Short Commentary on the Relationship Between The Girl and My Cat

Ever since we brought Greta home, our cat, Missy, has been wary of the little person. Sometimes she’s indifferent. Sometimes she’s tolerant. Sometimes she’s helpful. But she’s always wary.

When held, Missy will let Greta pet her—and she’ll purr. But Greta is not allowed to touch Missy without Mommy and Daddy. A couple of scratched fingers taught her that lesson. And Missy will hiss at Greta for no reason. It scares Greta and she’ll cry.

Some people would get rid of their cat if it did that, but Missy is part of our family. We’ve known her and loved her and tolerated her mood swings for a lot longer than Greta.

It’s funny, though. My husband and I always joke that Missy and Greta are so much alike:

• They both like to relax in laundry baskets, with or without laundry in them.
• They both like to play in boxes.
• They both can sleep anywhere.
• They both love to watch birds, fish and small rodents.
• They both love to play with toy balls.
• They both love to cuddle (on their terms).

If only they would realize they had this common ground, they would be the best of friends. But I guess many times if you have too much in common, you may not get along.

I don’t think it’s going to change. Greta has been around for three years now and Missy still is only tolerant.

I suppose we all will just have to live with that.