Beatrix

Introducing our new breeding Queen Beatrix - Brent tells me her nick name will be Trixi - I hope she is not naughty!

If you have followed blog, you would of seen I flip, flop of what am I going to do re breeding. We always thought that once the girls got old we would stop breeding.... but! Life has other plans, Briar not being happy having her regal self appointed throne pulled from her by the other cats wanting to be top cat. Vets most upset that I was thinking of stopping, owners ringing me telling me their cat has been run over & the need for another of our line. I am told often just how much joy the kittens bring your families.....

By chance I was offered a Blue Burmese kitten - I brought her on her pedigree - she is my same line - her grandmother & grandfather is Briar's mother & father - which as you know is our foundation breeding line. She can visit with Lordy so I can continue to offer no line breeding or inbreeding as it is often called and she is of NZ Burmese breeding so her nose isn't squashed up as the Australian lines are - this is just personal preferance in looks.

And as often when things are meant to be - everything just fell into place. Next week the kids & I are travelling to Auckland as Abbey has a specialist appointment so we will bring her home with us.

So I will be away next week, Brent has to stay home (one of us always needs to be here for cats) Brent has all the instructions on how I like the cattery done & he has told me he will be fine - his way! - No way can I hen peck this guy giggle. I bet Mack the dog gets inside too!

Briar

Never say never......

Briar is just not happy, she is pacing up & down & quite cross. Cross with the other cats too. We have thought long & hard & had may tears I tell you!

I put it out there asking for a special family/person who could tick all my boxes - live rural as she is not use to cars, no other pets, no dogs, prefer semi retired couple so Briar will have lots of attention, wants attitude in a cat.... We thought of many of you - owners of our MandaBurms kittens & know there are many other families who are like us & love their pets. This made our choice easier I tell you! And Briar really deserves the BEST in her retirement years - she will be 8 in February - very healthy & has many years left.

Heather has ticked all my boxes and has promised to keep me up to date of Briar from time to time.

We are sure we have found the BEST home for Briar where she can enjoy retirement from being the BEST ever breeding queen & Show girl.

Briar did us very proud in the show ring with breeders award of merit for Dale Goodman who bred her, she won many best in shows & even supreme in shows. She hated showing & would grizzle - hiding when she saw the show gear come out - it's not much of a life for a cat being dragged around shows, made to stay in a small cage all day with people poking & prodding you. We let her stop at Double Grand Champion - she could of gone all the way to Gold like Lordy but - breeding was her favourite thing to do & she has been an excellent mother.

Briar has had 11 litters & had 68 kittens

1st litter 6 kittens Jan 2003
2nd 10 kittens dec 03
3rd 6 kittens nov 04
4th 6 kittens May 05
5th 7 kittens dec 05
6th 7 kittens June 06
7th 4 kittens nov 06
8th 6 kittens may 07
9th 6 kittens dec 07
10th 7 kittens sept 08
11th 3 kittens march 09

Here is an email from Heather - doesn't Briar's new family sound lovely.

Thanks for your e-mail I am really excited at the thought of Briar Rose coming to live at our house. We live in the country but no dogs allowed in the section here dogs belong on the farm only. I have always had moggy cats and a couple of years ago my very old cat had to be put down, no more cats I said but once a cat lover always a cat lover and my sister has always had Burmese and I just love them so this time I decided I would treat myself to something special and it sounds like I have found that special lady. I know my husband will love her he seems to relate well with cats and small children. I have six grandchildren who all have their own cats so they will not be rough with her and they are all getting older now so they know how to be kind to animals. I am so much looking forward to her sleeping in my bed and just giving me some company as living with a dementia person is a lonely life so don’t worry about her she will have plenty of special time with me.

I am so much looking forward to coming and meeting her I am putting my husband into respite care tomorrow for a week and I have a plumber coming to do work in my bathroom so if something stops me from coming this week I will make the trip next week but I will let you know if I cant get down on Thursday. I am really excited now about having a cat around again and I know I can give her the retirement home she needs lots of garden and places to run outside once she gets used to our house and she can sleep anywhere in the house she wants to lots of sunny windows with sunny places to sleep and a lovely fire goes all winter. Thanks for the photos I have been showing the family the photos of her and my daughter said today I was more excited about her than the grandkids!! Thank you for choosing me to be Briar Roses new mum and yes I will keep in touch once she is here.

The Stardust Litter

I have teens, and both Abbey & James came up with weird & wonderful names for the kittens, but not from a book. So a family who is getting two kittens have had the honour of naming this litter for me..

"We have had such fun working out a name for the litter and choosing two names for our kittens...

This is our suggestion for the litter:

"Stardust"

A novel by Neil Gaiman

The movie starred Michelle Pfeiffer, and we all loved it.

We have thought of the names for our kittens:

Cosmic - our wee boy.

Yvaine, a fallen star, has Cosmic powers that are being sought after by the sons of Lord Stormhold. Of course, they do not succeed.

Pfeiffer - our wee girl.

A leading role is Lamia, who is played by Michelle Pfeiffer Her aim is to retain eternal youth...she doesn't succeed (but in all honesty, Michelle Pfeiffer is gorgeous (just like our kitten).)

Hey Leanne....I did mean to mention to you on the phone that the third character from the the book Stardust that we liked was called Tristran. He is the main character and falls in love with a fallen star called Yvaine. (In the movie they change his name to Tristan)

A suitable name for Cosmic and Fyffers brother??

"Stardust: It's been described by numerous reviewers as "magical". A wonderful, galloping, magical tale of fantasy, adventure and romance told with Neil Gaiman's trademark wit and humour."

Hi

Who ME???? No I didn't do it!

Prove it!
(oops how did that feather get stuck in my whiskers)

R.I.P
Simple Simon the Dove that would not fly.

Cinders has come back on call so she has been moved to cattery with her kittens, the kittens are enjoying the extra room & doing great.

Caro's turn to come inside, for all of you waiting for her kittens - who want Naughty with a capital N HUFF! - She has turned my printer on & off this morning, been in the rubbish bin - (she does know better), pushed printer off counter all because she wants outside & I will not let her out. Scroweled in other words her grainy meow up & down hallway looking for toys. She is a hard case cat & she brings us great joy when she comes inside. We will know in a few weeks if she is pregnant.

More photos.

I had to laugh at Abbey & her friend - they were watching a SCARY movies - as teens do - but felt they should have kittens on their knees.Seal male was cracking the girls up watching Heather text.

Abbey with the seal girl & ebony boy - these two seem to hang out together - but that can change as they grow - they are only 6 weeks old.

Rosemary chirping at the dove cote.

She just fits on the fence post.

Cindy coming out to watch tv - having a break from her kittens. She is James' cat & always goes to James knee.

Photos snapped during the week.

We are having a easy time with only 3 kittens to look after. Cinders has them all toilet trained - I don't remember a litter like this for ages where we didn't have days of moping up puddles. This must be an intelligent litter grin, Well done Cinders!

Not sure why clean litter trays seem to be the in thing to feed in but they look soo cute! Talk of cute I have to move these guys soon out of bathroom as we are all getting soo attached! They are soo friendly & time wasters as you have to stop for a pet & cuddle.


I missed a great photo shoot - by the time I went & got camera the cats & sheep had moved. But the sheep were mowing the grass next to wire on cattery - all three girls (Rosmeany, Briar & Laura) were sniffing through the fence very close - CUTE! - Very well socalised MandaBurms BEAM.
With no kittens in cattery & nice sunny days I emptied everything out & gave it a good wipe down - all the scratching poles got a good soap up. Because all of the cattery can easily be cleaned - I am sure this is one reason why we don't have fleas on our cats. No where for flea cycles to begin let alone take form.

Teresa has settled into her new home - it's always a bit harder when the kittens stay a bit longer or have special fuss, you can't help but get attached.

We are tentatively thinking of looking for a new home for Briar - we are thinking she is going to be happier in a pampered pet home..... If I can find the perfect home for her ie NO dogs, no other cats she needs to be queen bee, semi retired folk that are home often to give her company, owners that do not mind she will only use a litter tray - not common dirt. We feel she is going to be like Jasmine was, sadly happier being on her own & top cat. We haven't fully decided but.... I will put it out there one of you might know of the perfect home. She is very much loved and it is really hard thinking about it, but we all know she will lap up undivided attention & she deserves the very best retirement home - just like we found for Jasmine. And I hate to admit it but Jasmine is ever so happy!

Hello

Oh I am tardy with this cat blog...

Lots have been happening in our home front that keep me busy & away from updating cat blog & web page.. We have a big waiting list - I am going to have to stop taking names.From back seal boy, ebony boy & seal girl walking down legs.
Cinders poking head out of igloo.Seal boy & Ebony boy

Finally photos of Cinders litter - she has been mothering them like crazy - not letting them out of nest, picking them up & dragging them back. Finally at 4 1/2 weeks old she can't keep up - they just keep getting out. So now the fun begins. Photos of Abbey getting kittens eating solids. And work for us - middle of litter training.

Caro & Laura are ready for visiting Lordy in the Love shed (he is looking forward to the company - if his spraying is an indication), I've been trying to hold them off as this year we didn't want kittens due on Christmas or my birthday.

Briar is very out of sorts - her hormones are all over the place - poor thing! Her granddaughter Teresa has gone to her new home - a family who have two MandaBurms.

Our James is in a band & loving it. Below is links to you tubes (I'm still learning what to do with camera & You Tube) of their performances at the local Hummer bar - fancy that 12 & 13 year old playing in a pub??? They are doing a charity event this Saturday & also playing at local fireworks.

Their songs are I love Rock n Roll, and I'm in a Band (Their original song) Plus- Paranoid by Black Sabbath.

His band has varied musical taste James likes blues & Rock, another likes heavy metal, the other two like rock. Brent's suggestion of changing lyrics since they have a girl singer went down well & again the kids couldn't help stop laughing when she sang it the first time. Even their music tutor was laughing- It's soo good to see kids doing something constructive & having fun... This band is a good thing!

So James' Bands lyrics for Paranoid are....

Finished with my goldfish
'cause he couldn't help me with my mind
People think I'm insane
because I am frowning all the time

All day long I think of things
but nothing seems to satisfy
Think I'll lose my mind
if I don't find something to pacify

Can you help me, occupy my brain?
Oh yeah
I need someone to show me
the things in life that I can't find
I can't see the things that make true happiness,
I must be blind

Make a joke and I will sigh
and you will laugh and I will cry
Happiness I cannot feel and
love to me is so unreal

And so as you hear these words
telling you now of my state
I tell you to enjoy life
I wish I could but it's too late

Teresa

Teresa seems to be out of the woods, Briar has done a wonderful job fussing over her - in fact the poor kitten can't go far before Briar is pulling her back.






Abbey was in hysterics giving the kitten some vitamins, Briar just wanted some too.
Thanks for emails & calls re Teresa, I really think she is on her way now - seems to be about an 8 week old kitten (she is 10 weeks) but full of energy, eating well, putting on weight. Will see what the vet thinks at next check up.
She has been living inside - I keep telling kids, don't get attached! It's hard when they are inside & hoping in bed with you.... playing on your knee while watching tv.... She is great & hasn't scratched new lounge furniture or run up curtains. She is a biter grrr play biting that is. I'm quite fond of her.....

Owned by a MandaBurm

Hi there

Just thought i would let you know how wee minka went!! She is just delightful and very smoochy. Im sure a lot more relaxed than Lila was initially. Has alredy eyed up amelias mosquito net around her bed so we will see how long before she attempts the run up!

Had a reasonably peaceful trip home...not too many meows.!! Stopped and saw grandma on the way and she made herself right at home hooning around and of course looking very cute!

She is very talkative and already trying to let us know who is BOSS! Have even had the odd attempt at a growl which is quite amusing . She settled into her basket in the laundry without too much fuss which amelia was pleased with!!

She has even used the litter box today for wees...no accidents as yet.....amelia is on hourly toilet duty!!

