Cat: My Pet

Children's Literature - Debra Lampert-Rudman

My Pet Cat is part of a series of "My Pet" books by Weigl Publishers aimed at the 9- to 12-year-old reader interested in adding a cat to the family. Filled with dynamic photographs of a wide range of cat breeds; interesting chapters include "From Wild to Mild," "Feeding a Feline," "Purr-fect Grooming," "Fast and Furry" and "Pet Puzzlers". The "Pet Profiles" two-page spread features photos and descriptions of six cat breeds suitable for the young cat lover and include Sphinx, Domestic, Persian, Siamese, Scottish Fold and Ragdoll. "Life Cycle" discusses the cat's longevity and features photographs of a newborn kitten, 4-week-old, one-year-old and older cat. Answers to questions including "What Will a Cat Cost?," "What Do I have Time For?," and "How Will a Cat Affect My Family" are discussed in the "Picking Your Pet" chapter. The "8 Essential Parts of the Cat" are presented in graphic detail in the "Fast and Furry" chapter and include some interesting facts on cat anatomy and physiology. The book offers a colorful and graphically appealing overview of cat ownership that will be a good starting point for the child considering adding a cat to the family and may be used in introductory science classes. "More Information" and "Websites" chapters offer opportunities for further study and research and may require assistance. The "Words to Know" chapter includes a 16-word glossary and includes some unusual cat-related words including "mummified" and "retractable". Reviewer: Debra Lampert-Rudman