Valkyrie Maine Coons

10/09/2024

𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐩 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲: 🐾 𝑹𝒆𝒈𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒓 𝑵𝒂𝒊𝒍 𝑻𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈:
Maine C***s’ nails can grow quickly, so it’s important to trim them every couple of weeks. Use a cat-specific nail clipper and only trim the tip to avoid hitting the quick. This keeps their claws healthy and helps prevent scratching accidents. 🐾✂️

For more tips and tricks, visit our website: valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com/blog

**n **niversity

𝕯𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗: The content shared in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health. The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

06/09/2024

📸 The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

05/09/2024

🚨 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐀𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐭!🚨

Let’s take a trip down memory lane to one of Chewie’s shining moments at the COTY (Cat of the Year) competition! 🌟

Our majestic boy stole the show on the judges' table, leaving everyone in awe with his regal presence and that signature Maine C**n charm. 😻✨ And of course, what’s a star performance without a few well-deserved treats afterward? 🍗 Chewie certainly earned them, courtesy of the wonderful judge Lynne du Toit. 💖

📸 Big thanks to Emma Gernetzky for capturing these unforgettable moments so beautifully. Every whisker, every proud pose—she caught it all! 🐾

If you’re as smitten with Chewie as we are, hit that follow button to keep up with his latest adventures and see more of our stunning Maine C***s! 🐱💕

***s **nMagic

04/09/2024

🦷 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲: 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐋𝐞𝐭'𝐬 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐂𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡!🦷

Did you know that just like us, our feline friends need regular dental care to stay healthy and happy? 😺 Here's why keeping those pearly whites clean is so important:

✨ 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑫𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆: Cats can suffer from gum disease, plaque buildup, and even tooth decay. Regular brushing and vet check-ups can help prevent these issues. 🪥

✨ 𝑭𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒉 𝑩𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉: Nobody wants a stinky kitty kiss! Keeping your cat’s teeth clean means fresher breath for those cuddles. 😻💕

✨ 𝑶𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒕𝒉: Poor dental health can lead to more serious health problems, including heart, liver, and kidney issues. By taking care of their teeth, you're helping to keep your cat healthy from head to toe bean. 🐾

📝 Quick Tips:

1. 𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑟𝑡 𝐵𝑟𝑢𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐸𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑦: Get your kitten used to having their teeth brushed while they’re young. It’ll make things easier down the road! 🍼
2. 𝑈𝑠𝑒 𝐶𝑎𝑡-𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑙𝑦 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑐𝑡𝑠: Only use toothpaste and brushes made specifically for cats. Human toothpaste may contain Xylitol, which is toxic to cats. 🛡️
3. 𝐷𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑇𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡𝑠 & 𝑇𝑜𝑦𝑠: Incorporate dental chews and toys into their routine. They’re a fun way to help keep teeth clean! 🦷🧸
4. 𝑊𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑊𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑆𝑖𝑔𝑛𝑠: Bad breath, red gums, and difficulty eating can be signs of dental issues. Don't ignore them—early intervention is key! 🚨👀

🐾 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫: Regular vet check-ups are essential! Your vet can catch any issues early and give your cat's teeth a professional clean if needed. 🩺

Stay tuned for more tips on keeping your Maine C**n in top shape! 🎓 **niversity **nCare ***s

💚 Don’t forget to share this post to help spread awareness about cat dental health! Your kitty will thank you! 😻

𝕯𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗: The content shared in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health.
📸 The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

03/09/2024

𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐩 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲: 🐾 𝑩𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒄𝒔:
Though Maine C***s are known for their water tolerance, they don’t need frequent baths. When you do bathe your Maine C**n, use a gentle, cat-specific shampoo and make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue. Pat them dry with a warm, soft towel and follow up with a gentle brushing session once they’re fully dry. 🛁✨

For more tips and tricks, visit our website: valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com/blog

**n **niversity

𝕯𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗: The content shared in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health. The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

02/09/2024

🐾🌟 𝐴𝑛𝑖𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑃𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝐴𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑀𝑜𝑛𝑡ℎ: 𝐻𝑜𝑤 𝑊𝑒𝑙𝑙 𝐷𝑜 𝑌𝑜𝑢 𝐾𝑛𝑜𝑤 𝑌𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑀𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑜𝑛? 🌟🐾

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month, and as a devoted Maine C**n breeder, I’m committed to ensuring the well-being of these majestic cats. Maine C***s are known for their gentle and loving nature, but like all animals, they can sometimes experience pain that isn’t always easy to detect. 🐾

💡 Did You Know? Cats are experts at hiding discomfort. They often mask their pain, making it crucial for us as pet parents to be extra vigilant. Here are a few subtle signs your furry friend might be in pain:

🛑 Changes in Behavior: Is your usually social cat suddenly more reclusive or irritable?
🐾 Altered Movement: Difficulty jumping, limping, or stiffness could be red flags.
🍲 Appetite Loss: A sudden disinterest in food might indicate something’s wrong.
😿 Vocalization: Increased meowing or growling can be their way of saying, "I’m hurting."

💕 What Can You Do? This month, let’s make it our mission to learn more about these signs and ensure our Maine C***s are as comfortable and happy as they can be. Regular vet visits, a watchful eye, and lots of love can go a long way in keeping them pain-free. 🌟

Want to see more of these magnificent cats and learn how to keep them happy? Follow us, and check out the blog on our website: www.valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com/blog 🐱💖

**nLove ***s

𝕯𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗: The content shared in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health.
The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

01/09/2024

🌟🐾 𝐆𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐲 🐾🌟

Today, we’re celebrating the radiant glow of our ginger cats, also known as red cats! 🧡 These majestic Maine C***s are more than just a pretty face—they’re a rare and cherished part of any cat family.

Did you know? You can only get a red female cat if both parents are red, or if the mother is a tortoiseshell and the father is red. That makes them extra special! 😻

Red beauties are known for their warm, affectionate nature and their ability to light up any room they walk into. Whether it’s their striking "orange" coats or their freckled noses, these cats are truly the epitome of feline grace and charm. 🧡

At Valkyrie Maine C***s, we’re proud to have tortoiseshell beauties who can produce these stunning cats, as part of our 'smartie box of colours.'

Tell us about your ginger fur-baby in the comments below and let’s celebrate the fiery spirit of these magnificent cats together! 👇

***s **nMagic

📸: Valkyrie Red Hot Chilli

01/09/2024

🌿 🌸 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐚𝐲 & 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡! 🌸 🌿

At Valkyrie Maine C***s, we’re celebrating two fantastic occasions: Spring Day and Happy Cat Month! 🌸🐾

Our Maine C***s are as majestic as the season itself. With their playful nature and loving personalities, they bring the same joy and vitality that spring brings to the world.

This month, let’s make sure our cats are thriving! From regular health checkups to grooming and playtime, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping our feline friends happy and healthy. 🩷

Spring is also a time to think about responsible pet ownership. Are you ready to welcome a Maine C**n into your home? Remember, these gentle giants require love, attention, and a lifelong commitment. 🏡🐾

Here’s to a season filled with love, joy, and purrs! Happy Spring Day and Happy Cat Month from Valkyrie Maine C***s! 🌞💐

Check out our blog to see how you can celebrate with your Maine C**n! 🐾
www.valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com/blog

**n ***s

𝕯𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗: The content shared in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health. The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

31/08/2024

🌟✨ 𝙃𝒂𝙥𝒑𝙮 𝙃𝒆𝙖𝒗𝙚𝒏𝙡𝒚 14𝒕𝙝 𝘽𝒊𝙧𝒕𝙝𝒅𝙖𝒚, 𝘼𝒗𝙧𝒂 ✨🌟

Today, I’m celebrating the beautiful soul that graced my life and left paw prints on my heart forever. Avra, my first imported Maine C**n, would have turned 14 today. Though she's no longer with us, her spirit continues to shine bright in my memories and in the legacy she left behind.

Avra, you brought so much joy, love, and grace into my life. Your gentle purrs, playful spirit, and regal presence will never be forgotten. Forever in our hearts you will be; a cherished part of Valkyrie. 💖

I miss you every day, but I find comfort knowing you’re frolicking in the fields of the Rainbow Bridge, surrounded by love and light.

