I TOLD YOU ALREADY!
The Ask Maya archives
page 10

Please note: Maya's opinions are not always those of the management!

Ask Maya for the 3rd week of November, 2002:

Dear and Respected Maya the Magnificent,
I have twin brother cats, Darryl and Darrell. Their mother and father were brother and sister. They are a joy in my life. But I know their parentage has adversely affected them. My question is: Why do enlightened animal beings like cats and dogs do this? By "this" I mean mate between siblings and close relatives like parents. In advance, Thank You. I appreciate your considered answers and look forward to reading them.
- Alana

Dear Alana,

Thank you for your greeting and your questions. I like getting questions. Fortunately, I have my Gretchen trained to drop everything and relay them to me, then type my answers quick as anything! She knows that a bored Maya is a cranky Maya. Nobody likes that.

Did I mention I gave her ear a really good cleaning last night? It was a bonding thing. I'm rather proud of that.

Anyway, interesting question. First off, I have to say that I find the entire act of mating and reproduction rather offensive and disgusting, although I see that it's necessary. I am so glad I am fixed and that was definitely one of my stipulations when I incarnated into this life! I didn't want any dumb males rubbing themselves on me (and no females, either) or that feeling of being powerless to resist because of your hormones. Blecch! I am a contained unit, a beauty unto myself and self-sufficient. Really, I am too complicated for most cats. That's why I had to choose humans sufficient to take care of me and groom me when I want to be groomed and otherwise GIVE ME SPACE!

Anyway, as far as brothers mating with sisters and so on, it makes perfect sense to me. I mean, they're there and convenient, they're friendly, and they probably have a good relationship. They're used to each other's smells. It's efficient, really. I think the human taboo on this is a little complicated and I'm not sure it works the same for cats. (And dogs will hump anything.) That said, I'm told that mating like this can cause kittens to be malformed or weird, or something.

Okay, so it's not the best thing to do in the world. And, in natural circumstances, if the cats could run free it would be less likely to happen, as the brothers and sisters might have different territories and meet more cats. So, it's partially humans' faults. BUT, think about this: there are a lot of dumb cats out there. Some of them are goofy because of genetics, and some of them are just goofy! Also, a few extra toes, although not to my taste, never hurt anyone.

I think there is a lesson here. First off, consider what humans do to the situation. Next, consider that even if animals are brain damaged or have weird bodies, they can be loved. I myself am deaf (so I'm told, although I've never really seen the big deal), but somebody loves me. Several somebodies. And I am fantastic. Now, maybe (I'm told, although I'm not sure I believe it) this would be a disadvantage if I were outside, and I might not survive. But, since I was destined to be with humans, it's no crimp in my style (except when they sneak up on me -- I hate that!!!). If these babies are meant to be, they will be taken care of and loved even if they are funny, and maybe someone will find them even more special because of it. It's a funny thing that some things that can be seen as ugly or bad by some beings can be accepted as cute or special by others. I think it teaches us something.

That said, when a cat is in heat, I don't think he or she gives much thought to "will my baby be born with two heads or not?" Those hormones make an itch that has to be scratched NOW and if that brother's the only one around, so be it. But I'm glad I'm not like that! I think that would make me a different cat... and not as proud. Plus, kittens are ungrateful, take it from me. They're useless... especially that Quan Yin.

Anyway, hope this helps. You're welcome... I'm glad you are admiring my wisdom.

- Ms. Maya The Cat

Ask Maya for the 2nd week of November, 2002:

Dear Maya,
Do people get contacted by animals they've spoken with before? Is there any chance that bonded animals who get separated remain in contact with each other? If a dog always knows where it's master is, seems like it's a possibility.
- Paula

Dear Paula,

Hello. If people listen, they can hear animals whenever they want to. They can tune into animals they haven't seen in a long time. Sometimes the animal doesn't want to talk to them, and sometimes it's distant, but it is possible.

Animals will see in general how the other is doing if they are apart. I had a brother and I don't have much to do with him, but I know he got a good home and did alright. Maurice doesn't talk to his old playmate, Max, because it makes him sad that he's so far away. But he could, if he wanted to (although Maurice is kind of dumb and overly dramatic, if you asked me). Animals tend to live more in the present and don't hold onto long-distance talking relationships the way people do, but it does happen and we don't forget each other. Sometimes I wish I could forget some of them! But anyway, the answer is, yes, it happens, although it's not all the time and it depends on how close the animals were and if something drastic happens.

