Cats with Hands

I've joked in the past, and far out of earshot of The Cat, that it would be pretty scary if cats had opposable thumbs. Like most pets of cats, I can envision being handed my pink slip, canopener wrenched from my shaking hands, shown the door.

"Just leave the VISA on the side table as you go out if you don't mind, luv, and please close the door. I'm a tad busy conquering this bit about hairbrushes," The Cat waves cheerfully as we slink out of sight, made redundant by the mad mix of feline and machine.

Turns out I wasn't too far off the mark, although I think sheer size and the fact that The Cat will have difficulty mastering a stick shift will save us from immediate extinction. I have, however, hidden the keys to all automatic transmission vehicles.

It's called Polydactyly, and it turns out not to be all that uncommon. In fact, certain breeds are prone toward it, like the Pixie Bob, for one. The Maine Coon has had the gene bred out of it intentionally. I could go on and on about this, but since The Cat is now peering over my shoulder and glaring, I'll instead refer you to a much more comprehensive article called Polydactyl Cats. So if you're interested, and your owner isn't watching too closely, you may find it a good and elucidating read.

Off to brush The Cat's fur and prepare her for a good night of racing around insanely and growling at shadows. My work here is done, at least until tomorrow.