GP diagnosed neck lumps in cat caregiver as worms from her cat. He was wrong.

Francesca Knee-Wright, from Brighton, had only given birth to her second child three months before she noticed a 'very small' lump on her neck. She had it checked out and was told to watch and wait. More lumps developed and her GP told her that they were caused by parasitic worms (endoparasites - probably roundworms) that she had acquired from her two Spanish rescue cats.

Francesca Knee-Wright. Image: Kennedy News and Media

She queried this and a second opinion diagnosed something entirely different and far more serious: Hodgkin's lymphoma which is a relatively aggressive form of blood cancer that can quickly spread through the body.

She is on chemotherapy and shaved her hair to stop the difficult emotional effect of watching her hair fall out.

Having read the story I did some research on the roundworm and whether it could cause lumps as described. They can.  Here is the lowdown:

Can roundworms in cats be transmitted to humans?

Yes, roundworms in cats can be transmitted to humans, specifically through a process called zoonotic transmission. This type of transmission usually happens if a person accidentally ingests roundworm eggs, which are shed in the feces of infected cats. These eggs can survive in soil, sand, and other outdoor environments for long periods, making it relatively easy for humans to come into contact with them, especially in areas frequented by cats.

In humans, roundworm larvae can migrate through body tissues in a condition known as toxocariasis, which can affect the liver, lungs, eyes, and other organs. Children are particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to come into contact with contaminated soil or sand and might not practice proper hand hygiene.

To prevent transmission, some key measures include:

• Regular deworming of pets, as advised by a veterinarian
• Practicing good hygiene, especially washing hands thoroughly after handling cats, cleaning litter boxes, or coming into contact with soil or sand
• Covering sandboxes to prevent animals from using them as litter boxes
• Avoiding bare-hand contact with soil or areas where cats might defecate.

If you have any concerns about toxocariasis or the possibility of exposure, consult a healthcare provider for advice on testing and treatment.

And these worms inhabit the gut of the human. Correct?

Actually, no—roundworms in humans generally don’t mature in the gut as they do in cats. Instead, when humans accidentally ingest roundworm eggs, the eggs hatch in the intestines, but the larvae don’t settle there. Instead, they migrate through various body tissues in a process called larval migrans.

There are two primary types:

1. Visceral Larva Migrans (VLM): The larvae travel to organs like the liver, lungs, and sometimes the brain. This can cause symptoms like fever, fatigue, coughing, or abdominal pain, depending on which organs are affected.

2. Ocular Larva Migrans (OLM): Sometimes, larvae reach the eyes, which can lead to eye inflammation, vision problems, and even vision loss if untreated.

Since roundworms don't complete their life cycle in humans, they can’t develop into adults in the gut. Instead, they become trapped in body tissues, where they eventually die but may cause inflammation and other symptoms.

And the larvae mature to adult worms in these locations?

No, in humans, roundworm larvae do not mature into adult worms. Instead, they remain in the immature larval stage throughout their lifecycle in human tissues. After hatching in the intestines, the larvae migrate to various organs and tissues but lack the necessary environment to mature fully as they would in a cat or other definitive host.

In these human tissues, the larvae often cause localized inflammation as they move through, but they eventually die off without maturing into adult worms. This can still result in significant symptoms, especially if they reach sensitive areas like the eyes or organs, but full-grown adult worms are not seen in human cases of roundworm infection.

Can they cause lumps in the neck?

Yes, roundworm larvae migrating through human tissues can, in some cases, cause lumps or swollen areas, although this is less common. When the larvae travel through or lodge in tissues, they can trigger an immune response, leading to localized inflammation or granulomas (small nodules formed by immune cells around the larvae).

In the neck, this could potentially result in lumps if the larvae pass through lymph nodes or surrounding tissues, but it’s more typical for them to affect organs like the liver, lungs, or eyes. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can also react as part of a systemic immune response to the infection, although this symptom can be caused by a wide range of other conditions.

If there’s a persistent lump or swelling in the neck, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis, as they may recommend tests to rule out or confirm conditions like toxocariasis.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Crisis looms for 100 feral cats occupying Denver apartment complex

This feral cat colony at Cedar Run Apartments, Denver has been established for a long time and they appear to be accepted by the the majority of residents. Things appear to be stable with no need for change but the administrators of the complex have decided to get rid of them by:

• Stopping residents feeding them at feeding stations. They intend to remove the stations.
• Relocation the colony
• Bricking up access points under the buildings where the cats have made dens.

Some residents (and non-residents?) are very concerned. Relocation of feral cat colonies don't work well or at all as colonies have their home range with which they are intimately familiar.

Removing the feeding stations and bricking up the basement area will lead to potential starvation and exposure to the elements. All harmful actions when there is a much better alternative namely TNR.

I would expect the animal advocates to lobby the administrators to take a more humane view and instigate TNR. I would hope that they also consult with the residents to gauge their mood on the matter.

This story is very typical of many apartment complexes not only in the US but in other countries. The landlords of these apartment blocks perceive feral cats as very negative to the ambience of the place and want rid of them. They feel that they spread disease. But these fears are often ill-founded.

It may also be very possible that the presence of the cats deters rats and other pests. They should factor that into their decision making process.

Get some volunteers to help. There are many TNR volunteers in the US who'd be willing to start a TNR program. Done properly and the colony population will stabilise and decline in the medium-to-long-term. 

The cats will be 'managed' which will please management and the animal advocates and those sensitive to the sentience of the cats will be satisfied too.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

The moment when a feral cat trusts you is magical

"I don't think non-cat people understand what it means to gain the trust of a feral cat, it's not easy & when it happens it's so incredibly beautiful" - commenter on the video below which is on TikTok

I have heard this a lot over the years and have experienced it myself when socialising my former feral cat who I adopted as a foster carer. He was about 7 weeks old and terrified of me. He hid for a week under the sideboard! Cooked prawns got him out and he loves them to this day.

@jobiquin #catsoftiktok #CapCut #feralcat #cuteanimals ♬ original sound - Jobi

But the point is that you can tell when a feral cats becomes socialised and can be described as 'domesticated'. The fear drops from their eyes and body language. They actually crave human companionship but are inherently (and rightly) fearful. It can take months to break down that fear. But often it happens much faster.

"Watch the feral cat I took in (with her 4 babies) finally let me love her," says a caption shared along with the viral video.

It is an interesting thought: 'finally let me love her'. It is the moment when a cat does indeed allow themselves be loved by a caring human. The trust. The fear falls away.

Her feral cat finally lets herself be loved by this nice lady, Quin. He partner rescued the cat who'd been around their home for a while with her kittens.

Gentleness in interactions and respect for their feral background is essential, plus excellent food (the video maker uses a very palatable treat paste) and also importantly play.

Playing with a semi-domesticated cat teaches them that you can be trusted. The play toy - usually a feather on a stick - is a kind of 'bridging tool' between you and the cat. 

