The third annual Catapalooza – a celebration of cats – is happening Saturday, August 9, and Sunday, August 10, at the Seattle Humane Society. It's a chance to meet some wonderful cats in need of new homes and to learn more about your own cat.

You can expect expert presentations covering a wide range of topics including: cat behavior and training, Tellington Touch (massage for cats), cat first-aid and senior cats. Catapalooza also includes numerous family activitie such as, face painting, designing and building cat toys, and learning all about feline body language. And there will also be raffles, prize giveaways and refreshments.

In addition to the cats in residence at the Seattle Humane Society, Catapalooza features adoptable kitties of all ages and sizes from many other local organizations, including: Everett Animal Shelter, Fabulous Felines, Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Project, Homeward Pet, King County Animal Control, MEOW, Pasado's Safe Haven and Three River's Rescue.

Summer not only means kitten season in local shelters, but an annual peak in the number of cats available for adoption. Catapalooza provides a great chance for the cat-lovers in our community to make a difference in the lives of these animals while having a great time. More than 200 volunteers will staff the event over the course of the weekend and sponsor radio station KOMO 1000 Newsradio will be broadcasting live from the Seattle Humane Society campus.

Diana Bergseth, the Special Events Manager at the Seattle Humane Society says that in years past, as many as 85 cats have been adopted during Catapalooza. I've got my fingers crossed that a new adoption record will be set this year. If you'd like to help spread the word, download a flyer or full color poster and post it on the bulletin board of your local pet store, coffee shop or even at the dog park.

Catapalooza takes place in the auditorium of the Seattle Humane Society in Bellevue and runs from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (although adoptions will be open until 6 p.m.) both days. Your new best friend could be waiting for you there.

Lynn
lynnseattlehumane@gmail.com