry for the misunderstanding, I should have been clearer regarding Alma’s meds. We have only stopped giving her meds that were not serving her (from Megan). She is doing pretty well. Her intestinal issues seem to be much better. She is eating GREAT! She also has been very playful and of course, loves the snuggles from Marilyn. 

Finney is now undergoing FIP treatment, but don’t tell him. He feels just fine and is as playful as ever. His treatment should be complete on 12/6/25. 

Holds: 

River: River will be going to her family as soon as she finishes vaccines! She will be going to a local family. Getting closer to her adoption. 

Nigel (few more vaccines needed) & Ruffles (almost ready): Local family with the cutest grandson will be adopting soon. They came in with the expectation of adopting only Nigel but also fell in love with Ruffles. The adoption date has been scheduled for 10/24/25. 

Ludwig: Ludwig will be going to his furever home on 10/18/25. Hopefully, the adopters have plenty of springs for Ludwig to play with. He loves them!!! Ludwig is a black cat with white paws 

We also have several people who are approved and will be working on dates to pick up their kitty! Stay tuned! Two different sets of approvers coming in after the 18 th . 

Events: 

All items were sold at the Flash Sale that was held on 10/8. The proceeds were $975. Please make sure that you submit payment soon. Funds will be used to cover medical expenses. There were kitchen towel sets, a wreath, garden flags, a picture, wooden wall hangers, oven towels, trivets, shirts, figurines, a pin cushion, a bookbag, lamps, a key holder, a Catopoly game, a woven basket and tissue pouches. Hope I captured all of the items. Thanks to all that donated all of these wonderful gifts. 

The next Flash Sale will be on 10/15 at noon. All times are Defiance, OH time. There will be a fundraiser on 10/22 at 6:30 pm. Details are still a secret. Proceeds will be used to cover the full dentals for Otter and Allen, plus any other medical expenses. Another fundraiser will be held around the end of the month. Most likely, will be a $5 per basket raffle. More details to follow on this one. 

SAVE THE DATE!!!! 

Kitty Christmas will be on December 6 th . More information to follow. Current Needs: Desperately low on paper towels, little soups, bisques, appetizers, bleach, Lysol, Odoban and crunchy treats—good for kitties and peacocks! 

Other Updates: 

Laura, PoohBear’s Mom, started working with FFRC on 10/6. She recently moved to Defiance. Welcome!!! 

The Humane Ohio Spay & Neuter Day was another success. We sent 23 females and 20 males. This includes our friends Nigel, River, Rosa Maria, Tygra and Starlight! 

Peapod and Fudge are now eating straight kitten food, even though they are just babies—they think that they are all grown now. Both are well over 1 pound. Their fur color is called a smoke coat. A smoke cost is a genetic, permanent coat pattern where each hair has a dark tip and a white or lighter-colored root, giving the cat a silvery or pale appearance. Thanks to viewers and mods that provided the info on the coat type. River was formerly listed as a boy, but whoops, she’s a GIRL!!! 

Megan will be on vacation from 10/13 to 10/17. Have fun Megan! 

 Closing: “Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever.” Walt Disney

FFRC Blog week ending October 4, 2025

Happy Fall Y’all! The temperatures still feel like summer, but the daylight hours are shrinking! It’s time for baseball, WNBA playoffs and FOOTBALL! Hockey pre-season has started, as well. Go Sports!

The Blog has returned. I cannot begin to express my thanks to Rita for all of her wonderful blogs and Facebook stories. No one can fill her shoes. It is my plan to provide updates on a weekly basis. Soon, I will be more comfortable with providing stories and backgrounds of our adoptable kitties, our residents, staff/volunteers and FFRC.

But first, this from Megan, originally posted on September 15 th and couldn’t be expressed more eloquently:

Remembering our Friend, Rita

Today our hearts are heavy as we share the loss of our dear friend and volunteer, Rita Murphy a.k.a. CantonCat. Our deepest condolences to her family and friends. Rita was more than a volunteer-she was the voice and spirit behind so many of our words. She lovingly crafted our blogs, kept our Facebook and Chatters pages alive with warmth and wove stories that captured the heart of every cat and person who passed through FFRC’s doors.

Her gift for writing was matched only by her love of cats. Whether she was sharing a heart-tugging rescue tale or a simple update about a playful kitten, Rita’s words always carried kindness, humor and deep understanding.

We will miss her wisdom, her friendship and her way of making every story shine. But most of all, we will miss her.

