I too, always come to Pet Talk home page and hit View Today's Active Threads. It is a great feature and helps you "see" the whole range of topics.
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I too, always come to Pet Talk home page and hit View Today's Active Threads. It is a great feature and helps you "see" the whole range of topics.
Disney needs more coverage! LOL! :D I am just teasing really. I love seeing Disney in your signature and the pictures you have posted are precious! I am just sort of rattling your chain because I know that I post more about my dogs these days than my cats and some of the cat people have noted that too. It's not that I love Trevor and Andy any less but they are getting older and less active and don't really do too much that is newsworthy, but rather sleep a lot. :)Quote:
Originally posted by jazzcat
99% of my post are about my cats anyway.
That said, the times that I do post on the cat side, with pictures, etc. I feel very welcome there. I guess what I am trying to say is that if one makes an attempt to stay "in touch" with all of the boards you get a better feeling about everything. Unfortunately with time constraints and the increase in members it is not possible. I have probably blundered what I have been trying to say and maybe made no sense at all. :rolleyes: :p
That is what I do as well. I can only spend a very small portion of time on Pet Talk and can only read a few threads each visit. I enjoy the cat threads as much as the dog threads, even though I don't have a cat. I have posted on the cat threads and don't worry about whether that post is welcome or not. Whatever and wherever I post, it is posted with the best of intensions and I have to let it ride on that. Also whether or not someone replies is not an issue to me, because knowing my own time limitations, I realize that a person can enjoy the sharing aspect of another without necessarily responding. That said, it is absolutely wonderful to know that someone noted. agrees with you, or is prompted by something you have posted and I treasure each reference to something I have said.Quote:
Originally posted by Pam
Well when I come to Pet Talk I go to View Today's Active Threads. I very, very rarely go to a specific forum (maybe visit Dog Health or Cat Health if there is a sick little furry one ailing and I want to check on them) or if I start a thread I try to put it in the appropriate forum.
By only visiting View Today's Active Topics I get quite a mix to choose from as Dog, Cat and Pet are all there, just a bit jumbled together. :) I find it makes it easier for me and saves time to do it this way, however I know I miss some good threads probably because they get pushed down, but there are only 24 hrs. in the day anyway! :p
I do envy those who are able to get acquainted and really know who is who and so much about one another's lives. When Pet Talk started out, there were only a fraction of regulars here that there are now. I was able to be in the mix and keep up with everyone. Now I do feel like an outsider and that very few people know me. In keeping things on the Cat Side, maybe those individuals are in a way staying in their smaller community because the *big city* of Pet Talk as a whole is just more than they feel they can get a grasp of.
PCP, I think your feelings were well articulated and you definitely have made a good point, but unless someone comes out and states or implies that you aren't welcome on the Cat Side, I think you should just go over and participate at will.
I agree with this 100%!! Having been here since PT's inception I remember those days of fewer threads where one could keep up. Rachel, I think you have put my thoughts into words beautifully and you have done it without blabbering on and losing people in the process! :pQuote:
Originally posted by Rachel
In keeping things on the Cat Side, maybe those individuals are in a way staying in their smaller community because the *big city* of Pet Talk as a whole is just more than they feel they can get a grasp of.
This is a very interesting and good thread, PCB. I sometimes feel like you also.
I've read all the posts and everyone has some great points. I guess it all comes down to where you feel comfortable at. I do think it would be nice if we could all mingle a little bit more. I know that I usually stay in Dog General and and I like go to General to see what the rest of the forum is up too. I have been to Cat General and have even posted some pics of my mom's kitty and I have to admit that I felt a little uncomfortable there. I think that is just because I am basically a newbie at that side. I am aware that the more you post the more people get to know you and then the more they will respond to your posts. That part just takes time.
I have to say that I don't understand what Cataholic means by "clutter" and I wish people didn't feel like there are favorites being played in dog general. I have a feeling that most people try to post to as much as they can but just don't have enough time in the day. I also know that there have been friendships formed outside of pet talk and I think that is a wonderful thing
I have so many thoughts running through my head and I can't seem to type out what I really want to say. I'm not making much sense...lol.
All I know is I LOVE PET TALK!! And...wish that we could all be friends and share in each others joys and sorrows!
Robin :)
Quote:
Originally posted by Rachel
That is what I do as well. I can only spend a very small portion of time on Pet Talk and can only read a few threads each visit. I enjoy the cat threads as much as the dog threads, even though I don't have a cat. I have posted on the cat threads and don't worry about whether that post is welcome or not. Whatever and wherever I post, it is posted with the best of intensions and I have to let it ride on that. Also whether or not someone replies is not an issue to me, because knowing my own time limitations, I realize that a person can enjoy the sharing aspect of another without necessarily responding. That said, it is absolutely wonderful to know that someone noted. agrees with you, or is prompted by something you have posted and I treasure each reference to something I have said.