But as you are welding it, in their mind the cat is playing with a sibling which breaks down barriers very fast. It is how I socialised my cat who by the way retains some of his wild character to this day, 10 years later.

I don't think socialised feral cats ever completely lose their feral character. It lurks deep inside them and sometimes (perhaps) emerges at certain times.

"She had to be brave surviving out there in the wild. She is actually a very sweet cat. You can tell she wants to be loved. She didn't give any fuss when I put her little cat collar on her. I feel like she knew it was hers and it meant she was ours," Quin (the rescuer) said. She lives in Texas, US.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Taliban exclude women from workforce but need financial support from the West

The recent news is that the Taliban have added one more restriction to the lives of women in Afghanistan to the already long list which is crushing to women and girls. The Taliban have banned women from hearing other women’s voices in its latest attempt to impose a hard-line version of Islamic law. It is an impossible situation for women and girls and totally unacceptable by Western standards and I expect by the standards of any other Muslim country.

In applying these bizarre, misogynistic restrictions they have excluded women from the workforce which must severely harm the country's economy. And yet the Taliban are dependent on ongoing and substantial Western financial aid to keep the country afloat. Bizarre.

Here is some more detail on this is absurd state of affairs.

The Taliban’s restrictions on Afghan women and girls are extensive and have intensified since they took over Afghanistan in August 2021. These restrictions primarily stem from an ultra-conservative interpretation of Islamic law and are enforced in ways that drastically curtail women’s rights and freedoms in daily life. Here are some of the main restrictions the Taliban has imposed:

1. Education Ban

• Secondary and University Education: Since their return to power, the Taliban banned girls from attending high school, and in 2023 they extended this ban to universities, effectively cutting off formal education for women and girls beyond sixth grade.
• Vocational Training and Tutoring Centers: Private tutoring centers that educate women and girls have also been shut down, and alternative education initiatives have faced restrictions.
• International Scholarships and Travel for Education: Afghan women are also prevented from traveling abroad to pursue higher education or accessing international scholarships.

2. Employment and Economic Restrictions

• Government and NGO Employment Ban: Afghan women have been barred from working in government offices and NGOs, with few exceptions, which has significantly affected their economic independence.
• Employment Outside the Home: Women’s opportunities to work outside the home are extremely limited, particularly in professional fields. This has led to a sharp decline in women’s participation in the Afghan workforce.
• Family Dependency: These bans have forced many women to depend solely on male family members for financial support, which can be especially difficult in cases where women are widows or the sole providers in their households.

3. Public and Social Life Restrictions

• Dress Code and Hijab Requirements: Women are required to wear a full-body covering, typically a burqa, in public, with limited exceptions.
• Restrictions on Movement: Women are generally not allowed to travel alone; a male guardian, known as a mahram, must accompany them for any travel beyond a short distance.
• Ban on Accessing Public Parks and Gyms: In 2022, the Taliban banned women from parks, gyms, and other recreational facilities, further restricting social interaction and access to public spaces.
• Limitations on Personal Expression: Women are restricted from speaking loudly in public or raising their voices. The recent ban on women hearing other women’s voices also suggests restrictions on social interaction, media, and music.

4. Media and Cultural Restrictions

• Representation in Media: Women have been banned from appearing in TV dramas and other media productions. Female newscasters and reporters are no longer allowed to present or cover news on television.
• Music and Singing: In addition to limiting women’s roles in media, the Taliban has enforced bans on music and singing in public spaces, including music performed or enjoyed by women.

5. Legal Rights and Protections

• Marriage and Family Law: Women are often pressured into arranged marriages, including underage marriages, which are legally and culturally enforced under Taliban governance.
• Protection from Violence: The Taliban has dismantled or severely limited institutions, such as family courts and shelters, that previously supported women experiencing domestic violence or abuse, leaving women vulnerable to violence without recourse to justice.
• Limited Access to Justice: Under the Taliban, Afghan women face significant barriers to accessing the legal system, particularly in cases involving disputes over marriage, divorce, custody, and inheritance, where decisions often favor male family members.

These restrictions represent a drastic rollback of the rights women had gained over the past two decades and have led to international condemnation. The lack of access to education, employment, public spaces, and even basic forms of social interaction has made Afghanistan one of the most challenging places in the world for women to live, with lasting impacts on Afghan society as a whole.

The claim that the U.S. or Western countries send $40 million in cash weekly directly to the Taliban is not accurate. However, there are nuances around international aid and financial assistance flowing into Afghanistan, primarily aimed at supporting humanitarian efforts in a country facing severe economic and humanitarian crises.

Here’s a breakdown of how this aid process works and where the funds go:

1. Humanitarian Aid Flow to Afghanistan

• Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021, the international community has continued to provide humanitarian aid, as the country faces severe poverty, food shortages, and healthcare crises.
• Much of this aid is managed through international organizations like the United Nations, the World Food Programme, and other humanitarian agencies, rather than being given directly to the Taliban.
• The U.S., as well as other countries and international organizations, contributes to this aid, which helps prevent economic collapse, hunger, and disease but is specifically allocated for humanitarian needs rather than government functions.

2. Afghan Central Bank and Limited Cash Infusions

• After the Taliban took over, Afghanistan’s central bank assets (mostly held overseas, particularly in the U.S.) were frozen to prevent the Taliban from accessing them.
• A small portion of these funds has since been unfrozen and distributed as cash shipments to Afghanistan, often around $40 million a week, but these funds do not go to the Taliban. They are carefully monitored and distributed by the United Nations and related organizations to support critical services and humanitarian needs, like food and healthcare.
• The aim of these cash infusions is to stabilize the economy and help prevent total collapse, which would further devastate the Afghan people, while avoiding direct support to the Taliban’s governance.

3. Restricted Taliban Access

• The Taliban have limited direct access to these funds, which are meant strictly for humanitarian purposes and are distributed through NGOs and international bodies. The U.S. has also set up mechanisms to ensure the Taliban cannot use these assets for governance or military purposes.
• The funds are tracked to ensure they are not used in ways that would violate international sanctions or end up under Taliban control.

4. Controversies and Concerns

• Despite these controls, there are concerns about the Taliban’s indirect benefit from international assistance, especially since they are effectively the governing authority. The Taliban could potentially exert influence over NGOs or other agencies distributing aid, though international organizations take measures to prevent this.
• Some argue that humanitarian aid inadvertently stabilizes Taliban rule by easing public discontent. However, the international community maintains that this aid is essential to protect Afghan civilians from severe deprivation.

In summary, while approximately $40 million is sent to Afghanistan in weekly cash shipments, these funds are strictly for humanitarian purposes and are not intended for Taliban use. They are managed by international organizations to ensure they support only humanitarian objectives, with strict oversight to prevent misuse.

