Book Description
The Cat's Mind offers insight into the complex personalities and sometimes unpredictable behaviors of cats. This guide for inquisitive owners explains feline communications, learning patterns, behavioral differences, and problems.
Customer Reviews:
It was okay.......2006-02-14
I liked the beginning with the chemistry and physiology of the cat's mind. And that's about it. I don't even think I finished this book - it started getting into cats in their natural habitat rather than how it relates housecats. I tried reading it twice but stopped in the same spot - too bad they don't sell just the first few chapters!
Useful introduction to genetics, and behaviour of cats.......2005-06-19
I have read half this book in a single day, it was hard to put it down. While I was aware of many of the items in this book from reading other books about cats, the author provides a lot of information, and especially comparisons between dogs and cats, and other domesticated animals, all of which is very interesting.
The author has a very good introduction to genetics. He also mentions research about how breeding for color has a side effect of changing the personality of the cats. He repeatedly gives examples of how the adaption of cats to living in proximity to humans is caused by a genetic changes that lead to changes in behaviour, and ultimately in how the mind of the cat works. He also touchs on concerns about how heavy inbreeding to select for various odd traits that we find pleasing may be creating animals that are actually mentally less suited to being pets and surviving on their own.
Another great book that goes over a lot of the same issues, but is more current, and discusses a lot of these same things as their concern farm animals, and other pets is "Thinking In Pictures - and Other Reports from My Life with Autism" by Temple Grandin. I highly recommend this book also.
I wouldn't write home about it........2004-03-12
I've been a cat owner my entire life. I didn't find any revelations about cats in this book. All the information seemed like common sense for people who are cat lovers. Perhaps this book would be a good read for someone who is a new cat owner and is very interested in details. If you are trying to find a solution for your cat's behavior problem, this book is probably not a good choice- it is written in a descriptive/narrative style, not in a do-it-yourself-help style.
The End Does Not Justify The Means.......2001-04-07
Never before have I felt so compelled to write a review on a book, but Dr. Bruce Fogle's "The Cat's Mind" bothered me so much that I wish someone had warned me before I made the mistake of buying it.
Prior to even reading a word I was struck by the fact that there is an entire chapter dedicated to disciplining your cat. While Dr. Fogle does make mention of one form of discipline being positive reinforcement, he then goes on to disturbingly describe how negative reinforcement can be used to effectively retrain cats to behave "as you would like them to". The next two sub-chapters are titled "aversion" and "intimidation", the latter of which describes techniques to hit your animal, including the use of rolled up newspaper, or as the author proudly claims to be his method of choice, using the "nearest fly swatter".
If this isn't bad enough the rest of the book (or actually the first half of this book as I couldn't even finish reading it) is riddled with ridiculous and barbaric experiment citations involving cats which, he states, are "unpleasant, at times thoughtless and at other times cruel, but it would be foolish to disregard the results". I don't want to hear how inserting electrodes into a calm cat's brainstem can turn it into a "ferocious demon", what effect keeping newborn kittens in total darkness has, or what happens when a cat's whiskers are removed. He even goes on to cite an "experiment" you can conduct yourself to test your cat's balance ("hold your cat by its front and back legs upside-down a yard above your bed and let go").
To say I was disgusted with this book is an understatement. First off, there are so many alternative ways to "discipline" your cat to where you are not physically hurting it (my favorite are the cans of compressed air most computer stores sell to clean your computer keyboards with. They emit a loud "hiss" noise when engaged, which startle the cat. To me this beats even the water gun because no contact is made with your cat). Even with his method of punishment aside, in respect to Dr. Fogle's need to cite animal experiments, I do not feel the end justify the means. Just because an experiment was conducted does NOT give it merit or mean the results should be reviewed. Should the horrific experiments the nazi's conducted be viewed as viable research simply because they were conducted? Absolutely not.
I found this book to be very distracting and even if Dr. Fogle gave informative insight I wouldn't know because I couldn't even finish it. If you are a true animal lover, in my opinion, you can go elsewhere to find more feline-friendly information, and not waste your time on this book.
