Conference misery::feline

    
    	I wasn't sure where to post this but this seemed like the
    	best place.  Mods, if it's inappropriate, do with it what
    	you will.  =)
    
    	Petcetera on Rte 102 in Londonderry NH is having a 25% off
    	sale on all their cat "furniture".  Most pet stores are
    	VERY pricey on stuff like this so I thought I'd let
    	everyone in on what I thought was a good buy.  I stopped
    	last night to see if the one I wanted was still there....and
    	it was, so I bought it.  They called it Playland I think.
    	It's about 2 1/2-3 feet long and about a foot and a half wide.
    	One end has a square kitty 'condo' on it and the other side
    	has a perch about 2 feet tall.  It's covered in a short blue
    	carpeting.....except for a small square on the top of the condo
    	and half the post of the perch.  These are covered in a longer
    	cut white carpeting.  It's a heavy piece and the original price
    	was $44.95 and I paid $33.75 I think.  They have ALOT of stuff
    	left.  The one I bought was the last one of it's kind but there
    	are a bunch of scratching posts, 2 and 3 tier kitty condos etc.
    	Stop in if you have a chance!
    
    	JJ
    
    	

    BARGAIN ALERT!!
    
    Market Basket (and DeMoulas) has 10# bags of Johnny Cat litter on sale
    this week for $.99 a bag.  There regular price is $1.50, but that's
    a good .50 cheaper than any where else.  For those who haven't tried
    Johnny Cat, I find it equivalent to the Kleen Kitty in the green bag,
    only Johnny Cat seems to handle odors better, and it's a 10 pound
    bag instead of the 7 pounds in Kleen Kitty.  I have 3 jumbo boxes
    and the 10# bag works out much better.  I use 6 bags a week, so
    you can see how the savings add up.
    
    Also, the same store has a new low price on Sheba-- 2 for $1.  It's
    .67 at Shaw's and Alexanders.  Sheba has Beth's personal seal of
    approval...
    
    Mary
    

    $1.50 for Johnny Cat!?!?!?!?!  I pay $2.19 for a 10# bag of Johnny Cat. 
    I'm being ripped off!
    
    Karen

    Market Basket has the 13 oz. 9-Lives catfood on sale for - get this...
    
    	10 for $3.00 - that's only 30 cents for the large can!!  
    
    The small cans (6 oz.) are usually 3/$1.00 - so they're even 
    cheaper than the small cans!!
    
    I bought 40 cans on Saturday, and returned on Sunday to get
    30 more!!
    
    I'm not sure if the sales runs through this week - check it out!
    
    Pam

Yup Pam, I did the same thing.  We've got two market baskets in our area.
I got 60 cans from one and 30 cans from the other.

Also cleaned BOTH stores out of their Jonnycat!!

Holly

Re Jonny Cat...my local Market Basket still has it on sale, but apparently
someone (ahem) has cleaned them out..........

So, Holly, which stores didn't you visit??  ;^)

Mary, who's in search of Jonny!

Mary, I only hit two of them, honest!  The one in Searstown in Leominster and
the one on John Fitch Highway in Fitchburg!!

Ok, fess up!  who else cleaned them out??  (-:

Holly

    I went to Market Basket after reading a few notes back about the
    9lives, 10/$3.  Then had to stop at Shaws for one item and guess what? 
    Same thing, only 4/$1. and yes, this was the large can.  For 25 cents,  
    I bought all I could carry.  :^)

    I wish my cats liked the flavors that come in the big can. They favor
    the Veal, Chicken, and Sea & Shore dinner, none of which come in the
    big cans (that I've ever seen). The big cans in my area usually contain
    Prime Grill (yuck!), salmon & somethingorother, and super supper, which
    my kids have let me know that they are QUITE sick of!
    
    Oh well, I'll just have to wait til the small cans go on sale!
    
    Bonnie

    Re .8 & .9
    
    9 Lives comes in 3 oz, 6 oz, and 13 oz......
    
    I think you are getting the 6 oz for 10/$3 and 4/$1.00, not
    the large can, which is 13 oz?
    
    L-
    
    

    Nope - it's the 13 oz. cans that are 10/$3.00 (not sure about
    Shaws).  Trust me - it's true!!  I have a pantry full!

Yup, it's true.  it's the 13 oz that were 10 for $3.  I've got 90 cans
of the stuff!

And Bonnie, 9-Lives 13 oz cans do have the Turkey dinner.  Would they eat that?  

Holly

    I have a question....I get nervous when I see such great sales
    as the 9-lives 13 oz cans.   My fear is the expiration date on
    the food is ready to expire therefore the stores have to get
    rid of it quick.
    
    As anyone had any problem with their cats not eating it.  Does anyone
    know how to decode the 9-Lives to determine the expiration date?  I
    just got a bad batch of Old Mother Hubbard (which I was feeding Van
    Gogh) and I had to return it.  It stunk like garbage and not one
    of my 8 cats would touch it.
    
     Sandy
    
                                

    RE: -1 "It stunk like garbage"
    
    Gee - to me, all cat food smells like that - how can you tell?
    
    ;-) ;-)
    
    I really don't think they're on sale because of an expiration
    date - it's not just one store, but all the Market Baskets that
    are running this sale.  I find it hard to believe that they would
    have that much food going bad all at once in all the stores.
    
    Pam

    okay Pam...it really stunk...much worse then the normal smell...
    even worse then Super Supper!!!  I was just wondering...because 
    many people food goes on sale because the expiration date is getting 
    closer. 
    
     I do have another questions even for people food....who is at fault 
    if the food is on the shelf with an expired date.  Store??  Salesmen??  
    Manufacture?? I ask this because Lincoln Drug has Tender Vittles with an
    expiration date of 7/91.  I spoke to the Manager about 4 times
    but the food is still out there....I was thinking I should write to
    the company.
    
    Sandy   
    
    Sandy 
    
    
    

    
    WHAT?  SHAWS 4/$1????......Zoooommmmmmmmm (sound of a FELINEr off to
    get low priced catfood...)
    
    (wish I had a Market Basket around...): )
    

    Sandy might be right.  Old Mother Hubbard is an all natural food that
    goes bad very fast.  I have been told this by at least one feed store
    in the area and have returned cans to them that look and smell rotten
    when opened.  Triumph is another natural brand.  Believe it or not,
    when fresh, these foods don't smell as bad because of the quality
    ingredients.
    
    Speaking of no smell, the best smelling cat food I have purchased is
    the Whiskas Expert Conditioning brand (chicken and rice).  Really guys,
    this stuff does not smell like cat food!!  Hmm, wonder if I could fool
    potential guests by spreading it on crackers and serving as hors
    doevres?  :^)
    

    >Hmm, wonder if I could fool
    >potential guests by spreading it on crackers and serving as hors
    >doevres?  :^)                              
    
    That's it, I am *never* coming over for dinner now! ;')
    
    Sandy, I would write a letter to the store manager of the store with
    the expired cat food on the shelves and complain.  Tell him that you
    will be checking to see if the expired Tender Vittles has been removed. 
    If it is not removed, then call and ask the name and address of the
    District Manager and write him.  I spent 8 years in retail as a
    Department Manager for a drug store chain before coming to work for
    DEC.  The store can send back the expired food for full credit from the
    manufacturer.  There is no reason for them to have it on their shelves.
    
    Also, the reason Market Basket can get such a great price on the 9
    Lives is because they bought with a volume discount.  If they bought
    for all their stores, and they advertized the price, they would have
    gotten significant discounts for bulk shipment, advertized special,
    etc.  We used to do that often with Kal Kan at our store.  We would
    bring in 5 pallets of Kal Kan and sell them for 6/$1.00  It has nothing
    to do with the food being close to expiration dates, the reason the
    store does this type of thing is to *get you into the store!*  Once you
    are in the store, the idea is that you will buy things that they ARE
    making money on while you are there. :')
    
    Jo

Roberta, you're right about the Whiskas...it does smell and look mighty good.
And I'm never coming over, either!!

