EAPL of Canon City, Canon City, CO (2026)

06/24/2026

🌟 Volunteer of the Month: Tennyson 🌟

This month, we're honored to recognize a very special volunteer who has helped countless foster cats and kittens find confidence, comfort, and love. Meet Tennyson, a 7-year-old former foster kitten turned foster mentor extraordinaire!

For the past 3.5 years, Tennyson has welcomed foster cats and kittens into his home with patience, kindness, and a gentle spirit. As a foster cat himself, Tennyson knows firsthand how life-changing fostering can be. He came into foster care as a very sick kitten, and thanks to the care he received, he survived and eventually found his forever family. Now, he helps pay that kindness forward by supporting every foster who comes through his door.

Since becoming a foster mentor, Tennyson has helped an incredible 93 cats and kittens on their journey to forever homes. From energetic kittens learning how to interact with older cats to nervous adults adjusting to life indoors, Tennyson provides companionship, confidence, and reassurance every step of the way. He helps foster cats learn important social skills and shows them what it's like to live in a loving home.

Tennyson has a special gift for helping shy and fearful cats learn to trust people. Rather than approaching them directly, he often curls up next to his foster mom or dad and lets the foster cat come to him. As the foster settles beside Tennyson, they naturally find themselves getting closer to the humans too. By watching Tennyson seek out affection, enjoy pets, and relax around people, many nervous fosters begin to realize that humans can be a source of comfort, safety, treats, and love. Time and time again, Tennyson helps bridge the gap between fearful cats and humans. While his foster parents may get much of the credit, Tennyson knows he's doing some of the most important work of all.

One of Tennyson's most memorable foster experiences was helping a tiny kitten named Cider. After the rest of Cider's family was adopted, he stayed behind to continue gaining weight and recovering. Tennyson became his constant companion, allowing him to comfort nurse, sleeping beside him at night, and teaching him all the important lessons about getting humans to spoil you. Thanks in part to Tennyson's support, Cider grew stronger and eventually found a family who absolutely adores him.

When asked what he wishes people knew about fostering, Tennyson's answer is simple: fostering saves lives. It saved his life, and it gives countless cats and kittens a chance to thrive while waiting for their forever homes. He believes letting a foster go isn't giving them up, it's the ultimate act of love.

When he's not mentoring fosters, Tennyson enjoys snuggling with his parents, watching birds at the feeder, sunbathing on the catio, taking walks outside, following his dog sister around, and occasionally helping himself to a sip of his mom's latte. He also proudly admits to being a complete mama's boy and can often be found sleeping in his mom's arms.

A huge thank you also goes to Tennyson's foster mom, Chris, whose decision to foster changed not only Tennyson's life but the lives of 93 cats and kittens who followed him. By opening her home to a sick little foster kitten years ago, she set in motion a ripple effect of compassion, second chances, and forever homes. We are forever grateful to each and every person to helps cats!

06/22/2026

🐾 Random Cat Facts – Kitten Season Edition #11 🐾

The Awkward Teen Stage: 4 to 6 Months Old

Between four and six months old, kittens enter what many rescuers call the “awkward teenager” phase. They’re no longer tiny babies, but they’re not quite adults either. Their legs seem too long, their ears sometimes look too big for their heads, and their personalities are growing just as fast as the rest of them. 😹

This is often when kittens are overlooked in shelters and rescues. Many adopters are drawn to the tiny, fluffy babies, assuming that a 4–6 month old kitten is “too old.” The truth? These older kittens are often some of the best companions you can adopt.

At this age, their personalities are much easier to see. Are they playful and adventurous? A professional lap snuggler? A confident explorer? A goofy troublemaker? By 4–6 months, foster families and shelters can usually tell adopters much more about who the kitten truly is, making it easier to find the perfect match.

These teenage kittens are still full of energy and playfulness, but they're often past some of the most demanding baby stages. Many are already litter box pros, familiar with household routines, and comfortable being handled. They still have plenty of kitten antics left, but they've gained a little more common sense... emphasis on a little. 🐾

This stage is also when many kittens begin losing baby teeth and getting their adult teeth. Chewing, wrestling, climbing, and zooming remain favorite activities as they continue building strength and confidence.