In Friendship ~ Megan and all the Cats now, those to come and those who’ve passed.

Adoptions:

7-24 Lilo: Lilo arrived at FFRC on 4/2/25 with her sister Ali. They arrived from the local Humane Society. One of their workers found them in a garage. They were only a few days old when found and only 3 ounces when they arrived. Debbie hand-fed the babies until they were able to join the main room. Lilo is another miracle baby. She is a medium hair gray and white tortie. She now lives in Alabama with three other cats, including one of our favorite orangies, also, Lilo will keep her name.

8-8 Opie Cunningham: Opie came to FFRC on 4/21/25. He was just over three and half months old on his adoption day. He is a buff colored and is very vocal. Opie, now named Obie will stay a local boy and won’t live far from where he was found.

8-14 Lena: Lena found her fur-ever home with her new, most special mama, Kim, our fantastic morning associate. Lena will keep her name and she will join three fur brothers. It is not often that a Resident cat is adopted, but this is the purrfect match for both cat and mama. Lena is a 7-year-old tuxie. She was found behind a Coke machine at Meijer’s where she had had a set of five kittens. She was nearly feral until Kim worked her wonders with her. Lena’s three younger brothers (Ringo, Zorro and Zinnie) were waiting for her at home. Hurray for Lena Lena Bo-Bena!

8-16 Donny: Donny arrived at FFRC on 5/26/24, with siblings Allen and Dark Cat. They were found in a box in someone’s yard. His date of birth is 5/7/24. Donny is an orangie and has two new siblings,  Jasper and Denny, both Inkies. His new name is Waffles.

8-23 Fonzie: Fonzie, now is Nala. She is one of Sinopa’s babies which were born at FFRC on 4/17/25. She is a gray tiger. She now lives about two hours away and has one sibling at home named Joan.

8-24 Amy: (went back home to daddy after successful FIP treatment!) Amy was originally adopted on 5/19/25. Her mom, Wispy, and siblings, Popsicle and Eric, both are at FFRC. They arrived at FFRC on 2/27/25. Her date of birth is 12/25/24. She is in a single-kitty home and is much loved.

9-10 Pinkie: Pinkie’s birthdate is 3/11/21. She was surrendered on 4/30/25 after being adopted from FFRC as a kitten. Pinkie had a four-year-old brother waiting for her. Her new name is Polly. She is a dilute calico.

9-16 Achoo: Our Inkie, Achoo, was born at FFRC on 5/6/23 to Millie. His birth siblings are Butterbean, Cheerio and Squizzle. (the ABCS kitties). Achoo went home with his own supply of his favorite snack, minnows. He flew to his new home in California, where a sister, Cheese, and a yorkie was waiting for him. His name has remained as Achoo.

9-19 Heinz and Jacci: Together furever! Both were found in a feral cat colony at the Independence Dam. Heinz was found with the top of a broken mason jar that was stuck on his neck. In an attempt to trap him, Whoopsie, we got Jacci first. The next day, we got Heinz. Although the plan was to release both back to the colony after their spay and neuter, both cats were found to be friendly and not feral at all. Heinz is a long-haired inkie and quite a snuggle bug. Jacci is a shy tortie and takes some time to warm up to others. They are a bonded pair. Megan agreed that these two cats would not be separated and luckily, the right family has come along. They will remain in Defiance and have kept their names.

9-20 Clarity: Clarity is a silver/gray tiger. She came as a baby from Dr. Darcy’s office. She had come from a farm where she contracted a virus that caused some damage to one of her eyes. Wolfie, aka Choco, and Burger are her new siblings, both from FFRC and two more other kitties. Her name is now Ginny.

10-3 Jude: Jude has gone to his furever home in Las Vegas! At the time of his early am adoption, he had nearly 500 watching the live feed. Jude is an Inky that was found on 6/21 in the middle of the road. Both of his eyes were ruptured due to a virus. His birthday is 6/10, so he was just 11 days old when found. He was hand-fed by “Mama” Megan until he grew into a BIG BOY! He went home to two brothers; one has Cerebellar Hypoplasia (CH). See more about this condition, below. Jude will be keeping his name.

Intakes:

7/20/25 Fischer – a little brown tiger was found outside roaming around. He is so sweet! He is a brown tiger with beautiful eyes. His DOB is 3/1/25.

 7/23/25 Spark - was originally adopted on 5/22, and was returned. Sadly, it just wasn’t a good fit for the family. She is a pretty dilute grey calico, DOB 4/19/24.

