The trend in extravagant, truly silly purchases—coupled with our already established pet obsession—continues this week, as I make myself at home in my new apartment. My first big buy—not a flat screen TV, or a Wii, or even a pimped out coffeemaker—was a super deluxe, $200 self-cleaning litter box system, which I brought home from PetSmart before the first box was even unpacked.

This is not the first time I’ve fallen for a stupid pet accessory. Some work (Joanie really does hydrate more out of the bubbling fountain); others don’t (Panic Mouse). And while I don’t necessarily mind litter box maintenance —actually seeing the fruits of the cat’s gastrointestinal labor satisfies something very Italian in me—I reasoned that since my bathroom got an upgrade, Joanie’s should, too. (more…)

You love Joanie. You got to know Tyra. Now, it’s time you meet the newest member of Bostonista’s feline family, Margie.

We first fell in love with the 8-month-old tabby (with orange highlights) on a Saturday afternoon visit to the Animal Rescue League’s South End shelter. Though all of the cats were cute, when the Chelsea stray reached her paw through the metal cage and picked us out, it was love at first sight. She was the one.

Margie’s been home with us for a week now. And though we suspected it since the moment we laid eyes on her sassy short-haired coat, Margie is proving to have terrific taste.

A few of her favorite things: (more…)