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Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Cat Did What?: 101 Amazing Stories of Magical Moments, Miracles and... Mischief
What has that cat done now? You’ll recognize your own cat in this entertaining collection of stories about affectionate cats, aloof cats, intuitive cats, wacky cats, and even bad, bad cats!
With a special emphasis on the benefits and joys of adopting abandoned and rescue cats, these loving stories will amaze you and put a smile on your face. Most of them will make you laugh out loud, some will make you tear up a little, and others will have you nodding your head in recognition, as you see your own cat in a new light.
Join Miranda Lambert and Chicken Soup for the Soul in supporting the American Humane Association by adding this book to your library or giving it as a gift to a fellow cat lover.
With a special emphasis on the benefits and joys of adopting abandoned and rescue cats, these loving stories will amaze you and put a smile on your face. Most of them will make you laugh out loud, some will make you tear up a little, and others will have you nodding your head in recognition, as you see your own cat in a new light.
Join Miranda Lambert and Chicken Soup for the Soul in supporting the American Humane Association by adding this book to your library or giving it as a gift to a fellow cat lover.
384 pages, Paperback
First published August 19, 2014
57 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
About the author
Amy Newmark
373 books178 followersAmy Newmark is the bestselling author, editor-in-chief, and publisher of the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series. Since 2008, she has published 191 new Chicken Soup for the Soul titles, most of them national bestsellers in the U.S. and Canada, more than doubling the number of Chicken Soup for the Soul titles in print today.
Amy is credited with revitalizing the Chicken Soup for the Soul brand, which has been a publishing industry phenomenon since the first book came out in 1993. By compiling inspirational and aspirational true stories curated from ordinary people who have had extraordinary experiences, Amy has kept the thirty-year-old Chicken Soup for the Soul brand fresh and relevant.
Follow Amy on Twitter @amynewmark. Listen to her free podcast, The Chicken Soup for the Soul Podcast, on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, the Podcasts app on iPhone, or by using your favorite podcast app on other devices.
Amy is credited with revitalizing the Chicken Soup for the Soul brand, which has been a publishing industry phenomenon since the first book came out in 1993. By compiling inspirational and aspirational true stories curated from ordinary people who have had extraordinary experiences, Amy has kept the thirty-year-old Chicken Soup for the Soul brand fresh and relevant.
Follow Amy on Twitter @amynewmark. Listen to her free podcast, The Chicken Soup for the Soul Podcast, on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, the Podcasts app on iPhone, or by using your favorite podcast app on other devices.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
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July 13, 2015Not a review. Contains my stories "All About the Balloon" and "Welcome to the Navy."
June 15, 2017
I always love these stories written by numerous authors. Fun and engaging and heart-felt.
April 25, 2017
Such sweet stories! I loved them all! 🐱
December 28, 2015
It's a lovely read. Hilarious and at the same time might bring a tear or two. Just glad and thanks to the person who gifted me such a wonderful book. I even read a story and two to my little cat Miley.
January 24, 2016
This is a very nice collection of cat stories. I read 1 or 2 stories a day in order to savor each story. Great feel good book!
June 14, 2017
A quick and easy read for cat lovers - and for a good cause.
November 28, 2014
An enjoyable mix of stories for cat lovers (including me )Something here to entertain most everyone
December 31, 2017
A sweet, mischievous and quirky collection of stories about cats (101 to be exact), but what would you expect from one of the best and most amazing animals on the planet (and if you don't agree, you most likely wouldn't buy the book, or bother to read my review)
My only issue with the book--and it isn't the fault of the book, but of the contributors--is how many of the stories are about outdoor cats and/or un-neutered cats. I absolutely adore cats, however, there are just too many in the world without enough homes--and too many humans that seem to take pleasure in torturing and/or killing them in horrific ways. Plus the additional dangers of natural predators, and cars and... the list could go on.
So, while I very much enjoyed reading the book, I only gave it a "like" because I wish there had been some disclaimer or something about the responsibilities of having your cat(s) neutered and the dangers that can befall your beloved pet in the outside world (as noted in several stories where their cat got out or were let out and never returned).
The Chicken Soup books also invite submissions of your own and give the information at the back of the book if you have a story of your own that you would like to share with the world, and get yourself published at the same time, if your story is accepted.