Hope this helps you,

- Maya the Magnificent

Ask Maya for the 5th week of October/1st week of November, 2002:

Dear Maya,
Why do the barn cats that I take care for refuse to eat? They are in perfect health, up to date on their vaccinations yet they continue to get skinny. I have tried other food, but they dont seem to eat any of it.
- Raindrops Moment

Dear Raindrops Moment,

What a pretty name, I think. I like raindrops as long as I am not under them. Have you ever noticed that they make things smell good?

Maybe your barn cats want to fend for themselves. Maybe they are independent. Are they fixed? Non-fixed cats tend to get thinner than fixed ones. Maybe they are losing all their weight chasing a mouse.

BUT, if they look unhealthy, check it out. They could be sick or have gotten into some poison. I don't know what you're feeding them, but maybe they don't like it. Also, when it gets too hot, some cats don't like to eat. Especially if it's wet food and it gets all dried out and rotten. Maybe they don't like to share. Maybe they are in mourning. Did anybody die recently? Maybe they are busy.

Make sure their food and water is fresh, fresh, fresh. And crunchy nibbles wouldn't hurt, if the bugs don't get in them. And give them extra bowls in different places, I think. There.

Good luck with them and tell me how it goes,

- Maya The Cat

Ask Maya for the 4th week of October, 2002:

Dear Maya,
Do you know why Doozie, my mini schnauzer looks at me with squinty eyes and/or nods her head. What is she saying when she does this.
TIA Maya,
- Tere

Dear Tere,

Ha ha ha! Well, I don't know the dog, myself, but I think she's having one on on you. She's sort of saying 'right, yes,' but at the same time she thinks it's funny how you react. Or maybe she's too dumb to think that, and is just hearing what you say and nodding and then thinking 'why's mommy looking at me all funny when I do that?' Maybe she's got a secret. Heh, that's a funny dog act. Dogs aren't very sophisticated, but they can have a sense of humour, sometimes, I'll tell you that.

I'd say, take her to the vet and get her a shot and see if she stops doing it -- that will serve her right!

[Maya appears very self-satisfied, thinking it's funny maybe she's tricking you into thinking she's serious and you should have your dog punished.]

But seriously, if it's not a fast, shaky nodding -- like something's wrong with her eyes or her snout, she's probably just reacting to you. Have fun with it!

You're welcome,

- Maya The Cat

Ask Maya for the 3rd week of October, 2002:

Dear Maya,
I've been watching our cats a lot lately and wonder if it is common for cats to hunt in pairs or even 3s? We've got 3 cats - Gomez as well as Morticia and Baldrick, and they seem to be hunting together. Usually as a pair - Morticia and Baldrick go off together a lot, and Gomez and Morticia, being brother and sister, often go off together as well but I've even seen Gomez go off with Baldrick and the 3 off up the paths together as well. Is this normal behaviour? Well, OK, it is normal for my lot, obviously, and I wouldn't want to suggest I think they are abnormal! But I've only ever seen cats do this once before, when I used to get followed out to feed the horses by up to 6 or even 8 farm cats at once! But they weren't actually hunting together, just coming for a walk and then doing their own thing.

In the flat, the cats sleep separately but they do play together at times. One reason I say "even Gomez and Baldrick" is that Baldrick likes to play rough and Gomez doesn't so it turns into a fight normally :-) But they don't spend a lot of time together inside, which makes their behaviour outside seem unusual. I've heard of dogs hunting in packs but never cats. Not that they catch much but I wouldn't want to cast aspersions on their hunting abilities ;-)) "

Thanks Maya,
- Karon

Dear Karon,

Cats sometimes do that. Not me, but I've seen it. The other cats in our household will play together and stalk strings. Until they knock heads. Idiots.

