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🐈 How a Chicago Marathon turned into a kitten rescue

4/3 sponsored by: Geneva Tourism/bradsdeals - Kitten rescued in marathon, signs your cat loves you, how your cat helps with grief

"Cats don’t ask to be understood. They simply ask to be accepted—and in return, give more than you expect."

Happy Thursday:

  • ⛑️ Chicago marathon turns into kitten rescue mission

  • 💌 How cats say ‘I love you’ without words

  • 😸 What you didn’t know about Geneva

  • ❤️ Feline companionship eases grief, study finds

  • 👟 How to find the best deals on must-have sneakers

True or False?

Cats use their tails to communicate with other animals—but not with humans.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

Chicago Marathon Turns Into Kitten Rescue Mission

Most runners train for months to hit a new personal best. But when Sarah spotted a crying kitten near mile 25 of the Chicago Marathon, her instincts kicked in. “I didn’t even think twice,” she said. “I scooped up the cat.”

Sarah had been running to support PAWS Chicago, an animal rescue nonprofit. When she came across the scared little fluff near the sidewalk, she stopped, picked him up, and began walking—risking her race time to keep him safe.

For nearly a mile, she carried him through the tunnel and down the course until a group of spectators—also cat lovers—offered to take him in. Bohan handed the kitten over, trusting they’d give him the love he needed.

She didn’t exchange info, but PAWS later confirmed the best news: the kitten was adopted and already settling into his new home. It wasn’t the marathon she’d planned—but it was one that truly made a difference.

How Cats Say 'I Love You' Without Words

Cats aren’t always obvious with their affection, but that doesn’t mean they’re indifferent. According to feline behaviorist Amanda Campion, there are a few subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways cats show love—and if your cat does even one, you’re doing something right.

Hanging out near you, even without physical contact, is a strong sign. If they’re rubbing their head against you (called bunting), giving you a slow blink, or sleeping next to your pillow, they’re telling you they feel safe. It’s cat code for trust and comfort.

Other signs include licks, gentle nibbles, and the “spritz tail”—a happy little tail quiver that often gets misread. Bringing you “gifts,” asking to jump on your lap, or just quietly choosing your company over anyone else’s also say a lot.

Every cat shows love a little differently, but when they do, it’s meaningful. If your cat’s doing any of these things, congratulations: they’re telling you you’re home.

The Science City You Didn’t Know You Needed to Visit

Did you know that the World Wide Web was born in Geneva, Switzerland? Indeed, the first version of the Internet cropped up at CERN in 1989.

Today the world-renowned center is home to the largest particle accelerator and to the CERN Science Gateway – a must-see hub for science enthusiasts that features hands-on exhibits, immersive virtual reality experiences, and live demonstrations.

Plan your visit and explore the cutting-edge world of physics and innovation at the CERN Science Gateway!

Thank you to Geneva Tourism for sponsoring Daily Purr.

Feline Companionship Eases Grief, Study Finds

When grief hits, people often don’t know what to say. But cats? They just show up. A 2021 study found that pet owners were more satisfied with the support they received from animals than from humans during grief—by a wide margin.

The study, published in PLOS ONE, revealed that nearly 90% of participants who turned to a pet felt deeply supported. Cats may not offer words, but they offer presence—curling up quietly nearby, nudging gently, or just staying close without asking anything in return. That kind of calm, consistent companionship can be incredibly grounding during loss.

And it’s not just cats. Participants found comfort in dogs, horses, goats, and more. What mattered wasn’t species—it was the nonjudgmental energy animals bring. No advice, no awkward silence. Just company.

In moments of deep sorrow, a cat’s quiet loyalty might be exactly what we need most: someone who sees us, stays near, and doesn’t try to fix it.

Where to Score the Deals on Hoka Shoes

Hoka shoes deliver all-day comfort and support, with styles perfect for any activity. That’s why our partners at Brad’s Deals have curated the top discounts on these high-performance shoes—so you can enjoy premium comfort without paying full price.

Thank you to Brad’s Deals for sponsoring Daily Purr.

🐾 How Does Your Cat Feel About Other Animals?

🟨🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ 😻 Loves them! Instant friendship (19%)

🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 đŸ˜ź Tolerates them... barely (47%)

🟨🟨🟨🟨⬜️⬜️ 🙀 Absolutely not. This is a one-cat household (35%)

Cats Corner

From kitten growth to unexpected cat knowledge, here’s what’s trending:

  • ⚖️ Wondering what your kitten should weigh right now? Find out now!

  • 👟 These are the best Hoka shoe deals- check out the full list here!

  • 🎤 Can you guess which celeb knows tons about cat breeds—(hint: She has 3 kitties). Find out now!

  • 👶 Stray kitten adorably tries to win over a baby. Watch here!

  • 🇨🇭 This city has more to it than just great views- The Cern Science center in Geneva is a must-visit. Learn more!

🐱 Bite-Sized Treats

🧐 True or False: False! Tail posture and movement are a major part of cat-to-human communication (think: upright tail = happy).

😸 COTD: Give your kitty the spotlight by submitting them for Cat of the Day. Reply to this email with your best photos of your cat, their name, and a short description for the chance to be featured in an upcoming newsletter!

💌 Reply for a surprise: If you are reading this reply with how your cat comforts you for a surprise in your inbox!