23 May 2011

Autistic cats? Or feline people?

The more I learn about Autism, the more I'm convinced that all cats are autistic. (Or all people with autism are secretly cats.) The similarities are astounding. And if you're in the right mood, hilarious.

1) Cats and PwA (people with autism) both like affection. Sometimes. On their own time and schedule. Surprise hugs will usually result in tears. Yours.

2) Cats and PwA tend not to like vacuum cleaners. It's best to have them leave the room before turning one on. Surprising them by turning on the vacuum will usually result in their screams. And then tears. Yours.

3) Neither cats, nor PwA, appear to be listening to anything you say. Mention treats offhandedly, and you may discover that both hear quite well.

4) Both find doctors' visits traumatic. These usually end in tears. Yours.

5) Come between at a cat or PwA and his favourite toy at your own risk.

6) Just try to feed your cat or PwA something they don't like eating. I dare you. This will almost certainly end with your tears.

7) Transitioning your PwA or cat to a new activity requires planning and something new to distract them with. Forget this at your own peril. However, if you are prepared, they will either hate your new toy, or have absolutely no trouble transitioning at all, making you feel ridiculous for worrying.

8) Cats and PwA prefer to sleep when it is inconvenient for you. The middle of the night is a good time to play. Ignore them at your own peril.

9) Baths will either be appreciated as the best activity ever or considered torture worthy of UN protection. There is no in between.

10) Do not expect consistency. Just when you think you have them figured out, they will confound you again. Any statement starting with, "But I thought you..." will be secretly mocked.

Did I miss any?

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Lilo purrs when you rub her behind the ears ...

Luna said...

Purring, eh? That's a new one. I like it. :)