In This Issue
From the President’s Desk | Welcome Clubs | CKD Clinical Trial | Pet Night Capitol Hill | Pet Partners Pet Walk| Cat Film Festival | Trupanion Ear Infection Advice| TICA Social Media Fan of the Week| EveryCat Foundation October Update | GL Regional Update| MA Regional Update | NW Regional Update | SE Regional Update | SW Regional Update
From the President’s Desk: A Message from TICA President Vicki Jo Harrison
Dear TICA Friends,
These are exciting times for TICA. Last month marked the one-year anniversary since we launched the TICA Feline Management System (TFMS). The new technology platform provides many TICA services in a self-service format. I know it took us some time to fix the bumps in the road and at first things were a bit uncomfortable with everyone’s learning curve getting familiar with the new system, but we did it! You are proof that growth can only come from change. Thank you for helping us create foundations for the future and your unwavering support of TICA.
The ballot for the TICA election will be sent out on or around October 20, 2022. This year members of seven TICA regions will be holding elections for Regional Directors — Asia East, Asia West, Great Lakes, Mid Atlantic, Northwest, SouthCentral, and Europe South. In addition, members will have the opportunity to vote on several proposals. Please read through all the information on the proposals. In addition to an explanation of each, the pros and cons are listed for each proposal. TICA is a member driven association. Please exercise your right to VOTE!
I am happy to report that planning is already underway for, TICA’s 2023 Annual, hosted by SeaCats and TICA Northwest. Sponsored by Dr. Elsey’s, the event titled “In the Hall of the Mountain Cat” will take place September 2-3, 2023, at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center in Tacoma, Washington State. Additional information on the show, as well as how to enter and a list of judges can be found on the website The event is now open for entries! Stay tuned for information on the hotel block. I hope to see you there!
As always, I wish each of you good health. Please stay safe and hug your kitties tight!
Vicki Jo Harrison TICA President
TICA Welcomes Two New Clubs
TICA continues to grow with the addition of new clubs to our family. Please help us welcome CATITUDE CAT CLUB (Yuma AZ) to our TICA Southwest Region and Karma Of The Cat Club (Wyomissing, PA) to our Mid Atlantic Region!
Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats Complimentary Clinical Trial at Ohio State Veterinary School
Evidence suggests that aging of the kidney may contribute to the onset and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Rapamycin is a drug that is a known modulator of the aging process and additionally may decrease the formation of fibrosis (scarring) in the kidney. A feline formulation of the drug is available, and the purpose of this study is to assess the potential benefit of the drug in cats with CKD.
The Ohio State Veterinary School is running a Rapamycin clinical trial and looking for stage 2 CKD cats. Dr. Jessica Quimby is a world leading feline renal researcher and she is the investigator on the study. You can fill out the pre-screening questionnaire or contact Tamra Mathie – mathie.7@osu.edu for further information. All diagnostic tests and treatment are free of charge and there is also a small owner incentive.
Cats should be within a 2-hour radius of Ohio State Veterinary School, unless your cats are good travelers. To participate, cats are required to make four visits to Ohio Veterinary School – the initial screening enrolment and then three rechecks. The cats are given an extremely high standard of care and monitoring.
Pet Night on Capitol Hill Recap
Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) hosted Pet Night on Capitol Hill for the first time since the pandemic began. The event brought together members of Congress and leaders from the pet community to share programs, policies, and key information about the impact pets have on the mental, physical, and social wellbeing of humans.
There were numerous “celebrity” animals present, including the first Pet Partners cat team to take part in the event as well as the 2022 Westminster Kennel Club Best in Show winner, Trumpet; and the service dog-in-training for the Washington Capitals, Biscuit. In addition, retiring Congressman Kurt Schrader (D-OR), the only veterinarian in Congress, was honored for his years of work advocating for the pet care community.