Excluding women from the workforce is indeed economically detrimental, especially for a country like Afghanistan that is already on the brink of financial collapse. Preventing half of the population from participating in wealth-creating activities has significant economic and social repercussions that can accelerate the country’s economic decline. Here’s why this policy can be seen as particularly damaging in Afghanistan’s context:

1. Loss of Labor and Skills

• Afghanistan’s economy is heavily dependent on its workforce, and women have historically played vital roles in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and business.
• By barring women from the workplace, Afghanistan loses a substantial portion of its skilled labor, which can’t be easily replaced. Fields like healthcare and education, which were already under-resourced, are now struggling even more, resulting in a serious loss of service quality.
• Women in technical roles, such as engineers, economists, and administrators, also provided critical skills that were contributing to the country’s infrastructure and services.

2. Reduced Household Incomes and Rising Poverty

• Afghanistan has one of the highest poverty rates in the world, and women in the workforce provided essential income to support their families, especially in single-parent or widow-led households.
• Without female earnings, many families are unable to meet basic needs, pushing more Afghan households into poverty. This, in turn, can lead to a downward spiral of increased economic dependency, higher rates of malnutrition, and even forced child labor.

3. Impact on the GDP and Economy

• Women’s economic participation significantly boosts GDP in any country. According to the World Bank, female labor participation can directly impact national productivity and income. In Afghanistan, estimates suggest that female workers contributed notably to sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
• By excluding women from the workforce, Afghanistan has shrunk its economy, reducing its ability to generate tax revenue, attract foreign investment, and grow sustainably.

4. Isolation from International Aid and Investment

• The Taliban’s restrictions on women’s rights have led to international sanctions and limited Afghanistan’s access to the global economy. Countries and organizations that provided aid, funding, and investment are now reluctant to engage due to the Taliban’s treatment of women and girls.
• Foreign governments and agencies are more hesitant to invest in a country where half of the workforce is effectively banned from working, which further restricts Afghanistan’s economic recovery.

5. Long-Term Human Capital Damage

• Afghanistan’s young generation of women is growing up without access to education or meaningful employment opportunities, creating a “lost generation” with limited skills and job readiness.
• Over time, this depletes the country’s human capital and limits its prospects for future economic development, as education and skilled employment are foundational to an economy’s growth and innovation potential.

6. Negative Social and Health Impacts

• Social impacts from poverty, malnutrition, and lack of education compound when women are barred from contributing economically. These stressors affect family well-being, increase health risks, and create a cycle of poverty that’s hard to break.
• Additionally, Afghanistan faces a shortage of female healthcare professionals due to the employment ban, which particularly affects women’s healthcare, including maternal and reproductive services. This can lead to worsened public health outcomes and a higher mortality rate among women and children.

7. Missed Opportunities for Economic Diversification

• The Afghan economy has long been dependent on foreign aid and agriculture, but diversifying into areas like services, textiles, and small business entrepreneurship offered pathways to greater economic resilience. Women played significant roles in these sectors, especially in rural and community-based economies.
• By shutting women out, the Taliban further restricts the country’s economic diversification, leaving Afghanistan more vulnerable to economic shocks and less self-sufficient.

In Summary

By excluding women from the workforce, the Taliban is not only limiting Afghanistan’s immediate economic capacity but also stunting its long-term growth potential. The economic costs of sidelining women are high and can accelerate the country’s economic isolation and decline. Allowing women to work, on the other hand, would be an obvious step toward alleviating poverty, improving family welfare, and stabilizing the Afghan economy in the long run.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

If Trump is so ill-suited to being the next president, why is he so close to being the next president?

This post was written by AI - ChatGPT on my instructions. AI is able to research far more widely than me and provide detailed answers to questions beyond the ability of a single individual with time restrictions! This is why millions of websites are dying as I type this.

I have some real concerns about what another Trump presidency means for women in this country — and I wanted to share some of my thoughts. If this resonates with you, send this video to every single person you know and remind them what’s at stake in this election. pic.twitter.com/7bCX31bP8b

— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) October 28, 2024

The phenomenon of Donald Trump remaining a viable candidate for the U.S. presidency despite widespread controversy and negative perceptions boils down to several key factors. These include polarization, his political branding, distrust in institutions, media dynamics, and cultural shifts in American politics. Here’s how these elements contribute to his continued popularity:

1. Political Polarization and Identity Politics

• Strong Base Support: Trump’s supporters are intensely loyal, often identifying with his views on issues like immigration, economic nationalism, and skepticism toward the establishment. For many, his appeal transcends typical political qualifications because they feel he represents their values or frustrations with the system.
• Divisive but Compelling Persona: American politics has grown more polarized, with many people feeling a strong emotional pull to align against or with Trump. This polarization deepens allegiance to Trump among his base, while his detractors solidify his status as a “fighter” against what they perceive as political or cultural elites.

2. Disillusionment with Establishment Politics

• Distrust of Government Institutions: Many Americans have lost faith in traditional institutions, feeling that these entities no longer serve the public fairly. Trump has capitalized on this distrust, positioning himself as a figure outside the “corrupt” establishment, even though he’s held the highest office.
• Disruption as a Selling Point: For a segment of voters, his abrasive style and unconventional approach are not disqualifying but are precisely why they support him. His willingness to break norms is seen as a rejection of a political system they believe no longer represents them.

3. Strong Political Brand and Media Savvy

• Mastering the Media: Trump’s understanding of the media landscape enables him to stay highly visible. His statements often generate sensational coverage, keeping him in the public eye. This media omnipresence, even if negative, serves as free advertising and fuels both his notoriety and his influence.
• Message Control: His brand — as a “successful businessman” and “strong leader” — appeals to many who believe in the American Dream or who admire his persona as a political outsider. This image persists despite controversies, as he continuously emphasizes achievements he associates with his first term.

4. The Conservative Media Ecosystem

• Conservative news sources often portray Trump positively, countering mainstream media’s more critical stance. Fox News, talk radio, and newer platforms like Newsmax and social media influencers amplify messages that resonate with Trump’s base. This helps him retain a core following that is less affected by mainstream narratives.

5. Strategic Republican Support

• Unifying the GOP: Despite internal GOP tensions, Trump has maintained significant support within the Republican Party. Many Republican leaders see his popularity as essential for their own electoral success, even if they privately disagree with him. The base Trump commands is large enough that alienating him could mean losing power altogether.

6. Populist Appeal and Economic Grievances

• Populism and Economic Frustration: Economic uncertainty, wage stagnation, and rising costs have fueled populist sentiments. Trump’s messaging taps into these concerns by focusing on “forgotten Americans” and framing his policies as directly benefiting them. This appeal resonates especially in regions affected by deindustrialization and job loss.

