Pet Blogger Challenge 2015

This is my first time participating in the Pet Bloggers Challenge, and I'm excited to share my experiences and read others' posts!

1. How long have you been blogging? And, for anyone stopping by for the first time, please give us a quick description of what your blog is about.

I've been blogging for eight years (since December 2006).  However, it's only been in the past few years that I began blogging regularly.  

My blog is all about cats.  I try to balance entertaining posts with informational ones.  I share stories and photos of my own cats as well as write about cat health, behavior, and news.  

2. Tell us one thing that you accomplished on your blog during 2014 that made you proud.

I've developed relationships with several pet companies.  I have enjoyed working with all of them immensely. 

3. What lessons have you learned this year – from other blogs, or through your own experience – that could help us all with our own blogs?

Ask for help when you need it.  Whether you're having a technology issue, don't know how to approach a delicate topic on your blog, or simply need advice regarding your own pet, ask for the help you need.  The cat community is incredibly kind, and I've found that so many of my colleagues are so willing to help.  

I also learned that it definitely pays off to go outside of your comfort zone and to try new things.  

4. What have you found to be the most successful way to bring traffic to your blog, other than by writing great content?

I've found that connecting with others is definitely the best way to bring visitors to my blog.  Reading and commenting on other blogs is a lot of fun, and you can learn a lot from reading others' blogs as well.  

One of the biggest referrers of traffic for me is the Cat Blogosphere.  Every time I write a post, I link it on the Cat Blogosphere.  It's a wonderful community, and I'd highly encourage anyone who write a cat blog to connect with all of the wonderful people there.  

5. What was your most popular blog post this year? Did it surprise you that it was your most popular?

I'm not quite sure how to figure this information out on Blogger, but it's something I'd love to learn. 

6. What was your favorite blog post to write this year?

I've loved writing so many of my posts this year.  I especially love my Jewel's Journey posts because they allow me to tell everyone about what a beautiful and awesome cat she was. 

7. Has your policy on product reviews and/or giveaways changed this year?

My policy on product reviews and giveaways hasn't changed this year.  

8. What’s your best piece of advice for other bloggers?

Getting traffic to your blog is important, BUT what I think really matters is connecting with your readers and friends.  I love it when my posts reach a lot of people, but I've always said that if my blog helps just one cat owner or just one adoptable cat find a home, all of the work I put into my blog will definitely have been worth it. 

9. What goals do you have for your blog in 2015?

I want to help adoptable kitties find forever homes.  I would love to connect with more pet companies and offer more product reviews and giveaway opportunities.  I strive to reach the hearts of cat owners with my stories and to help cat owners with my informational articles.  

I also want to try to balance my time better between this blog and another blog I write. 

10. If you could ask the pet blogging community for help with one challenge you’re having with your blog, what would it be?

I would love to know how to connect with more pet companies - other than by attending BlogPaws (because it isn't possible for me to attend at this point)?  

I am always open to questions or topics you would like to see covered on this blog as well.  I love hearing from my readers and friends!