My only issue with the book--and it isn't the fault of the book, but of the contributors--is how many of the stories are about outdoor cats and/or un-neutered cats. I absolutely adore cats, however, there are just too many in the world without enough homes--and too many humans that seem to take pleasure in torturing and/or killing them in horrific ways. Plus the additional dangers of natural predators, and cars and... the list could go on.
So, while I very much enjoyed reading the book, I only gave it a "like" because I wish there had been some disclaimer or something about the responsibilities of having your cat(s) neutered and the dangers that can befall your beloved pet in the outside world (as noted in several stories where their cat got out or were let out and never returned).
The Chicken Soup books also invite submissions of your own and give the information at the back of the book if you have a story of your own that you would like to share with the world, and get yourself published at the same time, if your story is accepted.
February 25, 2017
Okay...I cried, I laughed, I got the "tinglies" while reading Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Cat Did What? by Amy Newmark. In my defense, just how could anyone not do so?
These are short stories and/or incidents about cat owners and non-owners that will make you think, why yes, so I'm not the only one that this has happened to! Although some stories are a bit heart breaking, keep on reading and let your heart fill with joy at the "craziness" of the "Cat Ladies." (and of course men and children too)
As the book says...One night at the dinner table my husband started to hiccup badly. Our son looked up in consternation. "Dad?" he asked. "Are you having a hairball?" Clearly, we're all a bit invested in our cats here. But please: keep the cat mugs and refrigerator magnets to yourself. Stop calling me a crazy old cat lady. Because I'm not Old. ~Liane Kupferberg Carter~
These are short stories and/or incidents about cat owners and non-owners that will make you think, why yes, so I'm not the only one that this has happened to! Although some stories are a bit heart breaking, keep on reading and let your heart fill with joy at the "craziness" of the "Cat Ladies." (and of course men and children too)
As the book says...One night at the dinner table my husband started to hiccup badly. Our son looked up in consternation. "Dad?" he asked. "Are you having a hairball?" Clearly, we're all a bit invested in our cats here. But please: keep the cat mugs and refrigerator magnets to yourself. Stop calling me a crazy old cat lady. Because I'm not Old. ~Liane Kupferberg Carter~
December 27, 2025
I definitely should have started this book back in January and just kept it in the bathroom like an Uncle John's Reader. The stories are like Reader's Digest humor sections (the old Humor In Uniform or Laughter Is The Best Medicine, etc), and are best read a few at a time, instead of all at once in the last few days of a reading challenge.
Rushing through them all at once has left me with the mental equivalent of the feeling one gets when eating an entire box of mixed chocolates in one sitting.
Rushing through them all at once has left me with the mental equivalent of the feeling one gets when eating an entire box of mixed chocolates in one sitting.
August 24, 2020
I used to love the Chicken Soup for the Soul books when I was younger, so when I was gifted this one for Christmas, I figured I'd actually give it a shot.
There's nothing wrong with this series. They are cute, easy reads. But an entire book of cat stories, most of which I thought were kinda entertaining at best, was just a bit much for me. Apparently I read 101 stories and writing this review a week later, I can only remember two or three, if that tells you how much it stuck with me.
There's nothing wrong with this series. They are cute, easy reads. But an entire book of cat stories, most of which I thought were kinda entertaining at best, was just a bit much for me. Apparently I read 101 stories and writing this review a week later, I can only remember two or three, if that tells you how much it stuck with me.
October 29, 2018
Cute and heartwarming tales of cats and their interactions with their owners. This book, like all the Chicken Soup books, contains a variety of short stories. Each of the stories contains a story about cats. To a person who is owned by a cat, none of these stories will surprise you. You will most likely find yourself nodding your head in agreement and saying "That brings back memories."
March 9, 2023
I loved reading all the stories about the adorable cats people have gotten to have or even just feed. I remember I got this book 4 years ago when my first cat died. These books helped me grieve in a way that was absolutely needed. I love cats and it's nice to read the stories of other cat lovers out there.
November 19, 2025
No surprise I love cats if you look at my profile photo. I like that these are true stories. Because each individual story is just a few pages, this book is perfect to pick up and treat oneself to an amusing furry ‘tale’ while enjoying a cup of tea.
January 23, 2018
Chicken Soup for the Soul books are always a heart warming read.
January 31, 2018
Always gives me laughs and makes me appreciate the cats/people that I have in my life. And remembering the cats that have passed away.