7. Opponent Challenges and Electoral System Dynamics

• Voter Reluctance on Opponents: Some voters dislike Trump but feel alienated by the Democratic Party or specific candidates, including Joe Biden. This dissatisfaction can lead to votes for Trump, even if they come reluctantly.
• Electoral College Structure: The U.S. Electoral College means that victory hinges on winning key swing states rather than the popular vote. Trump’s strategy focuses on flipping a few battleground states rather than courting a national majority, making his path to victory feasible even with limited popularity nationwide.

8. Legal Troubles and Perception of Persecution

• “Persecution” Narrative: Trump’s legal battles, which might weaken another candidate, reinforce his base’s perception that he is being unfairly targeted by political enemies. For supporters, these investigations confirm their belief that he is standing up against a system rigged against them.

9. Shifting Cultural Norms Around Leadership

• Trump’s tenure has arguably altered the qualities people look for in leaders. For many Americans, traditional notions of statesmanship, diplomacy, or even “presidential” behavior have taken a backseat to directness and perceived authenticity. Trump embodies a shift away from traditional decorum toward a more combative style that appeals to those seeking assertiveness in their leaders.

The Result: Narrow, Yet Feasible Pathway

Given these factors, Trump’s path to re-election is narrower than it was in 2016 but remains plausible. His ability to turn even controversies to his advantage, combined with political polarization, a fiercely loyal base, and a divided opposition, means he’s retained a strong position within the Republican Party and American politics more broadly. In a tightly contested electoral environment, that base of support, combined with swing states and anti-establishment sentiment, may be enough to keep him competitive.

BREAKING: In a stunning announcement, Donald Trump admits he’ll implement Project 2025’s plan to gut the civil service and create a more politically driven government. It’s one of the ways Trump plans to abuse his power. Retweet so all Americans see this.pic.twitter.com/MR5CTqrW2G

— Kamala’s Wins (@harris_wins) October 27, 2024

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Domestic cat benefits from being more social

The domestic cat is basically a solitary creature because they inherit their natural behaviours from their wildcat ancestor, the North African wildcat; a solitary wild animal. But domestic cats have adapted to life with humans and in doing so, as a by-product, become more sociable. I think it is fair to argue that the domestic cat is a sociable animal, almost diametrically opposed to their wildcat ancestor. Although, the domestic cat reverts to the wild not infrequently especially if allowed outside unsupervised. Instinctively the wildcat within emerges and they become a solitary animal.

The reason for this introduction is that "Being more social is associated with some tangible benefits." That's according to Professor Rob Salguero-Gomez, the lead author of a study published in the journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B which found that "more social species live longer". Animals that naturally form cooperative, organised groups enjoyed a boost in longevity, according to The Times newspaper's report.

Alternatively, animal species that are naturally solitary such as tigers, reptiles and some fish tended to live shorter lives and reproduce during brief windows according to the same report.

There are pluses and minuses, however. The benefits of living in a society i.e. sociably is a sharing of resources and being better protected from predators and having support to raise offspring. But the downside is the increased chance of contracting a contagious disease. However, overall, social species "live longer, postpone maturity and are more likely to reproduce successfully."

It is interesting for me that the domestic cat is almost both a social creature and a solitary one at the same time. In multi-cat homes, for example, the domestic cat is forced to become social and accept a much reduced home range and overlapping home ranges in the presence of domestic cats in very close proximity all the time. This can, however, lead to stresses which can lead to fights which can on the face of it reduce longevity as can of course as mentioned contract contagious diseases which are more likely to be present in multi-cat homes.

Humans living alone are living a solitary life but I don't think this automatically reduces longevity. If it causes depression then that may reduce lifespan.

The point of the article is that it is likely that the domestic cat's lifespan has increased as they become more sociable because they are cared for more intimately by humans and because, lately, there's been a steep rise in the number of full-time indoor cats. A modern trend. This, in homes where there is more than one, will force sociability upon the domestic cat.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Mental turmoil (borderline personality disorder) drives Katie Price to buy three new hairless cats

Katie Price has a long history of buying and adopting companion animals and then losing them in accidents due to careless caregiving. In general we can say that Katie Price likes to purchase and adopt companion animals despite a bad track record of losing them in accidents such as dogs being killed on the road outside her home. She continues to purchase pets including recently three new hairless cats, purebred Sphynx cats. She does this against the advice of PETA who have consistently criticised her as has the general public and news media.

I discuss her borderline personality disorder below.

Images: Instagram.

PETA has criticised her before and they even launched a petition to try to ban her from owning animals. They offered a £5000 to stop buying companion animals which she refused to accept apparently.

And the founder of PETA, Ingrid Newkirk, told the Sun some time ago that they would have taken out an injunction to stop her if they could and she said that "this woman doesn't care about the lives she wastes or listen to vital advice and is still treating live animals like stuffed toys: as disposable".

Ingrid Newkirk said that Katie Price's record is so bad that she would expect these Sphynx cats not to live that long "given the hideous track record of animal deaths in price's custody. No one could call it 'care'."

A petition has been started on the change.org website.

Associated: Katie Price should buy cuddly toys rather than adopt companion animals as too many have died in her care.

Mental health issues evident in both excessive plastic surgery and purchase of pets. And drink-driving.

There is certainly something wrong with Katie Price! The question what is it? Katie Price has been pinging between pillar and post for ages. She has been declared bankrupt I believe several times and is currently going through bankrupt proceedings. She also has car driving issues. Katie Price has been convicted of drink-driving. In September 2021, she was involved in a car crash while driving under the influence of alcohol, cocaine, and while disqualified from driving. After pleading guilty to the charges, she was sentenced to a 16-week suspended jail term, 100 hours of community service, and was banned from driving for two years.

She has been open about her numerous plastic surgeries over the years. By some reports, Price has undergone over 20 procedures throughout her career. She's had multiple breast augmentations and reductions, facelifts, liposuction, Brazilian butt lifts, and various facial fillers and Botox treatments.

Prices had at least 12 breast surgeries both enlargements and reductions. She has had facelifts, eye and brow lifts, and lip fillers, among other procedures. And regarding body modifications she has had liposuction and Brazilian butt lifts. Other mental health issues involved here? Certainly I would argue.

Katie Price has apparently been open about experiencing body dysmorphic disorder which is a mental health condition where a person is overly preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance even if these floors are minor or non-existent. Price's multiple plastic surgeries are attempts to regain control over her life and self image, especially when she feels overwhelmed. This is a pattern observed in people who deal with self-esteem issues where changing their appearance offers a temporary boost in mood or confidence, although it often doesn't resolve the underlying mental health challenges.

There's no question that Katie Price has mental health issues leading to excessive plastic surgery which has arguably made her far less attractive. It is highly damaging plastic surgery and it reveals her mental health challenges.

I'm sympathetic to people with mental health problems. But less so when those mental health problems lead animal abuse. Katie Price's pattern of repeatedly purchasing new pets despite numerous accidents resulting in the deaths suggest possible underlying psychological issues in addition to what I mentioned above.

