7 Ways Catholicism Differs from Biblical Christianity

While streaming and digital media are all the rage enabling us to simply pick up a device or click on an app on our interactive computer-TV, Brooklyn's Night Owl Video strives to keep physical media in the forefront of viewers.  In fact, their slogan is "Death to Streamers!  Physical Media Forever!"  Many of us endured the near family-like "loss" as our hometown video rental stores, whether nationally recognized like Blockbuster Video or entrepreneur owned stores, vanished from our town or city's landscape.The resurgence of physical media, whether as a mere collector or a reluctant to change GenX'r, has had several niche placements in modern days.  For instance, between 2021 and 2022 alone there were more vinyl's record sales than CD.  In fact, the data from riaa.com shows a decline in CD units, 46.7 million to 33.4 million which equates to a 17.6% decline in dollar value.  Compared with vinyl sales increasing from 40 million units in 2021 to 41.3 million units in 2022.  In addition, 2021 had $1,044,600 in sales and increased 17.2% to $1,224,400 in the subsequent year; that's simple physical to physical medium comparison.  While we invite you to visit the 2022 Year End Music Industry Revenue Report to verify this, physical media stores such as Night Owl Video, various thrift stores, "non-profit video libraries including those located in in New Orleans, Calgary, Baltimore, and Worcester, Massachusetts, as well as a variety of retailers such as Atomic Movie Store, Orbit DVD, DiabolikDVD and Grindhouse Video." - cited from "https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/apr/23/new-york-video-store-night-owl-brooklyn"Streaming services, in this writer's opinion, tend to have their own schedule of video libraries and when they choose to make them available and when to remove them from the library.  Note that this could also be a license-contract reason why television shows and/or movies appear, then disappear frequently.While we can binge on recent television or the last compilation storyline movies more frequently, the library of yesteryear entertainment comes and goes at the command of the streaming owners and not the streaming viewers.  It is in this case that I appreciate the personal DVD, Blu-ray, and VHS library that I have or stores such as the ones noted earlier that strive to keep physical media, physically attainable, so that my family and I can select what we want and when we want to watch classics such as The Three Stooges or tote the latest Sonic movie in my van's DVD player as we cruise from school to home.

Farmers are always busy doing one thing or another. They feed their livestock, repair the barn, fix fences around pastures, and keep their tractor running. They have to do every odd job required on a working farm. Sometimes that means working around livestock in a field. When this farmer had to repair a fence, the cows wanted to see what she was doing, as cows are known for their nosiness. The farmer’s trusty cattle dog had her back, though. @estherfarmboss #borderheelers #cattledog #scooby #cowstuff ♬ Hard Workin’ Man – Brooks & Dunn The farmer’s dog is a mix of Australian cattle dog and border collie. The Australian Cattle Dog is a working dog. People also refer to this breed as a blue heeler, which is what the farmer calls her. They enjoy herding animals and staying active. Border collies are another working dog. Like the heeler, herding is in their blood and is second nature to the breed. The combination of these two breeds may be the perfect herding dog. In this instance, the dog sensed that her owner needed space, so she kept the nosy cows at a safe distance while the farmer worked. For this job, the farmer was welding steel fencing. Her faithful dog was protecting the farmer from the cows. At the same time, the dog was protecting the cows from the sparks flying around the welding area. Image from TikTok. You may have noticed the use of female pronouns. Although the farmer is wearing protective clothing for this fence welding job, she does it all. She uses Esther Farm Boss on TikTok, is a Ranch Lady Boss, and a mom of teens. Running a farm of any size is not for the timid or weak. This lady rocks! Please share this impressive farmer and her dog. You can find the source of this story’s featured image here. The post Man’s Best Friend: Loyal Cattle Dog Has This Farmer’s Back… Literally! appeared first on InspireMore.

At 17, Jennifer opened a Bible and discovered the Savior she didn’t know she needed—changing her life forever.

