How to Speak Cat: A Guide to Decoding Cat Language by Aline Alexander Newman (review)

Abstract

Reviewed by: How to Speak Cat: A Guide to Decoding Cat Language by Aline Alexander Newman Jeannette Hulick Newman, Aline Alexander How to Speak Cat: A Guide to Decoding Cat Language; by Aline Alexander Newman and Gary Weitzman, D.V.M. National Geographic, 2015 176p illus. with photographs Library ed. ISBN 978-1-4263-1864-1 $21.99 Paper ed. ISBN 978-1-4263-1863-4 $12.99 R Gr. 5 up Newman and Weitzman provide a wealth of information on a wide variety of topics of interest to cat lovers, from body language (which is broken down into both specific actions—such as licking—and by body part—such as the positioning and movement of a cat’s tail) to vocalized communication. Information is also given on problematic behavior and cat “feelings” such as happiness or anger (although being “alert” or “on the hunt” are more conditions than emotions) as well as training tips, cat history, cat myths debunked, and cat breeds and colors. The browsable format generally offers one topic per page, with sidebars and asides in larger type sometimes providing additional trivia or pertinent advice. Full-page and smaller color photos of cats in action are sharp and clear, engaging, and (usually) relevant to the text. While a few of the book’s assertions are questionable (“Adult cats don’t play with other cats. They only play with toys”), there’s a lot of solid information on cat behavior that goes beyond the basic, such as the countering of the assumption that purring always indicates contentment or the revelation that not all experts agree on whether or not a cat can be depressed. Much of the information has a direct application for young owners as well, such as the numerous suggestions for training cats (although the authors repeatedly make it clear that great patience will be required), ideas for appropriate play (such as making a treat-dispensing toy using a plastic bottle), and useful recommendations for introducing a new cat to one that’s already in residence. Kitty aficionados will find this both entertaining and instructive, and it may drive them to explore their pets’ behavior more deeply. Quizzes, a list of resources, and an index are also included. Copyright © 2015 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois