I TOLD YOU ALREADY!
The Ask Maya archives
page 3

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

Ask Maya for the 4th week of September, 2003
Ask Maya for the 3rd week of September, 2003
Ask Maya for the 1st week of September, 2003
Ask Maya for the 2nd week of September, 2003
Ask Maya for the 4th week of August, 2003
Ask Maya for the 3rd week of August, 2003
Ask Maya for the 2nd week of August, 2003
Ask Maya for the 1st week of August, 2003
Ask Maya for the 5th week of July, 2003
Ask Maya for the 4th week of July, 2003

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

Ask Maya for the 4th week of August, 2003:

Hi, Maya.

-- i'm just suddenly seized with curiousity about why so many cats have white fur on their undersides (belly, toes, chin) when they are mostly another color. what is the evolutionary advantage of that? i thought you would be an expert on white cat issues, even if it's kind of a silly question. but seriously, maybe i've jsut seen a skewed sample, but i never saw a white cat with black toes and belly, for example. and i've seen lots of cats with white boots.

also, can you talk about how to help cats who get carsick? max doesn't seem to have this problem, but most cats i've known just hate being in the car, and suffer greatly when it becomes necessary to do it anyway.

we're getting an air conditioner today, btw. maybe i'll think of more questions for you once my brains are finally able to cool off....

- jodi

Hi, Jodi.

Good questions. Momma G actually knows the answer to the first one, which is camouflauge. See, animals that have the light blocks on their bellies are harder to see in the wild, because the colour patterns break up their outlines. Something to do with the way the light works makes it better to have a while bottom part if you don't want to be seen against wooded or grass backgrounds, etc. I, however, very much enjoy being all white. I am a beeeea-yooooo-tiful kitty! I see no reason to be many colours if you're going to be inside all the time. So, that was my choice. I go for the glamour. Heh.

As for car-sickness, that's a tough one, as I've never been carsick, myself. Heck, I wish they'd take me on more car trips! Trips in the car, trips on the subway, trips for a walk - whatever! I do not mind being in my carrier, as long as I don't have to go to the vet. They could take me anywhere! I am very curious, and get bored easily. Plus, it would get me away from the other cats. They are boring and take up too much space. C'mon, Moms, take me on some adventures!

Anyway, I've heard there are some medications and stuff you can give creatures to help with car sickness, but I don't know about that. [Note from GK: I've heard ginger can help, and that cats can take this, as well as humans.] The truth is, riding in a car is not a natural motion, and being confined can exacerbate feeling gross and panicked for some cats. Fresh air might help them - I know it helps my Mom - so keep your window open. Make sure they can see out. I guess what you need to figure is, are they really carsick, or just freaked out by being in the car? Momma G says she once had a cat who would only stay well and calm down if she could lay down in the passenger side by someone's feet, not in a carrier. I don't know much about herbs and treatments and whatnot, but I will tell you this: a little catnip never hurt anybody. Maybe if you got you cat high first, they wouldn't notice the travelling! Ha ha ha HA! Hee...

Well, that's it. Hope it helped. And happy AC! You're gonna need it. I know I do.

Blessings and all that,

- Maya, Not Carsick... More Like CATsick... As In Sick Of Other Cats - Get It?

Ask Maya for the 3rd week of August, 2003:

Greetings Maya,

First, I would like to say how much I enjoy your posts. You give a great deal of great information.

I would like to ask you about the Cat People. I will give you some of the information I have read about them. The cat people look human, but more pointed ears and their finger nails are like cat claws as is their toenails. More feline human face features too. But they are such a higher spiritual race that lives here still. The Souix and Blackfoot Nations have welcomed them often to their sacred Sun Dance. The cat people are part of the last colonies of Baast, the Cat Goddess of Egypt. Do you agree with this information? Can you give us some history of the cat people?

Thank you for any information you could give us on this subject.

In Kinship,

- Linda

Dear Linda,

Thank you for your question. First of all, I have to say that this should be fun, because as soon as we got this question, my Momma G said "Oh, NO!" She has trouble dealing with ideas about aliens and inter-dimensional beings and nature spirits and stuff, sometimes. She has a little saying about this; when she encounters a subject that seems a little too woo-woo or far or spiritual for her to deal with at the moment (i.e. too out of her "normal" frame of reference), she will say "Oh no -- not the Pleiadians!" and duck and cover. I think she is goofy. Anyway, she did this when she got this question, and we laughed about it (and I rolled my eyes at her), but I will answer your question.

