Recently, there has been a change. The family has brought home a puppy. And when I say this, I mean a puppy. A very young dog.
So, here’s the situation: I have been in residence with this family for about three years, and all has been well. We get along; I have my free time and space to do what I want when I want. I am also welcome to sit with the family and participate in things like movie night and game night. I am always invited to join in and meet guests when they have a party. I’ve been treated as part of the family since I arrived here, and it’s been great.
Recently, there has been a change. The family has brought home a puppy. And when I say this, I mean a puppy. A very young dog. It is a golden retriever, and it is a very curious puppy. For some reason, this puppy has taken a shine to me and seeks out my company all the time. Like ALL THE TIME. My life here was good; I could come and go as I pleased, and no one said anything to me, but now, I feel a very different vibe. When I don’t gush about how great the puppy is, or shower the thing with my attention, I feel they judge me.
I know it’s not my house, and basically, I am a guest here; still, they have treated me like family, and it troubles me that they didn’t consult me when they decided to get the damn thing. I could just leave, but frankly, I have nowhere to go, no money, no means to get money, and I feel very comfortable here. I don’t want to leave, but I don’t know how much longer I can handle this puppy. I just don’t understand the thing; it bounces around, it licks everything, it chases balls and sticks, and, frankly, it is just a mindless nuisance. I thought this was a cat family, and as a cat, the cat, with a name and collar, a dish and bed, I figured I had it made, but now … dog.
Is it okay to kill the dog and make it look like an accident, or do I just suck it up and live with the fact that my life now contains a dog?
Signed,
Mr. Boots, The Cat
Dear Mr. Boots,
Well, I think you know the answer, a cat that is smart enough to use a computer must understand the situation. You cannot kill the dog; if the family finds out, that’s it for you. They will drop you in an animal shelter faster than you can say, “Wasn’t me.”
I’ll tell you this, remember when you were a kitten, how were you? I am sure you chased shadows and curled up in drawers and cabinets, got into the butter and milk, knocked things over, and we a general handful, kittens are crazy and destructive; that’s why you’re so cute, so humans don’t kill you.
If you can take an honest look at yourself, maybe you can find some patience and understanding for the puppy. He’ll only be this way for a while, and if you stay with him and get to understand him, you may be one of those news stories about dog and cat “brothers” that are inseparable. Be patient; you have things pretty good; you’re fed and have a roof over your head. Can you just make yourself scarce while the puppy grows up? Don’t let the family catch you being mean or losing patience with the puppy; they will reward you for being a good boy and welcoming your new brother. As long as you’re not openly aggressive in front of the family, things should be okay.
You said it yourself, you have nowhere to go, no money, and I don’t know many places that are hiring cats, so getting a job seems pretty impossible. Stay calm, stay out of the way, and don’t attack the puppy, and you may have a friend for life.
Don’t kill the puppy; they always look at the cat first, you will do time, and that’s no fun.
I hope that helps.