'Rousing success'

The post Scented No More: Dr Elsey’s Cat Litter Makes a Sensible Switch by Dr. Karyn Kanowski BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Dr Elsey’s has been a household name in cat food and litter for decades, but just because they’ve been around for a long time doesn’t mean they’re old news. In a surprise decision, the company, led by Dr Bruce Elsey, has decided to stop production of their popular Ultra Scented Cat Litter. This is not due to a problem with the litter itself, but is a reflection of research that suggests that scented cat litter may have a negative impact on feline health. It’s not often that a sales-driven company prioritises the health and well-being of their customers (or in this case, customers’ pets) over profits, but this would appear to be exactly what Dr Elsey’s are doing. We answer to our values, not profit margins. Being independent allows us to act quickly and decisively when we discover better ways to protect and care for cats. Discontinuing scented litter is one of those steps.Dr. Bruce Elsey. The Problem With Scented Cat Litter Image Credit: galsand, Shutterstock The unpleasant odors that emanate from the litter box are the bane of many cat guardians, with scented cat litter providing a welcome olfactory improvement. Although the scented litter is a big winner with consumers, research has shown that it’s not necessarily in the best interests of the cats using it. With a sense of smell at least 14 times stronger than that of a human, cats rely on their nose to tell them information about the environment and those that share their space. The chemicals that improve the scent-appeal of cat litter for humans may mask important – albeit unpleasant – olfactory cues that are important to our feline companions. Cats rely on their sense of smell to navigate their world, and artificial fragrances can significantly disrupt their instincts, causing stress and discomfort. We’ve always been committed to doing what’s best for cats, and breakthrough scientific studies now show us that scented litters introduce unnecessary risks. We’re acting on that knowledge and making this important change, and we are hoping and advocating that other manufacturers do what is right and follow our example.Dr. Bruce Elsey. The Possible Risks of Scented Cat Litter Image Credit: Garnar, Shutterstock While there isn’t complete consensus on the subject, Dr Elsey’s has based their decision on a number of scientific studies that have indicated that scented litter may have a number of negative effects on cats, including: Disrupting Natural Instincts: Cats use scent to detect threats and communicate. Strong artificial fragrances can overwhelm their sensitive noses, leading to anxiety and stress. Triggering Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC): Studies show that environmental stressors, including overpowering scents, contribute to FIC, a painful urinary condition that affects many cats. House-Soiling and Shelter Surrenders: Stress from litter box aversion can cause cats to stop using their litter box, a leading cause of feline abandonment and surrender to shelters. By eliminating scents, Dr. Elsey’s aims to reduce this heartbreaking issue and keep cats in loving homes. While scented litter is a very popular option with cat owners, it is not the best for the cat and the household. The choice for us is simple, we will only produce products that help improve the lives of cats.Dr Bruce Elsey Reducing Odor Naturally Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Fans of scented cat litter may be wondering how they can reduce the unpleasant smells that go hand-in-hand with a litter box, whilst putting their cat’s health and wellbeing first. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to help keep your kitty’s litter from hurting your home’s olfactory profile. Regular scooping and cleaning: litter boxes should be scooped and topped up at least once daily, litter changed weekly, and boxes completely emptied and cleaned at least once a month. High absorption litter: the more urine is absorbed, the less smelly the litter will be. There are lots of different types of cat litter, with some being much better at odor control than others. Litter box location: the ideal location for a litter box is somewhere away from busy, high-traffic areas, in a well-ventilated space. Choosing spots that are further away from commonly used areas like the kitchen and living room will help, too. Litter box design: Closed-in litter boxes are popular for containing the smell, but we need to be mindful of how that affects our cats as well. If the litter box smell is overpowering when you lift the lid, imagine what it’s like for your cat. Litter boxes should have ventilation to help reduce the buildup of odors and allow them to evaporate. Improve air