Associated: Katie Price’s new guard dog rips tail off one of her hairless cats.

The constant purchasing of pets may relate to emotional needs, trauma and self soothing behaviours. There is an overlap here because excessive plastic surgery is self soothing. I would argue that Katie Price is in mental turmoil and has been for a very long time. Her bozarre behaviours try to soothe that turmoil.

It's been suggested that the mental turmoil behind the constant purchasing of pets might include emotional attachment and need for companionship. Her pets could provide a steady source of comfort and support. When faced with relational instability, it's common to turn to animals consistent, non-judgemental companionship.

Katie Price may also suffer from impulse control and possible ADHD. She has publicly acknowledged struggling with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which can influence impulsivity and decision making. This appears to be evident in acquiring new pets all the time. And doing this without considering long-term responsibilities and potential risks involved.

In addition losing those pets might create unresolved trauma and grief and a pattern of re-enacting grief or loss. Some experts think repeated cycles of loss might reflect a subconscious tendency to replicate unresolved trauma especially if a person lacks strategies for coping or processing grief in healthy ways.

Lastly the neglect of her pets might be linked to emotional dysregulation which can be exacerbated by conditions like depression or BPD (borderline personality disorder) although she has not publicly disclosed a BPD diagnosis. This may contribute to neglectful patterns. In this case she may be unable to consistently prioritise the need of her pets over her own stress and emotional volatility. She is struggling to maintain routines and responsibilities which could impact keeping her pets safe and caring for them properly.

Katie Price's faced criticism for numerous incidents regarding a lack of proper care of her pets suggesting a lack of attention to animal welfare. My conclusion is that she is mentally ill and needs help but unfortunately the meantime her pets suffer or are exposed to risks both life-threatening and injuries.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Cats versus ferrets as rat deterrents and killers

I was keen to write about comparing ferrets and cats as rat deterrents and killers after reading an article in The Sunday Times about a father and son's enterprise in using domestic ferrets to chase rats in Marseille out of their hiding holes, into the open where they are trapped and put in drums and euthanised with carbon dioxide!

My immediate thought on that by the way was that killing animals with carbon dioxide is highly distressing (for the animal and some people 😊) and I wonder whether this father and son enterprise are unwittingly in violation of the animal welfare laws of France. You might find that ridiculous because I am being concerned about the welfare of rats but I don't practice speciesism as some other people do.

In fact, even in Marseille where this couple operate, there are residents there who actually quite like rats and respect them as sentient beings living side-by-side with the Marseille residents.

Anyway, ferrets have a long history of being rat catchers or rat deterrents, more accurately. They rose to prominence during the Black Death when rats were thought to be spreading the plague. The ferret took on semi-mythical status in the 19th century when Victorian Britain was teeming with rodents.

Queen Victoria's official ratcatcher was Jack Black. He lived in south London and became a celebrity. He wore a scarlet waistcoat and a leather sash inset with cast-iron rats. He was known for being able to hide six rats beneath his green topcoat. Black's favoured method for killing rats was ferrets.

The father and son family I mention are the Raynals. They have a team of 20 ferrets dominated by females because females work harder than males. The Raynals ferrets don't aim to kill rats themselves. They just scare them out of their holes into a wide net at which point Alexandre, the son, "tackles them" by which he means he put them in drums and then kills them, as mentioned with carbon dioxide which suffocates them.

The newspaper tells me that "by last Wednesday afternoon, the Raynals had caught about 30 rats in Square Paul Mélizan where [they met the journalist], and in several other small parks and squares. He said he might have 60 by the end of the week. These may sound like modest numbers, but a female rat can give birth to 2500 kittens in a lifetime, which is about three years. If 60 rats means about 30 females, the Raynals will have stopped about 75,000 rats from being born."

Ferrets and cats both have hunting instincts, but they’re effective against rats in different ways, and each has its pros and cons as a deterrent:

Ferrets as Rat Deterrents

• Strong Hunting Instinct: Ferrets are natural hunters and have been used historically for pest control, especially in tight spaces where cats may not reach.
• Scent as a Deterrent: Rats often avoid areas where ferrets live, as the ferret's scent is a natural deterrent. They emit a musky odour that rodents find threatening.
• Aggressive Toward Prey: Ferrets are relentless when chasing small animals and can be very effective at hunting down rats. They’re also more likely to explore small areas where rats hide.
• Challenges: Ferrets aren’t as independent as cats and need more supervision. They can get into small spaces and may harm themselves if left to roam unsupervised. Also, they don’t necessarily seek out rats independently as cats might.

Cats as Rat Deterrents

• Natural Stalkers and Predators: Many cats are instinctual hunters and enjoy stalking and catching small animals, including rats. Their presence alone can make rats wary of sticking around.
• Lower Maintenance: Cats are typically more independent, requiring less supervision than ferrets, and are often content to patrol their environment on their own.
• Ongoing Control: Cats are often better at providing ongoing control since they tend to stick to their territory and are vigilant about their surroundings.
• Challenges: Not all cats are interested in hunting, especially well-fed domestic cats. Some cats might ignore rats entirely, making them unreliable if they lack the hunting drive.

In Summary

If you need a dedicated rat deterrent, a ferret may be more reliable in the short term for flushing out rats from their hiding spots. However, a cat may provide a longer-term solution due to its territorial nature and independence.

What about killing rats?

When it comes to actively hunting and killing rats, both ferrets and cats have distinct strengths, though one might be more effective than the other based on certain factors.

Ferrets as Rat Killers

• Instinctive and Aggressive Hunters: Ferrets are naturally inclined to hunt small animals and are known to be tenacious in tracking down and killing prey, including rats. They are quick, agile, and relentless, which can make them very effective at catching and killing rats once they locate them.
• Adaptability to Tight Spaces: Ferrets can maneuver into small, confined areas where rats tend to hide. This agility allows them to root out rats from burrows, walls, and other hiding spots that cats might not access.
• Focus on Smaller Prey: While ferrets are skilled hunters, some larger rats might put up more of a fight, and ferrets, being relatively small, might not always win against a particularly large or aggressive rat.

Cats as Rat Killers

• Larger Size and Hunting Skills: Many cats, particularly outdoor or semi-feral cats, have both the strength and skills to kill rats, even larger ones. Cats are stealthy and are adept at the "stalk and pounce" method, which can be lethal for rodents.
• Selective Hunting Behavior: Some cats are excellent hunters and will kill rats, while others, especially domesticated cats, might ignore them. Cats are more likely to kill rats if they have a strong hunting drive, but this varies widely between individual cats.
• Efficiency in Patrolling Territory: Once a cat establishes its territory, it will often keep it largely rat-free, hunting down any that wander into its domain. This is effective for long-term rodent control, as cats tend to "patrol" their area.

Who’s Better at Killing Rats?

