Diary of a Cat: True Confessions and Lifelong Observations of a Well-Adjusted House Cat

by Leigh W. Rutledge

If cats could talk, here's what they would say -- if they felt like it. Leigh Rutledge (acclaimed by everyone from "Dear Abby" to People magazine as the writer who best understands the feline perspective) presents a cat's very own diary that reveals the intimate secrets and private reflections of a neighborhood tom. Day by day through a full year, readers will discover just what a cat is thinking when it stares for hours at a speck on the wall; how it feels about a new kitten in the house; why sleeping -- preferably in a warn, sunny spot -- is such a vital activity; and just what can happen to an unattended Thanksgiving turkey. Along with these playful moments, readers will meet a delightful cast of human characters whose lives are touched by these sleek and special creatures. Diary of a Cat will charm and delight anyone who has ever been enchanted by a feline friend.

Genres: Cats, Fiction, Animals, Childrens

176 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1995

Reviews

[Robin Spillane · Rating 5 out of 5]

my husband has alzheimers and doesn't read anymore.I found a copy of a dairy of a cat" and read it aloud to him.we have both laughed nd enjoyed it so much that now i must try and get his other books about cats.we have a young cat and the observations the author has picked up on are so true to all cats and their owners.wonderful book for anyone who has or has had a cat.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written as the daily diary of an unnamed house cat, Diary of a Cat shows you the world through a feline perspective. Cat shares what he sees in his own neighborhood and not just the birds but what his human neighbors are up to as well. You will discover what Cat is thinking while he stays at a single speck on the wall, how it feels about a new kitten moving into his house and why sleeping is such a vital all-day activity.

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was easily my favorite book when I was maybe 8 or 9. I don't even know how many times I've read it. As if I would be so into cat diaries. Come on. But yeah, I'll admit this is still on my bookshelf in my room, hah.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great book for passing time, especially if you are a cat lover. It is literally presented as a year in the life of a cat, written from the perspective of a cat. A bit poignant in places, hilarious in others. I recommend it.

[Beverly J. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am so conflicted about this book. There were a few cute moments, which is what I thought I was getting with this sort of book. However, there were very strange, serious moments that were positively incongruous in a book of this nature.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice little light book for a break from serious reading about a cat living with a single elderly person. Things to ponder in this book for those of us facing retirement.

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very quick, cute, light read. Great for cat-lovers

[Marissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very cute story about a very eventful year in a cat's life. Not literary genius by any means, but a nice quick book to remind you of how much your pet means to you <3

[Meagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books of all time! You'll laugh, you'll cry. This book really makes you feel something for the characters, especially the cats. I cannot sing its praises enough!

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

So perfectly feline, this is one for cat lovers. And the story that is woven in is fantastic. It ended too soon. Or needs a sequel.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is so wholesome and cute. I do wish the ending was more clear. But it was written by a cat so I understand.

[alina · Rating 5 out of 5]

sleep.

[Rhonda · Rating 3 out of 5]

i like my animal stories light and cheery without the sadness that is all too real for so many critters in the world. this one had some really cute moments, no doubt, but there was also sadness and reality and a truly odd, macabare (albeit darkly humorous) moment that was unexpected ( though lauded by those of us who like animals more than most people we know), so i can only give it a 3. never fear - the ending was a good one.

[Amber Hatfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very cute, I have never read any animal books before and found myself laughing out loud during the witty dialogue coming from this cat. Definetly recommend it if you are a cat person.

[April Lyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I only read this book because my mom bought it for me and I didn't want to hurt her feelings. I pretty much just left it in the bathroom. Ha.

[Tami Montano · Rating 3 out of 5]

A humorous look into the mind and lives of the noble animal the cat. It was ingenious and light-hearted read.

[Mandi Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute, easy read with some good natured humor. Nothing brilliant, but it wasn't meant to be.

[Brandi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Calling all cat lovers... A fun, humorous and fast read about a year in the life of a cat. Totally adorable!

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet book that lets readers see life through the eyes of a cat. It's a quick read with some good insight into people. I loved it.

[Sandy Haramut · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a cat lover so reading this book reminded me of my cat Augie. It was a joy to read.

[Efrat · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorites!

[Miraimaniar · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is simply beautiful. A totally relatable story for cat owners. The conflict and the ending are really touching that I cried a bucket.

[Robin Mandell · Rating 2 out of 5]

Round up to 2.5 stars.

[Julie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quick, light read but kind of pointless. Not that funny or interesting.

[Blueglass · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute book written from the perspective of a house cat who also had outdoor adventures. I much preferred the goings on at home as two new cats joined the unnamed narrator over the course of a year. I did not care so much about what was going on with the neighbors, except the “cat lady” who collected any stray cats that happened to cross her path. It was especially funny when the three cats "helped" Mrs. V decorate for Christmas. One ate the wrapping paper, one stole a long red ribbon, and one got tangled up in tape. Any person who lives with cats knows that these things happen! Very easy read.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the point of view narrative on this book. The only thing I did not like was that there were other cats living with the main character and we never get to see a photo of them. It was great that the author drew a map on the end pages so you could know where all the neighbors' houses were that the cat frequents.

[Ann E · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun quick, fun read for any cat lover. Written by some one who understands cats. There is a weird happening at the end that seems to detract from the whole story. But overall a delightful little book. Something to keep by your bed for a quick read.

[Jan Z · Rating 4 out of 5]

The kitten in the the turkey was delightful. Parts were poignant. There were also parts that were also dark and twisted.

[Gail Kennon · Rating 3 out of 5]

it was sweet and touching....and fun to read.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cat's point of view of life for an emotional week for him.
Love love love it!