Happy Heavenly Birthday, sweet girl. Until we meet again, you will always be in my heart. 🐾🌈

**n

30/08/2024

𝕯𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗: The content shared in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health. The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

28/08/2024

Extra, extra, read all about it! 📰

Valkyrie Maine C***s' Cat of the Year results are featured in the Helderberg Gazette! 🎉 We are overjoyed to see our cats recognized for their hard work and beauty. Thank you to all who continue to support our cattery! 🥰 **nPride

A Strand cattery proudly showcased three Main C**n felines at the prestigious South African Cat Council’s (SACC) Cat of the Year (COTY) competition.

27/08/2024

𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐩 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲: 🐾 𝑬𝒂𝒓 𝑪𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑬𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒍𝒔:
Maine C***s have large, tufted ears that can accumulate dirt and wax. Use a soft, damp cotton ball or a vet-approved ear cleaner to gently wipe the outer part of the ear. Never insert anything into the ear canal. Regular ear checks can help prevent infections and keep your kitty comfortable! 👂✨

**n **niversity

For more tips and tricks, visit our website: valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com/blog

𝕯𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗: The content shared in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health. The image used is AI-generated and is meant for illustrative purposes only.

23/08/2024

20/08/2024

𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐩 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲: 🐾 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝑲𝒆𝒚:
Maine C***s are active and playful, so regular interactive playtime is a must! Engage your kitty with toys that mimic hunting, like feather wands or laser pointers. This not only keeps them physically fit but also mentally stimulated, preventing boredom and behavioral issues. 🎾✨

For more tips and tricks, visit our website: valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com/blog

**n **niversity

19/08/2024

𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝑵𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝑴𝒚 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒔: 𝑨 𝑱𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑯𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝑭𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔

Ever since I was a little girl, I've had a deep love for animals. It all started when my mother, seeing my sister and I's enthusiasm, enrolled us in horse riding lessons. Those Saturday morning lessons quickly became the highlight of my week, and I soon found myself completely captivated by horses. 🐴 We were lucky enough to attend a few pony camps as well, which only deepened my passion.

However, when my parents divorced just after I turned 10, my mother, now a single parent, could no longer afford the lessons. We moved into a flat, and the closest I came to my beloved horses was watching them on television in show jumping or horse racing events. 📺🏇

Watching the horses race at full speed was a mesmerizing experience, and it sparked a lifelong romance with horse racing. The magnificent names of these racehorses always stood out to me. When we moved to the Cape, I decided to merge two of my passions—horses and cats. And so began the tradition of naming our show cats after famous racehorses. 🐱❤️

Naming a kitten is a special process; the name has to feel just right. Sometimes it takes a while to find the perfect one. Over the years, we've had cats with names inspired by significant horses such as:

🐾 𝘈𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘋𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨
🐾 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘛𝘪𝘦 𝘈𝘧𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳
🐾 𝘊𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘈 𝘎𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘴𝘦
🐾 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘠𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘺
🐾 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦
🐾 𝘔𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘲𝘶𝘦
🐾 𝘚𝘩𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘴
🐾 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘺𝘢𝘭
🐾 𝘚𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘚𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦
🐾 𝘠𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘦𝘦 𝘎𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘯

Each name carries a story and a legacy, making our journey in naming our cats a cherished tradition. 🌟

18/08/2024

🎉 𝑨 𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝑯𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝑩𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝑪𝒉𝒆𝒘𝒊𝒆, 𝒂𝒌𝒂 𝑺𝒑 𝑪𝒉 𝑽𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒚𝒓𝒊𝒆 𝑨𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝑫𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑵𝑸! 🎂

You’ve grown from a curious kitten into the king of the house, and we couldn’t be prouder. Your clownish personality and playful spirit bring us so much happiness every day. Thank you for all the love and joy you give us!

Here’s to celebrating you and all the joy you bring into our lives! 🐾💖

**n **nKing

17/08/2024

🎉🐾 Happy Black Cat Appreciation Day! 🐾🎉

Today, we're celebrating the elegance and mystery of our beautiful black cats. At Valkyrie Maine C***s, we’re especially proud of our "black diamond," Mojo, co owned by our dear friend, Monika Bouwer from Dazzle Maine C***s! 🌟🐱

Mojo is not only a stunning black Maine C**n, but he also adds a touch of magic to our catteries. His deep, lustrous coat and charming personality make him truly special. 🖤✨

Let’s spread the love and appreciation for these incredible felines who bring so much joy and mystery into our lives.

