To the ancient Egyptians, they were gods. To the pet industry, they are big business. To 56 million Americans, they’re family. A & E’s Incredible World of Cats tells their fascinating story, from the domestication of wild cats to the celebrity felines of today. A & E’s Incredible World of Cats would be useful for classes on Culture, Biology, and Animal Sciences. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Part II

Part II takes a look at the impact of humans on a cat’s life—and the effect cats can have on human health. Animal psychology experts reveal what cats really need to be happy, and professional trainers reveal the basics of a cat’s natural personality and offer tips and tricks on how to train any cat.

• adorn
• aloof
• amino acids
• assuage
• convalescent
• dander
• immortalized
• menagerie
• paradox
• predators
• reclusive
• resilient
• revere
• svelte
• symbiotic
• syndrome

1. Why do people believe in the myth of cats having nine lives? What are the origins of this myth?

2. Some cats, like some people, are obese. How do cats get obese? What are some of the health problems caused by obesity?

3. Discuss some of the dangers faced by cats in the average household.

4. What is the role of modern technology in veterinary medicine?

5. Cats sometimes hide their illnesses from their owners. Why do they do this? How can this remind us that although domesticated, cats still retain their instincts from living in the wild?

6. Describe some of the health benefits human beings can derive from interaction with a cat or any other type of pet.

7. What is a symbiotic relationship? How can a relationship between a cat and a human be a symbiotic relationship? What other kinds of relationships are symbiotic?

8. Cats’ needs are few and basic, yet cat owners spend billions of dollars a year on cat paraphernalia. Why do humans spend such large sums of money on kitty supplies?

9. How have cats become a part of our popular culture?

1. Create a brochure for an exclusive cat hotel and spa.

2. Create a new cat character to become part of our popular culture. How would your character be a combination of the feline and the human?

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