Animals who are in close families will work together. This is not as often true of domestic cats, but it's not unknown. Some get very bonded. It's not as likely if they're not fixed and get past a certain age. Then they want their territory. But sometimes cats will go out hunting together, although it would be very rare to see a "pack" hunting behaviour. Usually, they'll go out and then split up and roam around and then get something themselves. They might meet up later to report. If they get a kill, it's usually a mouse or a bird or something -- too small to share! It's not like a lion with a pride or anything! Hah!

I prefer crunchy nibbles, myself. But mouse might sit right.

Best wishes to you, even Baldrick, who needs to take a little more care of himself,

- Maya

Ask Maya for the 2nd week of October, 2002:

Dear Maya,
Thank you for your compassionate answers! You are right that i don't "pull punches"-- a lot of people find it annoying, but I figure they can play with someone else! Also, I apologize for asking you a question you had already answered. Idon't like to have to repeat myself either so I really should have known better. I went and found your original advice about indoor marking (I had even saved it!) after you reminded me that this had already been addressed. I guess I just forgot because I was upset over having someone piss all over my scooter earlier this week.

I wonder: is it common for animals to have friends who are members of other species than their own (besides humans)? Do YOU have any friends who aren't humans or cats?

It was very interesting about the whales. I used to think they were trying to teach us to be compassionate -- like when Russians and Americans cooperated to save a whale together a few years ago. But now I think they are just dying because we have been polluting the oceans with garbage and chemicals and overwhelmingly noisy sonar. Maybe i'm just depressed.

Take care
- Jodi

Dear Jodi,

Hello, again. I like people who are direct. Who needs to be wishy- washy? I'm not. So you go ahead and say what you mean. And thanks for thanking me. It's important to get the right respect!

As far as having friends of other species, I don't have many "friends," per se, but I do communicate with a number of different types of animals in the spiritual realm. It's sort of like a net or glow that covers the Earth and beyond, and I tap into it and get all sorts of news and information. I also send out things I want to do and have meetings and stuff. It's something like your "Internet" but not as primitive! Ha. And all that "typing" with those "fingers"! When will you humans learn how to do things the easy way? [laughs]

Anyway, even though I am a very singular cat, there are animals of other species who hang out with one another. Really, all life forms are interdependant. But, as for friendships, that happens, too. I talk to humans all the time, and I did talk to the whales! Also, Mama G has some elephants she talks to whom I consult with, although they are miffed that she has not been paying enough attention to them lately. She really needs to learn how to focus! Maybe next time she will come back as a cat...

Now, I don't get being friends with dogs, but some cats do that. I've spoken to birds before, and we all get the news from them, although sometimes I want to eat them. I've heard tell of cats who like horses, but I don't get it [shudder]. I think the point is, it varies from being to being and cat to cat. Mostly I like to relate to things as a cat or in the spiritual realm, which is less focussed on forms. But other cats like difference and can stand other smells and body forms more than I do. I may not be the best being to ask about this, because it's not my path, but I don't see any reason why others wouldn't do it. Hey, it takes all kinds -- even if I don't always like it! As long as they stay away from me, they can pal around with whomever they want, I guess... For me, I like to really be into the body I'm in at the time and learn all about it and respect it... I don't want to be distracted by other species too much -- I chose this for a reason. But, to each his or her own... just not in my face! Heh!

Oh, and about the whales... yeah, it is kind of sad, but don't think it's all just one thing. Sometimes they do teach us lessons on purpose. Also, even if they don't die on purpose, sometimes that teaches us a lesson, too! Or teaches you humans, I should say. Well, it teaches me, too, but... well, forget about that -- we're talking about you. Keep thinking and feeling and DOING what you can about it and you will learn and feel better. The world needs more humans like you who think about it and try to take care of the Earth. Also, having the proper respect doesn't hurt! HA! You can ask me questions anytime. My best catness to you & I hope this helps,

- Maya The Cat

Ask Maya for the 5th week of September/1st week of October, 2002:
Please note: This question was originally asked and answered in early August.

Dear Maya,
Why do you think the whales are beaching themselves in Massachusetts? Is it in protest?
- Alana

Dear Alana,

Ooooh, good question! Okay, let me think about this.

Of course I can get in touch with the whales, because I'm spiritual like that. My mom G tries to do it, but she gets too upset about their "predicament" and how it's sad and she disconnects. So, I will have to try to get this answer through her without her shutting off to protect herself in fear for herself... I hope she listens/works it out!