So she is just a delight but i suspect given time a bit of a rascal which is fine by us.....would rather she didnt do any two storey roof climbing though like her predecessor!!It isnt good for our stress levels!!

Will keep you updated on the antics of minka!

Love Leanne Amelia Minka and co...

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne

Just an update.

The kittens have settled in beautifully. It took two days before the dogs realised they were there. One dog is incensed when I shut him in the back of the house to see the kittens. His issue is simply that he is used to being able to be where I am.

The other dog is much more interested in the kittens themselves. She can remain interested until they can confidently jump to table height to get out of the way.

I have decided to break from my previous assortment of names and now have Ludo and Indigo! I was tossing up about Lily, Luna, Viva etc. Decided she was closest to a Luna but that is too close to Ludo. So have gone for Indigo because it can be shortened to Indie (because she is fast like the Indie 500!) and she looks like a shiny blue/black ink spot! And she is feisty.

Everyone used the litter tray within 4 hours of arriving. Ludo cheerfully eats anything at all you put in front of him and is about 50% bigger than Indigo. She grazes in an ad hoc manner and is only interested in the cat crackers.

He is Mr Sociable and immediately greets any and all visitors whether he has settled down for his nap or not. She is a bit more independent and sits back for a millisecond before joining in. Both very very affectionate though.

Their favourite toy is this bunch of feathers on a stick that you race around the floor. He started playing and chasing immediately. It took her three sessions of it while sitting under the sofa and the paw coming out for a wee nervous bat before she got stuck in. Then she shot after it like a demon. Grabbed the feathers in her jaw. Hissed and growled at him and then went into a walloping and very determined tug of war with me over who owned the stick with the feathers. She looked like a minature panther with her prey (I briefly considered Puma for her). I have had to stop a few play sessions with this toy on the basis I felt she needed time out and a wee quiet period of reflection. Maybe in the corner with her privileges revoked.

So he tends to be first with everything but once she gets stuck in to whatever it is, this is with absolute focus and a stubborn streak a mile wide. Initially I was worried that he might bully her because he is more confident and a lot bigger. Now I think she will be just fine! He is super confident but he is a big marshmallow with it. Never uses his claws. Always gentle. And he is almost permanently purring.

I intend to take the introduction process with the dogs very carefully. They are such confident socialised kittens that I think it will be easy to rush the situation. I want them to be absolutely confident with the layout of the whole house. Have had a few careful meetings with one dog at a time (jn a down position) before they are liberated and allowed together. They are so sweet with so much confidence that I don't want that inadvertently knocked out of them by carelessness on my side.

Anyway I'll keep you posted and will send some pictures once they are on the monster cat tower about a foot over my head!

Caroline

New Kittens

Cindy has had her kittens - three. And all different sizes _ wow!
Seal female born 6.51pm 75g
Ebony male born 7.25pm 90g
Seal male born 8.16pm 115g
James has chosen a book to name them after - I will check he still wants that when he wakes up

And I have a lovely story to share. Poor old Briar was just fretting that she had no babies, she loves babies & over the years pokes her nose in other mother cats litters.
So I brought in Laura's Teressa who is not thriving - it was lovely to watch & I noted the whole family was in the bathroom watching. Briar was soo proud of her new baby & has done nothing but mother Teressa. Teressa is real happy & soaking it up. Briar has produced milk & is feeding Teressa.

Briar has fed many that are not hers including Cinders when we got her as a wee baby she produced milk & mothered Cindy. She also did it for Lordy & we remember going to shows - Lordy as a kitten I'd pop in Briar's show cage for the drive & you could here him feeding off her.

It really is a lovely thing to see.

We had the most delightful children (4) come out to pick their kitten yesterday - I love kids! The kittens did real well - bomb proof, the children were ever so well behaved - a delight to come & visit. The kittens enjoyed the attention - can you imagine the excitment of this family getting a new kitten - oh boy the waiting for yur turn to cuddle the kitten.... It will be well loved!

Saturday

Drama began at 3am - Abbey tells me it was 2.30am for her. Briar went into labour 10 days early. A first for us!

She delivered a deformed placenta, was still wanting to bear down & bleeding. So phoned vet at 9am asking for advise. 10am she was scanned - the vet is great & showed me what to look for. His guess is the babies hadn't formed or died & been self absorbed. A shot of oxcitocin (sp) and home she came to be watched. If bleeding didn't settle down she would have to be spayed that afternoon. Thankfully she did settle & is rather sad she has no babies. She is our foundation queen and an excellent mother - we are now facing that she will need to be spayed and retire her from breeding.

Cindy due this weekend is still fluffing around - they get very needy! Thankfully I can go to sleep if needed so straight after tea & dishes - 8.30pm I went to bed & slept. Brent woke me at 11.30pm so I could do the night shift. Cinders & I slept on the couch - no kitties yet - She is sitting next to me in her kitten box meowing so should be today! I have a good book- Diana Gabaldon's latest book an echo in the bone. So will get chores done & cats set up for the day & Cinders & I can sit & wait for kitties.

Had people come & choose kittens, one girl who has had a kitten off us before had to choose another as the one she chose (seal girl Teresa) isn't thriving & even tho vet looked her over could see nothing wrong - there could be which won't show up until kitten older. If a kitten isn't thriving it can be something with development of the liver - but you don't know until a bit older. She is only 700g - Ramona who was the smallest in litter is 940g & biggest in litter Sharpe is 1.2kg So I will run her on for a few months & get her vet checked & watch her growth. She is a hard case & sprightly wee thing runs about & a bugger at zipping to top of cattery - climbs ever so fast. Sorry don't ask me for her - I have never sold a kitten that could not be well & won't.

Will update again when Cinders has her kittens.

Visit today would be best this afternoon - if by chance read blog before ringing me.

Sharpe photo shoot 8 weeks old

Wow this litter talks, can you see him yacking away at me!

Taking their photos is quite a mission - I did it on my own today - not a bad effort I thought - easier with two as one holds the toy above camera before I snap.

The litter is off to vets this afternoon for first check up & vaccination.

Cindy - has no plans of kittens today she tells me. (she is due today)

Laura is on call, so is Caro - meow meow thank goodness we do not have close neighbours, Laura, Caro & Rosmary are in outside run - all getting on fine!

Lordy has been a bit stressed with all the big diggers at our place - poor fella. Wish I could of popped a girl in to keep him company.

Briar is lapping up being inside - she is only small - not may kits.

Give me an email/phone call to pop up & meet the kittens this weekend - it will be good to have them all a firm home by end of weekend - I know, I know I always say just wait & come back as they do change! But - by 9 weeks I need firm homes as they get microchipped while they have the snip (much nicer for them to be microchipped while sleeping)

I am around all weekend so it Brent - so if Cindy is kittening Brent will be midwife.

Love Leanne

PS jolly cold snap aye!

Teressa Photo shoot - 8 weeks old

Best photo of Teressa...

Lucille Photo shoot 8 weeks old

Just let me chew this collar!
Nope I will not look pretty for camera, no way!
I just want this pink collar not a green one.
Best photo - look at those panther cheeks!

Ramona photo shoot - 8 weesk

MMm answer back this kitten does! She is actually talking in photo.
Nothing like shaking a hand.

Best one I could get of her sitting & not playing....

Lizzie Photo shoot 8 weeks old

Sorry very best photos I could get - she just wanted to play.
She is now wearing a pink collar - if she will keep it on....

Hi

Rosemary is back to her naughty ways!


Our home is a danger zone - with caution tape every where, signs saying hard hats, goggles, boots must be worn before entering on our gate
The pines behind our house in photo are ala going SOB!
First row is down - second row will be down today. Council has claimed back some of their land (so they say) and putting in a public walk way groan! - But we will plant natives & privacy will be back in a few years.

Laura's kittens.

Well you can come & get them now! The naughty stage is full on - gee they change a lot in a week! Teressa seal girl has been first to climb up t the top thank you! Amelia will your mum be pleased about that??? They are 7 weeks today - I hope to con Abbey to help with a photo shoot for you all - it does get harder as they get older & refuse to sit still!

If you want to pop out this weekend give me a call - we have a fault on our telecoms phone line & they can't fix it until 21st September WHAT I said so all calls are being diverted to my cell phone. Hence our dial up internet is going slower than it normally does - If that is at all possible.

Briar & Cindy are growing their babies nicely - Cindy has quite a full tummy.

Caro has tricked me again I thought she had no milk but when Tom left she filled up poor thing, but slowly the milk i going & she is on call again! But I'm not letting her visit Lordy yet.

Teressa Photo Shoot

OOh Amelia I am torn - she is stunning!!! - Look at that ear placement & eye shape.
Amelia are you sure you want such a chatty girl?? I hope she doesn't answer you back too much! But she is yours! And I know you will love her soo much.

Laura & Lordy line give stunning kittens - I am thrilled with all of this litter - every single one of them will do well on the show bench - You can't say that very often - I'd hate to be a judge choosing between them!

Sharpe photo shoot

He is stunning - as close to a perfect cat if there is such a thing.

Ok the photos tell it all he is a mummy's boy - The family that had him penciled & a sister are going to wait a bit longer until house is finished. so he is available. I think he will be better off going with one of his litter mates - yell if you want him & a sister.

Ramona Photo Shoot

Sorry not the best photos - she wouldn't keep still! Are you wanting a kitten with personality plus - every now and then we have such an out there kitten - Ramona is it! Kids have nicknamed her Moana as she talks & talks, first to come up to you, first to get out of nest & jolly first to climb up the cage grrrrr - it only takes one to show the others how to do it!

I am ready for this one to leave now! - Truly she is awesome

Lizzie Photo shoot

Best photo we could get - oh my MandaBurms attitude shows in these photos.



All she wanted to do was have her head rubbed. - Real mush!

Lucillle Photo shoot

No way was she going to pose for us!
A Laura looking kitten - beautiful!
6 weeks old tomorrow.

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne

An update on how Nero is fitting in. He has made himself very at home
and the boys are absolutely OK with him.

He makes out he is such a big boy with his antics and I think they just laugh at him.

He is very happy and eats enough for two.

Have attached some photos of Mister brown and Nero. So hard to get all three together but will attach one of Sinbad and brown at the same age as well so you can see him.

Will keep you posted.
We love him to bits.
Cheers Anne

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne, just wanted to let you know that the babies are doing very well
and I just love them to bits. They now go outside when I am around with
them. I have a huge property here so I keep calling them every 10 to 15
minutes so they don't get too far away from me. My little Leonardo is such
a brave little kitten. I can see sometimes that he is really frightened of
things going on around him, the wind, trees blowing, the chooks etc, but he
just faces it all head on. He is an absolute star. My little Bella brings
up the rear and offers him lots of support. She was putting on lots of
weight and poor little Leonardo was not doing much growing at all until I
realised that she was hoovering through her food and then proceeding to eat
all of his as well. Meal times now strictly supervised so that they both
get their share.

I love these little cats to bits and can't imagine not having them around.
They are so full of personality and character. Thank you so much for
letting me have two of your precious babies. Please feel free to call in at
any time and visit them.

Regards, Carmel.

Owned by a MandaBurms

Just thought I would forward you some photos of Pandora who we have
named as Lottie.

We are loving her to bits and she is rather spoilt!! She is loving
having the days outside and discovering birds, bugs etc. Still mastering
climbing up trees. Yesterday she even started helping us while we were
planting daffodils..getting her little paws in the holes we had made for
a dig. It was quite funny.

She has got into a routine now and loves her morning cuddles in bed.

Anyway...just wanted to let you know how she is getting on.

Thank you once again. She is such a joy

Louise and Richie

Update

I'm up early sharing some emails with you all, I am still a tad behind putting them on the blog, I think you guys have worked out internet & computers is NOT my strength! (so read below for the lovely stories & photos - it really is the BET part of breeding THANK YOU!!)