The short answer is yes. What you are talking about is an interpretation of a set of energies or spirits. Domesticated cats and humans have always been very close and have generally shared many lives together. Most often, if you take care of us, we will work on the possibly disruptive energies that may enter you or your home. Because of this bond, we tend to do a lot of shape-shifting between us. [Oh, NO!!! - GK] I don't mean like "I Was A Teenage Werewolf," Mom (although that's another story, and it is possible, in the terms of inter-dimensional travel or parallel lifetimes shared by one oversoul/spirit). I meant that our energies may blend very much and very nicely, especially if we are in a strong empathetic bond where we are doing mental "shape-shifting" (that is, a human is completely and thoroughly imagining she is a cat and putting herself "in the cat's shoes", so to speak).

Now, if we can mingle our energies and our spirits so thoroughly, and some energies are basically the manifestation of different aspects of the same oversoul spirit (think of when you meet another person or animal that you feel is your "soulmate"... they may actually be another aspect of your same oversoul incorporated into another physical form/being), then is it any wonder that we could get "hybrid" energies or beings including aspects of both humans and cats (because, after all, we're All One to begin with, right)?

Now, here's where things get tricky. Are there Cat People? Short answer: yes. Have they interacted with Native American tribes? Short answer: yes. BUT, I caution you not to limit yourself to one history of them, or even one interpretation of what the Cat People are. Some humans talk of felinoid beings who come from other planets, and this is also true! Let me see if I can explain: if you can imagine it, and if it can be carried out in your mythology, it is true. That is, the power of thought creates an aspect of being, or "reality", in some dimension, but also, because your imagination is a part of the All There Is that is One, it also holds Truth. That is, there is nothing you can imagine, and thus create, that is not a part of What Is. Do you get it?

Now, you may ask me, that's all very well and good, philosophically speaking, but 1.) if that is true, then are horrifying myths of evil beings true, too and 2.) where am I gonna physically find some of these Cat People and talk to them, anyway?

Well, 1.) Yes, they are, in a way. As I said, anything you imagine, you can create. Fear distorts a lot of things. It is not so much that there are independent evil beings out there (demons, aliens, blah blah blah, etc.), as there are distortions of the One energy made by Fear that block the enrgy of Love. Make no mistake, these can be very powerful. But if you can imagine them as real, you can imagine them as unreal, too.

2.) Simply do a journey. Gather up the myths and information you know about Cat People, figure out what appropriate ritual will work for you, and call upon them. You may even want to join up with some Native American groups who do so, if they will let you try it with them. The important parts are open-ness, and belief. If you are open to seeing Cat People and interacting them, you can, just like if you are open to interacting with faeries, or poltergeists, or pomeranians, for that matter, you can. Things are as real for you as you want or can allow them to be. And, if the particular energies you are connecting with have a whole history of other people believing in them and connecting with them behind them, they will only be that much stronger and easier to contact, you see? (Note to Mom G: If it makes you feel better and is easier for you to deal with, imagine these Cat People as just another type of Power Animal or Totem -- an aspect of spirits or energies that manifests as a cross between a cat and a human. Or... not, if that doesn't help you. Hee!)

Personally, I see cats and humans as very similar, to begin with. I wouldn't spend so much of my time around humans if I didn't find a lot in common with them, as well as a lot about them that fascinates and entertains me, to go along with it. I am a cat who is practically human (only better -- hee hee hee!) and my Moms are humans who are practically cats (except for a few flaws -- heh!). I wouldn't put it past any of us to become Cat People at some point, or to have been some.

Anyway, that's my take on it, which you will probably agree, as most often do and should, is right. Now, I can't tell you too many specifics about the history of the particular type of Cat People you seem to have in mind. Personally, I like to think of the Cat People on other planets, as I like to think about journeying through space. But, it's all just aspects of inter-dimensional spirit journeying. I think you will see what I mean. And again, if you learn about the history/mythology of the Cat People you are interested in from the Sioux and other people who have long worked with their particular energies, you will probably be able to get a clearer picture through them.

Well, I hope that helps. I think my Mom G feels kind of "spacey", now. Don't worry, Mom G, no-one has to believe in anything I say, if they don't want to, or even agree! Besides, everyone already thinks you're crazy, anyway! (Hee hee hee!)

Thanks again for the interesting question, Linda, and as some humans so succinctly put it, Namaste,

- Maya the Meditational Guru-Spirit-Cat

Ask Maya for the 2nd week of August, 2003:

Dear Maya,

I've got one... How do you tend to feel towards people who baby-talk at you or cats in general? You know the ones I mean, the "oooohhhh who's a itty-bitty pretty kitty? Is YOU a pretty kitty? Yes you is!" etc. Though I know you at least (thankfully) don't have to hear the delightful vocal squealing that goes along with it, does the behavior in general particularly annoy you? Always wondered how those on the recieving end of such babble felt.