I do envy those who are able to get acquainted and really know who is who and so much about one another's lives. When Pet Talk started out, there were only a fraction of regulars here that there are now. I was able to be in the mix and keep up with everyone. Now I do feel like an outsider and that very few people know me. In keeping things on the Cat Side, maybe those individuals are in a way staying in their smaller community because the *big city* of Pet Talk as a whole is just more than they feel they can get a grasp of.
PCP, I think your feelings were well articulated and you definitely have made a good point, but unless someone comes out and states or implies that you aren't welcome on the Cat Side, I think you should just go over and participate at will.
Rachel...I really liked what you had to say. It made perfect sence to me. From now on I think I will be using the "veiw active threads" button. What a wonderful way to get in little of everything. Now, if I only had more time ;)
I'm so glad I made this thread, because after reading everyone's replies, I'm beginning to see the other side too. That made me feel much better about it. For those of you who said its ironic that the people who only visit the cat side won't see this thread, that is true, and I think I will go there and post a link so they can all get here. ;)
I do think some of you are missing my point. A lot of you started comparing the dog side to the cat side. I wasn't comparing the cat people to the dog people, nor was I comparing the cat people to anyone else. Let me explain what I mean in a more simple way.
I see Dog General, as a place to post dog related threads, Cat General as a place to post cat related threads, Pet General as a place to post bird, rabbit, rodent, reptile, monkey :p, whatever related threads. Its great that everyone seems to have established friendships on the side they visit most, which is probably because of what pets they have. That is all fine and well.
Now General is a place that I see to be the *hang out* of Pet Talk, where EVERYONE from the board gets together and talks about anything........topics that usually are not related to any type of animal. I love to come to General too. It always has interesting topics, and it helps in keeping you updated with whatever's going on. Its also a great place to make friends with everyone you may not see on certain other *sides*.
When general topics are posted in the cat side, it just makes me feel like those threads were created there just for the cat people, which makes me feel uncomfortable in replying. I'm sure that is not the reason people post things there, but that is how it makes me and many others who don't have cats feel. It seems this has been going on at the cat side 'a lot' lately, and General, sadly, has been quiet for months. I honestly think this is because a lot of the general topics end up on the cat side. The non-cat people tend to miss them because of their location, or tend to feel left out because of their location. When they're not cat related, I just feel they should be shared with all of us. That way, General could be the lively place it once used to be again. I would like to add that I feel perfectly fine going to Cat General and posting on the cat related threads.......especially when there are pictures. Its just when the topic is something else that I feel like I'm intruding, and not supposed to be there.
And BTW, I have several good friends here that have 'only' cats, and fewer friends that have 'only' dogs, so I think I too, can personally understand cat people more. Maybe its because I am much more into cats than dogs. I would love to have cats, but I can't see myself having any dogs. Most of my friends here have multiple pets though, so I guess I like to befriend people based on who they are........not based on what animals they have. Maybe that's why it was bothering me more. I see PT as a whole online community, and while we all have those that we are closer to, I feel we should all have something in common on the General side too, no matter what type of animals we have.
Lastly, I'm so glad to see this thread progressing in a civilized manner. I was worried about people fighting, but thankfully, that hasn't happened, and hopefully, it won't happen. :)
I don't visit the dog message boards or the pet general boards because I don't have dogs or other pets. It's as simple as that. I like dogs and I like "dog people" as well as bird lovers and reptile lovers. It's nothing personal. I have cats so I visit the cat boards. I like postings about the cat owner's lives. Their houses, their kids, their hobbies. These are not pointless threads to me.
The point is, everyone here loves animals. We're all free to visit or not visit the boards that interest us. I will continue to do so.
Pam - You and I are in the same boat because Disney is just like Trevor and Andy. Unless everyone wants to see pictures of her eating, sleeping or using the bathroom there isn't much to share, LOL!! I do want to thank you for requesting Disney pictures. That made my day - you can ask my hubby - and I got a really good response on Dog General and have been visiting and replying more ever since.:DQuote:
Originally posted by Pam
Disney needs more coverage! LOL! :D I am just teasing really. I love seeing Disney in your signature and the pictures you have posted are precious! I am just sort of rattling your chain because I know that I post more about my dogs these days than my cats and some of the cat people have noted that too. It's not that I love Trevor and Andy any less but they are getting older and less active and don't really do too much that is newsworthy, but rather sleep a lot. :)
PCB- I understand the point of you post and I wasn't trying to compare dog side to cat side. It's just I think that many of us started off on one side and got comfortable and then when we do venture onto the other we feel a little out of place or left out because we don't know all the stories and jokes as well or we feel like a newbie again. It happens even on general because a lot of my posts were not replied to or even hardly read when I first started visiting here.