Feeding: Kittens between 4–6 months old still require kitten-specific food to support healthy growth and development. While their growth rate begins to slow slightly, they are still growing rapidly and need the extra calories and nutrients designed for kittens.

Fun fact: A 5-month-old kitten can often leap several times their own height, squeeze into spaces you didn't know existed, and somehow appear in rooms you were certain were closed.

The best part? When you adopt a 4–6 month old kitten, you still get all the fun, playfulness, and affection of kittenhood—plus a better idea of the amazing cat they're becoming. ❤️

06/21/2026

🐾 Happy Father's Day to All the Dads! 🐾

Today we're celebrating every kind of dad—fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, father figures, dog dads, cat dads, and anyone who has ever opened their heart and home to someone who needed love.

But let's take a moment to recognize the special breed known as the Cat Dad.

The Cat Dad understands that a 6-inch section of the bed is plenty of room for a grown adult to sleep.

The Cat Dad has canceled plans because a cat fell asleep on his lap.

The Cat Dad claims he doesn't want another cat, then spends 30 minutes showing strangers pictures of "his buddy."

The Cat Dad has mastered one-handed tasks because the other arm is occupied holding a sleeping cat.

The Cat Dad knows that every cardboard box belongs to the cat and every black shirt is actually a fur collection device.

Most importantly, the Cat Dad knows that love isn't measured in words. It's measured in headbutts, slow blinks, purrs, and the trust of a cat who chooses to curl up beside you.

To all the dads who scoop litter boxes, buy the fancy treats, build cat shelves, pay the vet bills, share their pillows, and happily rearrange their lives around tiny furry supervisors—thank you.

The cats may act like they own the house, but we know who keeps the treats coming.

Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there. May your laps be warm, your shirts be furry, and your cats be extra generous with the cuddles today. ❤️🐱

06/20/2026

❤️ Looking for New Beginnings: Frost & Sancho ❤️

One of the hardest acts of love is knowing when it's time to let go.

Frost and Sancho recently came into rescue after their owner became too ill to continue caring for them. Like so many beloved pets in this situation, these boys were deeply loved and cherished. Their owner made the difficult and selfless decision to put their needs first and give them the opportunity to find a family who can provide the care and stability they deserve.

Now these handsome housemates are ready for their next chapter.

🐾 Frost (6 years old) is the quieter, more reserved gentleman of the pair. He enjoys spending time with his people but prefers to take things at his own pace. Frost has a bit of a "stranger danger" response when meeting new people and may need a little time to settle in. Once he feels comfortable, you'll find a sweet companion who enjoys human company and a peaceful home.

🐾 Sancho (3 years old) has never met a stranger. Friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, Sancho is the kind of cat who assumes everyone is his new best friend. He loves attention and is always happy to make new friends.

Despite their different personalities, both boys have something important in common, they are wonderful with other cats and great with dogs. They have lived in a loving home and are ready to bring that same love to a new family.

All of our cats and kittens are sent to the adoption center in Evergreen to find their forever homes. If you are interested in meeting Frost, Sancho, or any of our adoptable cats, you can start the adoption process by filling out an application here: https://eapl.com/services/ .

06/18/2026

🧈 Meet Butters: A Story About Why Colony Managers Matter 🧈

Before Butters came into rescue, he was doing his best to survive.

After losing his home, Butters found his way to a managed cat colony while searching for food and safety. Thankfully, he picked the right colony.

The colony manager immediately noticed something important: Butters wasn't like the other cats. He was friendly. He approached people. He wanted attention. He clearly wasn't a feral cat.

Rather than assuming he belonged there, the colony manager did exactly what great colony managers do. A search for an owner was started, and for over a month every effort was made to find the family that may have been missing him. Unfortunately, no one came forward.

As time passed, it became clear that Butters wasn't thriving in colony life. While he got along with the other cats, he seemed out of place. We suspect Butters spent most of his life indoors before finding himself outside with very few survival skills. He wasn't comfortable competing for resources, and he began getting picked on by some of the colony cats.

The colony manager recognized that Butters needed something different.