Pet Night paid special tribute to Congressman Kurt Schrader (OR-5) with the “Human-Animal Bond Lifetime Achievement Award” to recognize his dedication to animal health and the human-animal bond. Throughout his impressive career Congressman Schrader was instrumental in developing legislation to safeguard the integrated health of people and companion animals.
Pet Night on Capitol Hill is an annual event sponsored by the pet care community. For more information, please visit www.petnight.com.
5th Annual Pet Partners ‘World’s Largest Pet Walk’ Raised $91,700 to Support Therapy Animals
Last month, more than 1,660 pet owners in 41 U.S. states and eight other countries came out to walk with their pets in support of Pet Partners ‘World’s Largest Pet Walk’. The event raised more than $91,700 of its $100,000 goal. All proceeds go to support Pet Partner’s Therapy Animal Program. Therapy teams, made up of pets and their humans, visit millions of seniors, patients, veterans, and children in need to spread happiness and joy through the healing power of pets.
Pet Partners ‘World’s Largest Pet Walk’ is an annual fundraiser that brings people and pets together to celebrate the health benefits of staying active. Each September, walkers around the world lace up their walking shoes and grab their leashes to hit the pavement to raise money to support the human-animal bond. Since 2018, the World’s Largest Pet Walk has raised more than $200,000 for therapy animal teams that bring the love of animals to those in need.
TICA partners with Pet Partners to certify TICA Registered cats in the Therapy Cat Program where the cat receives a specific Title added to the cat’s name/Registration and receive recognition at three different levels. Visit TICA Therapy Cat Program for more information how you and your cats can become a “Titled” Therapy Team.
Visit Pet Partners ‘World’s Largest Pet Walk’ page to make a donation to help them reach their $100,000 goal.
Fifth Annual NY Cat Film Festival Returns to a City Near You
Grab your popcorn and head for your local Landmark Theater, the 5th Annual NY Cat Film Festival will return this fall. The event, presented by pet wellness advocate and radio host Tracie Hotchner and sponsored by Dr. Elsey’s, will premiere in New York City on October 23, 2022, and then travel to 18 Landmark Theaters throughout the U.S on November 2, 2022.
This year’s festival will include a collection of 16 films ranging in length from one minute (Cat Fight) to twenty minutes (Cats of Malta) that celebrate the cats who share our world and their relationships with their people. This year’s Festival includes the most international submissions of any year yet, with films from Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Iran, Italy, Kuwait, Malta, Poland, Spain, Taiwan, the UK.
Following the NYC premiere, the festival will travel to the following 18 Landmark Theaters across the country on November 2, 2022, at 7PM:
Albany, NY, Annapolis, MD, Atlanta, GA, Bethesda, MD, Cambridge, MA, Chicago, IL, Coral Gables, FL, Denton, TX, Denver, CO, Highland Park, IL, Indianapolis, IN, Minneapolis, MN, Philadelphia, PA, San Diego, CA, San Francisco, CA, Scottsdale, AZ, Shoreline, WA (Seattle), and on November 5 at Proctors Theater in Schenectady, NY.
For more information and tickets, visit www.catfilmfestival.com. A portion of each ticket on the national tour will benefit a local feline rescue.
The Ins and Outs of Cat Ear Infections with Trupanion
Our cats can’t tell us what’s bothering them or how bad they feel, so many pet parents may not realize their cat is suffering from an ear infection until it’s already become quite severe. The good news is that most feline ear infections can be effectively treated and won’t result in any lasting health repercussions. However, the only way diagnose ear infections in cats accurately and safely is to consult with your pet’s veterinarian.
With this in mind, our partners at Trupanion, medical insurance for the life of your pet, created this guide to help you better understand cat ear problems and know when it’s time to seek veterinary care.
How common are ear infections in cats? Known as “otitis” in the veterinary community, ear infections are generally less prevalent in cats than in dogs (5% of feline veterinary visits versus 15% of canine visits, according to DVM 360). Because they are considered uncommon—and because cats are very good at hiding their symptoms—ear infections in cats may go longer periods before they are recognized.