 7/30/25 Miss Jewel – this sweet girl was dumped on the property in the early hours. Overall, pretty healthy, some fleas. She is a domestic long hair brown tiger. Her DOB is 3/3/25.

 8/4/25 Rochambeau – this sweet boy was found wondering around a residential area in Defiance. He is an adorable white cat with black spots. His DOB 6/16/25.

 8/9/25 Rosa Maria – This sweetie was brought to the rescue around midnight on 8/8 -8/9. She was in rough shape. She had some kind of melted plastic on her leg, taking off the skin, and had lots of bugs…YUCK! (current update—she’s doing AMAZING now!) She is a pretty American short hair brown torbie and her DOB is 6/29/25.

 8/14/25 Tygra – this beautiful tiger striped calico was found stuck under a pallet in a factory. She had a few minor nicks and scratches. Her DOB is 6/23/25.

 9/1/25 PeaPod (Female) and Fudge (Male) – these adorable siblings were found under a deck with their mama who had sadly passed. They arrived about 10 days old and were very cold. They are both amazing colored….inky with a beautiful smokey gray undercoat. Fudge is more long haired, but Peapod is more medium. Their DOB is 8/18/25.

 9/15/25 Nigel – ever-so handsome Nigel was found wondering around a residential neighborhood in Defiance. When he was originally seen, he had a collar, but was later seen without collar and blood on his left side. He appears to have a ruptured ear drum which is causing his third eye lid being more prominent. He is a handsome kitty with gray spots. His DOB is 3/29/25.

9/19/25 Peanut Butter – do you like adorable American Short Haired kitties? Do you like big orangie boys? Then we have the boy for you! This handsome boy was originally an FFRC kitty that was adopted as a young kitten, only to be returned about 5 years later. It sadly just wasn’t working out. His DOB is 6/26/20.

 9/25/25 Paprika – this pretty girl was brought in by our lovely Dr. Darcy. Paprika was brought into her clinic for health issues. Now she is wonderful! She has the prettiest golden eyes and is a brown tiger. Her DOB is 5/29/25.

Health Updates:

Otter received a full dental on Monday, September 29 th . He is feeling so much better as he recovers from his procedure. Cats are able to continue to eat dried food once their mouths are healed.

Jelly had a large polyp removed on the 29 th . She is also feeling much better.

Alma is struggling. We stopped her meds after a visit from Dr. Darcy confirmed that they were no longer helping her. Alma’s birthday is 2/22/13. She arrived at FFRC on 2/22/14. She came from a vet office in Pennsylvania where she had lived for months in a cage and wasn’t able to even sit upright. Alma has severe CH and cannot actually get up and walk. But…..she’s so smart! She’s figured out how to do the things she wants and how to get around. Between her flips, falls, leaning, and flops, she has worked out a way to move! And she also lets us know what she wants by different meows that she does! Her wish is our command! She’s a beautiful grey tiger girl. We are all sending her well wishes and our paws are crossed. A message from Dark Cat: “In the depths of sorrow, Alma gave us hope.”

Amy completed her FIP treatment and has returned back home to her furever home. Her once black fur is now tipped in white/silver. She is a beauty!

Finney is now undergoing FIP treatment, but don’t tell him. He feels just fine and is as playful as ever.

Kitties who have passed:

7-17 Pania

9-8 Muddles

9-9 Marvin

Holds:

Ludwig: Ludwig will be going home on 10/18. The time has not yet been set.

River: River will be going to his family as soon as he finishes vaccines and his neuter! He will be going to a local family.

Nigel: Nigel has a family waiting for him as soon as he has his neuter and completes a couple more  vaccines!

We also have several people who are approved and will be working on dates to pick up their kitty! Stay tuned!

Events:

Flash Sales will start up again on October 8 th . Please stand by for the time.

SAVE THE DATE!!!! Kitty Christmas will be on December 6 th . More information to follow.

Current Needs:

Spiker says that he NEEDS treats.

Desperately low on paper towels, soups, bisques, appetizers and Odoban!

In Depth Focus:

I will be adding a note about a condition, breed of cat or something else of interest about once a month. This month I will focus on CH:

This was taken from the FFRC Website.

CH—Cerebellar Hypoplasia

What is Cerebellar Hypoplasia/CH?

This is a disorder found in cats and dogs which causes jerky movements, tremors and generally walking and balance problems. It is a non-progressive and non-contagious condition. Symptoms appear at birth although they may not be noticed until the kitten starts walking. If CH-like symptoms show up suddenly or later in life, this would not be CH.