I totally agree that several of the posts in Cat General belong in General but like it was said before, many people there never visit General and never hear the news. I think Kimlovescats and Sirrahbed have a great idea because they will cross post between General and Cat General so everyone will see like with grandbaby news, baby shower gifts and gift swap pictures. I think that is a great idea to make sure everyone gets the news.
As PCB is saying though, the things non-related to their animals...
Birthdays, Pregnancies, Houses, Gift Swap.. Everyday stories, unrelated to their animals, belong in GENERAL where we all can visit and feel as if though we're not trespassing.
Stuff like that being posted in Cat General makes it feel as if it weren't intending for people other than "Cat People"
Going into Cat General and seeing a post about surgeries, pregnancies, needing prayers and thoughts about so-and-so's father, etc makes me say "Huh, how come that wasn't posted in General?" and as if my congrats, thoughts, and condolences aren't wanted or needed... and as it seems, I'm not the only one feeling this.
As it says in the forum description, Cat Genereal (and all of the other pet-specific generals) were intended for stuff about *PETS* ... General is for the more personal, non-pet-related stories. :)
Personally, I'd much rather everything non-pet related posted in General Soley.. then if someone wants their specific friends to read it, they can send them the link to it and so on.
Even if a mention of it is posted in General, it still makes me think as to why it wasn't posted in general in the first place. :confused:
That's exactly how I feel, Kuhio. If it's a big problem, maybe someone will have to start moving threads around or something. I'm not trying to be rude to anyone here by saying this, but I guess I just don't really notice a problem as much as you all do. Maybe I am just naive? I post in General a lot, though, and I try to post in all the boards as much as I can (even if I don't know much about the Dog side ;) )so maybe that has something to do with it.Quote:
Originally posted by kuhio98
I don't visit the dog message boards or the pet general boards because I don't have dogs or other pets. It's as simple as that. I like dogs and I like "dog people" as well as bird lovers and reptile lovers. It's nothing personal. I have cats so I visit the cat boards. I like postings about the cat owner's lives. Their houses, their kids, their hobbies.
Kay, I am sorry some people made rude comments to you about getting a kitty :( Ignore mean people! :) I think somehow I missed that whole thread when it happened. You are a responsible pet lover and I know you know what's best for yourself. :)
I think it has a lot to do with age. Here comes the inflammatory remarks to me (ducks and covers).
But it seems a handful of the posts in General and Dog general are by the younger generation - 14-18, which is not a bad thing. But when I look at General, I see a lot of threads I do not participate in cause I cannot relate. I've also noticed in Dog General there seem to be a lot more arguments. And I enjoy dogs, so I always look at the pictures and posts, but I just do not always respond.
And also when you see several threads about how the "cat" people are exclusive, it kinda makes you feel excluded as cat person instead. I've seen the issue raised several times and to me it's kinda silly. If you want to post, post. If you don't, don't.
The cat side is usually a very loving environment. And the cat people tend to be a little older (not all), and therefore to me more relatable.
With my mind spoken, please know I know teenagers etc. can be just as mature, responsible and kind if not more so than adults. That's not what I'm saying. I just think it's a matter of being able to relate with some people more than others that creates what seems like a division.
Sorry if I offended, but just wanted to speak my mind since everyone else is.
I do understand both sides of the situation. It took the longest time for me to get the guts to post on the cat side. I lurked there a lot, but my posts I did make were mostly ignored. Things became easier when I opened up more and posted more pics of my fosters, etc. I still feel like there are a few people who would rather me not be posting there, but they are just a few out of the many, many members here. I still don't feel comfortable replying to the "general" type threads that are posted in Cat General. When people start out the post saying all of their friends are there, I feel weird replying if I don't know the person too well.
I think there are cliques no matter where you go though. It used to make me feel a little like an outsider but I stopped letting it bother me. I am happy that so many people are close friends and I know that nobody here would ever intentionally try to make the rest of us feel left out.
I hope a lot of the people who post only on the cat side will venture out and get to know everyone in General too. I know there is only so much time in a day though!
I, too, remember back when the community was much smaller and we were able to keep up better. As there's been a massive increase in members, I am never able to reply to all the posts that I want to :( BUT I am so glad all the new members are here. Its been wonderful getting to know so many people.