A handbook for understanding the cat's mind.......2000-05-06
This book improved my understanding of my cat's needs and behaviors; it also heightened my appreciation for these sometimes quirky behaviors. The author blends the history of cat domestication and scientific research with humorous anecdotal illustrations to help the reader understand the why cats behave like cats.
Book Description
Hailed as "the founding mother of cat psychology," Carole Wilbourn has received international attention for her feline expertise. With her emphasis on treating the total cat, the "Wilbourn Ways" to a healthy cat follow the guiding principles of the ancient Greeks -- a sound mind in a sound body. Wilbourn explains how to talk to your cat -- and how to listen. She provides tools that can help you recognize, understand, and respond to your cat's body language, vocalization, and facial expressions -- the keys to your cat's behavior.
Wilbourn addresses specific situations that may develop with even the best-cared-for feline. You will learn how to detect the underlying causes to your cat's problem behavior -- whether yours is antisocial, self-destructive, or an overly aggressive "attack cat" -- and you'll receive invaluable guidance on everything from your cat's eating disorders and litter box aversion to its phobias and depression.
Whether you're introducing a new cat or person into your feline's environment or caring for an abused refugee, The Total Cat provides the insights necessary for understanding your cat at every stage of its life.
Customer Reviews:
Disappointing.......2006-10-12
I was disappointed with this book because I expected more substance on how to cure cat behavioral problems. Most of what was presented in the book was common sense. The book also doesn't offer any in-depth case histories and therapy plans for cats with particular problems.
I feel this book would be useful for someone who knows little about cats. However, if you are familar with cats and their basic needs, this book doesn't offer much more insight than most people would know. I expected more from a well-known behaviorist.
If you are really looking for an in-depth book on pet behavior that is more useful, read Pam Johnson-Bennett's "Psycho Kitty" book. I found it to be absolutely excellent.
A common sense book.......2006-09-21
Because this is basically a common sense book I didn't find it helpful in dealing with my new kitten who is extremely loving and very curious. Her curiosity leads her to places where she should not go;n the author of this book tells me to put things away I don't want the cat to get into. To me this is not exactly the advice of an expert. I expected to learn how to teach a cat. The book does do what the title states; it does not do what I wanted. My mistake.
So helpful.......2004-06-08
I've never loved a cat before. My two dogs and I were bemused when a stray cat started following us around on our walks, eventually darting right ahead of us as we returned home, to be the first one in the door. Fortunately a friend gave me a copy of "The Total Cat" by Carole Wilbourn. My basic questions about feeding, litter box, and vet vists were answered briskly and sensibly. Then it got complicated when a second cat decided to move in. Carole's book walked me so carefully through the psychology of bringing the new cat into our family that it was painless. I turn to this book whenever a new catly situation arises and it hasn't let me down. Carole Wilbourn is either part feline herself, or has been a cat in a past life! Great book.
Helpful and Interesting.......2004-06-05
Ms. Wilbourn knows and loves cats. So do I - I've been a besotted cat person for over three decades. I was interested, therefore, to find that she had some things to teach me. She starts at the beginning with what you should decide before getting a cat. She then takes you through the course of the life you and your cat(s) share. She covers all the basics as well as problems which may seem unlikely but for which you'll be glad to have Ms. Wilbourn's advice. THE TOTAL CAT is clear, affectionate, and diverting without that nasty failing of so many "cat books" - cutesiness. I currently have three cats, all of whom dislike each other but, with Ms. Wilbourn's help, we are steadily working things out.
Best animal behavior book I've ever read.......2004-06-02
This book has been an excellent reference manual for me. I refer to it when I have basic animal care questions as well as major animal behavioral concerns.
Carole's guidance was very helpful when I brought a new kitten into my home. Tending to the older cat and letting him bond with the kitten is very valuable information and leads to a more adjusted animal pairing.
I have a very anxious cat who was resistant to any treatment from a few vets or previous animal behaviorist. She suggested that I sequester him so that he can feel safe and protected. I was hesitant to do this as it felt cruel. After trying it, it was obvious that he really needed this type of intensive care. Her suggestions have helped him to feel more secure in his environment.
I am so confident about her intuitive feline gift that I have also hired her as my cat's behaviorist.
I enthusiastically recommend Carol's expertise and guidance.
