Is Your Cat a Social Butterfly Or a Recluse?

Is your cat as mysterious as an Egyptian sphinx? Ever wonder what you're cat would say or ask you, if he or she could speak in a language humans understand?

In recognition of National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day, here are a few questions your feline might pose – and the answer to expect.

(This inside information may be especially helpful in choosing a cat, if you’re thinking about adopting.)

Q. Why did you adopt me? I so don’t fit your lifestyle.

A. A cat's face shape may help determine disposition, seriously. A square-face shape or "cobby" cat often acts like the retriever of the cat world: a social butterfly that loves to snuggle. A triangle-shaped face may be more similar to a herding dog: athletic, busy, intelligent, curious and stubborn. A cat with a round-shaped face may be shy, slow to accept change and may enjoy quiet living conditions. Think Chihuahua.

Q. Age matters. What part of kittenhood did you not understand?

A. Age is a big consideration when choosing a cat. Kittens are tactile. They velcro to learn about their world, touching everything with their paws and claws. Adolescent kitties explore hunting instincts. Watch as they perfect their "pounce-on-prey" skills with anything that moves and even things that don’t.  

Q. You knew I was a couch potato when you adopted me.

A. Personalities are more predictable with adult cats. You can tell what type of play adult cats prefer, if they enjoy being held or cuddled, if they secretly yearn to be opera singers or explorers, or if just want to be your personal lap warmer.

So what questions is your cat asking you?

Comment, and I – or my cat – will respond.