How does a cat get CH?

A kitten is born with CH when the cerebellum is underdeveloped at birth. The cerebellum controls fine motor skills and coordination. CH is most commonly caused by the kitten’s mother contracting the  Panleukopenia virus (feline distemper) while pregnant. Kittens with CH are not infected with or carriers of this virus, it has only stunted the cerebellum’s growth while developing.

How many kittens are affected in a litter?

It varies—it could be one kitten or all of them.

How long will a CH cat live?

They can live as long as any other cat!

What is the treatment for CH?

There really is no treatment. It’s more a way of managing the condition. The cat should be indoors only. A family can also “CH kitty proof” a house. Ramps can be used to help them get up on furniture. Sometimes a raised food dish helps. You also may want to pad sharp corners of furniture. Be careful of stairs—many CH cats have trouble negotiating going up and down safely.

What are the levels of CH?

Most cats have good life quality and make up in personality what they lack in motor skills. While some cats have a slightly noticeable stumbly gait, others may have significant trouble getting around. Still, there are others who are unable to walk at all. It’s important to remember that the cat isn’t sick, weak or hurt—he simply is uncoordinated. CH cats don’t seem to know that they’re any different from other cats!

There is a system of “measurement” though for CH cats.

Mild—These cats are very capable and require little to no extra care. They may have an unusual gait (called high steppers), an occasional balance loss and/or slight head tremors.

Moderate—Cats with moderate CH can get around on their own, but one end of their body may appear to be doing something entirely different from the other half. They frequently lose their balance, have noticeable head tremors, and walk with their legs splayed widely apart.

Severe—These CH cats cannot walk on their own and require a great deal of special care. They cannot walk or stand and sometimes flipflop to get around.

Is CH preventable?

This condition is easily prevented by vaccinating female cats for feline distemper before they get pregnant. Simply, vaccinate!

Are there other health issues one should be aware of for CH cats?

CH cats are very prone to chipping their teeth. Besides the issues with being uncoordinated, there are no conditions to worry about. They are susceptible to the same medical problems that any other cat may have. It’s the injuries that can happen from the uncoordination that can be the highest cause of problems.

Other Updates:

August 25, 2025 was Defiance College Volunteer Day. 31 students helped clean up the FFRC grounds by pulling weeds and sprucing up the property. We are very honored to have had such a great turn out!

The newly renovated Kabana was officially opened on September 4, 2025. The wall between the old office and the Kabana was removed. This opened up the area for the kitties. The camera was moved to provide a wider frame that captures those watching out the window and also viewing the television.

Jacci and Heinz are feeling more comfortable in their new home. They are more visible and are adjusting great.

Dr. Darcy Day was September 24, 2025. She was able to provide health checks for all of the FFRC kitties. FFRC received an A+, with only a few minor tweaks to meds.

Megan will be on vacation from 10/13 to 10/17. Look Out Universal Studios!

Special thanks to all of you that have answered the call when FFRC reaches out and expresses their needs. Whether it be a food, cleaning supplies, litter, office supplies, financial, the FFRC Nation continues to come through. If you are unable to contribute in any of the above ways, please Like and Subscribe to the Live YouTube Channels and leave comments.

Closing:

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Mahatma Gandhi

FFRC Blog week ending July 19, 2025

 

FFRC  Blog week ending July 19, 2025

Adoptions:

Macaroni and Pickles: Originally these two were being fostered with the hopes it would become an adoption.  It really all depended on the family’s dog and if he would accept them and they would accept him.  It took about 20 minutes until it became clear, this is a loving family that has two cats and a dog!  Congratulations to our Macaroni and Pickles for being voted on the island by the family dog, Tanner while the cats decided Tanner makes for a good snuggle buddy!  Their names did change a little bit.  Macaroni is now Mac and Pickles is now Piccolo. 

New Cats:

None.

Health Updates:

(see Other Updates below for Pania.)

Dusty Rose had all her teeth removed due to a major infection and plaque buildup and now that she is on the road to recovery and we now have an estimated age.  We believe she is about 8 years old.  She looks great, everything about her is thriving. Now that she has her horrible teeth removed, she is eating normally and has started to gain weight.  Remember she came in grossly underweight.  We are hopeful she will continue to thrive.

Jude has become a ‘chunka monk’.  He is doing very well.

Ruffles is also doing well.  We think he may end up being more of a medium hair cat. 