Book Description
What makes cats purr?Is declawing the safest and most humane way to save your furniture?How can you make your animal companion an ideal house guest?Prominent veterinarian and animal behavior expert Dr. Michael W. Fox answers these questions and many more in this practical and informative guided to owning and caring for your feline companion. Unveiling the mysteries of the feline world, he analyzes every aspect of the cat, from the nest instincts in newborn kittens to the psychological and emotional impact of neutering and declawing adolescent cats.Understanding Your Cat is an imaginative and thoroughly knowledgeable approach to choosing and training your cat.
Customer Reviews:
A Disappointment.......2000-07-25
Understanding Your Cat sets an expectation for deeper insights into feline behavior. In fact, what little commentary there is on cat behavior is superficial and obvious to the long-time-cat-owner. Dr Fox spends too much time analyzing feline evolution and contrasting feline, canine, and primate behavior and not enough time on cats themselves. Finally, the black and white photographs which comprise the core of the behavior section did not reproduce well and are dificult to see. I could only recommend this book to non-cat-owners.
Complete owner's manual for a cat.......1998-11-27
If you have a cat, especially a siamese or purebred one, you need this book. Some people own a cat for years and still don't know the first thing about them or how to properly take care of them. This book gives you a luminous insight into their super-selfish but predictable behavior, such as why they seem to turn around and try to get back in a door when you let them out. The many photos are great too, as is the history of where our domestic cats come from. All in all, "America's best known animal psychologist" is not an understatement. Dr. Michael Fox rocks!
Amazon.com
I think this has to be one of the most comprehensive guides to caring for one's cat I have ever seen: it covers nutrition, aging, correcting unwanted behaviors, medical needs, and communication with your cat, among many other subjects. As a person who has lived with cats most of my life, there were eye-opening bits of information I never knew before. Overall, it is a well thought out, comprehensive book. My one teeny-tiny gripe is not about the content of the book or the information, but rather the fact that like a lot of other cat books and literature, it refers to a cat as "she" almost exclusively. As a person who has lived with male cats and female cats and is an animal lover in general, I wonder: can't we just use the word "it"? Very good book anyway ...
Customer Reviews:
Managing Director.......2000-05-29
If people psycologists could do as good a job with people as Pam Johnson-Bennett does with cats, we would have a saner and more mentally healthy society. As a pet sitter for the past 12 years, we heartily endorse Pam Johnson-Bennett's books on cats.
great health info, well written, sensible.......1999-09-15
I found great information for my cat's diet and health, plus first aid & psychology. I gave this book as gifts to several of my friends, and they like it a lot, too. The "Vitality Mix" recipe has helped my cat immensely.
Average customer rating:
- Food for thought for first-time cat caretakers
- "Catstupid"
- CatSmart, OwnerStupid?
- A Waste of Time
- New Approach - Bad Format
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Catsmart: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding, Caring For, and Living With Your Cat
Myrna Milani
Manufacturer: Book Sales
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 General
| Cats
| Animal Care & Pets
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Animal Care & Pets
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Veterinary Medicine
| Medicine
| Subjects
| Books
Animal Husbandry
| Agricultural Sciences
| Science
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0809230240 |
Customer Reviews:
Food for thought for first-time cat caretakers.......2007-03-21
Although Milani's book seems to be more focused on purebred cats than shelter cats, the questions she asks are just as useful for people considering the adoption of a cat from the shelter or a kid at the grocery store parking lot. Adopting a cat is a commitment that can last up to 20 years or more, and Milani gives potential cat caretakers a chance to realistically assess how prepared they are for this commitment. A good read.
"Catstupid".......2003-10-26
I agree with the other reviewers. I checked this book out at the library to learn more about my favorite animal. I was disgusted by a great deal of the book. As a cat shelter volunteer, I can tell you that many, many wonderful pets can be found inside the shelter. Many cats end up there not because they were behavior problems, but because the owner didn't want to bother with them anymore, were moving, or got a new baby and didn't have time for the cat. These cats end up at the shelter through no fault of their own and deserve a great home. I shudder to think of how many naive readers would look at this book and automatically think breeder=good cat, and shelter=bad cat. Perhaps the vet should spend some time volunteering at a shelter herself before she makes such blanket statements. I also found it interesting that the only comment she makes on declawing is a positive one and mentions nothing about the cruel procedure it actually is. A truly informed veternarian would present both sides of the story and be honest about the details. (Of course, she makes more money when cats are brought in to be declawed, so it's not surprising she would keep quiet on the truth on this procedure!) Read this book if you would like to learn how to be CATSTUPID...otherwise, I recommend passing it by.