Trupanion pet insurance data shows that the amount of otitis claims in cats enrolled with Trupanion has decreased over recent years, from .07 claims per 100 cats in 2018 to .04 claims per 100 cats in 2021. However, the average amount paid per claim has increased from $74 in 2018 to $86 in 2021.
Cat ear infection symptoms: According to Trupanion veterinarian Dr. Caroline Wilde, cat ear infection signs to watch for include the following:
- Scratching at the ears
- Shaking their head
- Head tilt
- Odor coming from the ears
- Ear redness and inflammation; ears may be warm to the touch
- Discharge visible in and around the ears
- Ears lowered “at half-mast”
- Acting in pain when touching around the head or ears
If you notice any of these signs, note that your cat may have an infection in one or both ears. Be sure to observe your pet closely and contact your veterinarian if anything seems out of the ordinary.
What should I do if I think my cat has an ear infection? If you suspect there’s something wrong with your cat’s ears, the first thing you should do is call your veterinarian. They’ll likely ask you to bring your cat in for an official diagnosis—in fact, you shouldn’t attempt any at-home treatments before getting a professional opinion.
“If a cat owner is concerned regarding a possible ear infection, they should seek veterinary care and not try to manage the ear infection on their own without veterinary guidance,” Dr. Wilde says. “Some ear cleaners and medications can be toxic to the ear and can cause deafness, and improper or inappropriate ear cleaning techniques can damage the ear drum.”
Protecting against unexpected vet bills: Whether it’s for otitis or another condition entirely, you never know when you may have to make an unplanned trip to the veterinarian. That’s why Trupanion was created to help you budget for unexpected accidents and illnesses so you can focus on what matters most— the health of your cat.
Trupanion’s Breeder Support Program even lets breeders provide new kitten owners with an exclusive offer of Trupanion insurance coverage that waives all waiting periods. That means coverage goes into effect immediately so that breeders and pet owners can rest easy knowing their cats are protected when they head to their new homes. This program is completely free to join as a breeder, just click here to get started!
Trupanion is a registered trademark owned by Trupanion, Inc. Underwritten in Canada by Omega General Insurance Company and in the United States by American Pet Insurance Company, 6100-4th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108. Please visit AmericanPetInsurance.com to review all available pet health insurance products.
FUN FACT:
31 Million People in the U.S. will Dress Up Their Pets for Halloween
Enter Your Cat to be TICA’s Social Media Fan of the Week
Have you entered your cat to be TICA’s Social Media Fan of the Week yet? Each Sunday, TICA posts a theme for the week on our Corporate TICA Facebook page.
Each Thursday we name our Social Media Fan of the Week and post a slideshow story on our Facebook and Instagram pages featuring our runner ups. So, what are you waiting for? If you aren’t a TICA Facebook follower already then sign up now and check each Sunday’s post to make your cat a social media star!
Check out our past TICA Social Media Fans of the Week:
Purrates of the Caribbean,” RW SGM Kalvyn and his brother, Kaspurr, submitted by Kathy Lynch, in honor of National Meow Like a Pirate Day.
Miss Pumpkin, submitted by Judy Jordan, in honor of National Ginger Cat Appreciation Day.
Barney (Barnabas Collins), submitted by Jennifer Rose, in honor of National Black Cat Appreciation Day.
EveryCat Health Foundation October 2022 Update
2022 FIP Diagnosis Guidelines Released. EveryCat Health Foundation and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) released the 2022 AAFP/EveryCat Feline Infectious Peritonitis Diagnosis Guidelines to the veterinary community. The Guidelines aim to provide veterinarians with the essential information necessary to provide a FIP diagnosis in cats.
FIP can be challenging to diagnose due to the lack of clinical signs or laboratory changes, especially when no physical symptoms are present. These Guidelines will provide veterinarians with essential information to assist their ability to recognize cats presenting with FIP.
