It’s great when male and female cats get along, but it’s even better if they are spayed and neutered!

While Valentine’s Day is typically thought of in terms of red roses, hearts, chocolates, and romantic forays between lovers, I think of it in not only those terms, but  in terms of responsibility. Honestly, what better gift of love than helping to ensure cat overpopulation does not continue to escalate by practicing responsible spay/neuter? Maybe then, shelters and rescues that are overflowing with cats and kittens would have a better chance of having them all adopted into loving furever homes.

While Harley is now an angel, she will always be my Valentine girl. Just look at that beautiful heart shaped bib of hers!

And all those outdoor community cats – by utilizing TNRM efforts (Trap, Neuter, Return, and Manage) –  not only do colony numbers stabilize or reduce, but cats that are spayed and neutered are healthier, with far less negative behavioral issues, such as territorial spraying and loud yowling.

I also measure Valentine’s Day by trying to find the beauty and love all around us – whether it is the love between friends, family, or our feline companions. The kind of love that doesn’t cost a single penny, but brings invaluable joy – such as a kind word, a compliment, a smile, or a helping hand. Here are some of my favorite cat images that inspire that intangible kind of love. Some of  them are classic favorites that have been shared before and some are new.

Mia and Peanut snuggle in a heart shape of sibling love!

Mia has been head-over-heels in love with her papa Zee since she was a kitten.

It’s hard to see in this picture, but if you look closely, you will notice Jazmine has a heart shape on her back left paw.

Zoey as a proud mama seven years ago with her son Rolz. This picture is the essence of everything love is and the message is universal.

Zee & Zoey have been a couple since 2008 and remain in love to this day.

Kizmet & Jazmine have been best buds since they first met in 2014.

If you look closely, you can see Zee’s nose is a perfectly shaped heart!

Kizmet pats his brother Rolz in a simple gesture of friendship…

My angel, Mr. Jazz will always remain in my heart as my Valentine boy…

I love my cats, but somehow I think the feeling is mutual!

That’s just some of the love in my house – can you find the love around yours – whether it be the surprise of finding a heart on the tip of his nose or the bib of her fur? Whatever it is, I invite you to share your thoughts on the love around you. Happy Valentine’s Day to all creatures, great and small, and may your day be filled with peace, joy, purrs,  kindness, and responsibility…