Introduction

Introduction

There are an estimated 40,000 books about cats—so why add another? I asked myself that, and the answer came quickly: why not?

I’ve had five cats so far—four rescues and one farm cat—and each gave me far more than I gave them. Now, at 70, I’m about to adopt a sixth, and I feel the same excitement I did nearly 50 years ago with my first cat, Oscar.

Writing this book felt like a way to better understand cats—their nature, their behavior, and their subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways of communicating with us… if we can even call ourselves their owners.

So here it is. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Cat lovers have long wanted a book that talks about cats in a simple, enjoyable way—not just for breeders, but for anyone who genuinely likes them. That’s the goal here: to share years of experience in a way that’s both useful and easy to read.

Whether you’re into pedigrees and show cats or just love having a cat around, this book aims to offer something for you. And who knows—maybe a few skeptics will come around after seeing just how interesting and appealing cats can be.

Dogs may have the reputation as “man’s best friend,” but cats have always had their own loyal following. These days, more and more people—men included—are getting into cats, whether as hobbyists, breeders, or simply admirers. It’s clear that cats are steadily winning people over.

Inside, you’ll find practical guidance on breeds, feeding, housing, and everyday care, along with helpful advice for anyone interested in cat shows. The aim is to keep things straightforward and useful without getting overly technical.

This book also benefits from contributions by several experts—covering everything from health and anatomy to international breeds and the broader cat community. Their knowledge adds depth and makes this a well-rounded guide for anyone interested in cats.

Looking back, it’s amazing how far cats have come. Once worshipped, then dismissed as merely “useful,” they’ve always been more than that to those who truly know them. A home just doesn’t feel the same without a cat—and hopefully, that appreciation sticks around for a long time.

Years ago, it was clear to me that cats weren’t getting the recognition they deserved. That’s what led me to suggest cat shows—an idea that wasn’t exactly welcomed at first. There were plenty of jokes and skepticism. But as it turns out, success changes minds.

That said, modern cat shows aren’t perfect. There’s too much focus on specific breeds—especially long-haired varieties—while other cats get overlooked. But great cats aren’t defined by trends. A well-bred short-haired cat can be just as impressive—arguably one of the most refined and balanced animals out there.

I could say more, but I’ll leave it here. My hope is simple: that this book helps people see cats differently—not just as pets, but as companions worth understanding and appreciating.

Because in the end, cats ask for very little—and give back far more than most people expect