The Cat

'Remarkable' New York Times ' No one is better than Simenon at showing how banal domestic conflict can lead to murderous catastrophe' Financial Times An acerbic tale of marital warfare and emotional estrangement, in a brilliant new translation In the oppressive silence of the sitting room, the woman finally smoothed out the paper and, without putting on her glasses, read the two words her husband had written: The cat. Amidst the din of their Parisian neighbourhood, Émile and Marguerite live in total silence. After a hasty marriage in their sixties, their uneasy peace was shattered when Émile’s beloved cat mysteriously disappeared and was later found dead. Branding his wife the culprit, Émile’s retaliation against Marguerite’s cherished parrot sparked a silent battle of wills. Now they live parallel lives, communicating only through spiteful notes, mocking glances and mute accusations. As their suspicion and resentment mount, this bitter game of psychological warfare becomes a twisted necessity, binding them together in a relentless cycle of torment from which there can only be one escape. First published in 1967, The Cat is a masterful exploration of marital discord, loneliness and the absurdity of human relationships, painting a vivid portrait of two souls trapped in quiet desperation.

'Remarkable' New York Times ' No one is better than Simenon at showing how banal domestic conflict can lead to murderous catastrophe' Financial Times An acerbic tale of marital warfare and emotional estrangement, in a brilliant new translation In the oppressive silence of the sitting room, the woman finally smoothed out the paper and, without putting on her glasses, read the two words her husband had written: The cat. Amidst the din of their Parisian neighbourhood, Émile and Marguerite live in total silence. After a hasty marriage in their sixties, their uneasy peace was shattered when Émile’s beloved cat mysteriously disappeared and was later found dead. Branding his wife the culprit, Émile’s retaliation against Marguerite’s cherished parrot sparked a silent battle of wills. Now they live parallel lives, communicating only through spiteful notes, mocking glances and mute accusations. As their suspicion and resentment mount, this bitter game of psychological warfare becomes a twisted necessity, binding them together in a relentless cycle of torment from which there can only be one escape. First published in 1967, The Cat is a masterful exploration of marital discord, loneliness and the absurdity of human relationships, painting a vivid portrait of two souls trapped in quiet desperation.

A comprehensive, richly illustrated introduction to the behavior and qualities of the cat Of all the domesticated species, cats have enjoyed the most complex relationship with people--one that still leads to arguments about whether you can truly call the cat asleep by your fire tame. The Cat is a comprehensive, richly illustrated exploration of the natural and cultural history of this much-loved pet. Chapters on Evolution & Development, Anatomy & Biology, Society & Behavior, and Cats & Humans take different angles on matters feline, offering rich information and insights about kitten development, the hierarchy of cats, how cats think, communication between cats and people, historic and extinct breeds, the challenges facing cats today and how we can help, and much, much more. The book also features a visually stunning photographic directory of more than forty popular breeds, with essential information about each. Filled with surprising facts, The Cat will enchant anyone with an interest in, or a love for, these animals. Provides a comprehensive, richly illustrated introduction to the natural and cultural history of the cat Offers an in-depth discussion of behavior, including social organization, communication, courtship, and learning Covers anatomy and physiology, including mobility, predation skills, and the genetics of coat colors Features clear and accessible text plus infographics, diagrams, and some 250 stunning color photographs Includes a beautiful photographic directory to more than forty breeds

A comprehensive, richly illustrated introduction to the behavior and qualities of the cat Of all the domesticated species, cats have enjoyed the most complex relationship with people--one that still leads to arguments about whether you can truly call the cat asleep by your fire tame. The Cat is a comprehensive, richly illustrated exploration of the natural and cultural history of this much-loved pet. Chapters on Evolution & Development, Anatomy & Biology, Society & Behavior, and Cats & Humans take different angles on matters feline, offering rich information and insights about kitten development, the hierarchy of cats, how cats think, communication between cats and people, historic and extinct breeds, the challenges facing cats today and how we can help, and much, much more. The book also features a visually stunning photographic directory of more than forty popular breeds, with essential information about each. Filled with surprising facts, The Cat will enchant anyone with an interest in, or a love for, these animals. Provides a comprehensive, richly illustrated introduction to the natural and cultural history of the cat Offers an in-depth discussion of behavior, including social organization, communication, courtship, and learning Covers anatomy and physiology, including mobility, predation skills, and the genetics of coat colors Features clear and accessible text plus infographics, diagrams, and some 250 stunning color photographs Includes a beautiful photographic directory to more than forty breeds

This book has been translated, adapted, and extended from a Norwegian bestseller. It provides a fascinating insight into all aspects of the behaviour of domestic cats. Its accessible and informative style means it is applicable to cat owners, students, biologists, veterinarians, animal nurses and technicians, and others working with cats or wanting to learn more about them. The depth of knowledge provided will enhance cat welfare. Learn about feline behaviour throughout a cat's lifespan, and our role in helping kittens develop into happy, well-balanced adult cats. Read about cat communication, their social interactions, free-roaming and hunting behaviour, and differences in personality types and breeds. Recognize behavioural problems and how to prevent or deal with them to enhance a cat's welfare based on insights into learning theory, emotions and motivations. Learn more about who cat owners are, why and how we keep cats, and how cats can benefit our own mental and physical health. See videos and beautiful colour photographs that complement the explanations in the text. By enriching our understanding of the emotional and behavioural needs of cats, their motivations for pleasure and relaxation, and what stresses them, the reader gains the essential information needed to promote the well-being of cats and their caretakers.

This book has been translated, adapted, and extended from a Norwegian bestseller. It provides a fascinating insight into all aspects of the behaviour of domestic cats. Its accessible and informative style means it is applicable to cat owners, students, biologists, veterinarians, animal nurses and technicians, and others working with cats or wanting to learn more about them. The depth of knowledge provided will enhance cat welfare. Learn about feline behaviour throughout a cat's lifespan, and our role in helping kittens develop into happy, well-balanced adult cats. Read about cat communication, their social interactions, free-roaming and hunting behaviour, and differences in personality types and breeds. Recognize behavioural problems and how to prevent or deal with them to enhance a cat's welfare based on insights into learning theory, emotions and motivations. Learn more about who cat owners are, why and how we keep cats, and how cats can benefit our own mental and physical health. See videos and beautiful colour photographs that complement the explanations in the text. By enriching our understanding of the emotional and behavioural needs of cats, their motivations for pleasure and relaxation, and what stresses them, the reader gains the essential information needed to promote the well-being of cats and their caretakers.