Cats have a way of bringing out the playfulness in people. For me it started about nine years ago, when I created a little song for each of our cats. Each kitty in our household gets a personalized jingle-like song not long after getting a name.

Silly or not, these songs are close to their hearts since the cats get serenaded daily. Here are some examples:

Copper Kitty, Copper Kitty
My name is Copper Kitty. Who are you?

Calico, calico, calico cat
calico this and calico that ...

Wishbone, Wishbone
Make me a wish, catch me a fish
Give me a kiss ...

Okay, so I didn't promise you these lyrics would make a lot of sense. The cats don't mind! I'm not much of a singer either, but cats don't complain about my lack of talent.

When they hear their personal songs (most of which are sung to melodies from Broadway shows), they come running across the room to sit in my lap. All are single verses, but if I forget the words I just make up new ones as I go.

Different cats react to music in different ways. Some lick my hands. Others knead on my blouse or sweater. Most purr, so I guess my voice can't be that terrible. I'm pretty shy about the inadequacy of my singing voice, though I love to sing. Felines are an appreciative audience.

That is to say, I've never had one walk out on my performance. Dogs aren't so kind. They tend to howl in protest.

Kitties no longer with us still have their songs. It's a tribute to their memories to say/sing their names every day.

For me, it would be far more entertaining if a few of our cats would join in with some meows of their own, but so far this hasn't happened. I'm still performing solo. I'd be more than willing to share the stage.

Q: Do you sing to your cats?

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If you're new to this blog, you may enjoy these earlier postings:

Cat Prez

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