Whenever any of my guys get "stink bottom", I put them on conditionting
till it clears up.  They all love the stuff...

Mary

    Awww, come on Jo and Mary, do you think I'd be able to fool the two
    biggest experts on cat care into eating crackers with Whiskas on it?
    Besides, the sight of five felines sitting amongst the crackers licking
    off the topping would be a dead giveaway that something was amiss!!
    
    :^) :^)
    
    -Roberta
    

    I don't know about that, my cats could sniff out real pate three miles
    away!  The fact that the cats liked what was on the crackers wouldn't
    prove that it wasn't cat food!!  I am just not willing to take that
    chance! ;'P
    
    Jo

    Well, then there was the restaurant out in western Mass that was very
    popular for a while.  Everyone praised one particular appetiser - a
    pate with crackers.  The reactions were fun to watch after they were
    shut down for serving cat food!  YUp - the "pate" - I forget the brand, 
    however.   
    
    This is a true story!  although it happened many years ago.
    
    Linda

I recently bought a can of lobster spread, that I remembered enjoying years
ago when I lived with my parents.  Well, when I opened it I thought immediately
of cat food, but told myself that was silly and sat down to have some on
crackers.  But the final straw was the way Hemi wouldn't keep away from it; it
was as if there was catnip in it or something!  I threw out the rest of the can!

Jill

    Jill, that sounds like my dinner event Saturday night.  Dana was away,
    I was alone so made a frozen pizza.  Herbie would not take his face out
    of my plate.  I would give him little pieces, then he decided to jump
    off the table.  I figured he was full, only to turn around and see him
    up on the counter where the stove is licking the cheese of the pieces
    that hadn't made it to my plate yet!  GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!  :^)
    
    Gotta love 'em anyway!
    
    -Roberta
    

    Well, I made it to the local Shaws, but, I guess the sale
    on the 13 oz 9-lives was only in a specific area. )-:
    
    

    Lynne, the ones at Shaws were 6 ounces, 4 for $1.  It's the same size
    can as tunafish.  We try not to confuse the two in our house.  :^)

    Thx, Cheryl!   
    
    That's what I thought!  But, the 13 oz were on sale, too,
    at 2/$1.00....so I bought those, too!  And, the 13 oz Alpo cans
    were also 2/$1.00, so I bought some of those, too!

That's too bad Lynn.  but I really did get the 13 oz cans at 10 for $3 at
Market Basket!

Holly

I stopped at Haddeleigh House in Sudbury, MA yesterday, and found they were
(still) having their Super Tuesday sale.  The woman there said they'd be
running it at least through February.  This sale is for 10% off all purchases
and grooming on Tuesday.  I have also found their prices to be very good on
the items I buy.

She said I could tell my friends, so... :-)

Jill

    I also stopped at Haddeleigh House in Sudbury.  They have quite an
    assortment of products.  I went in there basically to find cat
    teasers and came out with more cat toys than I care to mention (they
    really had a nice selection and different selection than what you'd see
    at other pet stores).  This store really focuses on cats.  Give them a
    try, you'll be glad you did.

    Well I have to admit a stupid act on my part....but the night
    we had to pick up Van Gogh from Tufts it was snowing real bad
    and the roads were terrible.   Under normal circumstances...it
    would have taken us about 50 minutes to make it from my house
    to Grafton....but with the weather we drove for 1 hour and 45
    minutes.   Well as we got close to Shrewsbury...we noticed we
    had forgot the cat carrier  (I know stupid!!) so we stopped at
    the new store, Pet Supply Depot on Rt 9 to pick up a new one.
    (with eight cats...another one will always come in handy!!)
    
    I was really impressed with this store...and the prices.
    The biggest thing I noticed was the price of the Hill Science
    Diet Lite...there was about a $2.00 difference in the price
    then what I normally pay for a 10 lb bag...and 3.00 difference
    on the 20 lb bag.
    
    They also had the same pet carrier that I have for $32...and I
    had paid $40 for mine!   
    
    the store has anything you need for cats, dogs, birds.  Has 
    anyone been there yet!!!! 

BTW, the store really focuses on cats because Martha used to be a breeder.  
I believe that she bred Persians.  Also the woman who works there most of
the time breds Persians.  I believe that Martha has abour 30-40 cats at home.


Haddleigh house is a wonderful store.  That's the place where I got the
"killer kitty teaser".  It's a fishing pole with a long black string on the
end.  At the end of the string are two feathers laying opposite of each
other.  When you move the pole, the feathers SPIN!  All of my nine babies
go NUTS over it (including the old ladies!!)

Holly

     	re  Pet Supply Depot. My friend and I checked out their prices
    	and were AMAZED. She buys Linatone in the gallon size for 32.00
    	through mail order, they had the same thing for 60 dollars!! And 
    	their bird food was $10 more per bag. Also, bagged shavings, which
    	run between 3 and 4 dollars elsewhere were $9. I would NOT say
    	their prices were at all competitive.
    
    	Sherry
    

    Like anything else, you have to know where to shop.....
    
    Pet Supply Depot had a $5 off any purchase of $20 or more
    coupon in the Sunday paper.  That means a 20 lb bag of Science
    diet or Iams dry usually priced at around $25 is only $20....
    (plus tax, of course!)  I bought a bag using last weeks coupon,
    and this weeks paper had another one, good until 2/29...
    
    L-

    SALE!!SALE!!SALE!!SALE!!SALE!!
    
    Demoulas/Market Basket is doing it again!!  13 oz. cans of 9-lives cat
    food are 10 for $3 again!!
    
    I went last night and bought 40 cans!!  Gonna go again probably
    tomorrow.
    
    Have fun!  And clean out those shelves!!
    
    
    Holly
    

    Wow!  Thanks for letting me know!  Time to "back up the truck"
    and load all I can again!!
    
    I wonder how they can make any profit selling it so cheap, considering
    the small cans are the same price!

     Just made a quick call to my sister, who will be stopping in
    at her local D/MB to check!
    
    L-

    re: .36
    
    That's the point, they aren't making a profit on the cat food.  The cat
    food is a "leader" item, priced really low to get you in their doors,
    and once inside, they hope that you will spend money on some of their
    "hidden" items.
    
    Leader items = no profit margin, high consumer price awareness
    Hidden items = large profit margin, low consumer price awareness
    
    Jo (who spent 8 years in management for a local retail chain)

    Hmmm, good idea.... but their little scheme didn't work!!
    I walked out of the store with 50 cans of catfood... and that's
    all!!  I still shop elsewhere.
    
    But I'll still take advandage of their great sale!!

    Snarfed 40 of the 13 oz cans.....My sister said they
    looked at her funny as she checked out!  The store my sister
    went to had a great variety, too!
    
    L-

    Hi,
    
     That last reply reminded me of what my husband does when we go
    through the checkout with a wagon load of cat food. Holly will really
    understand this, as she knows him.
    
     The cashier will be scanning, and scanning, and scanning... cans, and
    then hubby will come out with, " I suppose we'll have to get a cat
    now!" 
    
     The looks on the cashier's faces are priceless as they look wide-eyed
    at me to see if he's serious! He can say it, and sound serious at the
    same time! Right Holly? ;-)
    
     Y
                                                                   

    Yvonne...that is great I'm going to have to try that one!!!!
    But...I'm not sure I could do it with a serious face!
    
    I always gets comments from the checkout person....but when
    you buy in bulk weekly...they must wonder what I'm feeding.
    
    Sandy
    

	I have a checkbook cover that reads:  "Cat Food Fund"

	The cashiers love it :^}

    re: .42
    
    Sandy,
    
     Another one he pulls is trying to convince the cashier that I feed HIM
    the cat food! He's such a funny guy. He also makes me go through the
    checkout that has candy, and picks up a candy bar. Then he asks me if I
    want one, and when I say no, he says, "Well, can I have yours?". When
    other people in line hear that one, they crack up! My sister uses that
    one now too.
    