(edit: I don't know why people think there are so many arguments in Dog General, as I see a lot more controversy in Cat General. I'm not trying to be mean, but thats just what I've noticed. I think its due to the fact that there are a lot more controversial topics pertaining to cats than dogs - declawing, indoor/outdoor, etc).
(edit #2: I have noticed the age difference among the boards too and think that has a lot to do with it. Most of the dog people are younger and most of the cat people are older (than the dog people, but not old old :) ) )
Quote:
Originally posted by aly
(edit: I don't know why people think there are so many arguments in Dog General, as I see a lot more controversy in Cat General. I'm not trying to be mean, but thats just what I've noticed. I think its due to the fact that there are a lot more controversial topics pertaining to cats than dogs - declawing, indoor/outdoor, etc).
Ditto!
I didn't understand that either. Just about everytime I've visited Cat General I saw a 4++ page thread with an argument. I guess that's another reason i've stayed away recently.
I'm not sure age has anything to do with it... but maybe it does for others. Most of my friends on here are much older than me. :p
Age has nothing to do with it for me either. But I think it may for some people. Thats the only thing I can think of anyway!
Wow! I was a little surprised by this thread. I had no idea that anyone would be upset about "Cat People". I can only speak for myself and I'm sure I'm partially to blame for this thread coming about. Yes, I recently became a grandma and only posted in CG. Why, I know all the people there. I guess I should cross post but I didn't and for that I apologize.
The reason I don't venture into General is not because I'm snooty and only like cat people. I like ALL ANIMAL LOVING PEOPLE! I think they are the greatest!!http://petoftheday.com/talk/images/o...es/biggrin.gif I have had many dogs as well as cats in my life. If it has fur I love it!http://petoftheday.com/talk/images/our_smilies/wink.gif Right now I have only cats (ten to be exact) and I am in CG all the time because of that. I have made many many dear friends there because we all share the same experiences. I can relate to almost every thread that comes about. I want to share my life with those people. It doesn't mean that I'm trying to exclude anyone it's just that I know them.
I do come to General and check things out as often as I can but I'm very limited on time. I can barely keep up with CG these days. I know this is going to make someone mad and I certainly am not trying to do that as this is just my opinion but I think there are a lot of pointless threads in General that I just don't have time for. I agree that this is what General is for so that is fine but I don't have time for it. Does that make sense? I'm not trying to be offensive so please don't take it that way.
There are great people on PT but I have enough trouble keeping up with me let alone every board so I tend to stick with what I know best and that happens to be the kitties.http://petoftheday.com/talk/images/o...es/biggrin.gif
This is how I feel and I truly hope I haven't offended anyone because I do think you ALL are good people.
I agree with Catmama, it does seem as if General has become the "teen hangout of PT" not that there is anything wrong with that! Please, I'm not trying to offend or insult the younger folk here. I love all of our younger PTers and have on more than one occasion reminded them to be careful about how much personal information they post - if I didn't care I wouldn't have posted anything about too much personal information getting out.
Anyway, I can see how people want a place that is a big general hangout of PT. Thats great in theory, but like in life, teens and older adults don't always hang out in the same places. My kids hang out in the local diner or swimming pool and my husband and I hang out at a different set of places. Its just whats going to happen when people with different experiences gather. Yes, our pets are our common bond, and in life we gather together under common bonds too, but its different.
I think that a lot of things in Cat General are placed there instead of General because a lot of the people might not want to intrude into the "vibe" the younger folk create in General. Yes, I am well aware that older people post many threads in general too, but it seems as if the ratio of younger PTers to older is different.
Perhaps we could have two generals - one for the teens to hang out in and another for their "parents" ? Seriously! If its in general, there's nothing to keep a teen from going into the adult general, or adults into teen general. Many of us "parents" have enough teen related issues of our own at home with our own kids, we don't want to listen to the teens bickering here, or whining there about the same things our own kids are whining about. If I wanted to hear whining about a nasty teacher, a bratty brother, or a grumpy mother, or so-and-so not getting along with so-and-so, I would have stayed offline and listened to my own kids. :p :D
Seriously, how often have I wanted to post about something big in my life, but didn't because I felt it was too much for the younger ones to relate to or sympathsize? OFTEN. I'm sure that many others have felt the same way... "should I or shouldn't I make this post?" Let me tell you, I have soooo wanted many times to scream in anguish over the antics of my own kids. But I don't because I am not comfortable exposing my parental angst to the younger PTers. Though they seem to have no problem complaining in reverse. (sorry guys, its true.) :D ;)
Ahhh, that feels better.