***s **nMagic

14/08/2024

🩺 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 - 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲: 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐇𝐂𝐌 🩺

This Wellness Wednesday, let’s dive into Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common heart condition in cats. HCM involves the thickening of the heart muscles, which can affect how blood is pumped through the heart.

🔍 Signs to Watch For:

Rapid or labored breathing
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Sudden collapse or fainting
Regular vet check-ups and heart screenings are essential for early detection and management. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your vet promptly.

❤️ Keeping our Maine C***s healthy is a top priority at Valkyrie C**niversity! For more articles, tips, and tricks, visit our blog: www.valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com

**niversity **nCare

13/08/2024

𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐩 𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲: 🐾 𝑯𝒚𝒅𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑴𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔:
Maine C***s love fresh water! Make sure your kitty always has access to clean, fresh water. Consider using a pet water fountain to encourage more drinking, which is essential for their kidney health and overall well-being. 💧

For more tips and tricks, have a look at our blog: https://valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com/blog

**n **niversity

08/08/2024

🎉🐾 Happy International Cat Day from Valkyrie Maine C***s! 🐾🎉

Today we celebrate the enchanting world of cats, especially our majestic Maine C***s! On International Cat Day, let's appreciate the love, companionship, and endless joy these wonderful creatures bring into our lives. 🌍❤️

But that's not all! 🎂🎈 It's also a very special day for one of our stunning breeding queens – the beautiful and intelligent Harlee! Let's all wish Harlee a fabulous Happy Birthday! 🥳🐱 She perfectly embodies the beauty and brilliance of the Maine C**n breed, and we're excited to celebrate her special day.

Here at Valkyrie Maine C***s, our cats are much more than pets; they are part of our family. Harlee, with her stunning looks and sharp intellect, is a true testament to the extraordinary nature of Maine C***s. On her birthday, let's acknowledge the unique traits that make these cats such incredible companions. 👑

🧐 Fun Fact: Did you know Maine C***s are known for their sociable nature and playfulness? Harlee, in particular, with her striking features and keen intelligence, showcases the allure of the breed.

As we celebrate International Cat Day and Harlee's birthday, we encourage all cat lovers to spread the love and joy these furry friends bring to our lives. Consider supporting responsible breeding and local shelters, advocating for responsible pet ownership, and sharing your own cat tales. 🐈‍⬛🧡

Make this day even more special by sharing pictures and stories of your beloved feline friends. Tag us and use the hashtag ***sDay so we can all enjoy and share the love! 📸✨

Cheers to our feline companions and the wonderful journey we share with them. Happy International Cat Day and a very Happy Birthday to Harlee! 🎉🐾

**nBeauty ***s **n

29/07/2024

Cat of the Year was on Saturday, and I am thrilled to share that Sp Ch Valkyrie Always Dreaming, representing the Eastern Cape, placed 30th in the Entire category. While we had hoped for a higher placement, judge Thea Lamprecht's words resonated deeply: "The best cat is at home, waiting for you." These words are spot on, as “Chewie” is, and always will be, the champion of my heart. I am immensely proud of him for being in the top 30 entire cats that qualified for the COTY show and for being a relaxed and happy boy on the judges’ tables. Despite his 30th place, Chewie is also the 6th best Maine C**n Adult for the 2024 SACC show year.

The highlight of my evening was when Valkyrie Casanova of Highlanders, bred by me and owned by my dear friend Carol Middleton, received 3rd Best Kitten of the Year and SACC Best Maine C**n Kitten of the Year. I am humbled, honoured, and thankful that I could show this gorgeous boy on Carol’s behalf while she’s in Australia. Carol, you were dearly missed.

Another pleasant surprise was that our “Harlee,” aka Ch Sl* Multi C**n Catch A Glimpse Of Valkyrie (imp), was in a tie for 9th place Brood Queen of the Year.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to:
- My husband, Johann, for supporting me at the prize-giving.
- Herlien van Rooyen for travelling all the way to support me at the show and gala evening and for taking photos of the cats.
- The ladies at my table who cheered for Casanova: Herlien, Georgina, Jean, Elizabeth, Yolande, Carine, and Irene. And of course, Simone cheering from Port Elizabeth, Monika from the Kruger National Park, and Natalie from Cape Town.
- Roxanne and Natasha for their loads of moral support.