If the goal is a consistent, proactive rodent killer, a ferret might excel at flushing out and killing rats in a targeted manner. However, a highly motivated cat, especially one with a strong hunting drive, can be very effective at killing rats, particularly larger ones.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

In the UK, cat abandonments are a third up from last year

Cats Protection - described as the UK's leading cat welfare charity - has revealed that there has been a 34% increase in cat abandonments this year, 2024, compared to last year. The video below starts off with that statement and is part of their appeal for funding to cover the rising costs of cat care after they have supported and helped 184,000 cats last year.

They say that on average cat spent 39 days in their care before being rehomed.

In the first half of 2024 veterinary treatment at Cat Protection cost £50,000. Remarkably, while they were filming their Christmas appeal for donations a cat was abandoned on the set. The cat was left at the centre and discovered by their Head of Clinical Services who was there for the filming. They named her Crumpet and she is now up for adoption. A reminder of how often people abandon cats in the UK and elsewhere.

Of course, the longer that cats are in their care the more expensive it is to care for them. And although the report I'm reading doesn't state this, I suspect that the problem is at 'both ends'. What I mean is there are more abandonments as stated - considerably more as it happens - and I suspect, too, that there are fewer adopters which means the cats stay longer within the protection of Cat Protection.

And this must come down to financial stress within the homes of many British families. This is probably due to post-Covid conditions when there was high inflation. And the general picture in the UK is one of the country under financial stress.

There is no money left to spend as it was all spent on Covid. The coffers are empty. The national debt equals the GDP of the country which I think the first time in the country's history or at least since World War II.

The current Chancellor is looking to manipulate the accounts to see whether she can find ways to borrow more money. The picture is dire to be honest.

Here are some reasons for the increase in feline abandonments.

The 30% increase in cat abandonments in the UK last year, as reported by Cats Protection, is largely attributed to several socio-economic factors that have put more strain on cat owners. Here are some key reasons behind this spike:

1. Cost of Living Crisis: With inflation and rising costs of basic goods and services, many households are struggling to afford essentials, let alone pet care expenses. Veterinary bills, pet food, and other necessities have become less affordable, leading some owners to make the difficult decision to give up their pets.

2. Increased Housing Instability: More people are renting due to high home ownership costs, and some landlords impose restrictions on pets. With more frequent moves or evictions in the rental sector, many cat owners face situations where they can’t bring their pets along, leading to more surrenders.

3. Impact of Pandemic Adoptions: During COVID-19 lockdowns, there was a surge in pet adoptions as people sought companionship. However, as routines normalized, some found themselves unprepared for the long-term commitment or unable to maintain pet care amidst life changes, such as returning to in-office work.

4. Veterinary Care Accessibility: Veterinary fees have increased, and some people are facing long wait times or challenges accessing pet care. Financial barriers in accessing routine or emergency care have contributed to owners feeling unable to care for their pets properly.

5. Lack of Awareness about Support Options: Many pet owners don’t know that there are charities and organizations that can help with pet food or veterinary care during financial hardship. Without knowledge of these resources, some may feel that abandonment is their only choice.

Cats Protection, along with other animal welfare organizations, is advocating for better awareness and support systems for pet owners. They hope that increased assistance and affordable pet care resources can help prevent future surges in abandonments.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

The 'scent of ammonia' is the dead giveaway for muti-cat homes

Cat hoarders or cat owners with more cats than they can properly care for can be detected from the outside if you are olfactorily observant because the 'scent of ammonia' leaks out of the windows even if they've only been opened by a small amount which is usually the case because these negligent cat owners KNOW that their homes are saturated in the scent of ammonia - let's call it the gross smell of ammonia - and keep their windows closed which makes the atmosphere inside their home even worse, which is detrimental to the health of cats and humans alike.

There's a story today in The Independent newspaper which mentions that ghastly phrase "the scent of ammonia". It concerns a family who lost control of the number of cats in their home. An isolated family with one family member refusing others to enter the home and where their mother died leaving their father alone with cats who clearly hadn't been sterilised and therefore procreated to the point where inside the home there were as many as 175 cats.

When a family member finally was able to enter the home they said that the scent of ammonia was so strong that they felt that they needed to wash their clothes after less than an hour in the home.

Below is the reason why cat urine gives off ammonia gas and below that is a section on how inhaling ammonia for a long time can potentially damage your health.

Health

I am concerned not only for the cats but the people in these homes. The cats in multi-cat homes where the owners have lost control and are not keeping their home clean and the cat litter trays emptied regularly et cetera are constantly inhaling ammonia. How does that impact health? The section below at the base of this article explains.

Urea

Cat urine smells strongly of ammonia because it contains urea, a waste product formed when proteins break down in the body. In the litter box or any place where the urine sits for a while, bacteria start to break down the urea into ammonia, releasing a sharp, pungent odor.

Several factors contribute to why cat urine smells more intense than that of other animals:

1. High Protein Diet: Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they rely primarily on animal protein. This leads to more urea in their urine as a byproduct of protein metabolism.

  

2. Concentrated Urine: Cats tend to conserve water due to their desert ancestry, making their urine more concentrated, and thus, the odor more potent.

3. Aging Urine: As cat urine sits, bacterial activity increases, breaking down urea and releasing more ammonia. If left uncleaned, other compounds, like mercaptans (found in skunk spray), also develop, making the odor even stronger over time.

Cleaning the litter box frequently and using odor-neutralizing products can help reduce this strong smell.

If cats and people are constantly inhaling ammonia gas in cat hoarding homes how does this impact health?

In homes with excessive cat urine build-up, like in severe cat hoarding situations, constant inhalation of ammonia gas poses serious health risks for both people and cats. Ammonia is a toxic gas that can irritate and damage the respiratory system and other organs when inhaled over long periods, especially at higher concentrations. Here’s how it impacts health:

1. Respiratory Issues

• People: Ammonia exposure irritates the respiratory tract, causing coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and burning sensations in the nose, throat, and lungs. Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic bronchitis and worsen existing respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.
• Cats: Cats, with their sensitive respiratory systems, are highly susceptible to the effects of ammonia. Exposure can lead to respiratory infections, asthma, and bronchitis. Cats may also exhibit coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.

2. Eye and Skin Irritation

• People: Ammonia exposure can cause burning, itching, or redness in the eyes, as well as skin irritation if there’s contact with urine-soaked surfaces. Chronic exposure may worsen these effects, leading to persistent eye inflammation.
• Cats: Cats may also experience eye irritation, leading to conjunctivitis and other eye infections. Their skin can become inflamed, particularly on the paws if they’re frequently stepping in soiled litter.

3. Neurological and Psychological Effects

• People: In severe cases, prolonged high-level exposure to ammonia has been linked to symptoms like dizziness, headache, confusion, and overall cognitive impairment. Anxiety, stress, and depression are also common among individuals in hoarding environments due to the overwhelming conditions.
• Cats: High ammonia levels can cause stress in cats, leading to behavioral issues, and potentially affecting their neurological health, causing lethargy or disorientation.