November 7, 2018
Great, short stories.
August 22, 2019
Real cute book of cat stories! I can relate.
September 12, 2020
A cute set of heartwarming stories about Cats
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November 12, 2020amazing
December 21, 2020
Sweet and moving. I love cats so the stories meant something to me.
January 3, 2021
I got this book for Christmas and instantly dove in. It is full of short stories all about cats and how they make our lives better, funnier, and sweeter. I loved reading the short stories.
January 1, 2022
some very lovely stories, but I have to give it a simple “liked it” as it was nothing too spectacular
June 23, 2022
A nice selection of funny and happy cat stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2023
Entertaining
May 23, 2024
Cute book for cat lovers.
July 12, 2019
The stories about cats in the book is very funny. I loved reading it to myself and my brother. I really want a cat!
December 26, 2016
EXCELLENT!
Really just a wonderful book. Of course I am a cat lover and feel compelled to say that. However I have read many cat related books some excellent some--not so good. Would definitely recommend.
Really just a wonderful book. Of course I am a cat lover and feel compelled to say that. However I have read many cat related books some excellent some--not so good. Would definitely recommend.
October 12, 2015
On my last holiday, I spotted this as well as the dog version in one of my favorite Dymocks, at the Rundle Mall. Urgh! I had spent quite a bit of money already, and had plans to visit IKEA for a new daybed, but I stretched the budget a little too far and ended up buying both, as well as a swag more books. It ended up being well worth the money, as I loved every second of this book!
Of course, anyone who follows my reviews knows I'm a cat lover specifically, as well as a general animal lover. I think most of my friends have me blocked on facebook because of my constant animal posts! It was delightful to share in the stories of others, who love their cats as much as I do. I will eventually move onto the dog version, but I had to read this one first, since the cats are closer to my heart. Shhh, don't tell the dogs sleeping so peacefully next to me on the lounge as I write this!
Basically the book is divided up into sections, and sometimes there is a reoccurring cat or author involved depending on the subject. Some of the stories are emotional, and yes, sometimes the cat involved dies. I add that because I know some people can't face stories where an animal passes. I feel you, I've only watched 'I am legend' once because of the end ;_;
All the stories are wonderfully written with just enough emotion and gravity to keep you reading on. Because they are short stories, you can either read them in one gulp or over a period of time too! Definitely five stars, keep watch for my dog review soon.
Of course, anyone who follows my reviews knows I'm a cat lover specifically, as well as a general animal lover. I think most of my friends have me blocked on facebook because of my constant animal posts! It was delightful to share in the stories of others, who love their cats as much as I do. I will eventually move onto the dog version, but I had to read this one first, since the cats are closer to my heart. Shhh, don't tell the dogs sleeping so peacefully next to me on the lounge as I write this!
Basically the book is divided up into sections, and sometimes there is a reoccurring cat or author involved depending on the subject. Some of the stories are emotional, and yes, sometimes the cat involved dies. I add that because I know some people can't face stories where an animal passes. I feel you, I've only watched 'I am legend' once because of the end ;_;
All the stories are wonderfully written with just enough emotion and gravity to keep you reading on. Because they are short stories, you can either read them in one gulp or over a period of time too! Definitely five stars, keep watch for my dog review soon.
March 12, 2015
Grab a box of tissues folks! This Chicken Soup for the SOul book is full of tear jerking stories. I loved the one about the two cats who led their aging doggy friend home, the one about the cat who heard an electrical issue and saved the home from fire, and the match making cat who put paw prints on a car that led to a dinner invitation. Those were just a few of my personal favorites but they were all amazing.
The quality of these stories is so high. Any cat lover needs this on their shelves. I had never had a cat until about a year ago. Then I ended up getting two. A senior cat who is filling my life with cuddles and sweet sounds and a kitten (now a grown cat) who ended up being a great garden helper (he keeps away the birds, moles, and anything else). My point is these stories will touch young and old, new cat lovers or experienced cat owners alike.
The quality of these stories is so high. Any cat lover needs this on their shelves. I had never had a cat until about a year ago. Then I ended up getting two. A senior cat who is filling my life with cuddles and sweet sounds and a kitten (now a grown cat) who ended up being a great garden helper (he keeps away the birds, moles, and anything else). My point is these stories will touch young and old, new cat lovers or experienced cat owners alike.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews