"Good morning, students. Welcome to Philosophy 101. We will be discussing the greatest feline thinkers of all history in this course." Just take one look at Zieben's face, and you will have no doubt - he is the Chair of the Department of Philosophy - and he is here to teach - quietly, carefully, and thoroughly. He has studied for several years, and he has explored that which needs to be explored. He knows what matters - and what does not. He is wise, as wise as the lion who leads his pride through treacherous savannahs to safety.

"I am looking for my home, a new teaching position, if you will. We can discuss Aristotle or Plato or Lao-Tse or - of course - Heidegger, Goethe, or even Nietzsche. You did notice my quasi-German name, right?" Zieben wishes for a chair - or a sofa - or a sunny window shelf - from which to lead seminars and take naps.

What does Zieben bring to his new students? A few extra toes - one cannot teach very well with less than seven (sieben, siete) toes. Zieben has them. He is polydactyl! He is pleased to be polydactyl. He is also pleased to offer very soft fur, the face of royalty, and a stunning crop circle design in his almost - but not quite - tabby cloak. He is patient and kind. He will allow wild young girl cats to sniff at him. He sighs and lets the sillies learn what they must. Zieben loves his students. His humans may carry him to high windows and show him the world.

"I am fond of music. A little Beethoven, a little Bach, perhaps some Mendelssohn in the afternoon. I even like singing humans. Sing for me? Uh, oh....Pavarotti, you're not...." Zieben needs a home. Zieben wants a home. He wants people. He wants you. He has handed me a note that says, "Please tell them to visit me and count my toes." So I tell you, please visit Zieben and count his toes. You may as well bring $100 with you when you do - because he will charm you into taking him home. It's what Zieben does.

PS: I currently reside at THE SHELTER (not in foster care). If you can't stop in but would like to know more about me, please call 651-642-5900, ext.3. Thanks!

For more information about Feline Rescue, Inc. and a complete listing of our available cats, go to the Feline Rescue website. If you'd like to hear more Feline Rescue stories and see more pictures of our cats, check out the Feline Rescue Blog!