Okay... the whales are beaching themselves. They are doing it to themselves but they are not entirely aware of it. Something has distracted them and is messing with their ability to navigate themselves. It is not a lesson they are teaching in terms of doing it on purpose. They say some have been chosen to do that sometimes but not now, not in this case. Some are very sick and they are having a hard time talking amongst themselves and being able to hear what each other has to say when they are in the pod-thing. (Whales of some kinds sometimes travel in pods, or group things. Some cats do this, but I don't, myself.) I get that it is an illness... it is very strange because it is not something that normally happens and may not be entirely natural. They are in pain now but they want you to know that, although they are confused, when they release their spirits from their bodies they are okay. They don't blame anyone... I just don't think that they've figured out what is going on and it is hard on them. Wow, this makes even me sad! I will be sending some good heart/love energy to them in their plight. I will help them speed out of their bodies to the sun and wateri-ness. And maybe the ones who are not yet all sick can find courage. We will see.

But! This is not happening to all whales. All whales are feeling it (what's happening to these ones) and thinking about it, but it is not an epidemic, yet. This is something we will all have to do a lot of thinking and feeling about and figuring out. I think there is a lesson to be learned here yet, and I have some ideas about it, but I'm not telling them. You have to figure it out for yourselves. But I am here with you, cheering/egging you on! Alright, so I am a little smug. But what is a spiritual leader who gives all the answers? And I can be a spiritual leader - I can! I can answer questions, or I can make you think about them. I have a talent. Maybe I'm not the best but I'm pretty damn good at it, I'll tell you that!

Anyway - whew, that was emotional. I will keep telling the whales you are concerned and feeling for them. I think they know but it is hard to get through to them just now. I hear them crying and it is sad. But everything happens for a reason. We all just have to figure it out for ourselves.

I need to curl up now. This has been intense. Thanks for your question,

- Maya the Cat

Ask Maya for the 4th week of September, 2002:

Dear Maya,
What are your views on death, dying & euthanasia?
Also, do you have any advice that might help people and animals who have a situation, usually a male who wasn't neutered early enough, who is peeing all over the house?
- Jodi

Dear Jodi,

I am ready for some questions, today - so let's go!

Wow, you don't pull any punches, do you? That (your first) question is a very serious one and I will be happy to answer it.

Death and dying are natural. We have to understand that. There are cats and beings right here - in my very home! - and in yours, too, that were alive in physical form once. Spirits move around and do all sorts of things. Once you are enlightened and in touch with the world, like I am, you will be able to see this and feel this clearly. They are nothing to be afraid of. Sometimes they are just visiting. Sometimes they have other things to do. I, myself, have had my spirit in other bodies in the past and will have more in the future. I have been a bird - a really tough one! I like being a cat. I also like being in touch with the outer world of spirits and seeing them like I can. I am very special and mystical like that. I'm better at it than the other cats in my house. Really!

[GK comments that some people may have different religious/spiritual beliefs about death.]

Oh, yes - I know all about that. Humans are funny that way - they have all sorts of different beliefs and they don't understand that they can all be right at the same time. Let's just say that there is a spiritual world out there and it's a good thing, alright? I could get into a theological discussion but that would take a long while. I don't see much difference between God and All There Is and I don't want to argue about it - it just makes people feel bad and goes against the peacefulness of what the spiritual realm is supposed to be all about. Not that there's not conflict, mind you, but that's another story!

ANYway, death and dying is nothing to be afraid of. In fact, I'd rather die when I'm fast and beautiful than get too old. Then I can move on to the next thing. Mom G argues with me about this and tells me they love me and I shouldn't be too vain, and sometimes I acquiesce, but whatever. I do love them, though.

As for euthanasia, I've heard about this. I'm not against it. As long as the animal thinks it's time, then it's time to go. In fact, I think it's nice that it can be done painlessly and quickly. People shouldn't feel guilty about it. I've never met an animal who said "I'm so mad that my people killed me too quickly!" Even if they could have lived longer, usually they get over it.