No blog update this weekend just gone - I had a lovely weekend with Grandmother's Garden quilts which brought their shop down to Te Horo. I missed out on booking into Marti Michelle's class - I never can book too far in advance - have to check timing with kittening & toilet training etc... Any way I conned a spot as a go for for the tutor & the shop was soo busy next thing I know - I'm asked what are you like with money... ex bank manager was mentioned & I was the shop lady!Not the most flattering photo - a nice one of Marti!

I had a great time! But brrr frosts both mornings & I was doing the cattery at 7am in the frost, all cats got a hottie too (softiee arn't I) James was a brick & he checked on the cats & kittens at lunch time for me & then did them at night for me.
Laura's kittens were ever soo good & are now toilet trained PHEW!

Rosemary is a wonderful hunter - BUT bringing them into our bedroom at 9.30pm at night NO THANK YOU! Abbey popped her out the front door, she was back in with mouse through the cat door again! So out she went side door - not sure what happened to the mouse!

Isn't is great to see spring - we have one baby lamb so far & blossoms just popping through.

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne and family,

So we thought we would email you to tell you our funny (but expensive) story.

Our black burmese boy Rico - spent Sunday at the Vets. I woke up in the morning and saw that he wasn't acting like his usual self. Kept curling up under the furniture... and then he was sick. When I looked more closely I saw that there was a piece of window blade wiper???? We searched everywhere for the wiper, but couldn't find it. So, off to the vet to have an x-ray - and yip, he has a whole bunch of 2cm pieces of wiper blade in his stomach. He must have spent all night, biting off chunks of it!

Bad new for him (and bad news for our wallet) he is booked in for surgery tomorrow!

Only a burmese would do something like this I am sure!

Hope all is well with you guys.

Take care,

Cheers

Vanessa and Mike

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne

Have been meaning to write for ages to let you know how Jack and Ella (previously Jill) are getting on. As you can see by the photos they have taken to family life rather well. Jack in particular enjoys cruising around the house in our daughter Abby's dolls pram with Ella occasionally joining him in the basket part, Jack also enjoys crusing around the section in the kids electric car.


They have sorted out the dog with a few swipes but all in all they are great mates as long as the dog realises they make the rules.

We are all enjoying their company and personality except Jack's 3am wake ups for a pat.

The girls decided that Jill should be Ella due to black fur like Gabriella of High School Musical and they thought Cinders might have been short for Cinderella.

Thanks again

Megan and Jamie

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne

Thought I would send these three photos for your amusement. The first one is our almost daily walk with the cats – at the weekend we all go into the big forest park next door to our place – we usually walk for about half an hour with a few stops on the way.

The second one is a great one of Amber, doesn’t she look stunning. Does she look like her mother?

In the third one, Amber has her head and shoulders part way down the rabbit hole. Tosca (doesn’t she look lovely) is acting as backup – those rabbits don’t stand a chance!

So far this rabbit hole has yielded three baby rabbits and last night Amber staggered up the step and through the cat door with one of the adult rabbits she had killed. She thinks she is soooooo cool J

Best wishes

Anne and Ray

Laura & Rosemary

I had to laugh at Laura's method of litter training. I think she is as sick of them missing the litter box as I am! Lets hope it works. They are only 4 weeks old so just at litter training stage.

From left Romona -boy who ever gets her is in for a kitten with personality - the kids have nicknamed her moana (she talks non stop!). She is climbing up the wire already at 4 weeks! Once one starts they all start (SIGH) I do not need her teaching Tom & Huck - they have been such good boys & not climbed the wire.
Next is seal girl
yhen other two ebony girls - not sure which is which from this view.
And seal boy - he is a big handsome fella!

EEEEEKKKKK
Here I sit doing the blog entry at 4am. Rosemary has just brought me in a present

A rabbit..... DEAD YUCK!!!
So who do I call - Abbey she has been known to charge me $5.00 to get rid of a dead mouse over the years... So I quietly sneak down to her room to wake her up. BUT silly me I hadn't shut kitchen door - next thing Rosemary is taking down to our bedroom her bunny.. so now Brent is awake oh my!
Brent did the photo shoot, Abbey removed it & me I well am a wimp & keep away. I suppose at least that bunny is not going to eat my garden!

Owned by MandaBurms

Hi Leanne.

Loved the latest blog antics and the armful of kittens photo. I couldn’t resist our ‘Bundle of Burmese’ in front of the fire last week, although when this very heavy bundle decides to reform on our bed during the night it isn’t quite so entertaining!

Love Annabelle.

The Sharpe litter

Laura's litter has been named.
After Sharpe novels by Bernard Cornwell quite funny really as the books are more a blokes type read - but I have loved them - Brent & James have been listening to them on audio & we recently got the series out on dvd. Thankfully there are a few female characters as this litter is all girls bar one boy!

Seal Boy Richard Sharpe (Known as Sharpe) (adoption in progress)
Seal girl Teresa (adoption in progress)
Ebony girl Ramona. (adoption in progress)
Ebony girl Lucille
Ebony girl Lizzie

They are 4 weeks old - out of the nest - starting to eat & not litter trained yet. Their personalities are starting to come through & I can pick some of them apart now.

I'll try hard to get Abbey to help me do a photo shoot.

Tom & Huck

Huck on left, Tom on right.

Tom - he has no white hair around neck - just light of flash I think.

Tom with his paw nearly up ready to biff the toy ladybug.
Thank you Abbey for helping take phtos you really need someone to help!!


Below Photo shoot of Huck

A typical MandaBurms pose.

Huck - best photo

Huck on Abbey's knee - Tom up around her neck - he is a dag he gives lovely kisses with his nose onto your nose.
Oh these boys are shocking! They have both got into our hearts.... grrrr! But we are thrilled with their new homes & know they will be well loved.

Finally I am back.....

Sorry for being a bad cat lady blogger GRIN! - Sickness hit our home & well blogging hasn't happened.

What a fun life I have - an armful of kitties.

Laura's kitties - we have 2 ebony girls not adopted. Litter is yet still to be named.... all doing well - Laura is such a good mum!

Caro's two boys Tom & Huck. They are big strapping confident fellas - very pleased with these boys & I am pleased they are not going together - Tom is dominate & biffs Huck especially at fresh meat feeding time - they are such fun to watch - Time wasters!
Rosemary is such a hoot - she is our most routine time keeper cat ever - she loves routine - latest is as days are nice she wishes to go in outside run with the other cats. Then grins in evening as she sleeps in my our bed. Here she is stirring up the chooks.

Cindy told Rosemary she would go around this side of the chooks & help round them up - she stays close while I garden, has a walk about & then you look she is back sitting in the outside run again. Nice that they like their run I suppose.

Briar is with Lordy purrrrr says Lordy!

Owned by a MandaBurm

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I’ve been meaning to write to you for yonks, but you know how it goes.... all I can say is sorry! It’s truly amazing that our babies have just turned a year old (on 5th July). I adore them and am possibly the softest touch ever. They have such different personalities, it’s quite incredible that they come from the same litter. I could tell you story after story about how lovable, naughty and funny they are, but I just really wanted to send a quick email to say thank you once again for our beautiful little boy and girl. I check your blog just about every day as I love seeing and hearing about your girls and boys too. The attached photo was taken the week before their birthday. It’s possibly not the best photo of them as the lighting was poor, but I did want to send it as it’s the latest. As usual, you can see more photos on Dave’s flickr site. I’m pointing you to page 3 as those are their oldest photos http://www.flickr.com/photos/flash5/sets/72157606902386675/?page=3I hope you’re well. Love Andy

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne

I thought I would just drop you a quick note to let you know that we are still “dotty” over our two cats (Amber and Tosca) and, as you can see from the photo, Brutus has been won over by them also. Amber has turned out to be the strong, silent hunter type who will bite the head off a mouse or rabbit just to stop us from rescuing it. Tosca has turned out to be very vocal but has a softer nature, although you wouldn’t know it when she bats a mouse round the house for half an hour or so. They both love the outdoors and enjoy going for walks, climbing trees, fences, roofs and unsuspecting adults who might be in the garden!

Thank you again for the two lovely additions to the family.

Ray and Anne

Caro's kittens - week 5

Probably can't see them very well - but boy is Abbey spoiling these kittens, but then Caro is her cat & she just adores Caro! Abbey has thee two kitten extremely social, she takes them out side (holding them) while Caro walks around the garden & always grr, always goes toilet in my vege garden. There is a huge mound of spare dirt - but no thank you vege garden it is. Abbey has to clean up after her!
Toilet training has begun - had to laugh first jobbie was not done in litter tray - but on the hottie.

Cinders has visited Lordy again - first mating didn't take. And what a nightmare - she escaped from Lordy's run - every breeders nightmare a queen on heat out & about!. Thankfully we were home & she was just being a hussy rolly pollying on the ground PHEW.
James found the hole in netting & all fixed what a handy fella he is!

Cindy in front - Lordy at rear.

We waited & waited, 5 days over due Laura had her kittens we have 5 yet to be named. I am contacting you all on waiting list. I got the birth on camera - so when I get to library (we can't get broadband here huff!! I'll pop it on you tube)

Many of you follow our family - and have seen the kids grow up - we have a two teens now oh boy! James now 13 & on is birthday they had a 4wd run they got his jeep finished just in time and had a ball doing bloke stuff.
News flash - if you watch the Maori channel tonight - 7pm It's in the bag - you might just see me & the kids in the audience - BLUSh I hope they didn't catch me giving hand signals to contestants. Lots of fun!

Week 3 for caro's kittens

Huckle at rear, Tom at front. And of course Caro's soft toys.

I always feel mean snapping the photos, they are all tucked up in the dark & this mad woman goes FLASH! Caro is a great mum - very relaxed. Abbey has been sick & laid in bed rotting reading her book - Caro would cuddle in her arms under the covers. The kittens would cry & cry, finally Caro would get up to them - but instead of caring for them - thought she would bring them into bed with her & Abbey & had plans to feed & care under the covers. They get moved back to the nest by Abbey.
Abbey is enjoying this litter - they are easy to tell apart due to tails & both just burst into purr when humans touch them. Abbey would prefer they didn't have to leave her room as she has enjoyed them - they are just about out of the nest & once they walk about un toilet trained .....


Laura is due next Saturday - I am hoping I can help on waiting list - she looks pregnant not fat!

Laura enjoys being outside with you. - Ha I knew my silver service skills would come in handy one day - carrying all the cats dinner plates. Hottie under arm - the cats love these! I have to have one each otherwise they fight over who is going to sit on hottie. They are a tad spoilt & Brent caught me heating up hotties to pop on their chairs outside during the day.

Computer saga - still going - I took Dell computer to friends house who has broadband (if you work for telecolm please see what you can do for us to get broadband we are classed rural & no connection available sigh!) It was fasicnating a lady in the Phillipans hacks into your computer & the screen goes all by itself. - Verdict need a system recovery - and did I take the disks with me no! So next week if friends family well & my kids well we will have another go at fixing computer sigh.

Keep warm & hope you are keeping well from all these nasty winter bugs. - I bet your cats are sleeping under the covers. Rosemary does - she is such a routine cat & has funny little ways - I say to her I'm off to bed now & off she trots straight to bathroom - night routine - she did like to take a sip from toilet. But knows not allowed - we have a little blue china bowl on hand basin which gets clean water nightly & she drinks from it as I brush my teeth (weird cat)
Then beats me to bed, we have a throw of her teddy, then a chase of my feet on top of covers - ouch she hurts! Then its under the covers a quick love bite of my thigh - then snuggles up into my arms while I read.

Oh have you seen the movie Marley & Me if you are animal lovers like us & had naughty dogs - you will love this movie. (current dog Mack has eaten through this houses laundry walls when he was a puppy!)

Hello

Thanks for emails - I am again behind in replying I always realy enjoy getting them & the family also loves reading & looking at photos. School holidays ye ha I have a tad free time - so hitting admin type chores - plus warranty on Della computer runs out tomorrow so I have to get that fixed - wish computers would just work - still having trouble printing pedigrees grrr! I need a computer whizz!


A nice sunny winters day - I was able to move cats around, & they resettled in the outside run. Cinders had been visiting the tom cat - he was a tad rough & left quite a nasty sore around her neck - called stud damage in the breeding world.