     Another good one that I use. When the bill totals up to a good amount,
    I say, "I just wanted some groceries, I didn't want to pay the rent!"
    This cracks them up too. I mostly use this in the cafeteria at work.
    Then I say, "I just wanted some lunch, I didn't want to pay the rent!"
    It's a good one. Of course I have to admit I got that one from
    you-know-who too!
    
     I know these aren't really kitty related, but I'm on a roll! This one
    he totally surprised mr with. We were at a restaurant, and somewhere on
    the menu, it said something about if you wanted a second plate, so you
    could share one order, it was 2.00 extra. Well, Mr. Quick Wit, tells
    the waitress that he just wants the second plate, and that he'll just
    go help himself from all the other customer's plates instead of
    ordering a meal! I thought she was going to pass out from laughing! We
    coiuld hear her all through the meal explaining why she was hysterical
    for an hour! Everyone enjoyed it. It's not dull living with him! The
    fact that he's a kitty person is just another plus! There, I tied it
    back in! ;-)
    
    Y
     

Yes, Dear wonderful Nick certainly is priceless. (for those of you who don't
know, Nick and I used to work together).

I went to Demoulas on Saturday and bought four cases of catfood.  A case of
each of the kinds that they like.  I was at the checkout counter and this lady
saw me loading the cases of cat food onto the counter.  She came over and said,
"excuse me, I hate to be nosy, but I teach foods.  What good sale did you
find??"  I just looked at her and said, "I don't think you want to cook this!"
She LAUGHED when she saw that it was ALL catfood!  She also thought I was
crazy for having SO many cats!  It's only 9!! (-:

Also, while I was there, I saw a lady from the Pat brody shelter.  I can't
remember her name, but I remembered seeing her at the show at a table for
the shelter.  She's a tall, older woman, with a very distinct accent.   Anyway,
I gave her the money to buy some cat food for the shelter as well.

Holly

    Thanks Holly from the shelter!! That must have been Freda you saw at 
    the store.  Freda spends her time looking for sales and shopping for 
    catfood.
    
    My husband did our shopping this week and he bought 60 cans for 
    us...and another 24 for the shelter.   He got some "crazy looks"!
    
    Sandy  

    I'll be going back to Ocean State Job Lot in Medway to see if they
    have any cases of cat & dog food left either Tues or Weds.....
    I usually buy these as donations to my local shelters.
    
    I was buying 25 lbs of carrots one day, and the cashier didn't
    blink an eye!  However, the guy behind me had this puzzled look
    on his face, and finally asked me what recipe they were for.......
    I laughed and told him I had horses and rabbits.....

    I happened to be at Market Basket on Water St. in Fitchburg on 
    Saturday and checked to see if the 9-Lives was still on sale... 
    it was... but they put up a sign "Limit 10"!!!  I think they're 
    getting wise to us!  I'm glad I had shopped early!

    For Sale:  Used Tokyo cate - 4 ft high, 3 ft wide, 2 ft deep with
    three long shelves and one corner shelf.  In like new condition.
    This cage was used for introducing a scottish fold to a very
    energetic poodle so its only been in contact with one very healthy
    cat.  
    
    These cages run new for between $125 - $180 depending on where you
    buy them.  the woman who is selling this cage is asking $100 for it
    or Best reasonable offer.
    
    If you are interested contact myself or Helene Marsh (Dick Marsh's
    sister for those of you who show) 508 481-9512* (Marlboro).
    
    
    Nancy DC
    
    * posted with Helene's permission
    
    

    Iams is giving away a new canister. My husband got one when he
    picked up some Less Active at Food for Pets in Amherst, NH, the
    other day. 
    
    It's really nice. It's black with outlines of cats in bright
    colors (red, yellow, orange). The effect is sort of like neon. 
    Poppy feels it complements her colors much more than the old
    orange and blue one. 
    
    Kate
    

    Oh. darn!  I have 1 full + 1/2 a bag of dry....and I
    want another canister!!!! ):
    
    

    
    Tidy Cat 3 (25 lb. bag) is on sale at Long's Drugs for $ 2.79.  I
    bought mine at the store in Mill Valley, but I would assume the price
    would probably be the same for all stores.
    
    

We don't pay more than $.10/lb for litter.  When it's on sale $1.00 for 10 lbs
or $2.49 for 25 lbs, we call up and tell them we'll be by to pick up 1,000 
lbs.  Lasts about 4-6 months depending on cat count, etc.

BTW, many Price Club, BJ's, COSTCO, etc, retail warehouse type places carry 
litter.  Our COSTCO has deluxe scented litter for $4.99 per 50 lbs.  We'll
probably stick with that deal until further notice.

K.

    BJ's always has 50 lb. bags of Tidy Cat III for under $7.  They get
    them in by the pallets.
    

    Stop and Shop has 9-Lives on sale 6 cans for $1.00. There is no 
    limit. I stocked up with 60+ cans yesterday. The cashier thought I
    was nuts, but the kitties will be happy. Go and fill up your baskets.

It must be the small cans, right??

Holly (who'll go and stock up, AGAIN!!) (-:

    It is the 6 oz cans. I think the sign said the prices would be 
    effective until May 15th. 

    where is there a stop in shop near the milford/nashua area??
    
    is the 6 oz the single serving can?  is there a bigger size can??
    
    

    I live in Milford Ma. so I can't  help you with Nausha stores. The 
    6 oz size is the size of a typical tuna can. Canned cat food usually
    comes in 3 oz, 6 oz and 14 oz cans. Hope that helps. 6 for $1 is a 
    very good price. Usually on sale it is 4 for $1.

    thanks!   I thought it was the normal size, but I never really 
    looked at the can to see before......  :)

    Isn't the "OLD" Alexanders now Stop & Shop?  If so there is one at
    Post Road Plaza on route 101A.
    
    Barbara

    
    	Barbara,
    
    	No, I believe the stores that used to be Alexander's are
    	now Shop and Save instead of Stop and Shop.  =)
    
    	eesh...they shouldn't have names that sound so close.
    
    	JJ
    

OK, Kleen Kitty fans...Market Basket has 8 lb bags of Kleen Kitty (the red
bag, I assume) on sale for $.99...it's usually $1.99....

Stock up!!
Mary

    Well, I'm not sure if this is the right note for this, but it's better
    than starting a new note.  We recently bought two spay certificates
    from the Friends of the Animals, and it turns out our vet doesn't honor
    them.  We'd rather have our regular vet do the spaying, so we'd like to
    sell the certificates.  They cost $38/ea originally, and we'd like to
    get at least $34/ea for them, since they do allow you to get a refund
    w/ a $4 charge.  I just thought someone in here could use them.  Here
    are the details:
    
    good until 12/24/92
    covers:
    	o examination
    	o anesthesia
     	o operation
    	o any required hospitalization
    	o stitch removal, if necessary
    
    Many vets in the Boston Met. area take these -- but I don't have a
    complete list.  So you'd want to ask your vet if he/she takes them.
    
    	Thanks,
    
    	Steve

    CATS EYE VIEW - a book of 42 original poems and 20 Illustrations
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    A delightful book that captures the joys and rewards of sharing
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    LISTENING
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      is really not at all the same.
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    Send address and check for $6 (includes shipping and handling) to
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    82 Townsend Rd
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   Also available notecards in sets of 12:
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    I once saw a scratching post of sorts in someone's house, but it was
    mostly natural branches and was very tall (5-6 feet).  The cats could
    climb all the way up to the top, and it was a little less artifical
    looking than a big carpet-covered unit.
    
    The problem is I have no idea how/where to get one.  Can anyone point
    me in the right direction?  I live in the Salem/Derry NH area.
    
    						Michael

    Hi Michael,
    
    I have a cat tree along those lines purchased from a vendor called Cat
    House Originals, located in Maryland.  It is about 6' tall, made from
    thick, natural branches and the platforms are covered in a flat pile
    carpet.  It has a house on the top.
    