Why don't we just start posting things in the right sections for everyone? It would help make more friends with dog and cat people. It's really not that hard to do it.
He he. I have to agree with you all in that Cat General probably has a more loving/caring atmosphere because most of the people there are older than the rest of us.
As to older people and younger people having seperate hangouts, that seems a bit odd to me. I *love* having older friends. Most of my closest friends on PT are in their late 30's - 40's. If we had a seperate General for the older people, and a seperate one for the younger ones, I would probably spend more time with the older folks. I just tend to get along with them better. While I have younger friends too, I seem to enjoy the company of older people more. They tend to be more compassionate, loving, caring, comforting, understanding, etc. I would hate to be seperated from the older folks on PT. I think hanging out with them helps the younger ones mature faster. ;)
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, everyone! I still can't understand why General topics have to be in Cat General, but whatever. :p
Catnapper, that just kind of made me feel bad. :( I guess I won't post about things going on in my life anymore.... I never saw any problems with you doing such. :(
I don't seee why there's such a need to be seperated by ages. We are all human... age is just a number we carry.
PCB.. please stop taking my thoughts.. it is scaring me. :p
PCB, I was just like you when I was younger, I had many many more friends many years older than me. My best friend was 60, and I was 19. I love her to pieces and she is still one of my closest friends today. I married a man 9 years older than me. I have always gotten along with older peole than those my age. So I understand how you want to hang out with us more, and we welcome everyone. Thats what I love most about PT.
I am often amazed at the maturity level of many of our younger posters. Sometimes you have feeling way beyond your years. Though there are a few though that have a serious amount of maturing to do. I htink that its sometimes overwhelming for the older PTers to relate to some of the younger ones posts.
Kay, you are not one of the ones I was referring to! I feel that you are eloquent and bright. I have never had any issues with any of your posts. the few that you have posted about school made sense - like your one friend with the eyeliner. That made me think. Those are not the posts I'm refering to! I'm refering to the pointless ones where someone says "wah, my mom is so mean because she won't let me go to xyz on friday." or "my nosey little brother peeked in my diary again" Not yours, ok? I never would insult you {{{hugs}}}
Thank you for mentioning this, Lori. I know we really DO try to include everyone! ;)Quote:
Originally posted by jazzcat
I think Kimlovescats and Sirrahbed have a great idea because they will cross post between General and Cat General so everyone will see like with grandbaby news, baby shower gifts and gift swap pictures. I think that is a great idea to make sure everyone gets the news.
I have two doggies myself, but am consumed with my 18 cats so much, that I tend to only chat about them! :rolleyes: It certainly is not an intentional thing.
I would just like to say that Pet Talk is so large, that it would be very difficult for everyone to really feel close to everyone else. I don't think that having a few PTers that you feel a bit closer to is a bad thing .... as long as you do still try to involve yourself in other posts as well. But none of us has the time (I would say) to visit all the boards and post to all the threads. That is why there are separate boards in the first place .... right? :eek: ;)
Kim
Ok, on the flip side of things...
Lately there have been NUMEROUS animal related posts on the General board. Why don't those people post where they are suppose to? Why not address this issue with them, too? Why focus directly on the cat people? (Those are completely rhetorical questions - it honestly doesn't bother me a bit.)
I will, however, mention that the "Pet" side of things is GREATLY ignored and that's a possible explanation of why rat/bunny/horse/etc owners post topics on the general board. Not to sound whiney, but because of the fact that no one reads the Pet sections (esp. health), I haven't posted about Piper's (possible) upcoming surgery - just mentioned it to the friends who PM, email, or chat with me on AIM. That's beside the point...
Bottom line is, I mostly post where I feel at home which is the cat, pet, and general sections of the board.
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Originally posted by DogLover9501*SOMETIMES* To me it seems like the cat-side is a bit more friendly, because sometimes it seems on the dog-side that SOME people play favorites, and reply to 'friends' threads or 'favored' dogs and not others,
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I agree!!
Just the other day was the first time I posted in CG, (pix of my parents new kitten)
At the same time I posted pix of my pups on the dog side.
I checked back on both threads in a few hours, and twice the number of people had replied to my post in CG then in DG.
And that was my FIRST time ever posting in CG!!!
I feel like I am not in a "click" and most of my threads so unnoticed. Even if people say "You should post more pix"
I do.. then only 3 or 4 people reply and they are always the same people (thank you!!!:D)
We all have to admit, that their ARE clicks.
I agree about age between the cat and dog side being the difference in just about everything!! Younger people tend to form "clicks" more. And here I am.. 28... and feeling like I'm back in high school trying to make friends with the "cool" people on the dog side and just waiting to see who replies to my newest thread. And I know if one of the other members in the click posts at the same time... mine will never be read.
Oh well.. I'm done
One more comment from me and I'll hush. If you will look on Cat General you will notice that a lot of us tend to lump all cat related things on that board such as rescue, health and behavior because we know that a large number of members never read anything but CG. In the past I've posted health questions in Cat Health and got one or two responses but then posted it in general and got lots of replies. I think Cat General is just the main and only "catch all" board for many members. I don't think it's a "I don't like anyone but cat people" kind of issue.
Just another of my two cents.
Quote:
Originally posted by pitc9
I feel like I am not in a "click" and most of my threads so unnoticed. Even if people say "You should post more pix"
I do.. then only 3 or 4 people reply and they are always the same people (thank you!!!:D)
We all have to admit, that their ARE clicks.
I agree about age between the cat and dog side being the difference in just about everything!! Younger people tend to form "clicks" more. And here I am.. 28... and feeling like I'm back in high school trying to make friends with the "cool" people on the dog side and just waiting to see who replies to my newest thread. And I know if one of the other members in the click posts at the same time... mine will never be read.
Oh well.. I'm done
I agree...I'm 27 and I feel like the 'outsider'. While I feel more comfortable on the cat side as opposed to general, I still have no good friends, no one to PM, no one to chat with on aim, no one to meet with..etc. Guess that's why I pretty much gave up on posting a lot anymore..just basically a lurker now.... Although when I do post something, I seem to get more of a response in Cat General.
Sorry for the depressed loser rant...bad habit of mine:o
I kinda wanted to make this point too. It may not be "proper" but if we want to get replies from the people we know the best, we sometimes have to post it in a place that we KNOW it will get seen.Quote:
If you will look on Cat General you will notice that a lot of us tend to lump all cat related things on that board such as rescue, health and behavior because we know that a large number of members never read anything but CG. In the past I've posted health questions in Cat Health and got one or two responses but then posted it in general and got lots of replies. I think Cat General is just the main and only "catch all" board for many members
I try very hard to put health in health and rescue in rescue, but so many people miss them (time restrictions again) that I tend to bend the rules so I can reach the CG lurkers.
Think of it this way: If any threads were meant to exclude certain members then they probably wouldn't have been posted at all, they'd have been PM'd.
That is why we haven't seen you around much? I feel sad about that. You've been here longer than me and I've always looked to you as one of the 'elder and wiser' ones because age doesn't always distinguish that. I'm 36 and don't think there are a lot my age here either but I enjoy members of all ages. In fact, I don't know the age of most people here only sometimes is it even obvious.Quote:
Originally posted by neko1
I agree...I'm 27 and I feel like the 'outsider'. While I feel more comfortable on the cat side as opposed to general, I still have no good friends, no one to PM, no one to chat with on aim, no one to meet with..etc. Guess that's why I pretty much gave up on posting a lot anymore..just basically a lurker now.... Although when I do post something, I seem to get more of a response in Cat General.
Sorry for the depressed loser rant...bad habit of mine:o
Neko1 - please start posting again. I miss seeing and hearing about your beautiful furbabies!
PCB, I agree that subjects not about animals should be put in General. I really don't think it's neccesary to post the same thread in 3 different Forums! I believe, if people are interested in cats, they'll look in the Cat forums.
I usually log on to "Todays active threads" and don't always notice which Forum a thread is in. I look at the titles, and if I think it's something interesting for me, I'll open it. If I post a thread, I try to put it in the appropiate forum. :)
I don’t always have time to look at all the threads, so I try to reply to posts interesting for ME, whether it's a newcomer or an "oldie". But I admit, I tend to reply more to the posts from the members I know, and that’s because it’s easier – I know more of the background already. Sometimes I don’t have time to look through them all, so it can be a bit random which I reply to – but usually the ones on the first few pages. Then later, I try to catch the ones I missed. BUT, there are certain posters I’ll always look for. :D
As most of you know, I’m a catperson, but I HAVE posted in the Dogforum too. ;)
There are certain threads I don’t bother to open, these are “I’m bored” and titles which don’t really say what it’s about.
Even though I don’t post as much as I used to (limited time :rolleyes: ) I don’t feel left out. :) I’m aware that cliques? have been formed over the years, but I don’t have a problem with that. I think it’s nice that some members“click” and get to know each other better – I have got some very good friends here, and have met some of them too. :D When I joined, there were probably only half the members and it was easier to keep up and get to know everybody. There are still some I’d like to know better, but to do that, you have to invest the time.
That’s it for now!