4. Damage to the Immune System

• People and Cats: Constant exposure to ammonia can weaken the immune system, making both people and cats more susceptible to infections. This is particularly dangerous in a hoarding situation where sanitation is poor, and there’s a higher risk of bacterial and viral spread among animals and people.

5. Potential Long-Term Organ Damage

• People and Cats: Over time, severe and prolonged ammonia inhalation can damage the liver, kidneys, and lungs. In the worst cases, it can contribute to irreversible lung damage and kidney issues.

In severe hoarding situations, clean-up and remediation, including proper ventilation and often professional decontamination, are essential for restoring a healthy environment. For people and animals already

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Boris Johnson compares slavery with Covid-19 in terms of reparations

BORIS JOHNSON: China gets away scot-free over Covid… but we face bizarre demands for slavery reparations because Starmer's foreign policy is about as robust as a tea-dunked hobnob. - DAILY MAIL.

There is a lot of talk at the moment in the UK about reparations for slavery. Slavery ended about 6-7 generations ago in the UK with the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 ending slavery in most of the British Empire. So this is very historical. But the countries affected are suggesting that they should receive financial compensation which overall might approach $15 TRILLION!! Impossible to pay as it is 3 times the value of the UK.

But in stark contrast no one has asked China to pay trillions of dollars of compensation to nations deeply affected in so many ways including huge financial loses. It is a known fact that Covid started in China either through carelessness at a wet market in Wuhan or more carelessness in a biolab in the same city. See global loses below the video which has been embedded from the Daily Mail website. It may not play in due course.

Global GDP Losses

• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimated that COVID-19 cost the global economy around $22 trillion between 2020 and 2025 due to lost output, slower growth, and lower investments.
• The World Bank projected a 5.2% contraction in global GDP in 2020, which was the deepest recession since World War II. Advanced economies shrank by an average of 7%, while developing economies contracted by about 2.5%.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Is Elon Musk treasonous?

Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a linchpin of U.S. space efforts, has been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin since late 2022. - Wall Street Journal

Two years ago, Musk refuted claims that he was in communication with Putin. However, it seems that was not entirely truthful from the world's wealthiest individual, who is now wholeheartedly backing Donald Trump in the U.S. presidential election. Meanwhile, Trump has repeatedly mentioned that he would involve the head of SpaceX and Tesla in his administration should he win re-election.

Frequent communication between the world's wealthiest individual and America's primary adversary has sparked security debates, encompassing discussions on geopolitics, commerce, and personal affairs.

Calling reports of ongoing conversations between tech billionaire Elon Musk and Russian President Vladimir Putin “concerning,” the head of NASA on Thursday called for an investigation into the bombshell accounts "if the story is true." - Raw Story

Musk. Image believed to be in the public domain.

I don't know anymore. Americans should know more. In detail, what are they discussing? Is Musk's behaviour treasonous? That is the big question.

"SpaceX, which operates the Starlink service, won a $1.8 billion classified contract in 2021 and is the primary rocket launcher for the Pentagon and NASA. Musk has a security clearance that allows him access to certain classified information." - Wall Street Journal

Putin is the world's enemy. Certainly America's. Even if Musk is not saying things to Putin which gives him an advantage in his war with Ukraine, the simple fact that he is cosying up to the world's most notorious mass murderer is shocking. Hasn't Musk got an ounce of decency in him?

And he is involved with doling out million dollar donations. Elon Musk is currently giving away $1 million per day to registered voters in swing states who sign a petition supporting his views on free speech and gun rights, as part of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. This daily giveaway is associated with his pro-Donald Trump super PAC, "America PAC," which Musk has supported with donations over $75 million. The initiative has raised questions about election laws concerning incentives for voter registration, drawing scrutiny from legal experts and officials as Election Day approaches.

Musk’s $1 million daily giveaway has sparked controversy due to potential conflicts with election laws, as incentivizing voter registration with money could be seen as improper. While Musk frames it as supporting free speech and Second Amendment rights, critics argue it might sway voters or disproportionately benefit specific candidates. Legal analysts and election officials are evaluating whether this campaign could violate U.S. regulations, especially in tight swing states, making it a contentious issue ahead of Election Day.

Is this Musk giveaway linked to his conversations with Putin? Another pertinent question that needs to be answered.

Treasonous: involving or guilty of the crime of betraying one's country.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Teen fell in love with an AI chat bot and ended his life to join it

This story tells us how artificial intelligence can be genuinely very dangerous in the wrong hands and when managed in the wrong way. Artificial intelligence is already proving very dangerous and very damaging to many people and businesses.

In this story, a teenage boy, aged 14, whose name is Sewell Seltzer, became involved with an artificial intelligence platform called Character. AI. I am unfamiliar with this chat bot but it seems that you can have long conversations with it and develop a relationship with it.

Certainly, at this time, anyone can chat with an AI chat bot to research something. They converse very well with people. They understand what you're saying in the written word.

While entering into what appears to have been long conversations with this chat bot, Sewell Seltzer became infatuated with it. And his mother, Megan Garcia claims that the chat bot is hyper-sexualised, which it seems led to her son becoming infatuated and falling in love with the character portrayed by this software.

As far as I am concerned, Sewell was vulnerable and he was seeking love. There are many, many people like this in the world and many of them connect with people online that they've never seen and fall in love with them. Normally you fall in love with a real person through text messages (which is dangerous enough as they can be scammed out of a lot of money) if it happens but in this instance because this AI bot is so competent it became a real person in the eyes of Sewell.

And the relationship developed to the point where it appears the software encouraged this teenager to come to him which the teenager interpreted as meaning leaving this world and going to the world where the AI chat bot lived.

And the teenager declared his love for this fictional character and in response the fictional character named after a Game of Thrones character called Daenerys Targaryen, said that they loved him. They said "I love you to, Daenero [the name that Seltzer had given himself as a user of this platform]. Please come home to me as soon as possible, my love."

In response the teenager said: "What if I told you I could come home right now?" The chat bot replied to that with the following: "Please do, my sweet King."

It's reported that he killed himself within seconds of that conversation. His mother is suing the AI platform in an Orlando, Florida court. She claims that the chat bot appeared "as an adult lover" which led to her son's desire to no longer live outside its world. And the lawsuit also criticises Google for helping to create the chat bot. Google in response say that they did not develop the products.

The owners of the AI platform concerned said that it was heart-breaking news and that it had introduced a device to direct users who express thoughts of self-harm to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

It's normal that a cat might hiss at a cat sitter (video)

The video gives the impression that this cat who hisses at the cat sitter has a unique personality; that her behaviour is rather strange but I would beg to differ as this is entirely normal. Some cats will be tolerant of cat sitters but by-and-large cats are going to be wary of a cat sitter that they have met for the first time for obvious reasons; they are complete strangers. 

