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Cat Life
We have a new cat named Ninja. He is a great cat and we love him, so much fun and so silly. But he is feral in nature. Often when I put my hands out towards him to play he responds with teeth out, ready to defend.
We had another cat, Mayru, who was not like that at all. She barely ever fought or bit. She was fun, and loved to play, but just wasn’t that type of cat.
Ultimate Power
But what type of cat we have doesn’t really matter. What matters is my response to the cat. I am the one with the ultimate power (even though a cat can bite and scratch pretty well). I might play a little harder with Ninja than I did with Mayru but in both cases I am not going to force them to play when they aren’t interested, I am not going to attack them and I am not going to hurt them.
If I did that I would be guilty of animal cruelty. My morals and ethics tell me that is not right and I wouldn’t do it.
Satisfaction and Conscience
If I came across someone who did abuse a cat (or any other animal or human) I would do my best to stop it. I also have to admit I would get some satisfaction seeing the cat attack back and get in a few bites and scratches.
One thing I know for certain, My conscience would not allow me to reward that abuser with my affection or support.
Drawing and commentary © Marty Coleman | napkindad.com
Quote by Elizabeth Janeway, 1913-2005, American novelist