PCB and others who agree with her, I know what you mean by feeling excluded from the cat people. But I'm not saying that its completely wrong for some general related threads to be in Cat General only. I know some people only post in the cat side, and I see nothing wrong with that. If I only posted on the cat side, I would probably post threads that belong in general in cat general too. Because if you only post on the cat side, then you wouldn't feel as comfortable with the rest of PT that don't post there. And those people might not want to come over to general also, if they're only here because they love cats and only want a cat-related forum.
For those of you who have cats and don't feel welcome on the cat side, then maybe its simply because you don't post about them as often as you should! Because when people post pictures of their cats, I mostly reply to those that I like the most first, which are usually the ones I see the most of. I don't really have that much time to look at every single thread there, so I go to my favorites first.
And I do go over to Dog General everyday. I don't know if I'm "welcomed" there or not, but I don't really think about it that much. I just go to look at the pictures and reply because I love dogs.
I don't really understand how you can feel unwelcomed on the cat side or anything. You just have to come over more and get to know us better I guess...
When I first started going over to the dog side, I felt kind of uncomfortable. But then soon I was fine and I loved going there.
But I do have to agree that the cat side seems more friendly and close...I have never seen a thread there where people were fighting but I have seen a couple in the dog side.
That is so true. The Pet side DOES seem to be ignored a lot, which is sad, because we all value our birdies, bunnies, guinea pigs, rodents, reptiles, whatever, as much as everyone else values their dogs and cats.Quote:
Originally posted by zippy-kat
I will, however, mention that the "Pet" side of things is GREATLY ignored and that's a possible explanation of why rat/bunny/horse/etc owners post topics on the general board. Not to sound whiney, but because of the fact that no one reads the Pet sections (esp. health), I haven't posted about Piper's (possible) upcoming surgery - just mentioned it to the friends who PM, email, or chat with me on AIM. That's beside the point...
Catnapper, I have always been like that...ever since I was a child. I have always liked hanging out with older people. I feel I can talk to them about things without getting a biased response. Older people usually respond with experience, and they give great advice, something you can't exactly get from younger people...just because they haven't lived enough to have that experience in life. I remember having a very good friend who was 20 years old, when I was just 7 or 8. She was the daughter of one of my mom's friends, and whenever my mom would go to visit her mom, she would take me along. She had younger brothers, and she was the only girl, so I ended up becoming her friend. We were very close. She used to play with me, show me things in the yard, take me for a walk, etc. I enjoyed spending time with her, and preferred her friendship to the friendship of kids my own age. I cried when she got married and moved to Chicago. :p
In general, I do have friends who are my age, or close to my age, and I do enjoy them too, but there is something about people older than me that I love. I think its because the friendship that forms with someone older than you is usually based on respect and understanding, while it is different with those the same age as you.
Kay...I'm not taking your thoughts. You're taking mine. :p:eek::p Is the world coming to an end? He he he!!! Just kidding!
[QUOTE]Originally posted by micki76
[B]I've noticed that too. I've posted a few times in Cat General, but I usually don't really feel comfortable there. Kinda like I'm intruding in their world.
Likewise. I don't go to the dog side because, I don't have a dog, and I really am a cat person. I can relate, and I'm sure that you dog/pet people love yours as much as I love mine, but I don't have really anything to say. I have no knowledge of dogs.
As for the other forums, if the day were 36 hours long, I'd spend some time there too.
I agree that off topic posts should go to General. (I just skip over them)
PCB-
You got me over here, and enlightened me to more of the whole PT experience, but I can't say I'll venture off the Cat General, Cat Rescue.
I'm sure there are a lot of nice people, all around. I would welcome anybody to the cat side, if they are interested.
Rosethecopycat
I couldn't have said what I was thinking any better than this. :)Quote:
Originally posted by jenluckenbach
I kinda wanted to make this point too. It may not be "proper" but if we want to get replies from the people we know the best, we sometimes have to post it in a place that we KNOW it will get seen.
I try very hard to put health in health and rescue in rescue, but so many people miss them (time restrictions again) that I tend to bend the rules so I can reach the CG lurkers.
Think of it this way: If any threads were meant to exclude certain members then they probably wouldn't have been posted at all, they'd have been PM'd.
Pet Talk is not just a fun, social community. Its a resource for people that have animals. If I have 8 cats, its obvious where I'd spend the majority of my time and that most of my PT friends would be cat people, right? Its not about exclusion at all, just about logistics.
I would expect the same with someone with 2 dogs...or 2 birds or 10 hamsters. ;)
Nobody put up borders to these places so everyone should just be able to post wherever they wish. I don't see the reason why we need to feel intimidated by any forum and yet I do feel intimidated as well. It's pretty foolish of us, if you think about it. Nobody made a rule about 'only dog people can post in dog general' 'only cat people can post in cat general'..