    The one you saw might have been home-made; lots of people make their
    own.  The C.H.O. version I have was very expensive (almost $400), but
    the cats have far surpassed that price in usage.
    
    C.H.O. frequently comes out to this area for shows.  Check out
    Fitchburg on the 22nd and 23rd of this month at the Royal Plaza Hotel. 
    Maybe they will be there.  They have other variations that are less
    expensive than the one I purchased, and they can also custom design one
    for you to fit your budget.
    
    -Roberta
    

    The cat trees that I have seen at shows in the Mass./NH area are made by 
    Cat House Originals and Arubacats. Sometimes both vendors are at the same 
    show, so you can look at both types and decide which you like better. 
    Both types are very sturdy and are excellent quality. 

    I have two Cat House Originals trees and an Arubacats perch-on-a-post
    (the post is covered with sisal rope, which the cats love to scratch). 
    My cats sleep on and scratch their furniture a lot, so it helps preserve 
    the "people" furniture. 

    The prices for trees sold at shows are often reduced and, since you 
    transport them yourself, you save a shipping charge. I think I paid 
    about $150 or $160 for the last tree I bought; it's about 4 - 4 1/2' 
    tall with four perches. I had no problem fitting that tree or the 5'4" 
    tree in the trunk of my car.

    I bought a book last year that tells how to make your own cat tree. I 
    don't remember the title or author, but if anyone's interested, I can 
    look it up.

    Linda

    Michael,  The real tree branch cat trees are made by Cat House
    Originals.  If you need one right away the Chelmsford Veterinary
    Hospital on rte. 110 in Chelmsford carries these particular trees. 
    They have several styles.  When you go in speak with either Brian Holub
    (owner/vet) or Gayle or Gerilyn. Tell them that I recommended them. 
    They have a few on display but many more up in the attic storage area. 
    They can bring you up there to look at the different colors and styles. 
    The manufacturer will also be at my clubs show: Black Tie & Tails on
    November 14&15, 1992 in Boxborough Ma if you need to save your pennies. 
    It is true, however, that you can sometimes get a good deal at a show. 
    Arubacats will be there too with the sisal trees.
    Karen Fallon

    Does any one have a phone number where I could call and get a brochure
    for a cat tree?  I show horses every weekend and can't get to the
    cat shows.  My cat will really need one come spring when she's moved
    into the new apartment, and she's confined indoor (please give me
    patience!).
    
    	Thanks-
    
    	Michele
    

    Re: .72
    
    indirect pointer -- I know they donated some platforms to TreeHouse
    Animal Foundation (in Chicago), so you might call TreeHouse for
    the number. TH's number is available from information.
    

    Cat House Originals are based out of Colora, MD (just north of
    Baltimore). You can probably call information for the number -- the
    area code is 410.
    
    Cheryl

    
    Funny, I was just showing Andy's visiting cousin the CHO brochure.
    The number listed is 301-658-CATS.
    
    

    The 301- area code probably still works -- Maryland is going through an
    area code change, and places on the east side of the state are going to
    be area code 410 (starting November). Both area codes work now, so the
    number you gave (-.1) is correct as well.
    
    Cheryl

    Anyone on the west coast volunteer at a shelter that could use a bunch
    of cat food coupons?  I send some now to Sandy Merritt but have been
    getting all kinds of coupons from coworkers and would like to "share
    the wealth" across the country....

    Cheryl,
    
     If you have any extra coupons, the wareham mini cat shelter may be
    able to use them. I send all my coupons to Lynne Mandile. Maybe you
    could contact her to see if she could use any. The pet product coupons
    have been pretty scarce in my papers lately! :-(
    
    Yonee

    Yon, I've sent them to Lynne in the past as well.  I'm looking to
    spread the coupon savings from one coast to the other.  Granted the
    coupons have been just ok lately but sometimes you get great ones like
    55 cents off Johnny Cat litter or Amore, buy 3 get one free types.
    Might as well share them with folks in other areas that could use them!

    Re Coupons:  Some products are not available throughout the country!
    
    I noticed that when visiting in TX, that the petfood coupons were
    for brands not available here!  (of course, most of the "brand"
    name products *usually* are...)
    
    Lynne
    

    I'm sure Nike Animal Rescue Foundation would be happy to have the
    coupons.  I have sent some in the past and have received a subscription
    to their newsletter in exchange.  Guess I must've sent $10 worth 'cause
    that's is the usual donation that gets you the newsletter.
    
    I'll check to see if I can find their address in FELINE-V1 and post it
    here for you.
    
    Jan

    From note 1533.0 FELINE_V1 "Nike Animal Rescue Foundation (NARF)
    
    
    The Nike Animal Rescue Foundation (NARF) 
    406 S. Bascom Avenue, Box #176
    San Jose, CA  95128
    (408) 224-NARF     
    
    The Nike Animal Rescue Foundation is a non-profit organization founded
    in 1985, dedicated to protecting dogs and cats.  We are striving
    to eliminate animal overpopulation through spay and neuter programs
    and public education.  Our volunteers rescue and shelter dogs and
    cats in need, provide medical care, and locate and qualify permanent
    homes.
    
    ("Nike" is the name of the German Shepherd which was this foundation's
     first rescue.)
                                           
    There is a form attached to the newsletter for those of you who
    might be interested in receiving the newsletter on a regular basis.
    They request an annual $10.00 donation to cover printing and postage.
    There is also a section on this form for anyone wishing to donate
    to the following NARF funds.
    
       Crisis Medical Fund
       Dog and Cat Food
       General Contribution
       Kathleen Desimone Memorial Fund
       Spay and Neuter Fund
       Shelter Rescue Fund
       Memorial or Honorary Contribution
             
    

    Hi Cheryl,
    
         I am usually a read-only person, but in these tough times every
    shelter needs help. Maine is no different. If you still have some
    coupons that you want to give away, I know of a non-kill shelter that 
    could use the help. The shelter is called "PALS" and is for cats only. 
    It is located in East Winthrop, Maine. Thank-you for your generosity.
    
                                   Crys
    

    Not sure how long this sale will last, but as of Saturday, Market
    Basket in the Fitchburg/Leominster area had the LARGE cans (13 oz).
    of 9-Lives on sale for 10/$3.00 again.  That's only 30 cents a can!
    Needless to say, I stocked up and bought 4 cases for my gang!!

    
           Just went to the Newington Mall this weekend and spent a ton
    of money in Carol's Country Cats by Carol Higgins. What a shop!!!
    All kitty stuff!  A good size shop full of Arubacat furniture,
    Haddleigh house items, a wall of cat stamp pads of every imaginable
    kind, stationary, jewelry, rugs, throws, clothes, cat toys, carriers,
    etc.etc.etc.   They had a very tall Arubacat tree with numerous sisal
    covered poles, 2 lower shelves, 2 upper shelves and a wooden hut in the
    middle to hide in.  The carpet can be ordered in any color.  We chose
    blue.  The trees are very sturdy, this particular one has an 18 cat
    capacity! It was on sale from $410 to $310.  I know they usually are
    the $410, as I have seen them for that at shows.  They have tons of
    those sparkly twizzlers too.  All colors.  
    
    For those who aren't familiar with the mall,  it is right off I95
    in Newington NH, by Portsmouth, just before the Maine border.  I'm not
    sure of the exit #, but it's the one for RTs 4,16 that veers off to
    the left off of 95.  About 35 mns. from Mass. border.
    
    Enjoy! 
    Denise
          

    In live in NH and I thought I'd pass on this savings for anyone
    interested.
    
    Shaw's Supermarkets have 8 lb. bags of "Kleen Kitty" litter on sale
    this week thru Saturday for only .99.
    
