A mountain lion was spotted early Thursday morning on the northwest side of Des Moines. While police are asking the public to be cautious until the big cat finds its way out of town, the sighting sparked memes and praise on Twitter — and sent Griff the bulldog into hiding.

While it's here, the Des Moines Register offers this list of cat-friendly fun to our newest visitor:

1. Take a stroll at the Anderson-Erickson Dairy plant

Thirsty?

Have no fear, an entire distribution plant full of milk is here at your disposal! Chocolate milk, strawberry milk or whole milk? It's all within paws' reach. Don't mind the frantic employees behind you.

2. Launch a presidential campaign

Sure, making your presence known at 31st Street and Interstate 235 got the attention of everyone in the Des Moines metro.

But why not make a splash?

Launch a presidential campaign! Recruit some debt-ridden college students for your campaign, rent an RV and cruise through the state of Iowa. You already have more name recognition than 20 of the candidates in the field anyway.

3. Visit *Al-Tuna* (Get it? Altoona?)

Test your luck at Prairie Meadows Casino, go for a ride on the Outlaw at Adventureland or pick up some cat's pajamas at the outlet mall.

4. Wish Drake University's Griff a happy belated birthday

Drake's beloved live bulldog mascot, Griff, celebrated his seventh birthday yesterday. There were party hats, lots of petting and extremely cute baby photos.

So who could blame today's feline visitor for wanting to surprise one of Des Moines' most famous animals? Sure, the mountain lion might have missed the special occasion by a day, but it's better late than never.

There's no need to hide, Griff. This kitty just wants to celebrate with you!

5. Stop by a Des Moines Area Community College computer lab

With warm keyboards and students hard at work, there's no better place for a mountain lion to visit than DMACC. Students will welcome your presence as you lay across their keyboards, knock down their water bottles and completely block their computer screens.