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A Cat's Perspective
by Kathleen Gemmell
My name is Whitney and I live with my pet parent, Katie.
For my eighth birthday, I received a cat tree that is made of wood and resembles a leaf-less tree. On the top, there is a flat shelf where Katie placed a pillow. This perch is set by our back window and overlooks a plot of over grown land. Trees, tall grasses and wild flowers makes it a habitat for a myriad of wild life.
I spend much of my waking hours atop this tree and am thrilled to watch the array of birds, squirrels, woodchucks, skunks and rabbits.
The bird life is numerous…chickadees, finches, woodpeckers and hummingbirds abound. Katie often stands next to me to observing and narrating.
"Whitney, there are baby chipmunks eating the bird seed that I put out," says Katie as an example. "They are adorable, but they can be nasty little animals if cornered."
We have watched a pair of barn owls and their offspring beginning in the spring. Months have passed and the little ones have lost their downy feathers and fly competently. They do, “Hoot!” as they are said to do and they communicate by bobbing back and forth on the branches where they rest.
We also watch a cardinal couple. The vibrant red male and the brown female mate for life and can live up to 15 years.
I usually sit stone still, but at times I can't contain myself and I lay with my belly low and my body stiff. Of course, I can't get out of doors, but my instinct tells me that I would love to give all these critters a "run for their money."
All except the skunk!
Recently, I was on guard on my perch while Katie was reading. Katie tells our neighbor this tale. "Whit came flying off of her tree and crashed her way into the bedroom to hide under the bed. I looked out of the window to see 2
large wild turkeys under the sill. Poor Whitney was terrified. They must seem as large to her as elephants do to us. She stayed under the bed for hours. I eventually coached her out with her supper. She was hesitant to climb her tree for several days!"
I sleep approximately 18 hours daily. I have a bed on the couch and an igloo-type bed near our fireplace. I spend time each day being loved, groomed and eating. On occasion I feel full of energy and run like a gazelle around our home. Katie likes to wave a wand with a stuffed fish attached by a string and that is absolutely my favorite toy.
I catch that fish from time to time and give it a royal bopping!
I must say, however, that my window spot brings me the most enjoyment. As of last weekend, we can add a red fox to our menagerie list.
Katie believes that domestic cats should stay indoors. There are just too many dangers outside for us. I can tell you that I must agree. In our new England town there have been sightings of both black bears and coyotes.
I wouldn't stand a chance if I came upon either.
I spent my days contentedly. I have all that I need and desire. I do wonder what treat I will receive for my next birthday! Hmm...?
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