The cats are fun to watch as they resettle their pecking order - I made matters worse by giving them a cardboard box - why is it cats love boxes? They all wanted the box & it caused much humor to watch them try & claim it. The cats have a nice outlook onto the paddocks watching the sheep & goat & James refilled the bird seed feeder that hangs on the eaves of the cattery - the cats love chirping at the birds. The fantails are such teases flying in & out of the cattery - they haven't been caught YET
Our first ever boarding cat . We are living having back the kitten we bred, she is really happy here - but I am sure will prefer to be going home where she can get more attention. I am over security conscious and double lock doors so no chance of her getting out. She is a dag & sure likes to party - her toys are battered abut her run & even tipped over the water bottle. Her bedding she pulls around. Rather busy girl.

NB no I am not taking boarding cats yet - once other shed is built I will be. But only for people who have brought our kittens - I want it as a hobby/side line - it will not be a business. It is fun seeing our progeny as they grow & seeing our adults cats traits in the kittens. I'm saving for the next extension - doesn't help when the girls only give 2 kittens in a litter grin, that just pays for the cats upkeep.

Caro's kittens

One FAT mother cat in labour. She was great & stayed in her nesting box - it can be a tad annoying with the games the mother cats do play of where they want to have their kittens.
Caro had two ebony males. MMm TWO bit of a joke from the size of her. I think I'll have to change feeding habits of the girls around here. All doing well & as you can see Caro is up to her old tricks of bringing in toys to her kittens.
Kittens names are Tom Sawyer & Huckleberry Fin.

Hello

Hope you are all keeping warm! Wow here has been some frosts! Heating hotties for the cats - each hottie take 4 minutes in microwave & will stay warm all day - this is then repeated for the evening. So with 6 cats & kittens it takes a while to do the cattery.

All of the kittens have gone to their new homes - we have 3 days rest & it all starts again. Caro is due on Tuesday. She is getting rather large - BUT I do wonder how many kittens are in there - as she was a tad over weight to begin with. I will let you all know on waiting list what she has.

Caro sitting on a quilt - the box Rosemary destroyed.
Photo taken yesterday - a rather pregnant cat.

Caro has to be right where you are! Here we are trying to play a game of cards & flop - ito the centre she goes.
Rosemary's latest habit - getting a drink - gross! Thanks to James for snapping the photo.

Rosemary update

Rosemary arrived the first night back home with a teddy in our bed. She hasn't been into toys before & don't be fooled by this photo. She likes to get her back feet & give the teddy a good work over.

We have hassles with her & James' ring neck parrot. The parrot can open her cage even with clothes pegs on it. I have saved Roxy the parrot twice from Rosemary - oh my!

Her next point of prey is the pet frog.

Meet Brownie

- we are into our 2nd winter having to buy him flies - but what do you do we had him from a tadpole!

Caro is now inside - we can tell she is back inside with the amount of toys she leaves lying around!
Laura is all better & on full call - she will visit the luuve shed in the next day or two.
Briar is doing what she does best - mothering. Her kittens are doing well. We have one ebony girl available from this litter who will be able to go in a bout 2 weeks.
Cindy is being great she even let new owners look at her & touch her kittens - slowly she is getting over strangers. Her kitten Jack is such a talker - everyone who meets him adores him.
Lordy is counting down the hours till Laura visits.
Mack the mastiff has to go to vets on Thursday for an xray - his heart is pumping really fast. Poor fella.

Jasmine who is living in Napier has settled really well & most happy to be an only cat.

The kittens are not being obliging with the photo shoots - I will keep trying!

Did you miss me???

A whirl wind day trip to Napier. Having a cattery means we can't go away - we haven't had a family holiday for 9 years. So an early start on Mother's day - picnic lunch packed & off we drove to get Rosemary.

Jasmine & Rosemary had been rumbling!!

Jo Greene the vet animal behaviour specialist said we have just been very unlucky with these two girls. Moving them to new homes even the very best homes has caused an upset in dynamics between the twins. We as humans think we are doing the right thing moving them together - where in actual fact in cat world behaviour in a new environment they are happier apart.. Jo said why we don't have such upsets here at home it could be the other cats keeping them in line or just me being top of the pecking order.

So Jasmine is staying in Napier - she was really happy. It was hard for Abbey to see her - Jazz gave her pick me up Abbey climb up the legs & a lot of fuss to Abbey. She is settled & is well pampered. Will she miss her sister who knows! Heather said they would lick, groom cuddle each other & then next thing it was all on a rumble.

You wouldn't even know she had been away.

And Rosemary is here to stay!

Jack n Jill

Wow is it hard to get good photos of Ebony on Ebony

Cindy, Jill & Jack

Jack a real talker

Not one of the better snaps I got - but look carefully & you can Jack n Jill's tails crossed as they are feeding off Cindy - too cute.

Owned by a MandaBurms

Hi Leanne, just wanted to let you know that the babies are doing very well
and I just love them to bits. They now go outside when I am around with
them. I have a huge property here so I keep calling them every 10 to 15
minutes so they don't get too far away from me. My little Leonardo is such
a brave little kitten. I can see sometimes that he is really frightened of
things going on around him, the wind, trees blowing, the chooks etc, but he
just faces it all head on. He is an absolute star. My little Bella brings
up the rear and offers him lots of support. She was putting on lots of
weight and poor little Leonardo was not doing much growing at all until I
realised that she was hoovering through her food and then proceeding to eat
all of his as well. Meal times now strictly supervised so that they both
get their share.

I love these little cats to bits and can't imagine not having them around.
They are so full of personality and character. Thank you so much for
letting me have two of your precious babies. Please feel free to call in at
any time and visit them.

Regards, Carmel.

Hello

Oh I am tardy at this blog. I hope you all look past my typing & rushed posts, I usually am multitasking when I blog - making Brent's lunch & breakfast.

The twins have settled in well - they are even wearing collars my! I would of thought they would of grizzled at that.

Pandora has a lovely home - we all found it hard letting these three cats go but the best part of breeding is hearing from all the owners how much joy their MandaBurms bring you all. When ever I get an email from you - I always sit & enjoy sharing with the family & yes it is the very best part! THANK YOU!!!

Briar's kittens are now 6 weeks - very cute!!!! Eating well, toilet trained & now just growing. Not keeping still for photos I must add!

Anne & Sulli
Gilbert in the front.

Cindy's kit are 5 weeks - finally toilet trained yes! Photos I took aren't that good so will get one of the kids to give me a hand. They should be in cattery - but James loves Cinders and we are all very fond of this litter - as they are behaving themselves they can stay inside a bit longer.

Laura cut her paw - and if you have met Laura you know what an over groomer she can be! So a tad of a challenge getting the paw to heal. She has had to be kept in one of the indoor runs she hasn't enjoyed that at all. But we had to limit her jumping and reopening the wound. She has also been on call

Caro is with Lordy & loves being with him - she likes his run with the plank & strolls around happily all day. She also is a bit bossy to poor old Lordy who just takes it. Lordy is the only cat Caro can be boss over.

Mack the Mastiff is getting more & more tired on his walks - he doesn't seem to have the staminer. But he is jolly good at helping Brent & James gather on their travels. He even picks with his jaws the feijoas & crab apples.Brent used his tool makers clamp to let the crap apple juice drip through- he is a handy fella! The crab Apple Jelly is such a pretty colour when made.

Brent is a tad sad to see Old Blue leave - many of you who have visited our place comment on his toys so will understand his loss - she is going to a man in Dunedin today.

James has saved up his pocket money & brought a jeep - a very proud lad! He happily works on it with Brent in the weekend. Brent has just brought tyres for it & there is a group of dads & sons who go bush bashing - arrive home covered in mud - A bloke thing I am sure!

Abbey is good busy doing her school work - thank goodness I found her a maths tutor she got stumped on logarithms - YUCK! She is enjoying her jobs & Brent & I find we are her social taxi.

W are all good enjoying life. I'll try not to leave updates so long....

Love Leanne

Meeting of the twins

The twins new owners came down from Napier to meet them. Well typical! The twins were not impressed with me yesterday putting them in outside run. They performed shockingly as a Burmese can! They were like two naughty twins who knew what was happening & decided to play up - Rosemary grizzled, Jasmine even gave the man a bite - not a proper bite but a nip that said I do not wish to be held at the moment.

I couldn't believe it!

The new owners just laughed & thankfully they liked them & want Burmese with personality.

Once the girls were running free they behaved & came up to see what was happening.

It was nice to know that their family have some of our kittens - Sid & Sam - there are photos of them on website with a black lab. They said they play rough & have a tiff - then next thing back friends again. A very Burmese/Mandalay snotty typical behaviour!

Quoting Annabelle here:
Mandaburms Burmese are so full of personality I said to Pete yesterday when we were in the kitchen looking at the boys all hooning around the front garden smacking each other and running and playing in the wind you have to know Burmese otherwise if you are new to owning any you would really find them quite challenging sometimes. They are challenging, loving, fiercely intelligent and so rewarding. That is why we love them and they are definitely not placid, quiet moggies.

The girls have been outside - back inside and 10am they leave - fingers crossed they will behave! - They are going to two people who have had Burmese & and an Abby before so know what they are in for with these girls. And as the man said with a twinkle in his eye "I will not be bossed by a cat" - he will sort these girls out * no doubt the twins will have them wrapped around their fingers....

Before Green Gables litter

Ebony girl - Sulli

Not the best photo, they are soo fast I lied down on floor to snap them feeding & then zoom up goes their tails & trot, trot over to see me. (ps they are now 4 weeks old)

This litter is CUTE and if were human babies I would proudly say they are advanced for their age. Seal boy is using the litter tray - not always but is tinkling when he climbs in. They like the bigger cat nuts not the baby stuff.

We have named this litter after the book - Before Green gables by Budge Wilson.

"...she peeked in the door to see if the to cats were inside. They were - sound asleep, snuggled up to each other in a box behind the cow's stall. This was the first time she'd seen them. Both were short -haired, one gray, the other striped. Anne sat George down on the floor while she bnt to stroke them. "Oh, George!" she said. "Isn't a purr the most exquisite sound in the world? Almost as good as music. Mrs Hammond says they have no names. I'm going to call them Gilbert and Sullivan. Miss Henderson said they were both very musical."

Jack N Jill

Jack lying down, Jill got up to greet me. Jack is much bigger than Jill a real big boy!Cindy rushed in to tell me off for touching her babies, not that she minds but I respect it when the mother gets a tad annoyed - quick lick of the Jack's bum to make sure all ok.

They were 3 weeks on Monday.

Twin Update

I think I have a new home for the twins. Semi retired couple who have had Burmese before - they are coming to look at them in weekend. Fingers crossed. But it is hard, I would like to keep them but I don't want to end up with lots & lots of old cats as some breeders do - that's not a life for cats kept in cages all their life (not that the twins are in a cage they are living in the house which I think makes it harder to move them on). I know the right owner will give them a wonderful home.

I had been running on a kitten to breed - but decided breeding & moving on cats is just too hard for me - and a lady dearly wanted her - she is going to a farm & will be soo loved - so she is going too.

MandaBurms featured on blogs

I came across Clare Smith's blog - an awesome quilter in NZ who is owned by a MandaBurms.
Jack was from our first litter - brother to Laura, Caro & Charles.

Here is link to photo of Jack being a real MandaBurms!

And yes I hope to get time in at the quilt symposium this weekend - it is planned well with a hot rod show on too - so something for the blokes.

James snapped this photo of Jasmine & Rosemary. We are looking for the right home for them....but in no hurry. I should advertise them... but I'm in no hurry.

