In case you haven't noticed, being a freak about cats has evolved into a hip lifestyle. Modern cat-lovin' ladies have moved far from the frazzle-haired, bathrobe-wearing, cat pee-perfumed stereotype. Tasteful references to cats are found in all forms of pop culture, from fashion to literature and art. Show the cat gals in your life some appreciation for their hipness with these fun and functional options.
CAT TREAT JAR
The furry feline friends of any reputable cat lady are spoiled beyond belief with countless toys, special beds and scratchers placed throughout their living spaces. Yet the refined cat lady still has impeccable taste when it comes to home decorating, one that takes the focus away from the abundance of cat paraphernalia. You won't see nor smell the presence of multiple cats as you step inside her front door. And she's definitely not one to leave the half-empty bag of Greenies or Whiskas treats just sitting on the counter next to the wine rack. This firmly-closing (kitties can paw it to the ground, but the lid won't budge) and vintage-chic treat jar lets those bags of goodies stay tastefully hidden, but within reach when her fur babies demand a special treat. $17 • Pet Vittles • 919 N. Argonne, Spokane Valley
CAT HARNESS
The savviest cat ladies know to start 'em when they're young. Leash training, that is. Cats are not as fickle as they seem, and leash training what should be an indoor-only cat (there are too many threats to let Fluffyshanks outside) means that cat ladies and their companions can safely enjoy each other's company outdoors — in the park, on road trips and even camping. (Pro tip: There is an actual web community of "Adventure Cats" on social media.) Of course, a secure cat harness is a priority — most are adjustable to ensure a snug fit, but also consider the fashion element of the color and print, like this cute and not overdone mice-and-cheese design. $17 • The Urban Canine • 6320 N. Ash and 2915 E. 29th
SPONSOR A CAT KENNEL OR ADOPTION FEE
She already has enough cats to care for — we don't mean it like that. The bleeding-heart syndrome that unites all cat lovers is the heartbreak that comes with realizing how many cats out there don't have as loving a home as their own kitties do. Visit or contact any of the region's animal shelters to pick out a long-term shelter cat who would have better chances of finding a home if their adoption fee was waived — these are usually older cats, black cats or cats with manageable health conditions. If you have a larger budget, consider sponsoring a kennel for a year in your favorite cat lady's name. Kennel sponsorships: $150-$252, SCRAPS, 477-2984 • $100, Spokane Humane Society, 467-5235
CAT LADY BOX
There's a subscription box for every type these days: beauty product hoarders, fashionistas, gamers, geeks, vegans, crafters, artists and, obviously, cat ladies. If you pick CatLadyBox's CRAZY box option, you'll be sending a catch-all gift that covers both lady and cats, filled with toys, treats, accessories and other things she never knew she needed. Sign her up for a few months of deliveries, or have just one box filled with surprises shipped right to her door. $35-$216 • Order online at catladybox.com ♦