The Cat Who Could Read Backwards (Cat Who..., #1)

by Lilian Jackson Braun

There was also a column that had nothing to do with painting or sculpture but discussed cats ( Felis domestica) as works of art.

To understand a cat, you must realize that he has his own gifts, his own viewpoint, even his own morality. A cat’s lack of speech does not make him a lower animal. Cats have a contempt of speech. Why should they talk when they can communicate without words? They manage very well among themselves, and they patiently try to make their thoughts known to humans. But in order to read a cat, you must be relaxed and receptive.”

When a cat, who is a picture of grace and beauty, suddenly rolls over in a hideous posture, contorts his face and scratches his ear, he is telling you, sir, to go to blazes!”

What we call extrasensory perception is normal experience for a cat. He knows what you are thinking, what you are going to do, and where you have been. I would gladly trade one ear and one eye for a full set of cat’s whiskers in good working condition.”

It’s like following the steps of a dance composed by a dictatorial dancing master. The dance of life should be created

from moment to moment with individuality and spontaneity.”

Never underestimate him, though. He’s got a mind like a computer.”