The cat-human-bird connection at Wild Birds Unlimited

“Isn’t it ironic to have a cat in a bird store?”  This is a very popular question for new customers that stop by our store. But cats and humans working together in grain stores goes way back. DNA evidence identifies the pet cat’s ancestor as the Arabian wildcat Felis silvestris lybicaand places its origins between 10,000 and 15,000 years ago in the Middle East when the first agricultural societies emerged.

The grain loving house mouse was not as happy with cat-human love connection. Wildcats had no interest in eating grain but people probably encouraged them to hang around to deter mice.

The Wild Birds Unlimited - East Lansing store has 3 cats that have been the topic of several popular posts.  My catty co-workers have given customers many chuckles over the years as they’ve greeted them with a meow, chased dropped pens, or cuddled up in the bird baths.

Originally all stray cats, my three amigos were brought indoors to provide them with a safe haven as well as to keep my wild birds safe from predation.

October 29th is National Cat Appreciation Day and I would like to take a minute to recognize the hard work my cats do each day and bring awareness to the number of cats that still need homes today.

J.B is first on my list. A loyal worker for almost 20 years, he is acting Opurrational Director. If there are any problems, he is the voice of reason and is able to calm everyone down. Eli-Birder, his assistant for 9 years amazes customers with his GIANT gentleman's act and Hello-Dolly, with us for only 4 years, has taking over most greeting duties. Thank you for all your hard work guys!

Related Articles:

• My Favorite Weed: All About Catnip http://goo.gl/txqoL
• The Trials of Living in a Bird Store http://goo.gl/1hzvES
• Cats Indoors! http://goo.gl/B64Go
• Do You Take Your Cats Home at Night? http://goo.gl/gm8mP
• A window feeder is the best way to entertain indoor cats http://goo.gl/iWHHo