Finney is doing great with his little button.  His button will be removed in another two weeks or so.  Remember, the button was to allow his lips to heal better.  Most cats after button removal heal in a way that you don’t even know they had a button.

Holds:

None

Other Updates:

Sadly, our sweet, lovable, loving Pania passed away at the age of 13 and half years old.

Many of you have been asking about what happened to Pania.  Below is a brief history of her medical issues over the years.

Pania came to FFRC in 2012 when she was just 7 months old.  She was found on a street by herself.  The people that rescued her realized she needed help as she had bulging eyes and did not look well at all.

More than likely she had the herpes virus which affected her eyes. One eye which was badly infected was removed, it was so bad there is no way she could see out of it.  The other eye was bulging and appeared to be blind but there was some indication she may see light shadows.

While blind cats have been adopted out, successfully, by FFRC, it was determined given her frail health she would become a permanent resident. Over time she got much stronger, but would have periodic health setbacks.  

She had a terrible skin condition which would flare up from time to time, causing much discomfort.  She was always given treatment and eventually would recover.

She would suffer from bad bouts of bronchitis and chronic sinusitis.  Again, she was always treated and recovered.  As she has aged, her recovery times have taken longer.

In 2023 her remaining eye had swelling, off and on.   By late 2024 she began losing weight and  her rashes got more severe and she had a URI. 

Early this year she was losing weight and xrays showed she had a small mass on her liver.  Her age and other issues with her health made surgery not in her best interest.  As this year has gone by, she has slowed down a lot.  She took a fall and had a seizure in February.  

And one final seizure, she kept losing weight and seemed to be having some memory issues.  She passed peacefully with loving arms around her.

Sometimes medicine no longer works and the body says ‘it is time to go and find peace”.  

Pania is at peace now, having spent 13 years enjoying life, surrounded by loving arms and thousands of Friends around the world.

Be happy she had a life of love, and is now at peace, still loved.

----
Sazaz is enjoying her little private area.  She can come out, but she seems content where she is while her little wound on her back heals.  Her back is more of a skin issue than an injury.

We had a Christmas in July Raffle last week and raised  $5,500.

Thank you to Mike and Lola for providing the beautiful baskets.  To all that bought a ticket, to the winners, the bumper uppers and everyone for encouraging and sharing about the raffle.

-------- A final thought about Pania.  Pania never let her blindness slow her down.  Her personality emerged based on her, not her blindness.  Her little meows were when she wanted to let us know, “hey, pay attention to me and give me….Pania Flakes or other treats.  If she got confused and turned around where she was sure, she would give a meow to ask for help.

We all have our memories of Pania that we hold close to our hearts.  When you are confronted with something you are a little unsure on how to proceed, remember how many times Pania would climb a condo or tower, with one foot in front of the other to ensure her next step was safe.  She was cautious but courageous.  She was an inspiration to so many of us.  But to her, she was a cat, first and foremost, never letting anything make her stop being a cat, in all her glory.  She left her mark and left us better people for “seeing” her for the cat she was.

Our Princess Pania in all her beauty, dinging for some Pania Flakes!

FFRC Blog week ending July 12, 2025

FFRC  Blog week ending July 12, 2025

Note:  Due to unforeseen stuff, this is a long blog, encompassing information from June 21 until July 13.  Because of the ‘catch-up’ mode, there may be entries that are sparse or missing.  When you fall behind on something like this it’s like swimming in an ocean when you know you gotta stay afloat then remember you can’t swim.

Anyway, here it goes!

Adoptions:

Eileen was adopted and is now Irene.  She was a returned girl originally adopted in 2020.  She’s almost 5 and when she came back was dehydrated and fleas all over.  She’s all clean up and just wanted to go somewhere that will love and keep her safe.  She’s hit the jackpot.  Sweet girl who just didn’t love being around all the noise of the rescue.  Now her life is quiet and full of love.

Macaroni and Pickles: This bonded pair came to us in March, 2025.  They were in a loving home, but the dynamics of the family changed and they had to surrender both for their best interests.  We were determined to see them adopted together which is one of the hardest things to do in a rescue environment.  But  a loving family out there came in to pick two other cats and then met them and fell in love.  Pickles and Macaroni wouldn’t let them pick anyone but them. They insisted on it. They have a dog (who is quite old) and neither Macaroni nor Pickles are fond of dogs so we are calling this a “Foster to adoption”.  As of right now they are being fostered but we are thinking positive thoughts that it will become an outright adoption.  Pickles is female at almost 3 years old.  Macaroni is the boy and also almost 3.  Their original home had 4 big pitbulls so they are cautious about dogs.  But while you should never put pickles in your macaroni, these two simply go together and hopefully, will grow old together.  They deserve that.
Breaking news update!  Both cats have met the family dog Tanner and all three have sniffed one another and decided ‘smelly cats and smelly dog’ make for friends in the making!