Update on Black Jack

Hi Leanne,

I thought I had better get on to doing this before I completely forget lol. Black Jack has settled in really well at the house and is quite a character. He is really getting along with our other kitten, Muppet, and there close buddies, always play fighting with each other!! He has gotten use to the dog but won't go too close, but that's ok, Jasmin is a big softy anyway. He has had the last of his vaccinations and he has been a joy to have and his character is simply the best!!! I have included some pictures of Jack Black and some with Muppet as well. Hope you enjoy :p

Shannon

Our Week

The girls have been back home a week - yesterday I put them back together - NO PROBLEM!
As if they never had a tiff. So they are happy & I wish I had been a fly on the wall at their foster home to see what had gone on.

Will watch them for another week & then try again to find them a new home - I know there are plenty of good homes that will treat them as we do. It is a hard part of cat breeding & I have tossed up giving up - then get awesome emails & phone calls from vets & owners of our kittens & I know it is all part of any hobby there is the good & the bad.

Monday Morning Cinders had her kittens - two ebony - a boy & a girl James has named them Jack n Jill. I haven't contacted anyone on waiting list yet - sorry been keeping a low profile - still a bit raw from Rosemary & Jasmines return. Two small litters - that hasn't happened with our cats before. But all of the cats are a bit overweight & that can contribute to small litters - but they do enjoy their food. The girls are getting older now, especially Briar - vets have told me we will know when the time is right to spay the girls. I don't feel it is yet - but I am guessing by end of next year it will begin. Both Cinders & Briar are great mums & their kittens are thriving on soo much milk & attention. It's funny looking in the nest & seeing such fat kittens. I don't like taking photos while they are all tucked up in the den - about 4 weeks old they come out of their den so will get some photos of them then.

I took Pandora to vets yesterday for her 2nd vaccination - walked in announcing I am not crying today - they had me in tears there last week with Rosemary & the upset - I said I need to harden up re the cats & I was told firmly never do that - that's what makes you guys such great breeders...

Ok Big girl pants on will put feelers out for another home for the twins.

I'm a bad cat blogger

I always feel silly when I talk to folks wanting to go on our waiting list & explain we have a cat blog - it sounds rather weird... I have to thank everyone who has emailed us photos & stories this week - THANK YOU!!! It is awesome to get them & wonderful for me to share here on the cat blog. I will answer them I promise!!!! And upload one a day next week. Some pampered well loved MandaBurms out there!

By the way we are on dial up so please make resolution small of files & photos - one day I'll get up with technology.

I have a love hate affair with computers - they do my head in. I've got the printer working on new Della computer but the cat photos I haven't uploaded correctly. School holidays coming soon - wet cold weather - so I hope I can bond with computers & printers to work it all out!
Briar had her kittens on Sunday - three kittens - even she couldn't believe only 3, she kept looking for more. They are huge! Huge when born 95g ebony male, 85g ebony female, 105g seal male. Briar has soo much milk! I've penciled Vanessa's name next to a seal boy & ebony girl. Waiting for Cindy to have her litter - due today and hopefully we can help some of you on the waiting list. Think of me at 8.30pm during Earth Hour tonight if Cindy is in kitten - doing it all by candle light.

We are Baaack!

Yes Rosemary & Jasmine have returned due to a number of circumstances. The kids & I are thinking of writing a children's book - Rosemary won't leave home. Annabelle the girls love your sheepskins you gave out cats - LOVE them!
I will let the girls resettle in here at home, pull up my big girl britches & then decide what we are going to do. Cat breeding brings many joy & sometimes tears!

Pandora

Bungy jumping

Yesterday I bungy jumped off the sky tower - well as close as I ever will, by being on a ride at Te Papa.

We had two kittens flying to Auckland - it always works out for time & dates for all parties. The boys had an early start leaving home at 8.45am - they have to be at airport an hour before flight. Poor fellas had to listen to a yapping puppy - but thankfully not for too long as he was on a Christchurch flight.

The kids & I spent enjoyable hours at Te papa - we wanted to see Monet but the line was soooo
long - will make another trip & we will take Brent.

Abbey had her orthodontist appointment - so we had a full day out.

The kittens were going to two different owners - both ebony boys. Their new owners picked the right cats - we had painted one kittens nails & cut the other kittens nails as one of the ways to tell them apart. Putting them in the cage together for flight is nicer for kittens & the owners just share the cost of the flight.

Hi Leanne what a delightful kitten, not naughty yet! Certainly
inquisitive but he, Sinbad and Brown have spent the afternoon stalking
each other. A bit of spitting from young brown but otherwise so far so good.
He is such a love smooching at any opportunity.
When we picked the kittens up it was obvious which one he was as was at
the front like let me out of here.

Will send some photos over the next couple of days as he settles.

Cheers and many thanks Anne (Harry's new mum)

It's always great when owners who haven't seen their kitten are thrilled & happy with their MandaBurms. Anne's kitten(Harry) is going to be a show boy - MandaBurms is going to have two cats in the shows this year - MandaBurms Pandora (Kirby) & MandaBurms Countach Nero (Harry) Both Laura & Lordy Lines.
Will let you all know via blog/website what shows they will be at. Do try & stop by & say hi!

I hop to get to the bottom of computer issues - brought another printer thinking it was printers - but finally worked out it is the old computer is too old for flash printers - now I am having to sort out how to get old Pedigrees onto new computer - thankfully the pedigree company has a support email - but a tad hard for this non techno gal! Fingers cross I can get it to work - I wouldn't like to face having to type in again all the pedigrees.........

BOTHER

I'm all self taught with computers. My web host for cat web page has changed host. I've just updated the kitten page http://www.mandaburms.com/kittens.html
But I see no nice background - can someone please click on it & tell me if it looks ok??? Or are you also getting a messy look. GRRRR

AND I have two printers I can't get to work - knock head against wall.

I have to start my day I have a biology test to mark (we had to dissect a worm last week blech!) will try & sort out web pages over next few days...

The Lads

L to R - The boys. Oliver, Muddy, Charles & Milo Sunday 1 March 2009

Hi Leanne.

Great news. It was so good to read about Rosemary and Jasmine and their new home. Fiona and Mark sound so nice and I am sure they and their new Mandaburms girls will have a lot of fun and a wonderful life together. You must be feeling really happy for them.

I can only now fully appreciate how difficult it is for you to photograph all the kittens for new owners. This was one of the better picks from about 40 taken late this afternoon to send to you! There was always one disappearing over the edge of the trampoline or another presenting his back to the camera!

Hope you like it.

Annabelle.

Oh Yes it is quite a mission to get the photos for you all - I'm now teaching James to help me take photos as Abbey's social life is soo much busier. I soo loved this photo of the boys on the tramp - that would of been soo hard to take!

Rosemary & Jasmine are settling in really well - Fiona & Mark have been so kind to give me updates by phone. Jasmine has settled in no trouble! Rosemary is more loyal to us and hasn't quite found her feet yet. But no over spraying has happened - good girl & no love bites - but I am sure they will be received once she really settles.

I sure miss them but haven't missed the cat dominance issues here - maybe Rosemary was over spraying due to trying to mark her spot as top cat?

Naughty Rosemary got out - as Burmese can - she squeezed through an on suite lead light window. Gave her new home quite a fright - but she was sitting in a tree & came to them when called PHEW!

Mark is now our plumber - so yell if you need a good plumber!

Thank you

Hi Guys,

Just wanted to send you a quick note to say thank you for the babies... as you can see from the attached photos they are settling really well!!

Kids and hubby have decided that the seal boy will be called Sixx (after Nikki Sixx of Motely Crue) and the black boy is Slash (after Guns and Roses)... rock and roll of the 80's and 90's is alive and well in our house!!!

Will send updates...

Have a great weekend

Kylie and Family

I was asked this weekend if I get sick of updates & emails - NO WAY!!!! Our family LOVES seeing photos & hearing all the naughty things MandaBurms get up to - I think you all know me I am shocking at emails - we do read them & then at a later date I sit & answer them. If you ever want me best way is by phone leave a message. But we really, really LOVE getting the emails. One of the best parts of breeding is knowing MandaBurms kittens go to the very best homes and are well loved!

On the bench

Tsk, tsk, tsk! Jame is getting great delight snapping these photos to show me Briar on the bench!

Bench

Kids quickly snapped this photo. I don't have any cat on my kitchen bench - but you try & tell that to Briar.
Here she is being a typical Burmese - I will do as I wish. If I want to be on the bench I will!

Cat nuts were just getting filled to go out to cattery, Briar wished to sample them.

Caleb

A big handsome boy that just sat & posed for the camera.

Bella & Leonardo

Maggie is renamed to Bella & Rory to Leonardo

Maggie & Harry

Maggie's & Harry's mum to be was out here having another look. But Harry was being very playful & the lady decided to take a quiter boy. I have to admit Harry is full on & is one of the boys I can hardly wait to go to his new home. He was the first to climb up the top of cattery door.
Harry I will be putting on web soon up for adoption - he has been microchipped & desexed.

Shannon your boy

Jeff has been renamed Black Jack

MandaBurms Pandora

Kirby has been renamed to MandaBurms Pandora.

Is this a Burmese look or what!

Kylie your boys.

Red collar boy - Daniel new name is going to be Slash

Seal Boy - Jim yet to be renamed.

I survived

Ahh home to sleep! _ Friday I went with 80 other homeschoolers for a sleep over at the zoo. It was brilliant! James & his 2 friends had about 2 hours sleep, as one fell asleep the other two woke him up! A highlight for me was a group of 9 year old girls who decided to have a toothpaste fight in their sleeping bags. Most of the home school mums sent the dads - so we had a room full of snoring dads, one dad went to sleep early - we then had a little kid (6) cry because he couldn't sleep with the snoring, other kids complained they couldn't sleep due to snoring. So I woke up the dad - ha ha - it worked tho as then the little kids got to sleep, the dads went to sleep & sored - the big kids got to stay up as late as they wanted to & whisper talk. The zoo trip was excellent!

Jasmine has settled in her new home really well - taking Rosemary a bit longer - I do miss Rosemary she was my mate in the garden - but she will settle & has gone to a wonderful home.

Laura's litter were desexed this week - all are doing well - I do screen owners & I have never let a kitten go to a home that I do not feel comfortable with. Laura's litter I have turned away a lot of owners - one owner wanted two but kept fostering kittens from the SPCA - this is wonderful for the SPCA but not so good for our kittens as they will be exposed to too many bugs. Another family wanted a kitten for their young daughter - but on visiting the little girl wants a cuddly kitten - Burmese Mandalay are cuddly but want to play more - so I recommend a British Blue or ragdoll breed would be better. Another owner was going to collect the kitten on way home from their holiday - but then thought taking it on holiday & keeping the kitten separate from the cat who lives in the house would be ok.
I always talk over with Brent my thoughts & we decided together - it is never easy saying no to folks. Breeding is our hobby not a business.

Briar & Cinders are pregnant - both starting to get rather fat & wobbly.

Last day of summer eeek

Another week has gone by.
Laura's kittens are doing well - they went to vets for first vaccination & vet check - they have no hang ups , vet & I were laughing at their relaxed attitude - just flopping on their side on vet table. Vet wanted to take their temperature! All good - I'll start sending you all emails today/tomorrow of what the kittens need & get confirmation of who want microchipping.

Harry (new name Leonardo - pink collar boy has found how to climb - it only takes one & they all follow - grrrr.

Rosemary & Jasmine have found the best home! If you think I screen you guys for kittens - you have seen nothing yet! Rosemary & Jasmines new owners were awesome. They knew it was hard for us to rehome these girls.

Yesterday I delivered the girls - having in the back of my mind that if I wasn't happy I would bring them home. All of the family was a bit snappy with each other - no one offered to come with me.

The new owners had gone to a lot of trouble getting everything just right for the girls I couldn't of asked for anything more. They were a surprize birthday gift for Mark - he was even sent away from the house - so when the girls arrived they had time to settle before he saw them. He arrived & just beamed - many of you men are like Brent & big softies!

Jasmine was amazing she went up to Mark (Had given everyone else no time of day) and rubbed up against Mark - arching her back fussing away. Well! The saying a dog has a master & cats a servant sure was true - I was just wiped - and Jasmine made herself right at home. Rosemary kept giving me looks, but was the one who went searching around checking out the new pad.