    Pat_who_bought_8_bags_this_morning
    

    That's excellant!  Do you happen to know what brands BJ's sells?  I was
    thinking of joining one of those clubs in Nashua to get discounted huge
    bags of litter.  I think I am fussier about the type tho than the cats.
    Any suggestions?
    Karen

    Hi,
    
     I used to belong to BJ's, but I can't remember the prices they had for
    litter. I now belong to Sam's Club, and they carry Cat's pride in the
    blue bag, 50 pounds for I think 5.88, and Cat's Pride scoopable litter,
    22 pounds for 5.99. And in New Hampshire you won't have to pay sales
    tax on it! ;-)
    
    Hope this helps a little.
    Yonee

        I'm a member, and I'm a FIRM believer that you'll pay back the
    membership fee about the 2nd time youshop there, but I have NOT
    purchased any Cat supplies there...except <DRY> catfood. They carry
    "9-Lives", but you can find it just about the same price at most
    supermarkets, and at BJ's you have to take a mixed carton...you can
    select your own at the supermarket...and MY fussy bunch of brats will
    only eat certain flavors... I did save about 30% on a 25lb bag of "Meow
    Mix", and they have this 7lb jar of "Happy Cat" that my 3 devour with
    gusto! (Cookie even TELLS me--SILENTLY--when she wants some
    'cereal'...she 'paces' back and forth in front of her bowl while
    looking at me with this INTENSE look on er little face...)
    
      BJ's is GREAT for things like paper towels(15 rolls for $7.50),
    toilet paper(24-4packs for $8.95),kleenex(6 large--white only--$7.95)
    and pasta(5lb for $2.45). Clothes are also about 25-30% lower that
    other places, meat, veggies, frozen stuff, etc...very good, all right
    around 25 to 35% lower.. However, you DO have to buy a fairly large
    quantity.. Barbecue sauce by the gallon,(can't WAIT till summer now!)
    Chopped garlic by the quart!! BIG T-bone or Porterhouse steaks at LEAST
    2 inches thick...whole pork loins, chicken breasts in 5 pound lots,
    etc...
      If you have a spare room, garage, basement, freezer...I think you
    can't go wrong...
    
     John McD

    BJ's has Tidy Cat litter, in 50 lb. bags at $6.99 per bag.  At least
    this was what it was when I was there several months ago.
    

         Tidy Cat III (regular) - 50 pound bags - $6.98 + 35� tax = $7.33
    
         My kids are on Prescription food, so I can't get it there :-( .
    
    					- Andrea

    Thanks guys!  But that's what I was afraid of... the wrong brand!  I
    generally use Kleen Kitty because it is sort of low on dust and doesn't
    have a strong smell to it.  Actually, now that I think of it, we used
    that blue bag of (cats pride)powdery stuff at our last show.  It didn't
    seem too bad on the scent or the dust at the show.  The way I look at
    it, I keep the boxes clean and if you can smell the perfume so can the
    cats.  To me it is more offensive than the poop-du-jour!  
    Thanks again!  I may go up there tonite.  Do you get in with your badge
    and then sign up and pay?  Or "how to?"
    Karen

    As you go in, there is a person checking membership cards. Just tell
    that person that you are thinking of joining, and he/she will direct
    you to a desk at the front where you can get all the info you need
    about joining. Yes, you need your badge at Sam's. I'm not sure about
    BJ's. It's been a while since I first joined there.
    
    The cost for a memebership is I believe 25.00, and you can get a second
    card for a spouse for 10.00 more. They take your picture and put it on
    the card. You can bring in two guests on each card also.
    
    Hope this helps.
    
    Yonee
    
    P.S. Jan, thanks for moving theses notes to the appropriate place.
    You're a heck of a moderator!
    

    Yes, you need your picture i.d. card at BJ's.....

 Walmart is another source of cat supplies. I know they carry Kleen Kitty. If
I remember right it is 2.98 a bag (don't remember the size of the bag but I think
it only comes in one size). They also carry it in the large plastic containers.

I was buying 9 Lives canned food for about .20 there but it is now .25 a can.

Walmart is located in Derry NH and Amherst NH. I beleive Amherst has a better
selection.

They have a store opening in Belligham MA very soon (if not already), and there
will be a store in Hudson MA this summer.

		/Ken

    
    
    	I think there's also one opening up in Hudson NH...right
    	across from Sam's.
    
    	JJ
    

    This week I noticed VICTORY MARKETS have SCOOP-AWAY scoopable litter
    on sale for $1.98/jug (7.x Lbs) ... Normally $3.95/jug.
    
    ...For those of you who use it ....
    
    ...Now my car has a back seat full of recyclable white scoopable litter
    jugs ..... NO LIMIT ON PURCHASE QTY!
    

          Victory also has Cats Pride and another scoopable in 10 pound
    bags for 2.79-2.99 as their everyday price. My 8 furfaces seem to like
    it.
    
             Bob

    
    	F&M Distributors has 30 lb bags of Cat's Pride (Baby Powder
    	Scent) for $3.39.  It's actually 25lbs with 5lbs free.
    
    	JJ
    
    	

    The best deal on the scented Cats Pride litter is Sam's Wholesale
    Club (Westboro, MA and Nashua, NH).  Their everyday price is
    around $5.00 for 50 lb. bags.  You do need a membership, though.
    It's $25/year, but pays for itself with a few bags of litter!!
    

   O  P  E  N        H  O  U  S  E     AT     C  O  S  T  C  O    


               WHEN:  THURSDAY, FEBURARY 11, 1993

               TIME:  5:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.

               LOCATED:  ACROSS FROM THE PHEASANT LANE MALL

               RSVP:  Call Costco at 888-1903


Costco Wholesale located across from the Pheasant Lane Mall, Nashua,NH will
be having an open house for all Digital Employees and their families on
Thursday, February 11th 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Just show your Digital badges at the door.  There will be door prizes, food and
drinks for everyone.                                                  

PLEASE RSVP by calling (603)888-1903.   

    Better late than never!  Well first I joined BJ's, big mistake!  They 
    sell the Max cat or whatever, but it is dark grey and is perfumed to
    the hilt!! I couldn't stand it let alone the poor kitties noses. So, I
    have now joined Costco!  They sell 50lb. bags of Cats Pride with the
    Baby Powder scent.  The color is pretty close to white and the scent
    isn't to to strong. The price is $4.99 a bag.  Best I could find.
    The membership fee for BJ's is $25.00 and for Costco I got a business
    membership (for the cattery) for $30 and it gives me two cards.
    Karen

    Cats Pride is a great litter.  I should get a membership to Costco for
    that reason.  A 10 pound bag in Stop & Shop is over $2, but I had to
    buy it last week cause they were out of Tidy Cat.  The cats really
    loved it, and it was a joy to scoop.  I really hate going back to the
    Tidy Cat this week!
    

    Karen, 
    
     Where is Costco? I have never heard of it. I belong to Sam's Club
    (connected to Walmart) and they have 50 pounds of Cat's Pride (blue
    bag) for around that price, but I think a little more maybe.
    
     If Costco is within a reasonable distance to me, I may just join there
    when my present membership runs out.
    
    Yonee

    A lot of these warehouse places allow you either a one day free pass
    (so you can check the store out first) or they allow you a different
    kind of membership - you join free and then pay 5% over the price. 
    This is the ideal situation if you would like to shop at the store but
    are not planning on spending more than $500 a year there, which is what
    you'd need to drop in order to break even after paying a membership fee
    of $25!  

    I find with double (and triple coupons), buying the smaller bags of
    litter are much cheaper than buying in bulk.  Besides, this way here I
    can lift them and not break any more bones in my body.  :^)

    Yon, there's a CostCo in Nashua, NH.  Still a haul for you but at least
    there's no sales tax in NH.  I stopped in CostCo Monday to pick up a
    credit slip for my husband (who had shopped there with a one day pass)
    and it looked like a nicer store than Sams, Pace or BJ's.  After a
    while though, all those warehouse stores start looking alike!