quality: High humidity and low air movement will keep odors lingering, so consider placing a dehumidifier or air purifier nearby. Check their diet: very pungent urine and extremely stinky poops can be an indicator of poor digestion, and a high quality, highly digestible diet can go a long way to improving the olfactory presence of your cat’s waste. Should I Stop Using Scented Cat Litter? Not necessarily. Although we can agree that scented cat litter has been designed with human needs in mind, it’s not necessarily a ‘bad’ or harmful product. As the old saying goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” and if your cat is using their scented cat litter with no signs of aversion or problems, there is no need to suddenly make a change. In fact, if they are accustomed to a certain product, a sudden change could also lead to problems. Given the choice, however, it certainly stands to reason that it is better to focus on litter box smells through management and hygiene than to artificially manipulate the scent of the litter. Do what’s best for the cat—not just the owner. That’s our commitment. We are dedicated to keeping cats happy, healthy, and in loving homes.Dr Bruce Elsey Wise words that apply to all aspects of pet care, not just litter management. The post Scented No More: Dr Elsey’s Cat Litter Makes a Sensible Switch by Dr. Karyn Kanowski BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post How Do You Keep a Cat From Getting Bored? 12 Vet-Approved Tips by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Cats are remarkable pets that make excellent companions for children and adults. They are playful, friendly, and fairly easy to maintain. They are also well-behaved for the most part, but if they get bored, they can get into mischief, like scratching the carpets and furniture or making noise when you are trying to sleep. If your cat has been causing trouble, keep reading while we list several things you can do to prevent them from getting bored. The 12 Tips for Keeping Your Cat From Getting Bored 1. Interactive Toys and Puzzles Image Credit: Agata Kowalczyk, Shutterstock Cats thrive on mental stimulation, and interactive toys, like puzzle feeders, can engage their natural hunting instincts. These toys require cats to manipulate them in specific ways to receive treats or food, keeping their minds sharp and occupied. 2. Cat Trees and Climbing Shelves Cats love to climb and observe their surroundings from a high vantage point. Cat trees, shelves, or even a simple arrangement of furniture can provide them with a playground to explore, helping them get exercise and use their instincts. Climbing, stretching, and scratching are all natural feline behaviors that your cat should be allowed to enjoy every day. Alternatively, if you want to surprise your cat with something cool, check out the Hepper Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher. It's not just a scratcher; it's a piece of modern furniture that your cat can play on. It's got a curvy design that's perfect for stretching and moving, and it's built tough with strong birch plywood and thick B-flute cardboard. You can adjust it to three different heights, which keeps cats entertained. Plus, it won't break the bank! Our cats love it, and we do too. Hepper Hi-Lo Cardboard Cat Scratcher with Real... Premium Materials - Hepper's cardboard scratcher is made with dense, B-flute cardboard, and a metal...High, Low and Lower - A single cat scratch pad won't keep your cat engaged. 3 unique positions keeps...Activates Muscles - The Hi Lo isn't just a cat nail file to stop the chief cat couch scratcher. The... Check Price on Amazon At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest, so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company! 3.  Window Perches Much like humans, many cats are fascinated by the outside world. A window perch provides them with a front-row seat to the outdoors, allowing them to watch birds, squirrels, and other movements in the neighborhood, which can be incredibly entertaining and mentally stimulating. 4. Regular Playtime Image Credit: Kutuzova_Svetlana, Shutterstock Consistent, interactive play sessions can significantly reduce boredom in cats. Using toys that mimic prey, like feather wands or laser pointers, you can trigger their hunting instincts and provide a great outlet for excess energy. Remember, it’s not just about physical activity but also about the mental stimulation of strengthening the bond between you. Our Favorite Cat Toys Right Now Here are a some of our favorite toys, each catering to a variety of senses and play preferences. Which one will your feline fancy?  Image Product Details Hepper Catnip Mice Toy Set Contains catnip Kitten safe Encourages self-play Check Price Hepper Furball Set Set Added bells Satisfies prey instinct Check Price At Catster, we've admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company! 