The Guidelines detail characteristics and pathogenesis of FIP, as well as numerous diagnostic testing factors to understand when testing for FIP. They offer the most current knowledge in an easy-to-read format and provide clear clinical images, diagrams, and tables to help the reader better understand and build a case for FIP. In addition, the Guidelines feature an extensive supplemental library of videos, figures, instructions, and a printable health questionnaire.
Visit Us at the AAFP Conference in Pittsburgh. EveryCat Health Foundation is sponsoring sessions at the American Association of Feline Practitioners’ annual conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, October 27 -30, 2022. Visit us at the EveryCat booth #218 in the exhibit hall, right near the TICA booth, to promote feline health.
TICA Regional Updates:
TICA Great Lakes Regional UpdateTICA Mid Atlantic Regional UpdateTICA Northwest Regional UpdateTICA Southeast Regional UpdateTICA Southwest Regional Update
TICA Great Lakes Regional Director Liz Brown:
Treasury Balance. The Current TICA GL Treasury Balance is $10,752.80 with a $5097.13 check pending for the 2022 awards plaques. Anticipated balance once that clears is $5655.67.
Fall Elections: Make sure you vote for GL Regional Director in the upcoming TICA elections. Read the platform from GL candidate, Liz Brown.
TICA Yearbook: Contact Chris Unangst for more information or to place your order.
Make your plans now to attend upcoming shows in the TICA GL Region:
- November 12-13, 2022, Cats Rule Cat Club w/HCM Clinic in Racine, WI.
- January 14-15, 2023, PracTICAl Cats w/HCM Clinic if there are enough cats interested, in Gray Summit, MO.
- March 10-12, 2023, Showcats Columbus in Columbus, OH (this event will be back in our own building).
2022 TICA Annual in Chicago: A long list of the specific persons who helped make this event great was posted online, on the Groups.io list and in the September TICA newsletter. It took the entire region to make this happen and we owe its success to all of YOU! Thank you for your hard work and showing TICA why we are the very best region in the world.
GL Webmaster Needed: Contact Liz if you are interested in volunteering to do maintenance for the regional website and have experience in Word Press.
TICA Mid Atlantic Regional Director Brenda Russo:
TICA Annual Board Meeting Minutes: Read minutes from the TICA 2022 Annual Board meeting.
The 2022 Regional and International Awards: Awards will be available for pickup at the United Cat Club Show, Richmond, VA. I will also make sure the awards are available at the Morgantown show. Please email me to let me know if you will be at either show.
Breed Displays Available at Black-Eyed Susan Show – When announcing our next MA show, Black-Eyed Susan, Cheryl explained that this hosting club will be the first in the region to formally host breed displays. Requirements would include that your exhibit fit in a grooming space or on a table that will fit in a benching area. There will be a limit of one per breed. These are meant to promote your breed and educate the public. If you want more information, please E-mail Kathy Stokey.
Make your plans now to attend upcoming shows in the TICA MA Region:
- October 15-16, 2022, United Cat Club, Inc. in Richmond, VA.
- November 5-6, 2022, Black-Eyed Susan Cat Club, in Morgantown, PA.
- December 10-11, 2022, Carnivorous Winos, in Lebanon, PA.
Help Available to Adding Seminars, Guest Speakers, and Local Community Organizations for Shows: Speaking about upcoming shows, please consider providing educational seminars, guest speakers and local community organizations at your next show. This promotes not only your breed but also the cat fancy in general. We have a committee organized that would be happy for your input, suggestions, and help. We have a zoom meeting once a month. Please contact Jane Handelsman for more information and to sign up.
MA Regional Cookbook: November 6, 2022 is the deadline for recipes and photos for the MA Regional Cookbook. Please send information to Vicki White. The committee is hoping for the cookbook debut at the Lebanon show in December.
ATTENTION MA CLUBS: Please check to make sure your Club Charter is update. Also, please make sure all your information is up to date with current members and contact information.