    
    Re:  103   Roe,  we have COSTCO out here and I have seen the Cat's
    Pride litter, but because of Bailey's problem I didn't try it.  I 
    know we have the same "taste" in litter, so do you recommend I try 
    it with the girls?
    
    

    Marlene, I would definitely recommend the Cat's Pride (blue bag) for
    the girls.  It has a baby powder scent that is not at all overpowering
    (doesn't make me sneeze up a storm after scooping), and the tracking
    seems to be minimal.  The boys really love it, and I noticed it lasts
    longer than the Tidy Cat due to it's ability to soak up the urine vs.
    the Tidy Cat which kind of turns to cement.
    
    Try it once and if you/the girls don't like it, you can always switch
    back to the T.C.
    

There's also a Costco in Worcester, very close to the Greendale Mall.  It just
opened last December.

    Demoulas market basket had yesterday: 5 cans of Kal Kan cat food for
    $1!  Good buy and the cats LOVE the Chicken andRice flavor.
    K

    Well, this is the best place I could find to put this without starting
    a new note, so here goes. ;-)
    
    A woman in my group has a Friends fo Animals (I think) certificate for
    a amle neuter that she would like to sell. She sent for the
    certificate, and in the meantime took her cat in for his initial shots,
    only to find out he was a previous neuter, before she took him in as a
    stray! Now she is stuck with the certificate.
    
    I told her I would enter this note for her, but would appreciate you
    contacting her directly at either DTN: 297-4966 or thru MAIL at
    STUDIO::HULL
    
    The woman's name is Gloria Hull.
    
    Thanks!
    
    Yonee

As in the prior reply I post this here so as not to start a new string.

I've got a 10# bag of Neura Veterinarian Formula dry that has about 3 cups
missing from it.  It was purrrrrchased in late January.

Our neutered male had developed symptoms of FUS which were not treated
properly AT ALL by Rt. 20 Animal Hospital in Shrewsbury (we're new in
town.....).

I bought the Neura as recommended but after having a full blockage treated
at ADDAP Small Animal Clinic in Whitensville !A WEEK LATER! I was told
to keep him on SD for six weeks and then CD for life.

Although the Neura should be an acceptable substitute for the CD I can't
risk my wives wrath if I feed it and have to pay for another FUS treatment....
(not to mention that the Neura would be six+ weeks old by the time I could
feed it).

I don't want to "eat" the cost of the Neura nor do I want to see it go to
waist so...............

I paid just over $12.00 at Pet Supply Depot on Rt9 in Shrewsbury for the
unopened 10# bag.................... I'll sell for any reasonable offer.

Work at MRO and can deliver to MRO1 - 2 - 3 - 4  or  Shrewsbury .....

- Joe Whittemore
  SBO IM&T
  BUSY::JWhittemore
  297-4768

    Checked out the new Pet Club (located next to Costo on Rengstorff
    in Mt. View, Calif.) tonight.  I walked through there the other 
    day and the prices looked really good for the food and litter 
    brands I by.  Even better than Premium Pet Store which I've 
    considered the best for a while now.
    
                      					Compared to
    Purchased the following:	      Pet Club	   	Premium Pet Store
    
    Tami ANF 20lb cat food		$13.99		    $15.99
    
    Science Diet Light 10 lb.		$12.99		    $13.59
      they were attaching coupons
      to the bags for 2 free 12oz?
      or 4 free 5.5 oz SD canned
      food when I selected my bag
      so I got 4 free cans of food
    
    Jonny Cat 25 lb litter		$ 3.59		    $ 4.39
    
    Bonkers Cat Treats			$   85		    Don't carry
      Seafood & Liver
      Discovered at the register
      these were 2-for-the-price-
      of-1 so I went back for a 2nd
    
    My receipt said I had 9 items and my total came to $34.01 with tax.
    
    
    There is no membership fee to pay, however, they do only take cash 
    and checks.
    
    It's worth checking out if you live in the area.  I will probably 
    still shop at Premium Pet when it turns out they're more convenient.
    And I've noticed there are a couple of things they either match or
    do better on price (such as Nature's Miracle Litter Treatment).  But,
    it's good to have two nicely priced places to shop than just one.
    
    Jan
                                            

    I was at the COSTCO in Waltham this weekend. They sell 48 can cases of 
    (mixed flavor) KalKan Premium (6.5 oz cans) for $9.95, and 50 lb bags
    of Cats Pride (blue bag) for $4.99. They also sell cases of Fancy Feast
    but I can't remember the price.
    
    Deb

    
    This isn't "on sale" as much as it is "for sale", but I couldn't figure
    out where else to post this and didn't want to start a new note.
    
    The US Postal Service sells stamps and stuff via a quarterly mail order
    catalog.  The latest catalog includes a very nice prestamped envelope
    featuring a cat design. It's a cat face from just above the nose
    leather up, done in lavender with blue eyes and Birman-like markings.
    There's a trail of blue paw prints across the upper right corner of the
    envelope, running below the face.  The USA 29 is in black in a sort of
    brush style font.  It's a standard number 10 envelope.
    
    The item number is 2195.  The price is $.34 each, or a box of 500 for
    $157.00.
    
    You can order by phone (MasterCard, VISA, Discover) 816-455-4880,
    Monday through Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM CST.
    
    len.
      

    The 5.5 oz cans of KalKan cat food are on Sale at Star Market 6 for
    $1.00. I got mine at a Julio's Star Market I am assuming regular Stars
    also have the sale.
    
                                    Alice

    If anybody has a tokyo cage they would like to sell (used, good
    condition is fine), please let me know.  I've got a need for one.
    
    
    thanks!
    
    kim
    dtn 381-0517 (Live in Lowell, work in Nashua)

    Does anyone know...
    
    ..where I can buy a big, multi-level condo/thing for my 2 cats
    to climb on, scratch, sleep in?  I've priced them at my local
    pet supply "supermarkets" and they are VERY expensive.  I can't
    spend $400-500.
    
    Do people find them useful?  Do they keep the cats occupied so
    they don't kill furniture?  Do you see them being sold "USED"
    very often?
    
    Thanks,
    Sue
    

    	I debated over this too [but blew all my $$ on an Aby kitten!]
    	and finally got one at Sam's club - round bottom with a hole in
    	it and 2 levels. Overall it's about 4 feet high. All posts are 
    	wrapped with sisal. It was $28. I had to put it together [it was
    	easy] and they use it. It's not the big fancy Arubacat special
    	that I REALLY wanted, but it was so cheap I had to get it. They
    	do use it a lot...
    
    	Sherry
    

    Sue ...
    
    Where are you located?  There is going to be a cat show this weekend at
    the Braintree Armory and ARUBACAT cat trees will be there.  I think the
    MOST expensive one I've seen with him are around $200.  Their cheapest
    that has a place for the cat to sit on I believe is around $60-$70.
    
    I do know that there are places in the area that are selling Arubacat
    trees.  The pet store in the little shopping plaza on 117 in Stow
    center has them.  Also, Pet Supplies -n- more has them in Fitchburg.
    
    Holly
    

    
    I've seen Arubacat trees at a number of local retail outlets and my
    opinion is you can do much better by buying them at a cat show. Most
    of the stores charge straight retail and Artie normally has a number
    of "Show Specials" to choose from at the shows. That's how I purchased
    my two trees.
    
    George

    Oooh...Braintree?!  I might just forget what I was going to do this
    weekend (buy living room furniture for us people) and go to Braintree
    instead to buy kitty living room furniture!!
    
    It was the ARUBACAT stuff that I was so impressed with in the Pet
    Supply Depot (?) in Shrewsbury last Saturday, so if I could get them
    half-price at the show, well, that would be great! 
    
    Thanks for the tip!
    Sue

    You can ask Arty for any specials that he has.  They are usually
    discontinued colors or styles.  He sometimes has demos that he will
    sell too.  If not, he still has the best price on your pick of style
    and color.  I have even special order one tree.  The six footer with
    the pagoda house on the top.  The cats really like them.  I have found
    that if you get a cheaper model, the cats can destroy them in no time.
    His usually hold up.  Ask him what his policy is.
    Karen
    ps, once everyone knows this, he won't have many "specials" left. 
    We'll have bought them all!!!!

