Good Owners, Great Cats - Hardcover

Thinking of getting a cat? Read this book! Brian Kilcommons, an animal trainer for more than 20 years, and Sarah Wilson have written a book addressing all aspects of owning and caring for a cat. They explain the mechanics of cat ownership in a way that encompasses the emotional care necessary for a happy cat/owner relationship. In this lively, easy-to-read book (with a marvelous collection of feline photographs), subjects include taking care of a new kitten, raising a healthy cat, and understanding cat behavior. Scattered throughout are short stories about notable cats and their owners; one such story relates the account of Nermal, whose idea of fun was sliding down the laundry chute. Asides throughout the book relate such information as finding your lost cat, dealing with fleas, and choosing a veterinarian. Also helpful are the "Frequently Asked Questions" at the end of each chapter, which address those questions that one might not feel comfortable asking in a large group ("My kitten likes to chase flies. Is this okay?") Touted as "a guidebook for humans and their feline companions," this book is a must-read for any cat owner.

The author of Good Owners, Great Dogs (Warner, 1992) has now turned his attention to cats. A behaviorist and protege of Barbara Woodhouse, a noted author of numerous books on training dogs (e.g., No Bad Dogs, Summit, 1994), he and coauthor Wilson outline feline problem behaviors (e.g., litter box problems, separation anxiety, aggression) and their solutions. Their book is compact but covers a lot of ground, from choosing a kitten to "saying good-bye" to a dying pet. There are many concise tips for training and handling, ranging from pilling a cat to domesticating a feral cat. Cute photos and personal accounts of feline friends are attractively interspersed. Two similar books, Bruce Fogle's The Cat's Mind: Understanding Your Cat's Behavior ("Grooming Your Pet Care Collection," LJ 2/1/93, p. 49-53) and Gale Nemec's Living with Cats (Morrow, 1993) offer much of the same information. Buy where readers have an insatiable appetite for cat materials.
Laura Lipton, Miller Horticulture Lib., Seattle
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.