Attention MA Judges: Please be sure to renew your judging license fees by the end of October.
Clerking School: There will be a Clerking School held after the United Cat Club show Saturday, Oct. 16, 2022. Please contact Vanadis Crawford for more information.
Next MA Regional Meeting: The next MA Regional Meeting will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022, during the lunch break at the United Cat Club Show, Richmond, VA. Meeting minutes will be posted the following week for those who will not be at the show.
2024 TICA Annual Hosted by the TICA Mid-Atlantic Region and Central Jersey Cat Fanciers: Congratulations to Columbus Show Cats; Rick and Liz for such a well-organized and incredible 2022 annual. While we are eagerly awaiting the 2023 Annual, Hosted by Sea Cats, to be held in Seattle, it is important that we begin to prepare for this huge event to be held in our region in Chantilly, Virginia 2024. More details to follow soon!
TICA Northwest Regional Director Elaine Hawksworth-Weitz:
Breeder Assistance: The Northwest Region has formed a committee whose task will be to assist breeders who reside in the TICA NW Region who find themselves needing temporary (or more permanent) assistance. This Committee helps with advice, food, physical assistance, and placement of cats (but only if requested). It will also provide help and support for other reasons such as:
- Illness, temporary or permanent disability
- Death, without provision for the animals
- Temporary loss of home or housing
- Loss of employment
- Unforeseen change in personal family situation
- Temporary financial hardship
- Number of cats beyond care capacity
- New legislation in the area which affects the number of cats allowed in a household
- Acts of nature
- Need for temporary food, litter and/or vet card (if funding can be secured).
If you find yourself in need of help, contact the Northwest Regional Director. Assistance provided through this committee is 100% confidential. You will be put in contact with someone in your local area that can help you!
Make your plans now to attend upcoming shows in the TICA NW Region:
- November 5-6, 2022, The Maine Event, Olympia, WA.
- December 10-11, 2022, And a Mouse, Chehalis, WA.
- January 21-22, 2022, It’s Reigning Cats, Portland, OR.
- February 11-12, 2023, The Evergreen Cat Fanciers, Ferndale, WA.
- March 11-12, 2023, CanAm Cat Club, Abbotsford, BC.
- April 15-16, 2023, Calgary Cat Association, Calgary, AB.
- April 28-30, 2023, Sea Cats Cat Club, Issaquah, WA.
TICA Southeast Regional Director Rene Knapp:
The TICA SE Regional: The event was wonderful with a great turnout. Check out our Facebook page to see pictures from the event.
Halloween Show and Wedding Ceremony: Pigeon forge promises to be a very successful Halloween show full of special events during the weekend. We already have 114 entries and are predicting to fill this year. I will be officiating at a wedding ceremony Saturday night at PF in the show hall for two of our SE members.
Mystical Moon Cat Club Show – Don’t miss my own show, the Mystical Moon Cat Club event in Sanford Florida, November 12-13, 2022. We will be holding a clerking school on Friday night – signup is required ahead of time and Saturday night we will be having a buffet meal at a local popular Italian restaurant with Lorraine Shelton presenting a genetics seminar. We had people write to tell us what they wanted for topics. Everyone is welcome to participate.
TICA SE Facebook Page: Remember to visit our SE Regional Facebook Page to keep up on all the latest news about our region.
TICA Southwest Regional Director Laurie Schiff:
Make your plans now to attend upcoming shows in the TICA SW Region. The Southwest is excited to have several new clubs and many new (and old) shows, among them:
- November 19-20, 2022, Celebrity Cat Club, in Arcadia, CA.
- January 14-15, 2023, Socal Exotica Cat Club.
- February 18-19, 2023, Cattitude Cat Club, in Arcadia, CA.
- March 11-12, 2023, Surf-N-Turf Cat Club & America’s Finest Felines, in Arcadia, CA.
- April 15 -16, 2023, America’s Finest Felines, in Arcadia, CA