    I vote for the Arubacat too.  Got one years ago and it has held up very
    well to my 10 cats.  the minute I brought it home, it was covered with
    cats.  they love the sisal covering on the columns, great for
    scratching, and the carpet for sleeping.  The one I have holds up to 18
    cats and has a pagoda on top they can hide in.  There is ALWAYS at
    least one cat on it, usually more at any given time.  The quality of
    the construction is important too, no nails or staples sticking out, or
    loose carpets, the wood is expertly joined and it won't tip over.
    cheaper brands will often have poor quality and hazards for the
    kitties.  So if I were you I would make the investment, you'll have it
    for a long time. 

    Ok...where' the cat show in Braintree this weekend, please?!
    
    I looked in the Globe's Calendar section last night and saw
    nothing, which is unusual because they always carry the show
    listings.
    
    Thanks,
    Sue

    Sorry Sue, I was out on Friday because of the show.  HOpe you found it. 
    It was at the Armory.
    
    There'll be another one there some time in April.
    
    Holly
    

    Hi Holly,
    
    I didn't find it .. I even tried calling the High School in
    Braintree in case it was being held there.  
    
    Then, long about Sunday afternoon, I re-read the string of 
    replies that I printed off and saw that someone had said it 
    was at the Armory so I missed it and it's my own fault :-}
    
    ...next time I guess
    
    Hope you enjoyed it,
    Sue

    
    Sandy and I made it to the show Saturday, we looked for Holly but
    didn't find her.  The Armory was on a map of Braintree, it was easy to
    reach from Route 3.
    
    Smallish show, but lots of Maine Coons.
    
    len.
    

    Len, did you go to the kitchen and have some of our wonderful food?  If
    you had, you probably would have seen me there.  Gee, you didn't even
    see ruby? (-:
    
    sorry I missed you. 
    
    Sue, I can talk to Artie at the next show we have and ask him for a
    list of shops in your area that sell arubacat trees.
    
    Holly
    

    Thanks Holly, but if the only way to get the great savings is to 
    go to a show, I'd rather do that.  
    
    Does he sell them out of his house or only at shows?
    
    Sue

    Sue ..
    
    He has a factory, but I'm not sure where.  Where do you live?  I'll
    check the show schedule and see if there are any other shows in your
    area coming up soon.  Most likely he'll be at most any show.
    
    Holly

    I live in Douglas so will travel up to 2 hrs on a weekend
    to meet him.  (That covers all of RI and up to southern NH).
    
    Thanks,
    Sue

    Well then, you're in luck.  There is a cat show in Providence, RI in
    two weeks.  It's at one of the hotels, but I'm not sure which.  I'll
    call my mother (who is making the arrangements for us to go) and will
    get the hotel name for you.
    
    H

    The Arubacat factory is in Haverhill, Mass.

    I am now the proud owner of a 5 tier Arubacat "thing".
    I bought it Saturday at a cat show in Sturbridge from
    Arty (Mitchell-?).  He was terrific, gave me a great
    deal, and I would recommend if anyone else sees him 
    at a show to make a point of saying you work for Digital.
    
    He and his wife know about our notesfile and the business
    that has come their way as a result of recommendations in
    here.
    
    I'm convinced that's why I got the deal that I did....he
    knew I'd come in here Monday and do just what I'm doing!!
    
    Sue
    

    
    Sue,
    
       Your absolutely right. The way to purchase an Arubacat tree is
    through a show. I happened to stop into Pet Supply Depot in Shrewsbury
    last night to pick up supplies and noticed the price tags on their
    Arubacat tree inventory. OUCH!!! And two of them looked like they've
    been there since they moved to that location....
    
    Hope your little ones enjoy!
    
    George

    Hi -
    
    Does anyone have a list of shows where Arty will be exhibiting (or
    know how I can get one)? I'm about to make a major people furniture
    purchase, and I'd also like to get a good cat tree as a scratching
    alternative. 
    
    Thanks,
    
    Kate
    

    That's why I wanted the Arubacat thing....and as I was just
    saying to someone, I didn't hesitate spending $299 on the
    cat furniture, but Sunday, when the nice saleslady who'd
    spent over 2 hours with us picking fabrics etc, totaled
    up the people furniture that we'd picked out, I somehow 
    got "scared" and couldn't bring myself to spend the money!!!
    
    The cats now have better furniture than Mom!!
    
    Sue
     

    ..regarding sitting on theirs...Arty climbed up onto a 5-tier
    Arubacat on Saturday to show someone just how strong and 
    balanced it is!!
    
    Sue

    re: .137
    
    Don't know the shows, but I have Arty's business card. 
    
    Arty Mitchell    (603) 382-8418
    
    mail address:     P.O. Box 695
                      Plaistow, NH 03865
    
    

	Does Arty ever come out to the "left" coast?  If not, does anyone
	know someone who does?

		Susan S.

    I do know Arty occasionaly goes to cats shows outside of the
    East Coast.  Why don't you give him a call to see if he'll ever
    be in your area?   I also bet that he'd be willing to ship
    a cat tree if your willing to pay the shipping costs.
    
    I bought my first 6 tier tree from Arubacats about 5 years ago and
    it is still holding up very well considering how many cats I have.
    I then bought my second 3 tier tree about 3 years ago and that still
    looks brand new.  Last year I bought a 1 tier/barrel type of tree 
    but I was disappointed with that one because the cats are already
    starting to shred the rug around the barrell!!  I'm going to talk
    to Arty about that one..because I know they guarentee their work
    and we can work out a deal.
    
    Sandy and all her kitties who just LOVE their trees!!

    Re: Shredded barrell
    
    Sandy,
    
    I know what you mean. My blue abby boy has done a number on ours
    in the last 3 yrs. He just won't touch the sisel.
    
    George    
    

    
    Are there any Pet Supply Depot's in the S. New Hampshire area? Say,
    Salem ?
    
    George

    
    Yup! there is a pet supply store (big one) in Salem right on the 
    main drag (broadway?) it's before the car wash on the same side
    of the road (right if you'r driving towards methuen. 
    I have only bought cat food from there once as I found them more 
    expensive than our Local Agway in Hampton Falls. 
    
    Shaw

    Shaw,
    
       Do you know if this is a "Pet Supply Depot" store or some other
    pet supply store. And if it is directions/Rt. #'s would help. I'm in
    NIO for the day and the reason I ask is I need to get a cage they carry
    and I want to utilize their frequent shopper discount card. I have a
    behavioral problem that needs immediate attention, ie; cat urinating
    all over the house. Right now I'd rather be skiing!
    
    George 
    

    Re: .146
    Are you sure the "urinating all over the house" is a behavioral
    problem, and not a urinary tract infection that needs vet attention?
    

    
    It is definately not a UTI. Cheyenne has been tested on 3 seperate
    occasions by Dr. Mulcahy at Central Animal Hospital with the last
    time being just this week and all have come back negative. This is
    the wrong topic to go into detail but Cheyenne will be taking a 2
    week course of oral liquid suspension (made special), and confined
    to a cage for the same duration to attempt re-training.
    
    Once I have time, I'll post progress in an appropriate topic.
    
    George

    
    
    
    My Kostas had been having what we thot was a UTI/FUS since
    Thanksgiving. He'd seem to respond and then the problem would come
    back. About 3 weeks ago, my vet ran a blood test and a urinalysis, and
    the bottom line was he had a kidney infection (which was also
    indicating some stress related diabeties). Armed with this knowlege,
    the vet changed the drug for somthing for the kidney and Kostas is
    doing fine (he isn't diabetic, either! the stress was caused by the
    infection). The vet said that kidney infections are pretty unusual, and
    without the full blood chemistry and complete urinalysis, he would have
    never caught it.
    