It really was lovely and I didn't even cry - I know they are going to be happier in their new family, not having to worry about other cats - except I am sure they will sort out any neighbours cats once they have settled in.

Fiona popped back the cat cage I had left in error with a lovely bunch of flowers - Thank you Fiona & Mark for adopting the twins and for being so lovely. I know the girls will be very happy there. I must say Brent & I awoke early this morning & wondered if the girls were in your bed.

I haven't even cried - their new home is just so right!

Laura's kittens

This is a fun age - nearly 7 weeks old. we are starting to be able to tell who is who.
I hope to grab Abbey for a Photo shoot.
Next weekend will be a good time to come & visit & pick your kittens (very hard to pick) - as I've said before they always seem to go to the right owner.
Not long to go now!
Age 8 weeks they get their first vaccination & vet check - I then get confirmation of owners/kittens - email you information of what they have been feed & give you my bank account number.
Age 9 weeks they get desexed & microchipped - let me know if you want microchipping
Age 10 weeks SOME kittens start to leave - they never go all at the same time - I don't know which ones yet can leave at 10 weeks.

Laura is a shocker at letting her kittens out! She was meant to be going outside for a run around - but instead started letting all her kittens run up the hallway grrrr.

James changing litter tray the kittens are soo pleased to see us! - can you see this weeks lamb bone they have totally cleaned up?Hi James I'm coming out to see you! It only takes one kitten to learn & then watch out they all follow!

Climbing the scratching pole - it will not be long & one will work out how to jump to side of pen , up onto bathroom handbasin & then off out .

Jack Black (aka Mister Lee)

Weekending 21 February

So much for Brent taking all of February off work - the weather stinks! The 50 tomato plants James & I planted aren't even ripening.

Brent has been working hard on house - a few horrors lots of borer & rotten studs the choice was made to rip it all out & replace with fresh treated timber (borer doesn't like the taste) so should be good for another 100 years.

I've been busy organising & attending the Kapiti home schoolers - have a go sailing. Awesome fun!

On the cat front - Jasmine & Rosemary are still with us - thanks for feed back - I will re word my info on the twins - a tad too honest I am being told. Its just I want a forever home for them &we know what it is like to have an older cat move in - Brent's folks cat we got for them from spca was a shocker at shredding wall paper - no wonder he ended up at the spca.
The twins are being nice! They are all running with Caro & Cindy.... be interesting when I move Laura & her kittens to cattery today or tomorrow to see what happens in the Cattey pecking order.

Thanks for emails letting us know how your kittens are going - I am shocking at replying - usually take a peek & show family then put my reply on the around to it list.

Hi Leanne

They are just so much delight

She is so mischievous, he is a little reserved, but is becoming more outgoing

Occasionally they get growled at for getting up onto the table - and that seems to be working, as I can see both of then thinking about it before they pounce - early days yet I know

Will keep you posted

Bill

Hi Leanne, Brent, Abbey and James.

Just a quick note to say how much I (we both) adore Milo. He is very special indeed and an incredibly loving, intelligent little boy.

I had to tell you – I have been holding my breath since yesterday morning as he has been at the vet since then and last night as he had been playing hard and running around like a typical fluffy tailed demented Burmese kitten (after first being licked and mothered by Ollie) and he hurled/flew himself off the top of the stairs upstairs and landed hard on the floor below after first being verrry careful on all the stairs. I was terrified as I saw it happen right in front of me and couldn’t do a thing to stop it. I took him straight in to the vet who was lovely and very concerned and thought he had done some internal damage and perhaps cracked his pelvis/leg – we were absolutely distraught as he was in so much pain. I didn’t sleep a wink last night but was given a provisional OK to bring him home tonight as the vet thought he would be happier at home and he may ‘just’ have been badly bruised. He is on pain medication. But at home tonight I carefully opened the cat cage door in his room and he took one look at his surroundings and then at me and climbed up on my lap and put his two front paws on either side of my face, licked my nose and then head bunted me for well over 20 minutes – purring like a tractor and then rolling on his back to be rubbed. No claws out and I confess I was crying tears of joy. He loves his food, any food, so he guzzled his food, went to his dirt box (which he hadn’t at the vets causing some concern about bladder damage) and ran to me over and over to be cuddled carefully. He is quite simply amazing - and totally gorgeous.

He is resting upstairs now, snuggled asleep but we are confident he is going to be fine. He goes back on Monday to be checked.

Honestly, these Mandaburms!!!!!!!!!! Each one has caused us huge emotional upheavals early in kittenhood due to their misadventures. How we worry about them and love them so much though. My heart is only now settling.

Thankyou so much for this amazing wee fellow. He is, quite simply, stunning.

XXXXXXXXXXXXX Annabelle

Hello

Photo of the week - still a hard age to get nice photos. They are all doing well. I will have to move them to cattery next week me thinks as the pen is getting too small for them for running around in.
They all go through a scardy cat phase - it's funny to watch them. Yesterday it was the broom - initially most were scared of it - but bother didn't get long for them to get over that! _ you try sweeping with 8 kittens helping & then skidding in the pile swept up. - But it is fun.

I caused upset tummies this week - my own fault changing diet. We had first lamb of the season & Brent gave the kitten the lamb bone - man they love these - growl & carry on. But for kittens so young a change of diet does lead o runny poops. Sorry kitties. (they are all better no drama just yucky litter trays for me to change)

I had a lovely email from new owners

Hello Leanne

Just to let you know that the kittens have settled in amazingly well - everything you say about them is true!

They are eating well (they are VERY keen on food), using their kitty litter perfectly, and playing happily with each other or sleeping - whenever there are no people paying them attention.

They are not scared of the dogs (or any other noises either), they are very confident and happy, and purr loudly whenever they are picked up.
The seal female is slightly more cuddly than the black male - he has a bit of a tendency to bite hands (which is being discouraged).
They both 'talk' in greeting to people when they come in - even though they are so young...

So: all in all - very satisfactory - thank you.
(And all the people who have seen them want some too!).

Regards, Jane

Leanne Here : if a kitten is biting you - just gently put them on the ground & walk away - they will soon learn biting doesn't bring attention.

We still have one seal boy with Caro - he is staying longer as Caro often has too much milk - she was full yesterday morning, so as soon as her milk supply goes down he will go to his new home.
He is joining three other MandaBurms brothers. Charles (litter mate to Caro & Laura), Muddy who is very naughty! - Annabelle asked for a naughty one but possibly one not so! And Oli from Briar


Me think Annabelle you need a bigger basket. Annabelle & Pete would of taken Jazz & Rosemary in a heart beat - but the settling in would just be too much with strong minded MandBurms.

Jasmine & Rosemary

Saga continues... the vet nurses sister hasn't made contact, I'm ok about that.
So I've put the twins on Trade Me - need to put them on website too.

Gee it is a hard thing to do - over the years Brent & I are the ones that home animals not rehome. One of our first animals was Bones a skinny miss treated old doberman - he was meant to chase cats & had been to many homes. I brought him home on trial for the weekend - tied him up to the potbelly & waited for Brent to come home. Bones was a wonderful old fella, maybe he knew he had fallen on his feet? He didn't chase our cats, infact he would play with Weka - but Weka wasn't scared of him. When Brent dug drains - Bones & Weka would walk along, Weka would bunt Bones & then Bones would bunt back & Weka would fall in the ditch - quite a game they made of this.

John a black kitten dumped in Wellington city (he was a sleek fella possibly had Burmese in him) Brent caught him for me.
Middy I stole her - she used to come to my flat & hang out with John & I fed her, her owners used to bath her in apple shampoo & put her outside wet- so when I moved flats I took her. I moved home & when I married Brent mum wouldn't let me have her back she was now mums & lived till she was about 18 -20

Other pets we have had in our 23 years together are:
Horrace Morris an unwanted kitten (he must of had Burmese in him he was awesome!!)
Bones - skinny doberman
Weka - next door neighbours cat that preferred our home to hers (he was 18 when we had to put him down)
Douglas Brent's dad cat - we got from the SPCA for them - man he was a pain used to scratch wallpaper something shocking - he moved in with us when Brent's dad passed away - but sadly he was such a guts he got hit by a car going across to neighbours for his 2nd or 3rd feed of the day.
Briar - doberman - an awesome dog but gee she had a rough start - was raised outside & must of had thunder & lightening storms - as she was terrified of them as a dog.
Thorn male doberman
Rose Briar & Thorn had puppies she had 13 pups - Rose was the only red girl & man was she naughty! Why is it Brent likes naughty animals??? That was hard finding good homes for doberman puppies, it attracted all the to rags of society - We did find good homes including Julian Mathews (he was editor of NZ Gardner - name dropping here giggle).
Max a doberman - awesome fella - we got him after the other dobies had gone. He died suddenly with a heart attack age 5.
Mack - our current Mastiff - man I'd have a dobie again any day - they like to please - Mastiffs have a slyness about them - but he is a nice fella.
Briar & Sam started us off on the Burmese & Mandalay trail - well you know the rest.

I'm jolly cross at Jasmine & Rosemary not getting on with the other cats, I have really tried - it's only got worse now both are spayed - they have a gang like mentality & egg each other on.

We want them to go to a forever home - one with no dogs or other cats so they will settle in well. People that like cats with personality as these two girls have huge ones. I know the right home will come along for them & they will be total sobs & make themselves right at home.

They must go together it would be cruel for them not to.

I've been real honest about their naughty traits - We know what it is like to get an adult cat from SPCA - no wonder the cat ended up there with all the wallpaper he would shred.

They aren't that naughty & people who like cats with attitude will love them. Jasmine will even let kids dress her up -I know that is frowned upon, but our cats & kittens have this happen to them over the years.

So if you know of anyone wanting to give Rosemary or Jasmine a forever home get them to contact me.

Caro's kits

Last weekend some of Caro's kittens went (Boy was I ready! Caro's line is always naughty) Seeing the kittens leave is one of the nice parts of breeding - all our family enjoy watching your faces of delight getting your new kitten.

Hi Leanne,

I am knackered!!!! Arnie is a VERY outgoing personality and woke me up probably 40 times last night, smooching and sitting on my face. He has been so busy that he hasn't peed, pooed, eaten or drunk anything til lunch time today when I tempted him with some beef mince. The noises he can make while consuming said mince are phenominal!

Here's hoping he sleeps a bit more tonight.

Attached is a pic of Phin with Tamino, and one with Tamino on his own so you can meet Arnies new big brother.

Cheers Simone

- Leanne here Simone owns & runs Tolly Farm boarding kennels she was owned by Phin - Quoting Simone

"Phin the cat. Phin is short for Endorphin, a hormone that makes people feel good.

To describe Phin would be to attempt to describe a Male Burmese kitten, crazy, mad, busy, naughty, claws, teeth and trouble."

Sadly Phin was hit by a car - a total accident. It was amazing when Simone came last weekend- the kittens are naughty & it's a real art to keep them in their run - Arnie somersaulted out, tail in air & strutted straight to Simone, he knew she was the one. I was worried that Simone would find it hard to replace Phin - but Arnie made sure he was going home with her.

Oh & it is quite normal for the kitten not to eat or go to the toilet for about 24hours, worrying for us humans - but it's a settling in thing, just keep petting & giving attention & they will eat - just a bit of a big step leaving their mum & litter mates - BUT do ring me if ever worried I do not mind at all.

Hi Leanne and family,

Just wanted to let you know that Gia (aka Marty) has settled in really well. Sol has been very tolerant and apart from a bit of hissing of the first day he is now content for her to attempt to play with him. Whilst he is still being a bit "I'm too big to play with you" I'm sure it won't be long till he can no longer resist to her advances. She is now happily chasing the kids as they run around the house and is content to be carried around by both Ella and Fynn.

Thanks again.

Melinda

Morning

Not the best photo - but I don't think I was too popular waking them up & snapping a photo with a flash.
Laura's kittens are doing well - a very clean litter all using the litter trays no accidents excellent!
now eating really well, I want to try & learn how to upload a video to blog for you all. Hearing them eat as wee kittens is the best sound in the world. They make quite a noise & it always brings a smile to my face, everyone should hear this sound! - sort of a yum, yum sound.

