Critter talk: Mapping the cat brain
This is for all of the cat lovers among us, as well as for those who just try to understand them. Enjoy:
(Originally published in MS Magazine, Vol III, #1, July/August 1992)
About Post Author
Professor Mike
More Stories
The Household Chronicles: TV, Parrots, and Cultural Quirks
I like to have a TV droning in the background while I write and work. It affords a measure of...
Parlez-vous and Red Roses Too
Roses are a girl’s best friend, or so I’ve been told; at the same time, wondering why I wasn’t my...
Living In A Dead Man’s Town
The following contains extremely violent images some may find distressing. This is Part One of my anthology—you can find Part...
Those Amazing K9s—Heroes at Work, Friends at Home
I think most know that the collaboration between humans and animals, in this case, police dogs, is crucial in...
My Amazon Addiction: When I Accidentally Ordered a Chocolate Lab Instead of a Chocolate Bar
We've all been there. It's midnight, you're cozily ensconced in your favorite PJs, and you tell yourself, "Just one more...
Sacred and Profane: The Complexity of Prison Spirituality
I’ve watched this unfold repeatedly, and I'm struck by the theater of it all each time. The inmates walk into...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/fuffer2005/236524501/
Mah edit or delete button is kaputsky, and it’s back, so here is a new map of doggy brain for everyone. Hint: they’re not too bright 😉
I showed my dogs that rather limited brain picture. They were none too pleased, except for the Chocolate Lab who had no idea that anything might be amiss. The German shepherds, however, were united as one in their protest and vowed to picket and call for Jihad 🙂
Just for you Mike since you asked 🙂
The Dog’s Diary
8:00 am – Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am – A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am – A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am – Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm – Milk bones! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm – Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm – Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm – Dinner! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm – Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm – Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
The cat’s diary
Day 983 of My Captivity
My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.
The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet. Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates my capabilities. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a “good little hunter” I am. Bastards!
There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of “allergies.” I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.
Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow, but at the top of the stairs.
I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released, and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded. The bird must be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now …
Wow! Thanks Jess. That is just how it goes. Almost exactly. Still laughing 🙂
I wish someone would map a dog’s brain in this manner. It might explain a lot 🙂
I love this, it is all so true!
That’s Dulce.
I’d read where the “infatuation with people who hate cats” thing may come from, when a cat enters a room the cat lovers all call to it, make noises, track it with their eyes, reach out to the cat. If the cat is looking for a lap, it goes to the one that appears to offer peace and quiet – the person showing no interest in it.
Good sounding theory anyway.
I have heard that theory too, and agree with it. The eye contact (unless initiated by the cat in a Braco-like love stare) from strangers usually freaks cats out. My cats all have their own chairs, and if someone is sitting in their chair (allergies or no) the cat will try to get in the chair anyway to displace the usurper.
I am a cat magnet. Any place I go they are on me the instant I hit the door. Good thing I love cats!