I remember I posted a thread in Cat General once asking for information and prayers for a friends' cat. I got as much support and advice as I needed and that really helped. We are all ONE forum and so we should all be there for eachother when needed, no matter what pet we own or even if we own a pet at all.
I'm sorry if I sound preachy but I am sort of trying to motivate myself into posting around more often. :p Although I am quite busy now with registration for college, I do try and reply to as many threads as I can and I do plan on participating in other forums. I know that I sometimes contemplate whether to share pictures of stories because I feel they will either be ignored or will just get pushed down to the bottom of the page.
And I need to say that I do appreciate everyone on this forum, even if I feel like I am usually rejected, I do enjoy Pet Talk for everything it is. :) (I just need to quit feeling too intimidated to talk in the other forums. :o)
I have never been to Cat Talk... dont know why... I guess Ive just never gotten around to it because I am always on dog general, or pet general, or just general. But in Dog General.... I do feel that there are certain cliques(sp?) Some dogs/members get 20 or more posts... because they are favored or there dogs are favored... as a lot of people posted before. When I make boards about Meeka... I get about 4 replies... occasionaly 7. I think its kinda unfair to the people like me... whos pups only get about 4 replies. It kinda hurts my feelings to see that some people get a TON of replies about there dogs... and my Meeka gets very little.:( I have never been to Cat General... but as many are explaining it.. it seems less.. "cliquish"? (sp?)
Carly
Yes, I know what you mean. I rarely post about my dogs anymore for this reason. :( Now I just occasionally reply to other people's threads.Quote:
Originally posted by pitc9
Even if people say "You should post more pix"
I do.. then only 3 or 4 people reply and they are always the same people (thank you!!!:D)
And I know if one of the other members in the click posts at the same time... mine will never be read.
OH NO!!!! Please don't feel this way ... I just assumed you had a busy life lately! I for one love you and your babies, and want to see and hear much more about them!!!! Please come back and realize you are loved and missed here!!!!;)Quote:
Originally posted by neko1
I agree...I'm 27 and I feel like the 'outsider'. While I feel more comfortable on the cat side as opposed to general, I still have no good friends, no one to PM, no one to chat with on aim, no one to meet with..etc. Guess that's why I pretty much gave up on posting a lot anymore..just basically a lurker now.... Although when I do post something, I seem to get more of a response in Cat General.
Sorry for the depressed loser rant...bad habit of mine:o
(((HUGS)))
Kim:)
Dearie me - to all those who are hurt because their posts don't get a lot of reples, remeber please to look at the number of VIEWS! That's more important! Often people cannot think of anything unique to say, or do not have enough time to properly frame and type out a response, but enjoy reading and seeing the pictures in posts!
Guess what? I don't even have AIM, but still count you all as friends regardless! Grandma always told me the only way to have a friend is to be a friend. Feel free to post in any forum at any time. I do not "stick to" any particular forum, but start each session on Pet Talk by viewing "Today's Active Topics" which doesn't discriminate by forum!
Neko, we miss you when you're not posting! You're not an "outsider," some people just talk more than others in ANY setting!
Neko, you are one of the purrsons who joined at about the same time I did and I always considered you as a good friend:)Quote:
Originally posted by neko1
I agree...I'm 27 and I feel like the 'outsider'. While I feel more comfortable on the cat side as opposed to general, I still have no good friends, no one to PM, no one to chat with on aim, no one to meet with..etc. Guess that's why I pretty much gave up on posting a lot anymore..just basically a lurker now.... Although when I do post something, I seem to get more of a response in Cat General.
Sorry for the depressed loser rant...bad habit of mine:o
I miss your furkids and I think many people do so (of course I miss Tama especially but all the others as well:) )
Just come more often and talk and laugh- I don't think you are a loser and I am sure there are many others who don't:)
Thank you Karen. For me it's just a matter of a lack of time. I don't have time to check each and every forum on PT as I have a life offline. I'm sorry those of you who feel resenful that your posts don't get more responses. It's not personal and please don't take it as such! As Karen pointed out, the posts DO get looked at. After going through breast cancer a number of years ago I realized that life is way too short to worry about things like this.Quote:
Originally posted by Karen
Dearie me - to all those who are hurt because their posts don't get a lot of reples, remeber please to look at the number of VIEWS! That's more important! Often people cannot think of anything unique to say, or do not have enough time to properly frame and type out a response, but enjoy reading and seeing the pictures in posts!
Now I'm going to go work out and get on with this beautiful sunny day.