Well done to all the exhibitors who not only qualified for COTY but also kept their cats in pristine condition.

I loved going through the charms! The “Maverick” and “Konnichiwa” charms were my personal favourites! 💓

Special thanks to:
- The judges for donating their time to judge our beloved furbabies.
- Rushford Rosettes (Leonard) for making, and Major League Maine C***s for sponsoring, our beautiful Qualifier rosettes.
- Olga from Bellamoondo Cattery for allowing Mojo to come to South Africa (Mojo is Casanova's daddy), and Walentina from Axis Star Cattery for allowing N'Icco to come to South Africa. N'Icco has made such a significant contribution to our breed, with Chewie being his 3rd son, and Casanova his first grandson to qualify for COTY. We are grateful and proud to have these handsome boys and their bloodlines in our cats' pedigrees.
- Monika for joining me on the adventure of importing our black beauty, Mojo aka Jupiter Bellamoondo *PL.

Thank you to everyone near and far for your support. Special thanks to the sponsors, especially Royal Canin (Guiddo), Cats Best, That Little Cat, and Unistel Pets. Thank you to Ursula from Ursula van der Riet Photography for photographing every single cat at the show —you have the patience of a saint!

Additional thanks to:
- Carol for keeping Casanova in great condition.
- Georgina and Stephen for transporting Casanova to and from the COTY event.
- Thilda for making the catnip "pillow" part of my Good Luck charms.
- Nicole and Jade for showing Chasing Yesterday, which contributed to Harlee’s points.

It was an extremely long day for me and Chewie—we woke up at 05h00, and I only went to bed at 00h30 the next morning. Halfway through the day, I lost my voice, and after visiting the doctor today, I was diagnosed with laryngitis and flu. Despite all of this, the day was worth it, and I would do it a hundred times over again.

I am delighted that our breed was so well represented this year, with a Maine C**n being Neuter of the Year.

Lastly, thank you to Adrienne and the rest of the WPCC team for organising the event, Anene for organising the venue (the food was fabulous!), and for helping with the finer details.

Thank you, everyone, for making this a memorable event!

23/07/2024

𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲! 🎓🐾

Today's lesson: 𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐚𝐭 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬 🏡✨

Ah, Maine C***s! These majestic, fluffy beauties bring so much joy to our lives, but let's face it, they also bring a lot of hair! If you're a proud parent of these long-haired lovelies, you've likely found cat hair in places you didn't even think possible. But don’t worry, we've got you covered with some clever and effective tips to minimize the furry fallout.

𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 🪮
Regular brushing is your first line of defense against shedding. Not only does it capture loose fur, but it also keeps your Maine C**n’s coat glossy and healthy. Plus, it’s a great bonding activity!

𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐮𝐮𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 🧹
Invest in a good vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture even the tiniest hairs. Focus on areas where your cat lounges the most. It’s a workout, but your home will be fur-free!

𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐬: 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐅𝐢𝐱𝐞𝐬 🧥
Keep lint rollers handy for a fast fur removal on clothes and furniture. Place them on doorknobs to catch fur before it spreads. It’s a simple yet effective trick.

𝐑𝐮𝐛𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬: 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐮𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐭 🧤
Dampen rubber gloves and run them over surfaces. Watch as the fur clings to the gloves, making cleanup easy and satisfying.

𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐮𝐫-𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬 🧺
Add a tablespoon of glycerin to your wash to soften fabrics and release fur. A tumble in the dryer with a spiky ball can also help dislodge stubborn hairs.

𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐈𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐓𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐭 🛁
Bathing your Maine C**n can reduce shedding, but if baths are a no-go, a gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth works wonders.

𝐍𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 🍽️
A high-quality diet promotes a healthy coat, reducing shedding from the inside out. Feed your Maine C**n food rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭 🛋️
Create a grooming haven for your cat to keep the fur contained. It’s like their personal spa spot, and it makes cleanup easier!

