From a cat's point of view!

My life is likely to last 10-20 years. Any separation from you would be painful for me. Remember that BEFORE you get me.

Give me time to understand what you want from me.

Love me like family because in my eyes you are my parents.

Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, entertainment and friends. I have only YOU!

Remember I have instincts and curiosity that humans forget sometimes. Please don't hurt me for it.

Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice and it touches me.

Be aware how you treat me, I will never forget.

Please don't hit me I'm small and defenceless. I can't hit back, but I can bite and scratch, and I really don't want to do that.

Don't ever pick me up by the scruff of my neck just because my mummy used to when I was a small baby. I weighed just a few ounces then , now I weigh many pounds and that really would hurt. Just because I have extra skin doesn't mean that it is a handle.

Before you tell me off for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps another cat has bothered me and I see him through the windows, perhaps I'm not getting the right food or maybe I am not feeling well and my heart is old and weak.

Take care of me when I get old. You too will grow old one day.

Go with me on difficult journeys. NEVER say, "I can't bear to watch or let it happen in my absence."
Everything will be easier on me if YOU are there.