    Deb

    
    
    Goerge,  sorry didn't see your question till today. The place is a 
    big pet supply store. They also carry some pets. Unfortunately 
    I can't recall their name to get a phone number for you. 
    From NIO, turn left at the traffic lights go down to Broadway, 
    take a right on Broadway go down aways past the Rockingham 
    park and Mall the pet supply store is on you right, it's about a 
    5 - 10 minute drive from NIO. 
    
    Shaw

    Shaw,
    
       Found a Yellow Pages later on Friday and the shop on Broadway was
      not a "Pet Supply Depot". Thanks anyway.
    
    George 

    Just want to let the folks in the San Francisco Bay Area know that
    Pet Club in Mt. View (next to Costco) had a really good deal today.
    
    I went in to buy a bag of Science Diet Lite Maintenance and was pleased
    to discover a coupon for 50% off a 2nd bag.  Basically, it was a buy
    20 lbs. or more and get a second bag for 50% off.  Took advantage of
    this for sure (with 8 cats ya gotta).  So, I got two 20 lb. bags of
    SD Lite Maint. for a little over $31.00.  Their normal price is $20.99
    for a 20 lb. bag.  Not bad.  And, as I was leaving the cashier gave me
    another Science Diet coupon that that I can mail in for for up to $40
    in savings.
    
    If I mail in my upc codes for my 2 20 lb. bags I get back a $15 rebate 
    on pet store products (including science diet products), three $5
    Science Diet coupons, $10 Veterinarian rebate.    
    
    Not bad for a quick trip to the pet food store.
    
    I really like that place.  Most of their prices are very good.  There's
    only one item I purchase there that is more than what Premium Pet Store
    charges.  Everything else is lower.  And, I really love walking into 
    the store and finding surprise specials.  It think it's great on the 
    days I go by there and find 25 lb bags of Jonny Cat on sale for $2.99.
    Unfortunately, when they have that kind of deal they limit you to 2
    bags but that's plenty for me since I don't have a lot of storage space
    anyway.
    
    Jan (who's wondering where she's going to put that 2nd bag of food) 

    Just to let you know...plastic, small animal carriers are $7.88 at Just
    For Pets in Nashua, NH.  They also have the 'miracle' groomer as seen
    on TV ($19.99 + S&H), the glove thingy that takes excess hair off
    animals, carpeting, etc. for $12.88; it's also sold at Bradlee's for
    $12.99. 

    Got a kick out of this and thought I'd share it with you.  I'm rushing
    out to buy some as soon as I'm close to a store.
    
    As advertised in Trader Joe's Fearless Flyer (Summer 1995).
    
    LOW FAT CAT-SHAPED COOKIES $1.99 PER 16 OUNCE TUB
    
    These crispy new cookies are shaped like little fat cats.  They have
    a touch of cinnamon flavor and a crispy, light texture.  They're made
    exclusively for us.  They're low in fat--a serving of approximately
    15 cookies contains less than two grams of fat.  They're a nice box
    lunch treat.  You can serve them with iced tea or coffee, and they're
    good with sorbet or yogurt for a low fat snack or dessert.  We're 
    selling 16 ounce tubs of Trader Joe's Low Fat Cats Cookies for $1.99.
    --
    
    Don't know if Trader Joe's is located on the east coast or not but
    here's their 800 number to find a store near you (they may also take
    orders and ship products).
    
    		Call 1-(800) SHOPTJS
    

    
    	I'm looking for the refills to the kids' TurboScratcher! It's
    	the round plastic thing with the ball in a track on the outside
    	and a round cardboard insert in the middle. Pet Supply Depot used
    	to have the refills in a pack of 3 for $6, but now I can't find 
    	them ANYwhere in central Mass... I tried calling the phone number
    	on the last package of refills and it has been disconnected. My
    	cats are addicted to this toy!! Has anyone seen refills anywhere?
    
    	Thanks,
    	Sherry
    

    Re: .155
    
    Just a piece of round cardboard?  Perhaps you could make them
    from printer paper boxes?
    

    
    Methinks it must be that corrugated stuff, like the Cat Claws
    scratching boxes I buy for my babies.  Have you tried the Cat Claws
    catalogue from Arkansas?
    

    I saw refills being sold at cat shows and I think I saw them in the R C
    Steele catalog.
    
    Dennis

    
    	It's more like a 2" wide strip of cardboard coiled into a
    	circle, so they're scratching through the corrugated part.
    
    	I'll keep my eyes open for an RC Steele cat, I haven't 
    	gotten one ina while.
    
    	When's the next central Mass cat show?? [and this time, SOME
    	one hang onto my check book for me!] :)
    
    	Sherry

    If anyone in this area would have it it (or could get it, or know the
    status of if it is still available) it would be Haddleigh House in
    Sudbury, MA (1776 Plaza, 1776 Boston Post Road, aka Rt 20). This is the
    Plaza at the light, just past Raytheon, at the same plaza with the
    Sudbury Farms supermarket).
    
    not sure of the phone #.
    
    Deb

    I bought my girls a new turbo scratcher and refills a week ago at the
    Walmart in Hudson, NH.  There are 3 refills in the box, and I don't
    recall exactly what I paid, and they were maybe $4. The new turbo was
    only $8.  I would think the other Walmarts would have them too.  After
    walmart, I went to Petsmart (on DW Highway), and while they too had them, 
    they were more expensive.
    
    Linda                                               

Caldor's also has refills for the turbo scratcher, but they're too small for
mine.  They have a new turbo scratcher out since I bought mine 2 years ago.
The one I have has the spring thing with a pompom on top, as well as the
ball that goes around.  The corrugated area is about 10" across.  Is this the
same kind you're looking for, the older ones?  The newer refills are only about
8" across.  Does anyone know the approx. diameters of the refills they've seen?


Thanks,
laura

    
    	Yes, I'm looking for the ones we bought 2 or 3 years ago. I
    	would say it's closer to ten inches across. I'll try walmart
    	and report back... :)
    
    	Sherry
    

    
    	I went to Walmart in Hudson, MA yesterday and they had them!
    	$2.97 for 3, I think it was. 
    
    	Sherry

That's great, Sherry!  I'll have to get to Walmart's this weekend!

Laura

    Yes that is what I paid. I checked the other nite and it was not
    whatever I had originally said. Glad you found them.
    
    
    Now do any of you find your kitties going through the refills really
    fast? Sometimes I, rather they go through one a week. They rip it out
    and tear it to shreds, usually right after I have vacuumed. 

    Linda

    
    	My mother's cats [which is really how I got on this search]
    	will rip them to shreds in a day or so... Mine seemed to be
    	a little self-restrained in this area :)
    
    	Sherry
    

Well, I went to Walmart but all we found was the replacemnt packs for the
new turbo scratcher, too small for my 2 year old model.  Oh well, I ended up
buying the new turbo scratcher ($7.97) and two packs of replacement scratchers.
It is a better quality unit than the original, but doesn't have the spring thing
with the pom-pom on top.  Gypsy loves it anyway!

Laura

    Michelle Curran
    264-1551
    MKOTS4::CURRAN  (preferred)
    [email protected] (preferred)
    
    
    
    Small cat carrier.                  $10
    
    round circular thing w/ball 	$5
    
    Moving and probably could find some other things Harley doesn't use 
    anymore. Would rather sell them to another kitty. 
    
    
    these are located in Epsom NH, but I work at MKO and will bring them in
    for anyone who wants them. 
    

Pam Rickard
DTN: 226-5077  external: 508-486-5077
npss::rickard

[email protected]
[email protected]

Located in Boxborough, MA within a mile of the 495/111 exit, 
	or at LKG.

Soft sided cat or small dog carrier.  End opens for easy
access.  Ventilated sides.  Zipper in top so your pet can
look out.  17"L x 11"W x 12"H.  Used once.

Asking $20.