Laura is up to her old tricks & gets all her kittens out of the pen grrr. I laughed the other day listening to Abbey tell her friend to be careful when she walks into the bathroom as there maybe kittens out. The kittens love being out & strut over to see you while you are on the throne - too much detail??

Laura is jolly fast at moving kittens into a bedroom if door is left open for long - she sure is a hard case mother cat. She has lost weight I hat seeing the mother cat look soo skinny - doesn't help that she is a tad fussy!

Laura's kittens go walk about

I had to laugh at Brent's kiwi bloke actions this morning when I got up.
Last night all of the kittens were getting out of their igloo - even with it turned around facing wall they could all climb out - 8 kittens not toilet trained running around my house isn't what I like! Thankfully I thought I could at least contain them in bathroom & knew I would have puddles to clean up in morning.
Brent had a better plan - he just put the nest in the bath tub - that fixed them!
Now his job is over urgent to put up kitten pen in bathroom which will be done first thing this am!

Last night I had the awful job of phoning new owners to advise I couldn't let them have a kitten - not a fun thing to do!
They are an awfully nice couple & I felt real mean. Had stewed on it all weekend - finally Brent sorted me out & we agreed letting them take a kitten was not in the best interests of the kitten. They are having their first baby in 2 weeks & with a new MandaBurms kitten in the mix well - not the best in our opinion.

Last week of January 2009

Eeek January has zipped by.

This week we went carting.

James holding his hat as the boys undertake Karen & IThe Boys are off - Pebbles TROT! I tell you lots of fun! My friend Karen is trying to talk James & I into getting a horse & Cart & go carting. - it was fun!

Hay & watch Maori TV in May - kids & I are in the audience - thats' all I'm saying you will have to watch & see
Garden is producing - just need to work on my quantities when planting - seem to have everything at once I blink & the zucchini's are marrows - chooks love these. We are enjoying all the heirloom seeds James & I grew from seed - Port Albert Cucumber, Green Apple Cucumber, beans on right are Blue lake runner - brilliant crop & on left Borlotto Fire Tongue beans - these are fun as colourful but when cooked just go green awwww. Not in photo but - Purple Dragon Carrots are also a hit! And don't you just love the heirloom names - Drunken Woman Fringed Head - (will grow these again). Tomatoes are just ripening James & I got a tad carried away with growing from seed & we have ended up with at least 50 plants of Amish Paste, Brandy wine pink, yellow pear, Black Krim to name a few. - See I have other interests not just cats GRIN.
As usual I waffle - but you really want to see cats!!!

Laura's kittens will be 4 weeks on Monday - The kitten box will be erected in weekend for them as they are thinking & trying to get out of the nest. (photo taken this am for you)

Not the best photos for you but took camera to cattery this morning & tried -
Been neat meeting all the new owners this week - not long to go now Thanks Catherine for website to compare rates - Had fun talking bank talk with you http://www.interest.co.nz/mortgages.asp -

Caro's kittens had their wee snips Friday & you just would never know all running around as if nothing has happened.

Briar is in the house laping up the attention.

Jasmine & Rosemary have been upsetting the girls - Vet nurses' sister is visiting Sunday to see them - Rosemary's stitches are all out from desexing so they can go any time - I feel sad - but will not miss their rumbling & upsets they cause - shame they won't just be good & I could of kept them. Their maybe new home has children so that's nice for them & I am thrilled they will go together - totally worth the wait for the right home.

Caro

Caro had to help with photo shoot - she's an awesome cat!

Please excuse typing errors - but I am rushing -

"My spelling is Wobbly. It's good spelling but it Wobbles, and the letters get in the wrong places."

Winnie The Pooh

We have had some cancellations - as you know I don't take a deposit as life does get in the way - eg the couple have had a job offer in Germany - so will get kittens in a year when back home.
I have tried to make contact with some of you on waiting list - please contact me if you wish a kitten from Caro instead or Laura's. -

Luke

Luke Ebony Male weight 715g

He wouldn't look at camera & then Caro kept getting in the way to mother him - mummy's boy!
He has the largest purrr & was a hoot to watch the other day growling at other kitens - he had a bit of newspapr he was guarding.

Missy

Missy seal girl weight 735g
Sorry I cut her feet off most of the photos - she wouldn't keep still.

Marty

Marty Seal female weight 720g.
Man it's hard to tell Marty & Missy apart.
Marty has one white whisker on her right, Missy has one white whisker on her left. - Often the kitten whiskers that are white drop out

Ellie

Ellie - Seal female - smallest female weight 620g. She will stay a bit longer than 10 weeks - you watch she will catch up with weight
But man has she got energy & she is sooo like caro - loves wet hair & rubs her nose up in your hair A real character.

Clark

A massage on his tummy & he just goes all silly

No way was he gonna sit for us

Clark Seal male weight 865g

He was fun to photo - as you can see he is a real mush - might have to be the new pin up for weight watchers add.

Clare - seal male weight 930g

Hes the lad - easy going mush!

Belinda - seal girl weight today 800g
A show quality girl - ooh that Burmese look!!! Looks like her Aunt Laura.
These photos with her expression just cracked me up

Photos coming

Big thank you to Abbey for helping me with photos this morning.
I think you will agree they have been worth the wait.
They are 8 weeks old & just right to choose.

ENJOY!!

Arnie - is the smallest male - but huge personality weight today is 720g




The antics Abs & I have to do o get those great shots grin.
Big thank you to Abbey for helping me with photos this morning.
I think you will agree they have been worth the wait.
They are 8 weeks old & just right to choose.

ENJOY!!

Another week

Gosh January is going too fast!!!

Won't be long & Caro's kittens will be off to their new home.

James cuddling Marty

They have grown HEAPS in a week as they can do! Their personalities are here naughty ones are being naughty - Caro's line are NAUGHTY!!

I feel mean not putting as many photos on blog for you all - I think subconsciously I haven't wanted to get too close to them so haven't tried to learn their names - but they won't have any of that nonsense & push their way into your hearts - times helped over Lonesome & one just can't help find joy with the kittens - they are real time wasters! And again I have favourites.........

Anyway tomorrow or this weekend is a great time to visit.

Give me a ring to get our address & time -
I try & give you all an hour each - as honestly it does go fast.

Please don't visit if you have been to another cattery either boarding or breeding within 3 days.
Sorry can't use the loo while here as Laura has a litter in there.

Basically what happens from here.
Come out & visit - try & pick your kitten/kittens - it always works out who should go with who.

Tuesday they are booked in for vaccination/checkup (vet was busy this week)

Friday they get desexed & microchipped - so let me know if wish them microchipped.

After Tuesday & vet check - I confirm with you kittens, then I send out an email with info on what kittens has been fed etc...

On the menagerie front we have been kept busy


Lordy has Cinders as his girlfriend this week - I had to mate her she wouldn't stop calling.

Whats been happening this week

Been another busy week - on home front we have begun home schooling again - Brent has all of Feb off - so back to books for us so we can spend some annual leave time with Brent - perks of home schooling. So I am busy juggling kids staying - going - being taxi mum and being the mean mum making kids do school.

Jack Black went on the plane to his new home in Auckland - I got too attached to him. But I know his new family - and know he will be well loved!

Jasmine was on call again - think I told you that last week? - Any way it meant decision had to be made she isn't the best for a breeding queen - real shame as she has beautiful eye colour & stunning looking cat. She was spayed on Thursday, vet said her uterus was old looking - what ever that means - but basically we did the right thing as we would of had problems with pregnancy/birthing. I was ever so nice & had her in the lounge so she couldn't jump up onto things - but little did I know it takes a few weeks for hormones to settle after being spayed & she still acted like a calling cat - sprayed in the house - YUCK! I soon got over being nice & she is back in cattery, I never want our home to smell of cat - so they have their place I tell you! One keeps learning all about cat breeding.

I often get asked if owners can have a kitten not desexed - I try & explain about queens habits - it is even surprizing to me just how they behave. She won't spray once hormones settle - and the heart wrenching decision has been made. Jasmine & Rosemary maybe going to our vet nurses sisters home to live. Not far from us - so I will be able to drive by hoping for a glimpse.

The hard reality is I have to move them on - desexed cats & queens don't mix the best - the entire girls get all moody & PMTish GRIN so upsets happen. Hence why breeders have to move on breeding stock - as I have learnt. But I have made our breeding cats too much like pets & it's heart pulling having to move them on. So I've decided I'm not cut out to be a breeder.

We have decided to stop plans of extending the cattery - we are not getting or keeping any more queens. The girls - Briar, Caro, Cindy & Laura will be our breeding queens & Lordy our stud. Possibly not quite enough girls to keep Lordy happy - but I hope so - As they retire from breeding - which won't be for a few more years - they will just be desexed & stay with us. 5 cats is a tad too much to keep as pets but we can't move these on at all.

Briar was our foundation queen & very special. Caro is Abbey's pet & they have a very close bond. Cindy is James' and Cindy doesn't like strangers so she would never settle any where else. Laura has already had to leave once - when a kitten (she was out of our first litter) she went to a breeder & we got her back - how can I move her on again??? And Lordy well he is a mush & done us so proud with all his lovely kittens he has sired.

I thought of all you new owners yesterday. James was getting some new girls. We were all excited. James was up early, did his chores - all ready. So I got a reminder what it feels like for you all waiting, wanting your kittens.Geraldine checking our new birds,New girls all settled in.

I've just snapped a photo of Laura & her babies for you - YAWN why so early says Laura (5am)
Her kittens are 2 weeks on Monday - all doing well. Laura is a dag she will not use liter tray - holds and goes morning & night outside - then quickly back to her kittens, She is a good mother cat.

Caros kittens are 7 weeks today - she has come back on call!!!!

Caro is NOT in my good books.

I have a routine evry morning I set up outdoor run first, never fully latch it until finished. Caro has her run free time - yesterday she pushed open outdoor run & let the girls out to also run free grrr. Not fun when you are in a hurry (as we had to collect chickens) and you are running around trying to catch cats loose - including Cindy who is on call - a breeders nightmare an entire cat free for the local Toms. Thankfully James was handy & able to help round up all the cats.

Thanks to Caro I have learnt to latch firmly doors.

Briar is visiting Lordy - He is pleased! Their kittens due 20th March

Caro's kittens are not growing as big as I like - they might stay here a few weeks longer than 10 weeks I like kittens to leave us a good size - nice & fat grin But saying that they change heaps in 2 weeks - but a kitten never leaves us until it is ready. I always feel mean saying to owners your kitten isn't ready - but the earliest they can ever leave is 10 weeks doesn't mean they will leave at 10 weeks. And I never know until close to 10 weeks - Caro normally has about 4-5 kittens so maybe 7 kittens a bit much for her - I'm surprized as she always has way too much milk. Her kittens will go to vets next week for check up & first vaccination.

I am starting to tell them all a part & there are a few favourites - I try not to get attached but it keeps happening. Abbey knows them all apart now. I'd hoped we could of done a photo shoot yesterday - takes us 2 hours to do - but her social life interrupted plans. Hope I can pin Abbey down on Monday to do a photo shoot for you.

Sunday 25th will be a good day to come & visit the kittens - they will be 8 weeks old, will have collars on them, been vet checked & vaccinated by then - hope to phone email you all to get suitable times for you. I usually give 1 hour each owner & try to time it to suit you all - so you get to sit & play with kittens. I know I am hard to get hold of - but if you ring & leave a message I'll ring you back.

We do ask visitors to please not visit another breeding cattery or boarding cattery within 3 days of coming to us. If you have please fully change your clothes including pants & shoes. This limits bugs coming to our cattery - we are a closed cattery which means no other breeding cats come to us or our girls do not leave for mating. All keeping our cattery bug free.

Sorry you will not be able to use our toilet - Laura has her kittens in bathroom - again this limits bugs - if they did get onto property at least I can contain them in out door cattery.

