You're on the phone with a neighbor discussing your kids' latest toys. Suddenly she begs off, announcing, "Better go. Time to feed the babies. We're still doing nights, but soon they'll sleep through."

You've been there. You may not be preparing and washing up bottles now, but you understand parenthood involves responsibility. Huge responsibility. Yesterday you called the doctor for an appointment because of a sore throat. This morning it was a tumble down a couple of steps.

As you're getting your kids' healthy snacks out of the cupboard, another friend stops by to chat about her kids' special dietary needs. "True, they're eating us out of house and home. Let's not dwell on the expense, only that we're rewarded with love!" she tells you.

You laugh, knowing she's a great mom.

All of these kids have fur. They're kitties. Remember, the emotions are the same ... no matter if you're raising human children or fur children.

Q: Did you ever bottle-feed orphaned kittens?