In honour of the fact that a new cat species has just been discovered for the first time in over a century– and that I’ve recently been reading a few books about them- I thought I’d share some great books about cats.
Anyone who follows this blog will know that I’m a dog lover at heart, but I am also passionate about all animals and I enjoy reading books about animal care and husbandry.
Whether it’s horses, reptiles or marine mammals, if it’s about animals, I’m there. I just love learning about them, especially their care.
Personally, I’ve never owned a cat, and I’ve spent limited time with them. A few of my aunts and uncles owned cats when I was growing up, but very few of my friends did.
Still, I don’t dislike cats, and I’d never be unkind to them. I’d also never say never, and there’s always a chance, in the future, that I may come to get one.
Something I’ve noticed recently is that it’s almost fashionable to have an Unnatural hatred of cats. However, anyone who dislikes dogs is viewed as a bad person.
I think a big part of the issue with cats is how we keep them. Outdoor cats cause a lot of harm to local wildlife, often get killed on roads and can be a nuisance in other people’s gardens. I personally think cats should be kept indoors to keep them safe, but that’s just my opinion.
Here are 5 books I’ve loved about cats. Whether you’re a cat lover, owner or someone who’s considering getting a cat, you’ll find something to enjoy in this list.
5.The Hidden Language of Cats: How They Have Us at Meow By Dr. Sarah Brown: If you’ve always wondered about how cats communicate with us, then this is the book for you. Dr. Sarah Brown has a PhD in cat behaviour and extensive experience working with domestic cats. Her book explores the development of the domestic cat, and how this has shaped their communication style. If you’re a cat owner who wants to improve your understanding of your pet then this is the book for you.
4. Tiger Wars: Joe Exotic vs. The Big Cat Queen By Al Cimino: If, like me, you were enthralled by the Tiger King TV series during the pandemic, then Tiger Wars is the ideal book for you. While not exactly all about big cats, the book delves into the war between two individuals who both claim to be conservationists in America, a country that owns more captive tigers than there are wild ones. The book explores not only this bizarre feud, but also the American obsession with owning big cats, and how the issues this causes.
3.Nala’s World By Dean Nicholson: Following viral social media fame, Dean Nicholson has written a book about his adventures cycling around the world with a cat who tags along. Originally found in Bosnia, Nala was just a kitten when she tried to keep up with the bike, and eventually she ended up joining Dean on his adventures. Dean hadn’t planned on having a feline travelling companion when he set off, so the book follows his journey as he travels the world by bike and learns more about Nala and cat behaviour in general.
2. Feline Philosophy: Cats and the Meaning of Life By John Gray: If you’re looking to learn more about cats and philosophy, and have a bit of a laugh at the same time, then Feline Philosophy is the book for you. John Gray presents a well-researched insight into how cats inserted themselves into our lives and what their presence means for humans.
1.The Lion in the Living Room: How House Cats Tamed Us and Took Over the World By Abigal Tucker: For cat lovers, this is the ultimate read. Abigal Tucker delves headlong into why we love cats, despite the fact that they’re not very good at catching mice and can cause issues with eco-systems. Her book is filled with anecdotes and interviews with cat breeders, cat show enthusiasts and others who provide valuable insight into why many people love cats so much.