Stay cool,

- Molly aka "Piper"

Dear Piper,

What a very good question. First of all, you are right that I don't have to put up with that. Being deaf has it's advantages, you know! The other thing is, almost no-one would speak to me that way on a regular basis, because I Command Respect. Kind of like what I told Jennifer about the Glower. People don't generally think of me as cutesy, baby-ish and tiny. Having claws and a good Glower has advantages, too, don't you know! Ha!

Now then, this is not to say that I don't enjoy a little snuggling now and then, or some sweet talk (which I don't hear, but rather "feel", if you see what I mean). The keys here, and I think you know where I'm going, are intent, the relationship between the person and me, and my own personality. Some cats like baby-talk all the time. Maurice does not mind it as much. As long as you are petting him and throwing love at him (slut-hog), he will enjoy it. As long as your intent is love, love, love, you could be calling him an ugly sack of sh**-for-brains, and he'd rub on you. Of course, it's hard to call someone that with good intent, but you get what I'm saying. Feh. He just wears me out. Or, what's that saying, Mom? Chaps my hide. That's a good one.

Anyway, so if your intent is good, that can go a long way, and then you factor in the personality of the animal, like Maurice's vs. mine. Now, the last factor is your relationship with the cat. I only like to get really lovey-dovey with a select circle. In fact, it's really just my two Moms and me. I can accept them being babying to me sometimes, because, let's face it, we all like to be babied by the right people (or other animals) some of the time. BUT, I have to be in the mood for it. Just like most people, I don't want babying from just anybody (who do you think you are?), I want it to be done with an underlying respect, and I don't want it just any old time. Makes sense? Yes.

Other animals may like to be treated like children. Or they may just be used to it, as how they receive love from humans. I mean, think about it, haven't you met some humans like that, too? People who never grow up and like to be taken care of all the time? There's nothing wrong with wanting to be taken care of, and some beings really get used to it. I, however, like a little independence, thank you very much, and for it to be acknowledged that I can think on my own. I still get my needs fulfilled, most of the time, even if I am not cooing and slavering all over my people, or letting them dress me in bonnets. Of course, I am Magnificent, and have great people. Not everyone is so lucky (or smart)!

Besides, I don't think it's so bad. At least the people are expressing affection for their animal friends, although I'd like to think they sometimes view them as equals. The fact is, we domestic animals have had to be "cute" and "baby-ish" for many years just to get our needs taken care of, you know what I mean? It's a living. I mean, not many people would feed us and take us into their homes if we looked like... I dunno, big termites. Plus, we give you something you need, which is a soft, furry (or feathery, as the case may be) body to cuddle, and a patient set of ears to coo at if you want to throw your affection around. Hey, humans don't seem to be able to express love as much as they should and is good for them. Domestic animals do you a service in that way, don't you think? And then we get love (and caretaking) and give it in return. A mutually beneficial relationship.

But I still don't want anybody just babying ME. Although you may compliment me, if you like.

Hope that helps, and thank you for the cool wishes. Momma G, did you know Momma M just turned off the air conditioner? The nerve! What is she THINKING?

Your friend,

- Maya The Magnificent and Well-Respected

Ask Maya for the 1st week of August, 2003:

Dear Maya,

What is your advice for dealing with difficult people and being more tolerant of "stupidity" (at the risk of sounding offensive)? Any tips are appreciated, as this is something I struggle with on a daily basis. :)

Yours truly,

- Jennifer

Dear Jennifer,

Hello. I'm sorry, I was sleeping. Unlike Maurice, who is afraid of lightning (we are having a storm here). Silly Maurice!

[GK explains about thunder, which Maya can't hear, since she is deaf.]

Really? Huh. Well, I feel the rumbling, and I'm not afraid. I still think Maurice is silly, and rather stupid, but whatever.

And that brings us to the topic of our question! Hee! Which is a very good one. One advantage of being a cat is, you can often walk away from stupid, annoying people. That is not always the case, however, if, say it's the person who takes care of you who's stupid [pause for effect... laugh at Mom!] or if you are trapped with say, roommates not of your own choosing who annoy you, as is the case with the other cats in my house.

Now, another thing about being a cat is that if someone annoys you, you can just swipe at them. Of course, you might get swiped back, but that's your call. Another way cats handle annoyance is to pee on things. A lot of cats do that, and the ones around here do it a lot, if you asked me. Personally, I think it's rather uncouth. But then, SOME cats are more picky about their litter than I am. Whatever (again).