6 weeks old today

I'm starting to tell kittens apart more - with soo many seals it gets hard. I know one or two & have some naughty ones - in here grrrrr.

The ebony boy is easy - Luke to spot he is on the first shelf from bottom.

About 7- 8 weeks I will put collars on them with Abbey supervising me - they are too little at this stage for collars. From now on they change heaps! Their personalities start to develop.
They are all toilet trained - good kitties!!

Black Jack

Black Jack had his wee op yesterday - totally amazing how quickly they bounce back - not missing any bits n bobs at all!

I feel stink not sharing enough photos so took camera with me this morning to cattery. Enjoy!

Black Jack on bottom just hiding by pole - caro's tail in way

Black Jack ebony on bottom

Jack Black gone chasing the mice

Gottem

Stutt, strutt, very proud!

I'll just put some more photos I took of cattery this am.

Laura

Night before due date - one big cat!

Laura has had her litter

8 kittens - we had a few fights over where she was gonna have them - she won once & delivered one kitten on the couch while I popped in for a cuppa tea - thank goodness I have throws on couch- & it's summer for extra washing Laura gave me!

Will be in touch with folks on waiting list.

I think???? the kids are naming the litter after the book Twilight.

Jasmine

Well if you follow the journey of our breeding - you know Jasmine was up for desexing & I dithered & dathered - Brent said give her another chance - I didn't have to think twice.

Well she lucked out - she isn't pregnant & on call again. - She is getting desexed next week.

And up for looking for a new home SIGH I am just not cut out for moving on breeding stock, maybe if they weren't treated as pets it would be easier.

So Jasmine & Rosemary are once again up for new homes. Would keep them if they didn't upset all the other girls!

Sad News

Oh I cried!

Lonesome had to be put down - he got very sick suddenly - spent the day in vets (why did it have to happen when my beloved vet was o holiday???), they wanted to keep him over night - but I brought him home - as lets face it no one stays at the vets during the night, I was up & down to him syringe feeding him.
Took him to the vets again in the morning - he had a scan - didn't tell the vet much more than feeling - but he had something in his intestines - what they do not know.

Operating wasn't an option so I gave the dreaded nod. The vet & nurse were wonderful. But gee what a very hard part of their job.

Took me two days before I could contact his new owner - Jack Black missed him terribly - I put him in with Caro & her babies - she accepted him totally & now he is a happy chappie.

Times like this sure takes the joy out of breeding. First time I've had this happen & tore at the heart strings - any kitten who stays longer with us we just can't help but get attached to.

RIP little lonesome under a rosebush

Happy New Year

Oh my I am way behind in blogging & emailing.
Holidays are soo yummy, summer is soo wonderful. Brent has been home YE Ha! We have been in the garden - looking way tidy! Lots of compost & bark has been put on gardens & I have a new rose garden. The vege garden is growing - one happy gal!
Trees have been cut down ready for fire wood

TIMBER

Wood split - not bad for a 12 year old lad!

I've been quilting any spare time I can sneak off.

Being taxi mum to kids & their friends - running a guest house for their friends, keeping the tins full of yummy treats - I love it that their friends love to come here & hang out.

Even been to the movies - Australia was just AWESOME!!! And I loved Yes man - such fun taking 12 year old boys to see Jim Carey - a funny man!
Having another birthday - James told me to go to bed 8.30pm - Abbey & Brent stayed up till midnight & made me an awesome birthday cake - What an awesome family I have!

Sop as you can see spending time on the internet just has been bumped from my list BLUSH

Hope your holidays have been brilliant too!

Merry Christmas

Oh boy I have been trying to get to this blog! So made it up early today as I know many of you are getting Caro's kittens for Christmas & I wanted to post some photos. - Already sent James back to bed to WAITFirst this is the best I could get of Lonesome & Jack Black - they are going together to Auckland when Jack Black is old enough - the mans sisters have MandaBurms kittens and have got him these two for Christmas - something nice to look forward to & they are joined at the hip!
Rosemary may have a new home our vet nurses sister - they are overseas at the moment so in the new year will come & visit Rosemary - she will be in our same town which will be nice. I've found this very hard as she is lovely - but is a problem in cattery with other cats - not that they seem to care & the kittens just say "sh.. up aunt Rosemary" and carry on past. But the vet agrees she will be a happier cat not with the others. And her maybe new home have mice - now what more can a hunting cat want. - See her sweet look - who me? no I never caught that dove!

And she has broken another cat scratching pole! Poor Rosemary.

Laura BEST photo I got of her this am - she is BIG her kittens arrive 5th January

Caro's kittens - taken first thing before they move! - see how mumma cat can count - she feeds 4 at a time - she sure is busy!
Th kitten pen is not up in bathroom at the moment - I knew I was cutting it fine time wise - had hoped to make it till at least boxing day without it. But nope last night as going to bed we had escapies - James saved the day & turned nest around against wall - that will stopp them homefully until boxing day _ PLEASE! I am sure my folks will not appreciate 8 kittens climbing their legs while on the throne - and I do not do loose un toilet trained kittens in my house. Ahh the work begins & I must say fun!

Many thanks for cards, emails & phone calls. We love hearing how the kittens are & all the naughty (BLUSH) antics. I will answer - just doing my normal - read , share with family & then not get to answer.

Brent has been away working - ahh nice to have him home - I take my hat off to single parents.

Hope you all have an awesome day today & I know many MandaBurms will have something little under the tree & be smacking their lips from some turkey!

And I hope not many ornaments have been broken - I have to confess Laura is not in my good books she broke a very special one that was on mantel - NAUGHTY girl!
All the bits have been saved & Brent said he can clue it together.

Love comes softly litter 2 weeks old

Caro is up to her old tricks taking toys into the nest. - The kittens are nearly 2 weeks old & all doing well.
Caro taking time out from looking after her kittens - cuddle with James. Most of our cats like to be held on their backs

Caro's litter all have been spoken for.

Jack Black

With mum Cinders.

Jack Black is available for adoption - he is beautiful, fat & full of confidence. The kids & I have really taken to him - a lady in Australia is wanting a stud cat - but we have said no - we want him to go to a family home who will spoil him rotten.

He is 5 weeks old

Owned by a MandaBurms

We had the trip to the vets a couple of weeks ago and all went well . The vet wanted to keep him he was so taken with him ! He's really friendly and loving.Poncho and him just love each other and I have included a couple of photos of them taken in the garden yesterday.

Amarni's is in good nick , just on 3 kgs . He is Handsome, but his best feature is his character and determination . He is a big softy , comes when called in an big gangly rush ,now getting much more coordinated .Has had two washes with me in the shower and didn't make a fuss at all. Him and the Mexican watch me shower most mornings , seem quite fascinated ! Lucky I'm not self concise!

I feed him one or two chicken necks most days a little bit of what meat I'm eating ,cooked chicken and his dry food.But its the constant action between the two of them that's just so entertaining. And he loves Poncho ,where ever Poncho is sleeping he'll always choose to sleep with him unless he's on my knee or helping me turn the pages of my book in bed and I take to long to read a page and he nods off.

But the two of them it's constant, first one leads the other follows .Then they chew each others necks ,take turns surprising each other , chase each other up and down the house Right now black has pulled a plastic shopping bag off the bench and they are both hanging on to it taking turns dragging each other over the polished wooden floors. Time to make some dinner. Keep up the good work .

Christmas greetings from my reindeer !

Chris

Owned by MandaBurms

Dear Leanne,

Thought you might like to have photos of Gus and Grisabella who will
be five months old this month. They are the joy of my life...such
magnificent, fun, glorious beasts and friends.

With every good wish...

Leslie xxx

Lordy

Lordy doing blokes stuff - ie supervising the BBQ. He is a bit camouflaged hoping for a lady cat to walk past

Caro's Litter

Caro had her litter today - all went well & no dramas - all feeding ahhhhh Sure makes you appreciate normal deliveries.

I wasn't planning on her having them today - grin - due date 30th but often they are a day early - must be the busy season as why I didn't register that in my brain.
But we managed - Brent was taxi dad, then James & Brent did cattery while I sat with Caro. They do like you to be nearby.

The litter is names after book Love Comes Softly by Janette Oke (If you liked Little house in the Prairie you will like this series)

9.41 am seal female 70g - Missie

10.23am seal male 80g Clark

10.48am seal male 75g Clare

11.02am seal female 90g Marty

11.22am seal female 80g Belinda

11.52am seal male 80g Arnie

12.24pm Ebony Mandalay male 75g Luke

1.14pm seal male 80g Ben

I am hoping I can make most of you rather pleased with what you would prefer. - I am off now to email you all & will confirm when I hear back from folks who have been waiting for quite a few litters.

Our family tradition is putting up the Christmas tree on Thanksgiving - Abbey who doesn't do photos got Caro in the photo - while Brent stretched his arm out to get a family shot. WOW can you believe Christmas is nearly upon us. Oh & the cats enjoyed their bit of turkey too.

And I must get a photo of Cindy's kitten - Black Jack he is huge!!! he left the nest today wish I had my camera handy to snap a photo of how fat he is.

Briar's litter have hit the naughty stage - running up my legs - mmm just as well they get like this - helps with them leaving - I am going to be pleased to see some of them go more than others - GRIN

Caro

Phew I think I am finally up to date with emailing everyone about kittens - I had got a bit behind - I need more hours in the day or shouldn't try to do so much - or should learn to enjoy emailing grin.
We have a waiting list for Caro's litter which is due next Sunday 30th November We have told her what you would all like. I'm not putting any more on her waiting list until I know what she has. - Laura is next her kittens are due 5th January.

Pregnant Caro

Huff did you ask if you could take my photo?

Don't you just love watching a cat wash it's face.

Rosemary

I am finding it really hard moving on the queens. I've turned away a lot of folks as they just haven't been able to tick off all my requirements.
So for now Jasmine has been given a second chance, she was booked into vets for desexing - but Brent said give her another chance - I didn't need to be told twice & within minutes she was in the luuve shed with Lordy.
I have a few owners looking at Rosemary. She is pretty special & has some interesting traits.

She is our fat appaloosa Burmese - when she was spayed somehow something got spilled on her back & her fur was burnt (wasn't nice) it is all healed but her fur has grown back white.

She is very smoochy & a hard case cat, shedoes chase & catch birds! Something not all owners will appreciate - she even gets ducks, but they get away.

Very playful & affectionate. She does love bite which does hurt, she gets a bit silly when she sits on your knee & you are petting her - she will bite your arm. I growl & put her down, she is fine for a while & then starts doing it again. It is annoying so she needs to go to a home that will understand her silly ways.

She is very friendly & loves company - she never goes far from me when I garden & always comes when she is called.

She is a bit overweight for a Burmese but a new home could put her on a gentle diet after settling in - at the moment she has access to all food in cattery.

Jack Black

I normally get the kids to name kittens after books, but well I softened - they named Cinders kitten after Jack Black

Taken today 22 November just over 2 weeks old

Briar & her kittens saying hello

Briar is such a good mum she feels she has to mother all kittens. Cinders had just stepped out for a moment & I let Briar & her kittens in. Jack Black coped real well with the visitors. Cinders has come back on call - I will not have a queen in the house on call - they can & do spray - so she is in cattery.

I had a good talk to my vet yesterday re the birthing we have had - he agrees the queens are probably too fat (BLUSH) I now have oxytocin injections that I have been trained to give to the queens - so if we have births like this again the vet has given me a plan & I can administer the injection. I've been breeding for nearly 7 years & built up a good relationship with the vet & pretty experienced re birthing of kittens (I still never want to be a human midwife - no thank you!)

Sound of music litter

Ha best photos I could take on my own. They are BUSY with a capital B!
They went for their first car ride yesterday & got their first vaccination.

7 1/2 weeks old - photo taken Sunday 16th Nov

Rolf Adoption in progress

Max - Adoption in progress

Maria - Adoption in progress

Liesl - Adoption in progress

Kurt - Adoption in progress