5. New Environments and Exploration Sometimes, a change of scenery can be refreshing for your cat and help reduce stress. Allowing them to explore a new room or setting up a safe outdoor enclosure can offer them new sights, smells, and experiences, which might be enough to prevent boredom. Take the time to harness and leash train your cat so you can safely bring them outside for new adventures. 6. Companionship For some cats, having a companion can be a great way to alleviate boredom. Their companion could be another cat or even a cat-friendly dog. However, this isn’t a universal solution, as some cats prefer being the sole pet, and in that case, introducing a new pet can complicate matters. Therefore, it is important to consider your cat’s personality before bringing a new animal into the home. 7. Training and Tricks Image Credit: Svetlana Rey, Shutterstock Cats are intelligent, and you can train them to perform simple tricks or obey basic commands, which challenges them mentally and provides a unique way for you to interact with your pet. 8. Regularly Rotating Toys Like humans, cats can get bored with the same old toys. Rotating their toys every day keeps things fresh and exciting. It’s like reintroducing them to a brand-new plaything each time. 9. Cardboard Boxes Never underestimate the allure of a simple cardboard box. They provide an excellent opportunity for hiding, playing, and even scratching. Plus, they’re an economical way to keep your pet entertained, and there is almost always one available. 10. DIY Toys Image Credit: jessjeppe, Shutterstock Homemade toys can be just as thrilling as store-bought ones. Something as simple as a crumpled piece of paper or a perforated plastic bottle with treats can provide hours of fun and cost next to nothing. Remember to avoid anything that your cat might swallow by accident. 11. Outdoor Enclosures If it’s safe and feasible, outdoor cat enclosures or supervised time in a secure backyard can provide a new world of sensory experiences. There are several commercial enclosures available, and you can build one if you have the tools. Another option is to fence in your porch to prevent the cat from getting off. 12. Outdoor Elements Indoors Bringing some of the outdoors inside can be a real treat for indoor cats. Consider safe indoor plants that cats can sniff and nibble on, like cat grass or catnip. You can also open screened windows to allow fresh air and the sounds of nature to come in. Setting up a bird feeder near a window where your cat can watch birds and other wildlife can also be a great way to bring the outside in. Frequently Asked Questions How Can I Tell If My Cat Is Bored? Signs of boredom in cats include excessive sleeping, over-grooming, lack of appetite, or destructive behavior. If your usually playful cat becomes disinterested in toys or activities, it might be a sign of boredom. What Are the Best Toys to Keep My Cat Entertained? Variety is key. Choose a mix of interactive toys like laser pointers, puzzle toys, and classic favorites like feather wands. Remember, what excites one cat might not interest another, so it requires trial and error. How Often Should I Play With My Cat to Prevent Boredom? Aim for at least two 5–10-minute play sessions per day. Cats thrive on routine, so try to schedule playtime around the same time each day so they will be ready to go when you are. Is It Okay to Leave My Cat Alone All Day? While cats are more independent than some pets, they still need interaction and stimulation. If you’re away for long periods, consider leaving engaging toys, setting up a window perch, or even adopting a second cat for company. Summary As you can see, keeping your cat from being bored is not difficult. Introducing regular playtime sessions will provide mental and physical stimulation, which will keep them healthy and happy. If you need to leave, ensure there are plenty of things to keep your pet entertained, especially if you need to be gone for a while. Place plenty of cat trees, scratchers, and window perches around your home if possible, along with interactive toys and puzzles, like puzzle feeders and cardboard boxes, to ensure they have plenty to do while you are gone. See also: WaggleCam Pro Review: A Detailed Look Sources https://catbehaviorassociates.com/15-boredom-busting-tips-for-your-home-alone-cat/ https://bettervet.com/resources/pet-health-care/do-cats-get-bored https://www.petplace.com/article/cats/pet-care/is-your-indoor-cat-bored-12-ways-to-prevent-boredom https://www.preventivevet.com/cats/cat-enrichment-for-bored-cats   Featured Image Credit: Oksana Bystritskaya, Shutterstock The post How Do You Keep a Cat From Getting Bored? 12 Vet-Approved Tips by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.