Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: February 2, 2023 by Crystal Uys
Those of you who’ve known me for a while know that I really dislike the term “crazy cat lady.” I feel that it diminishes those of us who love cats for the unique and wonderful creatures that they are by assigning a label that has a negative connotation, even if it’s used with humorous self-deprecation. Mayim Bialik and PetSmart Charities agree with me that it’s time to bust the stereotype.
I’ve been a fan of the star of “The Big Bang Theory” since her “Blossom” days in the early 1990’s. Learning that Mayim is also a longtime cat lover who is passionate about adoption makes me love her even more. And the fact that she chose to team up with PetSmart Charities to dispel negative stereotypes about cats and the people who love them – Ms.Bialik, you’re my hero!
“Mayim embodies a new kind of cat person – one that is chic, smart and proud to share her love of cats,” said Julie White, senior director of programs, PetSmart Charities. “We’re thrilled to have Mayim spread her ‘cat pride’ and help encourage others to consider saving a life by adopting.”
“I think it’s important to realize that a lot of those stereotypes about what cats are like and what cat people are like are not legitimate,” Bialik told The Huffington Post. “It’s especially important, as a science-y person and a person who cares about the environment and the animals in it, to realize that cats are out there waiting to be adopted,” she added.
Mayim’s adopted cat Frances is a former feral cat. “Frances has taught me a lot about patience and love and has been an incredible addition to our family,” said Mayim. “Adopting not only saves the life of a deserving pet, but it changes the lives of those who choose to adopt, as well.” Mayim also shares her life with a Peterbald named Esau, whose photos frequently appear on her Instagram feed.
You can help Mayim Bialik spread the word about how there’s nothing crazy about loving cats.
#meowOUT Yourself and Declare Your Cat Pride!
Enter PetSmart Charities’ “#meowOUT Yourself Contest” and show them how you and your adopted cat break the stereotypes. Enter the contest by submitting a selfie of your adopted cat cat using the hashtag #meowOUT.
Mayim will choose five of her favorite selfies. The winners and their adopted cats will be featured in PetSmart Charities promotional materials.
There are three ways for you to submit your selfie
- Submit your photo and adoption story via the contest landing page, where you can also check out some of the other submissions
- Post your photo on your public Instagram account, using the hashtag #meowOUT
- Post your photo on your public Twitter account, using the hashtag #meowOUT
The contest runs through July 3, 2015. Winners will be announced August 3.
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.