When people ask “how could you do a rescue.  Too much stress, I couldn’t do it.”  It is these stories of knowing the cat you gave a hand to, the cat you let into your heart is safe, healthy, happy and most of all, loved!  We all do what we do for them.  Cats are our energy and inspiration.

Foxy:  Foxy was adopted!  This sweet girl was found wandering the streets in April 2024.  She was scared, skinny and in need of TLC  She was adopted out in January, 2025 but returned in April, 2025 as the owner developed health issues and could no longer care for her.

She is about 10 years old and enjoys serenity now and always.  She’s a big fan of chicken and her new home loved giving their previous kitty rotisserie chicken once a week.  She’ll keep her name but instead of Foxy, it’ll be Foxi.  The spell change better fits our sweet girl.

New Cats:

Phoebe: One of four kittens found under Debbie's car in the morning. A little skittish but very friendly. Very dirty and needing baths. Loads of flea dirt and dead fleas. 4 months old female.

Dottie: One of four kittens found under Debbie's car in the morning. A little skittish but very friendly. Very dirty and needing baths. Loads of flea dirt and dead fleas. 4 months old female.

Bueller:  One of four kittens found under Debbie's car in the morning. A little skittish but very friendly. Very dirty and needing baths. Loads of flea dirt and dead fleas. 4 month old male.

Hayden:  One of four kittens found under Debbie's car in the morning. A little skittish but very friendly. Very dirty and needing baths. Loads of flea dirt and dead fleas

River:  Volunteer found less than 14 day old infant.  We don’t have gender yet as he/she’s keeping it from us.  We are syringe feeding him.  He/she is an inky.

Finney:. Two- week old baby found all by himself.  Possibly thrown from the car.. Brown tiger but very pale, lots of fleas, upper lip laceration, Bottom lip pulled down which normally happens when thrown from a car.  He was brought to the vet and had a ‘button’ inserted to help his lips heal.  Button will be removed after healing. 

Gandalf:  Two-year old was surrendered from a family that has adopted from us before.  He’s a good boy but was just a little ‘rough’ with the kittens in their home. He’s not mean, but sometimes older kitties play rough with kittens, not realizing while kittens are flexible, they are not indestructible.   Some have asked if he was adopted from us originally.  He was not.  While we did have a Gandalf in the past, this isn’t him.  Can you imagine how many ‘Fluffys’ we’ve had!  He’s in good health and    

Bon Bon: Little girl about 8 weeks old found in the middle of the road with a sibling who had passed.  She was brought into Fountain City Vets and is a brown tiger  baby.  She’s a little skittish but when held is a purr baby.  She also loves belly rubs.
Ruffles:  Found all by himself in a wood pile, we thought Ruffles was a girl but then, well he’s a boy.  He’ll be altered when he’s ready. When found we put him at less than a month old.  The things that “pop up” every day are amazing and we just go with the flow 

Health Updates:

Amy continues to do well with her FIP treatment.  She has regained weight and energy and loves to play again.  Her treatment continues.

Lena had 12 teeth removed and after recovering she is eating well and doing well.

Holds:

None

Other Updates:

Sadly we lost two babies 

 as Hot Pockets and Beetles both passed.

Hot Pockets.  He developed a high fever and open mouth breathing.  He had a high fever. He came to us on June 11, 2025.  We estimated he was a little over a month old when he came in. He passed peacefully.

Beetles.  He came in when he was just over a week old.  He battled a very high fever and his bladder ceased outputting.  He was simply too young for any type of surgery.  He passed with loving arms around him.

Losing a cat saddens us all.  However, there are cases where medicine simply can’t fix those problems and nature prevails.  We mourn them, hold them in our hearts forever and are comforted in the knowledge they knew love, no matter how short a time.  Sometimes they are meant to be on this earth for a short while, always teaching us how precious life is, no matter its length.

“If you are having a bad day, take a nap and when you wake up embrace a new beginning vow to have a great day. See beyond the houses and your eyes, it’s ok to  shoot for the moon.  You are stronger than you think.” 

Apple having fun because fun is fun!