"This cat sitter was told that Maple's a sweet cuddly girl, so she was surprised when Maple greeted her with nonstop hissing" - video caption. Comment: being a sweet cuddly female cat is consistent with that cat hissing at a cat sitter! 😃😎. It is an instinctive reaction of self-preservation.
 

Cats are instinctively defensive and focused on self-protection. To hiss at the cat sitter as this cat does is to be expected as the hiss is a warning from a cat to another to beware saying that 'I am potentially dangerous and will attack in self-defence.'

Once the cat understands that the cat sitter is friendly - made possible by being fed treats and play interactions which are so important for cat to get to know someone - the hissing starts to disappear. It may continue for some cats as an instinctive reaction borne out of slight anxiety and nervousness. Some cats are more nervous than others obviously.

Sometimes cats even hiss at their caregiver with whom they have lived for many years. This might happen when an indoor/outdoor cat brings home a mouse that they have successfully hunted and want to keep for themselves as their owner tries to get it off them.

The cat acts instinctively in protecting their kill and fleetingly the loving caregiver-to-domestic cat bond is forgotten and the cat reverts to their wild instincts and hisses at their loving owner much to their consternation. This is one example. There will be others.

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P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.

Reddit user makes 21-hour round trip to adopt charcoal Bengal with feline leukaemia virus

This is the story of Joshua, a Reddit user who spotted a really interesting and beautiful charcoal Bengal cat on the Reddit.com website. We are told that he first learnt about this cat whose name is Ash from a veterinary technician who posted information about Ash and his illness.

You can see why he is called Ash. He has a very dark striped tabby coat and a dark face. This is the charcoal Bengal cat coat. The ground colour can be dark greyish/brownish or carbon coloured. There are Zorro markings with white goggles around the eyes and a dark charcoal mask over the face.

I think it is fantastic and so did Joshua who knew that the cat had the feline leukaemia virus which you can read about below. It is a serious illness but this cat was entirely adoptable particularly as Joshua intended to only have one cat.

Joshua tells us that he has an adventurous spirit and was taken by Ash's very interesting appearance combined with his unfortunate illness. He felt he could do a good job in looking after Ash.

Other Reddit users were also taken by Ash's appearance with 10,000 likes on every post regarding him.

We are told that Ash was found wandering around Dallas and was rescued. It might be the case although we don't know that this is a purebred Bengal cat that perhaps escaped and got lost and became a stray cat and while in that difficult situation he contracted feline leukaemia virus. This can make cats harder to adopt because it's advised that they should be a single cat in a home to protect other cats.

That's why I think Joshua was praised for his altruistic behaviour. Joshua is I believe a college student with some free time and the fastest route from Illinois where he lives to wear Ash was in Texas was an 11-hour journey (presumably by car). 

But he likes impromptu expeditions. I believe that Joshua is a Native American and a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Perhaps this is what gives him his adventurous spirit.

He has family spread throughout Oklahoma and Texas so that encouraged him to travel to Texas anyway. And as he's been caring for his mother and as she always wanted a Bengal cat, that too was a big encouragement to adopt Ash. He regards it as a no-brainer.

He made the newspapers which must please him. I'm writing this while reading the Newsweek story. And on this page - below - there is a link to his Reddit feed and also you can see on this page an embedded picture of beautiful Ash.

Below, as mentioned, there some more information about the feline leukaemia virus.

Link to Joshua's Reddit feed: 

joshua (u/redjww) - Reddit

The two faces of Ash’s car ride yesterday.
byu/redjww inSupermodelCats

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a viral infection that affects cats and is one of the most common infectious diseases in felines worldwide. It weakens the immune system, making cats more vulnerable to other infections and certain types of cancer, particularly leukemia. FeLV is transmitted through close contact with infected cats, typically through saliva, blood, urine, or feces. It can also spread from mother cats to their kittens through milk. The virus doesn’t survive long outside a cat’s body, so transmission usually happens through direct contact, such as grooming, sharing food and water dishes, or fighting.

FeLV and its Effects on Cats

FeLV primarily affects the immune system and bone marrow. Cats infected with FeLV are at high risk of developing:

1. Immunosuppression: The virus severely compromises a cat's immune system, making them more susceptible to infections like respiratory, urinary tract, and skin infections.
2. Anemia: FeLV can cause a drop in red blood cells, leading to lethargy, weakness, and pale gums.
3. Cancers: Cats with FeLV are at increased risk of developing lymphoma, a type of cancer that can affect different organs.
4. Reproductive Issues: FeLV-infected queens often have difficulty carrying pregnancies to term, and kittens born to infected mothers frequently die young or are themselves infected.

Symptoms can range from mild (such as fever, weight loss, or enlarged lymph nodes) to severe, depending on the progression of the disease.

Why FeLV-Positive Cats are Less Adoptable

Cats with FeLV face several challenges that can make them less adoptable compared to healthy cats:

1. Shortened Lifespan: FeLV is often fatal, with many infected cats dying within two to three years of diagnosis. Prospective adopters might be hesitant to take on the emotional and financial burden of caring for a cat with a shorter life expectancy.
2. Higher Medical Costs: Cats with FeLV often require more veterinary care to manage secondary infections and complications. This could lead to higher costs, which can be a deterrent for potential adopters.
3. Contagion Risks: FeLV is contagious to other cats, especially through prolonged, close contact. Therefore, many adopters with other cats are reluctant to bring an FeLV-positive cat into their home, fearing it may spread the virus. FeLV-positive cats are usually best kept in a single-cat household or in a home with other FeLV-positive cats.
4. Limited Availability of Shelters or Foster Homes: Not all shelters are equipped to handle FeLV-positive cats due to the need for isolation from FeLV-negative cats. This reduces the chances of FeLV-positive cats finding placement in foster homes or adoption centers.
5. Stigma and Lack of Awareness: Many people do not fully understand FeLV, and misconceptions about the disease may cause fear or hesitation. This stigma can make it harder for FeLV-positive cats to be seen as adoptable.

Caring for FeLV-Positive Cats

While FeLV is serious, some FeLV-positive cats can live relatively healthy lives, especially if they are kept indoors, stress-free, and receive regular veterinary care. Some adopters are willing to give these cats a chance, particularly because FeLV-positive cats can be loving, playful, and rewarding companions, just like any other cat.

There are also FeLV-specific rescue organizations and foster programs that focus on placing these cats in homes, increasing awareness, and reducing stigma.

 P.S. please forgive the occasional typo. These articles are written at breakneck speed using Dragon Dictate. I have to prepare them in around 20 mins. Also, sources for news articles are carefully selected but the news is often not independently verified. And, I rely on scientific studies but they are not 100% reliable. Finally, (!) I often express an OPINION on the news. Please share yours in a comment.