Okay, but you want some more practical advice on how to deal with difficult people in your situation, as a human, who probably can't or doesn't want to go around smacking people who annoy you. Most often, I like to walk away. This is an easy solution. But, say you can't walk away. I find two methods very effective: the Ignoring and the Glower. The ignoring is straight-up pretending they don't exist, and it usually makes THEM give up and go away. The Glower is more threatening. Don't say anything, just Glower. Even if they say "what?", just Glower like it proves that they are even more stupid than you expected if they can't figure out why you are Glowering. Hee hee hee! I love that one.

Of course, that one often has to be backed up by the swiping/smacking, to be really effective, especially if you are smaller than the other party. So, let's try something else...

OK, here's one method I don't use much, but seeing as I get the feeling you're not going to apply my usual means (human morés are so complex and fascinating... and silly!), see if this helps. Sometimes, when someone is being difficult or annoying, I just Think Of Something Else. It's kind of like how human children go "La La La", only in your head. It can be very Zen. Envision static, or a distant horizon. Breathe innnn... oouuuuut. Don't let them get to you. After all, what significance does their difficulty have in your life? Nothing, if you don't let it. So, be meditative, and Think Of Something Else. Like a peaceful setting... or imagine making faces at them in your head!

Okay, say you want to be more "progressive". I've got an answer for that. Just keep remembering that this person is being difficult because they are a faulty, fragile being, too, with their own problems. Maybe they are insecure, or their parents weren't nice to them. Maybe they have little social experience or education (like SOME cats I know). Try to just live and let live. Really try to understand what they are conveying to you and why they might be doing it. You don't have to condone it, or try to change them, except to enforce your own boundaries (such as, "no drooling on my favourite pillow", or "no deragatory comments about white cats", etc.). Sometimes just changing how YOU think about them that way can make you actually feel more sympathetic and nicer towards them, and then make things smoother in the way you get along, and how THEY treat YOU. Maybe. Of coure, I'm still a big fan of the occasional swipe!

Well, I hope that helps. I don't know the details of your situation, but I think that covered eveything. A good Glower is always nice. Fiddle around and see what works for you. I wish you luck, and please report back!

Go get 'em, and remember to respect yourself!

Your friend,

- Maya the Glare-inator! (Ha!)

Ask Maya for the 5th week of July, 2003:

Dear Maya,

Do you really think this is a special time of change on the earth? A lot of different sources say we're undergoing a major vibratory transmutation and I just wondered your take on that. I guess I've become a bit of a skeptic in the sense that Ii think there is always something going on that could be deemed special by those who are participating. Tto me, life feels significant or ordinary depending on my mood but I understand that a lot of folks are saying this is something much bigger than that, and not just because we happen to be involved with it ourselves.

Ambivalent about most things at the moment, but unequivocally hoping you are well,

- Jodi

Uurrrgh...arrrgh... passed out... asleep in heat... who wakes me? Why won't my mothers... turn on the air conditioner... uuurrrarrrrghhh-meow!

Oh, okay. Hi, Jodi. Let's see. I think I can follow your thoughts (brain... baking in heat). I'm glad you asked me, though. Purrrr. I haven't been getting enough questions, of late (MOM!).

You are right in that all beings think their particular time of life (or being in that one incarnation) is very special. Isn't that funny? It makes me laugh. But, in a way, they are right. Every being, every moment, every thing IS special. We are all one, and part of a vast continuum, but we are also unique, as is each moment of experience. For example, I am not like any other cat EVER - I am uniquely me. And yet, I am the same as every cat, heck, every being or part or energy in this universe, because we all come from The One, the All There Is. You understand? So, my experience is unique in that it is an individual part of the experiences and lessons that The One designs for itself, but it is also all part of The One. (Play mystical sitar music here - Hah!)

So, in that context, this particular part in "time," as you humans see it, is unlike any other, and yet the same. I would also like to point out that the concept of "time," in the grand scheme of things, is rather limited. There is only the Universal Now, but also "reality" for each of us is a combination of what we perceive/believe in and what we've agreed to set as "reality" with other beings. But, so as not to confuse things, I will try to keep my answer within the frame of how I understand you mean your question, that is, your human perception of "time."

