Catwatching

In about 60 very short chapters, in question and answer form, Desmond Morris, explains the natural and adapted behavior of cats in terms that even dog-people can understand. Watching cats and trying to relate their behavior to basic science and bahavioral principles has been the famed zoologists passion since childhood; the breadth and depth of his understanding of animals is evident. This is not a 'cat care' book, it is merely a collection of random bit of information - but fascinating and informative nonetheless. Except for a couple of inappropriate and irrelevant remarks (as on page 11)he makes the cats behavior understandable, hopefully to the benefit of both the cats and we, whom they let live with them. [** because it is not an show more organized text, just a collection of Q & A.] show less

My 1992 edition has the subtitle 'And Catlore'

Where there are several theories about cat behaviour he mentions them all before Mr Morris gives his final appraisal. He has certainly demystified much of cat behaviour here, though I am not convinced about his assertion that cat does not attack once eye contact is maintained.

Not a big book, but a gem of a book filled with information you don't see elsewhere. Even I learned things from this book, despite having a zoology degree of my own, and having lived in close proximity to my cat for the last decade. This book will renew your appreciation of what wonderful creatures cats are, and you will probably find yourself watching them even more closely.

Catwatching by Desmond Morris (4 stars)
If you are a cat or animal lover, you will probably like this book. This was an oldie I had sitting on my shelf for several years and I am glad I finally got around to reading it. Filled with interesting information about cat behavior, explanations for why they do certain things and what different types of behavior represent from the study of animals. The author is a good observer of behavior and explains it in an interesting way to the reader. He’s written other books about dog and primate behavior, and even one about people watching. Older book, but still relevant.

Fascinating, well written, and convincing. My only complaint about this wonderful book about domestic cats is that it's so brief.

A pretty fun book for cat lovers. Read with Catlore by the same author.

Interesting and I learned a few new things. But I'll still never understand certain things our cats do. That's why I have them though, because they're so unpredictable.