Instead of leaving him where he was, they brought him inside and connected him with rescue so he could begin his journey toward finding a new home.

Today, Butters is safe and waiting for his forever family at the adoption center.

His story is also a reminder of the incredible work colony managers do every single day.

Colony managers don't just put food out. They ensure colonies are spayed and neutered through TNR programs. They know every cat in their colony. They recognize when a new cat appears. They determine whether a cat can thrive outdoors or whether they need intervention, medical care, or rescue placement.

Without that knowledge, dedication, and compassion, cats like Butters can easily fall through the cracks.

Instead, Butters was seen.

He was recognized as a cat who belonged in a home, not struggling to survive outside. Because someone took the time to notice, he now has the chance to spend the rest of his life where he belongs—safe, loved, and spoiled.

And the next time you hear about a managed cat colony, remember that behind every successful colony are dedicated volunteers helping cats like Butters find the futures they deserve. ❤️🐾

06/17/2026

🎉 Adopted Before We Could Even Post Her! 🎉

Sometimes the perfect cat doesn't stay available for long.

Meet (or perhaps we should say met) Lovely Lisha Ladylove. ❤️

Lisha arrived in our care after her owner made one of the most difficult and selfless decisions a pet parent can make. Due to illness, she could no longer provide the care Lisha deserved. As heartbreaking as it was, she chose to put Lisha's needs first and give her the opportunity to find a new family who could love and care for her.

Since she was a tiny kitten, her mom has lovingly called her "Lovely Lisha Ladylove," and Lisha would happily come running when she heard any version of her name. It was clear how deeply loved she has been throughout her entire life.

At 9 years old, Lisha came to us with all the qualities that make senior cats so special. She is sweet, confident, affectionate, and has never met a stranger. She loves laps, pets, cuddling up next to her person for a little TV time, and showing off her expert paper-batting skills. Just toss a crumpled piece of paper and watch her go!

She was also wonderful with cats, cat-friendly dogs, and children.

The best part of this story?

Lisha went to the adoption center this weekend and was adopted before we even had a chance to make a post about her!

While we are thrilled for Lisha and her new family, we also want to recognize the incredible love of the person who raised her. Letting go of a beloved pet when you can no longer care for them is one of the hardest decisions anyone can make. It takes tremendous courage and selflessness to put their future ahead of your own heartbreak.

We hope Lisha's former mom finds comfort in knowing that her Lovely Lisha Ladylove has already found her next chapter, a home filled with love, comfort, and plenty of laps to curl up on.

Happy tails, sweet girl. We know your new family is already completely in love with you. ❤️

06/16/2026

🐾 Meet Friend 🐾

Some cats earn their names, and Friend has certainly done that.

At just 1½ years old, Friend is exactly what his name suggests, a friend to everyone he meets.

Friend's journey started in Westcliffe, where he was living as a barn cat. Thankfully, a kind couple recognized that this young boy deserved the chance for something more. They took him in, gave him a safe place to land, and helped him begin his journey toward finding a forever home.

And it didn't take Friend long to decide that indoor life was pretty great.

While some former barn cats take time to adjust to living indoors with people, Friend embraced the lifestyle almost immediately. Cozy beds? Excellent. Regular meals? Fantastic. Human attention? His favorite thing ever.

Friend is a social, playful, and affectionate young cat who genuinely enjoys being around people. He loves playtime and enjoys interacting with other cats.

He is also good with small dogs and has handled his new experiences with confidence and curiosity. While he hasn't had experience with children, we believe he would do well with a proper introduction and a family that understands how to help pets and kids build positive relationships.

What we love most about Friend is his outlook on life. He doesn't dwell on where he came from, he's focused on what comes next. Every day is an opportunity for play, affection, and making new friends.

Now all that's missing is a forever family to call his own.

Thank you to the wonderful couple who saw potential in this sweet boy, gave him a safe place to stay, and helped him along his journey. Because of your kindness, Friend now has the chance to find the loving home he deserves.