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐞𝐲 🧼
Regularly vacuum, sweep, and dust your home to keep up with the fur. It’s like chasing a fluffy, moving target, but it’s worth it.

𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 🌬️
Good ventilation helps reduce airborne hair and prevents hair from settling everywhere. Open windows and use air purifiers to keep the air fresh.

𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐭 𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐮𝐮𝐦𝐬: 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡-𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬 🤖
Consider a robot vacuum to keep your floors clean, even when you’re not around. Just ensure it’s suitable for your flooring type.

𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐭 𝐁𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 🛏️
Clean your cat’s bedding in hot water weekly to reduce fur buildup. This simple habit nips the hair issue in the bud.

𝐔𝐬𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 🧽
Add large sponges to your laundry to catch cat hair. They act as fur magnets, keeping your clothes fur-free.

𝐖𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐃𝐫𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐫𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐬 🐑
Natural wool dryer balls reduce static and grab onto cat hair. They’re eco-friendly and safer for your cats.

𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 🧽
Use microfiber cloths to wipe down surfaces. They’re excellent at trapping fur and easy to wash.

𝐕𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 🩺
If shedding seems excessive, consult your vet. It could be a sign of an underlying health issue.

𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟 ⏳
Reducing cat hair is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency and perseverance are key. Stay consistent with your efforts, and over time, you’ll notice a significant reduction in the amount of fur in your home.

While you’ll never get rid of 100% of the cat hair—think of it as glitter that adds a touch of sparkle to your life—following these steps will significantly reduce the amount. By embracing these tips, you can enjoy the company of your furry friends without the hairy mess!

For more informative posts, visit our website: www.valkyrie-cattery.weebly.com 🌐

𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐫: This blog post is intended for educational purposes only.

Stay tuned for more lessons from Valkyrie C**niversity! 🎓🐾

06/07/2024

🐱 𝐑𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐭: 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 🐱

Rabies is a deadly disease affecting all mammals, including our beloved pets. Vaccination is crucial and legally required in South Africa. 🐾

𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬
1. Cape fur seals along the Western Cape coast have recently tested positive for rabies.
2. Dogs in Strand and Gordon's Bay tested positive for rabies in 2021.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐕𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Protect your pets by keeping their vaccinations up-to-date. 💉

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐨
1. Vaccinate Your Pets: Ensure they receive regular booster shots.
2. Avoid Wildlife Contact: Keep pets away from wild animals.
3. Report Strange Behavior: Alert local authorities to unusual animal behavior.

For more information on rabies and its prevention, consult resources such as the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD). Report any strange animal behaviour to the local State Veterinary Office: https://www.elsenburg.com/veterinary-services/animal-health-and-disease-control/

𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐭-𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
This post has been fact-checked by our trusted veterinarian, Dr. Omar Mehtar from Vetworld Somerset West.
This post is intended for educational purposes only. We strongly recommend discussing any medical or health concerns with your own veterinarian. 🩺

𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬
* Côté, E. (2014). *Clinical Veterinary Advisor - Dogs and Cats*. 3rd Edition, Elsevier.
* Hanlon, C. A. (2017). Rabies. In Ettinger, S. J., Feldman, E. C., & Côté, E. (Eds.), *Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine: Diseases of the Dog and Cat* (8th ed., pp. 2489-2497). Elsevier.
* Rupprecht, C. E., & Gibbons, R. V. (2004). Clinical practice. Prophylaxis against rabies. *New England Journal of Medicine*, 351(25), 2626-2635.
* Western Cape Government (2024). Alert on rabies risk along the Western Cape coast: be cautious. Available at: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/news/alert-rabies-risk-along-western-cape-coast-be-cautious (Accessed 04 July 2024)
* Western Cape Government (2021). Western Cape Veterinary Services hosts free rabies vaccination in Strand. Available at: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/news/western-cape-veterinary-services-hosts-free-rabies-vaccination-strand (Accessed 04 July 2024)

Stay safe and keep your pets protected! 💖🐾

04/07/2024

🌨️❄️ Looks like Sushi didn't get the memo about Maine C***s thriving in freezing temperatures! Instead, she's all cozy and snuggled up under a blanket. Who needs the cold when you have a warm spot to nap in? 😸🛌

**n ***s