CatSmart, OwnerStupid?.......1999-09-27
Would you take your pet to a veterinarian who seemed to care little about cats? Then read this book.
Other reviewers have mentioned many of _CatSmart_'s flaws, so I won't repeat them here, but I will add a few. First, Milani seems to believe that cats, as a rule, should be allowed outside (and she gives her own free roam). I have yet to hear of a veterinarian or other animal professional who would, in all seriousness, recommend this! Cats face very real dangers outside, and making the choice to allow them out is almost certainly making the choice to give them a shorter lifespan. I could find no mention in the book of the pros and cons of sending cats outdoors.
Second, as others have pointed out, she strongly recommends buying only purebred cats from reputable breeders. She asserts that cats from shelters invariably have behavioral problems (as if purebred cats never do?); and she implies that "so-called 'no-kill' shelters" are even worse than the standard kind, since they couldn't possibly have the resources to adequately care for their cats. Thus, in two paragraphs, she brushes off the millions of unwanted cats who die every year - many of whom are perfectly healthy, well-adjusted creatures - and steers potential pet owners to buy cats only from those who breed cats for profit. To me, this doesn't imply that Milani cares a great deal about cats.
Aside from a few useful tidbits - such as tips on using double-sided tape to deter cats from forbidden areas, and reducing their intake of food by feeding them smaller amounts more often - this guide is largely useless. Worse, it may be harmful to the well-being of cats - which sort of defeats the purpose, doesn't it?
A Waste of Time.......1999-09-14
Milani's tedious, boring writing style made this book a chore to read. Her attempts at warmth and humor seem stilted and not natural. I also found the information in this book to be rehashed versions of previously released cat books.
I also fault the editor of this book for allowing Milani to labor on in such long paragraphs without giving the reader a break.
If you're new to the world of cats or you're searching for help with a problem, I highly recommend that you check out Pam Johnson's book "Twisted Whiskers".
New Approach - Bad Format.......1999-08-13
Milani's book definitely had the potential to make you really think about your relationship with your cat. The problem was the format was so bad you ended up just skipping over the long, involved questions provided for you. The book has some really good information for new and experienced cat owners alike. However, unless you are really dedicated to reading the book, most likely you'll lose interest.
Below are the main problems I found with the text:
*Almost all cases she followed were purebreds. All sorts of different owners, but only purebred cats. She fails to take into account that 90% of cat owners own mixed-breed cats.
*She presents the mixed breed cat as inferior to a purebred and states the view that cats adopted from a shelter rather than bought from a breeder have more behavioral and psychological problems. The short amount of time she spent on animal shelters was merely to warn people not to adopt an animal there. The author claimed that the animals end up there because they have behavioral problems. She also states that most cats in shelters have litterbox problems. She gives no data to back up these sweeping statements, and in fact the number one reason animals end up in shelters is OWNER PROBLEMS (moving, allergic, costs too much).
*The format of the book was hard to read. Lots of information was packed into long paragraphs with no illustrations, charts or graphs. With a better layout the good information she provides could be noted rather than passed over.
Customer Reviews:
Clear, Concise and Fun.......2004-04-13
Finally! a book that explores feline health, behavior and feline/human communication with intelligence, sensitivity and humor. I initially purchased the book searching for practical solutions to some behavioral problems we were experiencing with our family cat (they actually worked!) but learned much more about what our cat was trying to tell us in the process. The format makes the material incredibly accessible, and the quality of information makes this book a must-have resource for both the experienced and novice cat owner alike. It also makes a perfect gift for friends welcoming a new cat into their lives.