06/15/2026

🐾Random Cat Facts – Kitten Season Edition #10 🐾
The “Teenager” Months: 2 to 4 Months Old

Between two and four months old, kittens enter what many foster homes lovingly call the “tiny chaos gremlin” phase. They may look small, but their confidence, energy, and curiosity grow rapidly during these months. Everything becomes a game, an adventure, or something to climb. 😹

Kittens at this age continue learning important social skills through play with other cats, interactions with humans, and exploring their environment. They become faster, stronger, and much more coordinated. You’ll often see dramatic zoomies, sneak attacks on siblings, climbing experiments, and impressive acrobatics as they practice their hunting instincts and build confidence.

This stage is also extremely important for socialization. Positive experiences with people, gentle handling, nail trims, carriers, household sounds, and introductions to new environments help kittens grow into confident and adaptable adult cats. Kittens who experience kindness, play, and enrichment during this period are often more comfortable with future changes and experiences.

Feeding: Kittens between 2–4 months old still need kitten-specific food packed with extra calories and nutrients to support their rapid growth. They typically eat several small meals throughout the day and continue growing quickly during this stage.

As they approach four months old, many kittens begin losing their tiny baby look and start developing longer legs, sleeker bodies, and even bigger personalities. They may act independent one minute and curl up in your lap purring the next. 🐾

Fun fact: Kittens around 3–4 months old often discover they can climb curtains, open cabinets, steal food, and outrun humans, all while looking completely innocent afterward.

06/09/2026

❤️ Adoption Update: Miller & Meech ❤️

Sometimes the best stories start with complete strangers doing the right thing.

Months ago, a delivery driver named Matt formed a special bond with a cat named Miller who lived at an auto body shop. When Matt learned that the shop was closing, he became worried about what would happen to Miller. Determined to help, he reached out to us and helped get Miller into a foster home. On his day off, Matt personally drove Miller 45 minutes to his foster home to make sure he was safe.

Around the same time, Matt's girlfriend, Elizabeth, learned that a neighbor could no longer care for their cat, Meech. Without hesitation, she stepped in to help. Meech also came into rescue and spent a short time in foster care while waiting for his forever family.

Neither Matt nor Elizabeth knew it at the time, but they had each changed the life of a cat.

Then fate stepped in.

Miller and Meech ended up on the same transport to the adoption center. While they waited for their forever homes, they became the best of friends. They discovered they had a lot in common—a love of people, a passion for attention, and advanced degrees in professional snuggling.

Recently, an adopter came into the adoption center and fell in love with both boys.

Instead of choosing one, they chose both.

Now Miller and Meech aren't just best friends, they're brothers.

It's impossible not to smile at how perfectly everything came together. Two cats rescued through separate acts of kindness. Two cats who found each other when they needed a friend. And now two cats who will spend the rest of their lives together in a forever home filled with love, comfort, and plenty of cuddles.

Thank you, Matt and Elizabeth, for stepping up when these boys needed help. Because of your compassion, Miller and Meech got the happy ending they deserved. 🐾❤️

We can't wait to watch these brothers enjoy their new life together.

06/08/2026

🍼Random Cat Facts – Kitten Season Edition #9 🍼
Week 8: Officially Ready for the Big World

By eight weeks old, kittens have officially entered the “mini cat” stage! They are highly active, playful, curious, and much more independent than they were just a few short weeks ago. Their coordination, balance, and strength continue improving daily, making them expert climbers, toy hunters, and professional troublemakers. 😹

At this age, kittens are usually fully weaned and capable of thriving independently from their mom. They spend much of their day playing, exploring, wrestling with siblings, and napping hard after every burst of kitten chaos. Social play remains incredibly important because it continues teaching communication, confidence, and healthy boundaries.

Feeding: Eight-week-old kittens should be fully transitioned to kitten food and eating multiple small meals throughout the day. Proper nutrition is especially important during this stage because kittens grow rapidly during the first several months of life.

This is also a very common age for adoption! Kittens benefit greatly from continued socialization, enrichment, gentle handling, scratching posts, toys, and positive interactions with people and other pets. Their experiences now help shape their behavior and confidence as adults. 🐾

Fun fact: By eight weeks old, kittens can often leap several times their own height, squeeze into impossibly tiny spaces, and somehow appear exactly where they’re not supposed to be within seconds.

EAPL of Canon City

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