"Cats make great companions for children, teaching them responsibility and the unconditional love an animal can provide," according to Rose Ordile, professional animal trainer for film and television. "They're naturally inquisitive and can be low-maintenance. Most cats amuse themselves and short hair cats require minimal grooming. Additionally, there is typically a minimal financial investment with a cat - food is inexpensive and as with any pet, an annual visit to the vet is recommended."

Studies indicate that owning a cat may have serious health benefits as well. Cats enhance positive self-esteem and concentration in children, including those with Attention Deficit Disorder. Adopting a cat can also help adults combat loneliness, depression, Alzheimer's and heart disease. That's why cats are routinely brought into nursing homes to be caressed and cuddled by residents who need a little love, according to the study, Love, Miracles and Animal Healing. With endless magazine covers displaying celebrities with pampered pets adorned with rhinestone collars and infinite love and attention, it's easy to forget about those who don't have homes. One in particular, in spite of his fame, has never forgotten where he came from. Morris, the 9Lives cat who's gone from the shelter to the spotlight, is wielding his considerable celebrity status to give back to his fellow felines across the country.

This effort brings Morris' real life shelter story full circle. In an era where 3 out of 4 of his fellow felines that enter shelters do not leave alive, Morris is working with 9Lives to launch "Morris' Million Cat Rescue" - and he's asking cat lovers and families everywhere to join him in the mission to find safe, loving homes for 1 million homeless cats.

Beginning this September, Morris will embark on a 34-city bus tour, making stops at major cities and events, such as Taste of Chicago and the Houston Rodeo, as well as stops at retailers and shelters, to raise awareness of this issue and facilitate cat adoptions. He has teamed up with 3600 shelters across the U.S. to distribute Morris' Million Cat Rescue Welcome Home Kits that will include product samples and information for new cat owners on proper care for their kitties at home.

Leading by example, Morris is adopting his own pint-sized pal, Lil' Mo - the first rescued shelter cat toward the one million goal, while 9Lives will donate a portion of the proceeds from every package of food sold throughout the campaign to shelters across the nation. Together with your help, they're destined to make a real difference in the lives of homeless cats everywhere.