Features
- Cover Type: Hard Cover with 224 pages
- Published by: Grand Central Publishing November 14, 1995
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 0446518077
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-0446518079
-
Book Dimensions:
9.6 x 7.8 x 0.9 inches
- Weighs: 1.4 pounds
Product Review
Thinking of getting a cat? Read this book! Brian Kilcommons, an animal trainer for more than twenty 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.
From Library Journal
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 terrible 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 photographs 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., SeattleCopyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Reader ReviewsI first saw Brian Kilcommons on the late lamented "Pet News" program on Fox News Channel. He is an obvious lover of animals in general but also has a vast knowledge of pet behavior and understanding of how to raise pets for maximum enjoyment, not only for us, their owners, but for the pets themselves. Mr. Kilcommons very obviously is owned by several cats! He is an astute observer of their behaviors but does admit to being puzzled by them from time to time. His affection for felines is the overwhelming theme of this book. You will find everything you need to know about your cat in this book. From choosing a kitten to litter box training to the psychology of cat behavior, it is all here, explained in simple to understand language, and with humor sprinkled throughout. Mr. Kilcommons also includes a section on making your cats' natural behaviors and quirks into "tricks" they can perform! You will find the answers to many of your questions as to why your cat makes that certain expression, why they wake you at 3am, and why out of ten people in a room, they will go to the one who likes cats the least. You will also find first aid information, vaccination recommendations, and a wealth of cat health facts. I am owned by 2 cats and find myself referring to this book again and again. Whenever I need a question answered, I find the answer in this book. It is like having a personal advisor! I recommend this book highly if you are even thinking about getting a cat.
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