Some cats! Because I post so many dog pictures.

One of the most adorable pictures ever
Unknown via Sho & Tell

As requested, We're gonna change it up a bit and add a few cats to the mix.  I've been convinced: there are some good felines in the world.  I used to have one, actually.  Annie was perfect.  Mom says Annie acted like a dog, and I think this might be why she was so wonderful, but I'm sure her feline characteristics showed through, too.
If you'd like to see some the domesticated variety, please go to this post at World Walk About.  They visited the same cat cafe I did in Seoul, but they took much better pictures with a camera while I only had my iPod with me for my visit.

Okay, okay, here's one from their blog.

And that's all I'm posting, even though I wish I could slap their pictures all over.  Seriously, go check them out!

Now for the rest of this cat themed post.

In my Science 3 class, I have the habit of drawing patterns on the roll sheet while the students do work.  On Tuesday, I wanted to do cheetah spots.  The kids argued with me that, no, those were not cheetah spots I was drawing, so being the mature one of the group I decided to go online and prove them wrong.  Actually, they were right, and it turned out I was drawing some fantasized version of leopard spots.

Now maybe you just thought of the same question I thought of.  What are the differences between these spots?  And what about jaguars?  Well, I know the difference now, and now you will know, too!

Just so happens, ISpyAnimals.com has these handy dandy cheat sheets!

And if you and I are still tracking on the thought train together, I know you're wondering about all the other big cats, too!

(Here's ISpyAnimals' "Big Cat Test.")

And now we're thinking, "Woah.  What is that in the top right corner?"

Clouded Leopard, my friend.  Doesn't that pattern look amazing?

Like all big cats, they're adorable when small and regal when adult.

Look at the baby clouded leopard!  It's So Cute!
via Pictures of Cats via the Smithsonian National Zoo

Don't.  Mess.
via National Geographic

Even with all my ninja skills, I would not want to be alone with this creature.
via Carnivoria forum

The cheetah used to be my favorite animal when I was growing up.  Now it's the manta ray, closely followed by the hammerhead shark.  That's what I say, at least.  In reality, big cats are probably the most awe inspiring animals I know of.  I adore and respect them so much.  The sleek and lean ones are just gorgeous to me.

Still with me?  Want more?

Lions have different colorations!

Tigers do too, obviously, but there's a rare golden tabby tiger that is absolutely beautiful.

If you think these special animals are far too removed from those of you in America, think again.

And, to get to know all the big cats, check out this page on BigCats.com.

Lastly, through the ISpyAnimals site, I learned of Shambala Preserve near LA, California.  They have 47 big cats there, and you can spend $50 for a safari to check them out!  I really want to visit!

Phew!  Big Cat Geek-Out over.
For now.