Of course, Mom G tells me that this can be a very hard decision for people and they can be afraid of losing the animal or hurting them. I understand that and I feel your sadness and send you comfort. But you never really lose someone. I hope that when it's my time to go and I'm telling them that they listen to me and don't draw it out! I still have a lot of usefulness and adventure to go, though. Just listen to your animals and they will show you. And if it's too hard, just ask someone else who's sympathetic. Sometimes they can hear what your animal friend is telling you, even when you're too emotional to get it.

Now, as for the peeing problem, I did answer a question about peeing once and you should go back to it. Why do I always have to repeat myself? Anyway, the problem with boys is, they're gross. Really. I mean, a lot of cats have problems, but I just can't stand it when a cat feels a need to pee all around the house all the time. I can understand it when it's outdoors and he's not fixed, but come on! And it's even worse when girls do it! That's just not necessary. I don't want any truck with it, and the cretins in my house do it all the time. Man, it just ticks me off. And mom G says I should be "understanding" of their needs and problems, but I'm understanding enough to live with them and not kill them, so what more do they want?

[GK tries to calm Maya down and Maya is a little apologetic.]

OK, sorry, I guess. Anyway, Mom G. can send you my old response and maybe that will help. In that case (the late-fixed boy problem) it's probably old habit and instinct and he may need some further training to not do it. Get him more litter boxes and reassure him about it. If that doesn't work, maybe he needs drugs - it did wonders for Maurice [our boy cat - GK]. Really! I say, drug 'em all, if they can't control it. I mean, a cat has gotta do what she wants to do, but I draw the line there. That's just uncivilized.

You're welcome,

- Maya the Cat

Ask Maya for the 3rdweek of September, 2002:

Dear Maya,
Why is it Baldrick, my nearly blind cat, can find his way up to the barn and yard where my horses are kept on his own - often before I've even got up - but seems incapable of finding his way *home* again? To the extent that I've been up there several times over the past 2 - 3 weeks late at night, to find him? (It's only a 2 - 3 minute walk but it's the 20 minutes spent calling him that takes the time up!)
- Karon and Baldrick

Dear Karon,

I like your name. I like the "on" feeling at the end. It's almost like "Maya". You're welcome.

Okay, my mom G. just explained what being blind is to me. Damn! I would not like that. I am very into my vision. I have superior vision and nobody sees things like I do. However, I'm told that I'm called "deaf," which means I can't "hear" things. Mom G says that this means that other creatures feel a vibration in their head differently than I do and it's another "sense" that warns them sometimes that things are coming. However, it can be annoying and startling and hard to block out, too. Anyway, I've never missed it and I find my extra-special vision terrific. I wouldn't ever want things to change, I can tell you that. I am perfect the way that I am. So, maybe your Baldrick feels that in a different way... that he doesn't need his eyes because he has great ears or smell. I will try to think of it that way.

Okay, so Baldrick gets out there but he won't come home. Have you ever considered that he doesn't WANT to come home? Maybe he's just fine out there, having fun, thank you. Have you ever seen what he's doing? A barn must be an exciting place. I would think you could explore and hide and stalk for hours. So, that's just one thing.

The other thing is, have you ever smelled a barn? Mom G. has sent barn smells to me and I know what it's like having too many cats in the litter box. I bet you it is easy for Baldrick to find the barn no problem, but once he's out there, his nose gets all smelled out and it's hard to go for the subtler things. Maybe he gets high on all the smells and energies out there. Or maybe he gets scared to pass the horses. Are the horses chained up? I mean, not that *I* would be afraid of the horses... although I don't need to try it, thank you. They are big, big animals. What if they were stupid and wouldn't listen when I told them what to do? Feh. [shivers]

Anyway, one last thought might be that he's tired. He spends the whole day doing what he wants to in the barn and he gets pooped. Maybe he wants you to come get him. Give him a break. Maybe he just wants you to do the walking and know you want him. Or maybe he's lazy. I don't know.

So, maybe you could put a trail of flowers or something else that smells on the path between the places. Or maybe you will just have to keep getting him. Ask him yourself. But I hope my suggestions opened your mind. Cats often have very good reasons for doing things. And if they don't, well, they're "people", too. It's up to you to decide what to do from there.

Best wishes to you and Baldrick... is he a stripey-cat?

- Maya the Wise

More "Ask Maya" archives on pages 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

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