Fantastic Resource for Cat Caretakers.......2004-04-12
Practical, fun, and perceptive, Janine Adams' contribution to the "How to Say It" books is an invaluable resource for cat lovers everywhere. This book is chock-full of practical advice, invaluable resources and straight-forward descriptions, all in a delightful format. I particularly appreciate Ms. Adams' holistic, positive and caring approach - it is obvious that she loves and understand cats. 4 paws up!
Great Reader- and Cat-Friendly book, full of useful info.......2004-04-12
This book is full of valuable information and advice about understanding your cat. Each complete, yet short chapter covers a different issue or problem, with ideas on what your cat is trying to tell you, how you can best deal with the situation, and what problems and pitfalls to avoid.
There are more than 50 chapters to help you understand just about anything you might face with your cat. From litter box problems, to grooming, to hairballs, it's all covered! Adams offers great insights and a variety of options to solve problems and prevent them in the first place. Her advice is cat-friendly and helps you strengthen the bond with your favorite feline.
I've had cats my whole life, and this book is my new favorite resource when I have a question or concern about my two current cats. It's also a great book for the person new to cats. I have two copies -- one to loan out, and one to have on hand when I have a question myself.
An insult to anyone's intelligence.......2004-03-20
Not content to put words in cat's mouths, pet psychic-style, she introduces the lunacy of Bach flower remedies and the nonsense of Tellington Touch (what you and I call "petting) to compound a worthless book.
"How to Talk to Your Cat" by Jean Craighead George is more reliable. Or even Roger Caras' "A Cat is Watching"
If you want reliable information in this format try "100 Questions Your Cat Would Ask Its Vet" by Bruce Fogle.
Average customer rating:
- Excellent book for those who plan to have a cat!
- Cat Knowledge for every Cat Owner
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Wild Discovery Guide to Your Cat: Understanding and Caring for the Tiger Within
Manufacturer: New Line Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Care & Health
| Cats
| Animal Care & Pets
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Cats
| Animal Care & Pets
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Animal Care & Pets
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1577171683 |
Book Description
"A cat is a lion in a jungle of small bushes."
--English proverb
Why do cats always land on their feet after a fall? What allows a sleeping cat to comfortably curl into a circle? Why do cats appear to torture their prey before killing it? Why does your cat knead on your clothing? Just how much attention do cats really require?
To answer these and other questions,
Wild Discovery Guide to Your Cat draws from science, history, and feline behavior in the wild to explain the inner nature and most puzzling characteristics of America's most popular pet. The result is a practical and fascinating guide to understanding and caring for these beguiling and enigmatic creatures.
This engagingly illustrated book takes the same cat's-eye view of the world that infuses the Discovery Channel television series Wild Discovery. It emphasizes the untamed roots of almost every aspect of a domesticated cat's conduct: the crouch-and-pounce string-chase games that mirror stalking prey in the wild, the furniture-scratching preoccupation that echoes the territorial scent deposits a wild cat claws onto trees. Written in an accessible, authoritative style,
Wild Discovery Guide to Your Cat generously mixes the fundamentals of basic care with compelling explorations into cats' physical and psychological traits.
Included in this comprehensive primer are detailed insights into all aspects of cat design, from the intricate structure of the feline form to the cat's heightened senses and remarkable agility. The guide explores why cats do the things they do--addressing such issues as grooming, sleep patterns, marking and defending territory, cat language, and learning and intelligence.
In addition to probing the tiger within,
Wild Discovery Guide to Your Cat offers a host of practical tips on choosing a cat to suit your lifestyle, providing responsible care, cat-proofing your home, and ensuring a smooth transition during the first days at home. Once the cat is a member of the family, the book explains how to bond and play with your new pet, and even how to train and travel with it.
Everything you need to know to keep your cat healthy and happy is covered, including the latest information on feeding and nutrition, litter boxes, cleaning and grooming, common health problems, fighting fleas, pregnancy and birth, caring for an aging cat, vet visits, and emergency care.
A breed breviary rounds out the book, with the spotlight on the top cat breeds as well as other common feline pedigrees. This section also presents information on body type, common colors, coat type, grooming requirements, and temperament. An informative cat owner's resource guide follows.
Accompanied by more than 225 full-color illustrations and photographs showing the similarities between domestic and wild cats, this is an entertaining and insightful approach to feline behavior, pet care, and appreciation for first-time cat owners and veteran cat lovers alike.
