I recently booked a 30-minute session with a pet communicator to talk to my cat, Pong, about his inner life and struggles. The results were eye-opening, revealing a complex personality behind the affectionate feline I’ve grown accustomed to.
Pong’s past is marked by adversity, having been adopted from a Union Square Petco as a scrawny street cat in Harlem. He spent years on the streets, developing a tough exterior and taste for French fries and noodles. His asthma and anxiety were inherited from his mother – me.
The pet communicator helped us understand that Pong’s most annoying behaviors are just part of life with an animal who cannot speak English. We’ve learned to accept his quirks, such as loafing on our backs at 5 a.m. or yelling when he can’t find us in the house.
However, there were deeper issues at play. Pong struggles with insecurity and separation anxiety, particularly when we leave for trips. He misses me deeply and wants to reconnect. The communicator noted that this was an unexpected aspect of his personality, given his initial confidence and bravado.
We also discussed Pong’s lack of a hunting instinct and how he might not be the best at dealing with mice in our new home. I asked if he’d scare them away or eat them, and he replied that neither option would be ideal. He simply wants to chill and maybe they’ll get the hint.
Lastly, we talked about his mood swings, where he becomes affectionate and snuggly one moment and aggressive the next. The communicator suggested that when Pong feels emotional, he walks away, which is a valuable lesson for both of us.
The experience was eye-opening, revealing a cat with complex emotions and needs. I’m grateful to have gained a deeper understanding of my feline companion’s inner life, and I’ll strive to provide him with the care and attention he deserves.
Source: https://defector.com/an-interview-with-my-cat-about-his-most-annoying-behaviors