Lush, lovely, informative and practical, Wild Discovery Guide to Your Cat is a feast for both the eye and the mind...a good introduction to cat care and behavior for novices and also serves as an interesting read for long-time cat owners...There's something for everyone in this book...one of the most educational books to come along in a long time.--Cats, April 2000
Customer Reviews:
Excellent book for those who plan to have a cat!.......2001-06-29
This book gives an excellent overview about cat behaviour and care. It is very direct and not complicated. However I did not give 5 stars because I wish they would have detailed more about feline diseases such as FIV and leukemia. For those who already have cats (like me) the book makes clear certain attitudes that we all know such as lots of sleeping, hissing, feline intelligence, the way they show their love and so on.
On the other side, if you plan to get a cat/kitten from your shelter or any other place have this book first, it has an excellent section on how to choose the right cat. And also a good section why you should not declaw your cat and all the care you will have with your feline companion.
Cat Knowledge for every Cat Owner.......2000-03-31
After owning my first cat, I decided to read about cats. I found "Wild Discovery Guide to your Cat" very helpful in understanding more about my cat. I discovered why my cat behaves the way he behaves and how to treat him if he becomes sick. This book made me understand my cat a lot better and to be able to make a better home for him. The book ranged from topics on the different types of cats to how to help a cat adjust to a new home. I especially enjoyed the sections on what to do when a cat is sick or injured, particularly what signs to look for in a sick cat. Of course, the pictures of the various cats were great and helpful in understanding various situations with cats. Overall, I was very impressed with the book. I plan on purchasing the book for friends who are cat lovers.
Book Description
Cat therapist Carole Wilbourn spends her life helping owners understand their feline’s day to day needs, so that human and animal can relate in a way that promotes the well-being of both. Drawing on Wilbourn’s years of experience, The Complete Guide to Understanding & Caring for Your Cat presents her methods for treating the “total cat,” and nurturing it emotionally, behaviorally, and physically. Each chapter deals with an aspect of cat behavior and health in an easy-to-follow and accessible question and answer format, including “Exercise and the Great Outdoors,” “Claws vs. Furniture,” “Emotions,” and “Choice and Introduction of a Companion for Your Cat.” From grooming to litter box problems, this guide covers just about any concern or situation that might arise.
Books:
- The Color Encyclopedia of Ornamental Grasses: Sedges, Rushes, Restios, Cat-Tails and Selected Bamboos
- The Complete Book of Foaling: An Illustrated Guide for the Foaling Attendant (Howell Reference Books)
- The Complete Book of Foaling: An Illustrated Guide for the Foaling Attendant (Howell Reference Books)
- The Complete Equine Emergency Bible: The Comprehensive Guide To Coping With Every Horse-Related Emergency From First Aid To Road Safety
- The Cornell Book of Cats: The Comprehensive and Authoritative Medical Reference for Every Cat and Kitten
- The Craggy Hole in My Heart and the Cat Who Fixed It: Over the Edge and Back with My Dad, My Cat, and Me
- The DAM Book: Digital Asset Management for Photographers (O'Reilly Digital Studio)
- The First Aid Companion for Dogs & Cats (Prevention Pets)
- The First Aid Companion for Dogs & Cats (Prevention Pets)
- The Good Food Cookbook for Dogs: 50 Home-Cooked Recipes for the Health and Happiness of Your Canine Companion
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
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- The Cross Stitcher's Bible
- How to Pay for Your Degree in Journalism and Related Fields: 2004-2006
- Laboratory Hamsters
- Money Mama & The Three Little Pigs
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- Rabbits Rabbits Everywhere: A Fibonacci Tale
- It Came from Beneath the Sink!
- Investment Taxation : Practical Tax Strategies for Financial Instruments
- Cloud Chamber: A Novel
The Dog's Mind: Understanding Your Dog's Behavior (Howell Reference Books)
The Body Language and Emotion of Cats
The Total Cat: Understanding Your Cat's Physical and Emotional Behavior from Kitten to Old Age
Know Your Cat
Communicating with Your Cat (Pets Miscellaneous)