OK, so let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Are changes happening? Yes! Changes are happening all the time! Are the particularly significant? Yes! Changes are always significant. Are we going through a special time of "transmutation"? Well, let me put it this way. You're talking to a CAT, right? I mean, how long has it been in Western culture that people thought it was hooey to talk to cats? (Cretins.) Also, think about how many changes you humans and the Earth are going through: some seemingly "good", like cures for diseases, some seemingly "bad", like pollution (good and bad is relative and all apart of the Eternal Learning and Unfolding and Growth, of course). Things are going really fast! Now think about this: you humans are figuring out all kinds of new ways to communicate faster and faster. Communication is very important in understanding fellow beings and being able to work together to improve life. Here you are, working away at making faster and better Internet connections and cell-phones, and what is it all about? The same thing as telepathic communication! A bunch of us animals truly believe that you-all are on the verge of coming full circle and coming back to interspecies telepathic communication this way. Eventually, people will realize that their little machines, while impressive, only go so far, and they will begin delving more and more into using the mind and energies to do these things. Don't forget, advances in your science are showing people - even the ones that do not want to believe in Higher Consciousness - that even tiny particles are affected by being observed, and that the organization of the Universe requires Intelligence. You all had to go your own way with studying these things hands-on the way you did rather than just believing it, but that's okay! Everything is for a reason, and we (a lot of us animals) believe this is a good thing. After all, there are always a few "doubting Thomases" out there, aren't they? When they are finally convinced, they are really convinced, if you know what I mean! Plus, there's nothing wrong with exploring and thinking they way you do... we think it's kind of cute, really. [indulgent kitty smile].

So, more people, in one way or another, are learning to believe in the All There Is energy and to care about the Earth and everything/everyone else. But, you are not at "critical mass," yet. Heck, there are people out there who are scared all the time, afraid they won't even get the latest trendy doo-dad, or may not even survive due to being on the "low end of the totem pole" in your human society. I have mentioned before that fear is a great blinder to Knowledge and Believing and Love. You all have to help each other, and every living being, to get over this fear. You are making great strides! And the Earth and Universe is really getting ready for you! But there's still some work to be done. We will help you, as will Other Energies. That's all I can say right now, but believe me, great things are brewing. Never forget to look for the miracles in every-day life!

Oh, one more hint: you can even be There in the Illumination NOW if you want to be. Especially if you are Here in the Now and yet Illuminated and Illuminating. (Ha ha HA! How's that for a bit of Zen philosophy for you? Hee!)

Well, I hope that answered your question, Jodi. I know you are rarely satisfied (heck, I can sympathize!), so let me know if you have more to ask. I like leaving a little to wonder and think about, though! Hee. And I don't know it all, anyway. Even though we really all do know it all inside, on one level. But that's another story.

Blessings and salutations, remember to keep Max and yourself cool!

- Maya The Cat, Purveyor of The Knowledge of The Universe

Ask Maya for the 4th week of July, 2003:

Dear Maya,

Why do you like it when we blow in your face sometimes, and why do you like wind so much?

Love,

- Marci (your other mom)

Dear Mom,

I love you! You are asking me a question! What fun!

Wind, wind, wind! Well, wind has a lot of things going for it! All the SMELLS, for one. Do you know that you can get all kinds of news about what's going on in the world, just based on the smells on the wind? You humans don't know it as well, because you do not have good sniffers. Also, you tend to block out a lot of smells and not really concentrate on them. More's the pity, because they can tell you a lot. For example, I can tell what weather's coming, what food and creatures are near, what "time" of day it is, all by the smells. I can tell who has been where when and what they did, within a few days or so. And a lot of this gets bourne on the wind. So, when I sniff the wind, not only do I get a lot of information, but I also get a lot of just cool and interesting sensory input. It's entertaining, as well as informative, you see?

Now, there's the feel of it. It feels good. You notice what lovely fur I have? And how much of it there is? Heh heh heh! Of course you do (that's something of an inside joke I will explain for my readers. I shed a LOT. You have to, to keep up a lovely coat like mine.) Being white means I have to have a lot of fur to maintain. You wouldn't want me to look bald, would you? Besides, that just means you can brush me more! Mee-ROW! But anyway, all that wind feels good on my fur and whiskers. It lifts and separates the fur, and ripples, stimulating my skin, and taking away stray shredded bits. It stimulates my whiskers, making my face all nice and tingly. Ahhhh! And it's a little bit of the outside coming in, when I'm in the window.

Now, artificial wind, like from the air conditioner, is nice, too, because it does similar things and helps me maintain my temperature. It doesn't have the natural smells as much as window wind does - although it has some, and some interesting of its own - but it has the advantage of being colder. Window wind cools me somewhat, particularly around my ears and paws, but since we cats don't sweat like you humans do (except on our paws, which is why I like to expose them in the window), the cooler AC air is nice on us, especially if we happen to be particularly plush, like myself.

Now, why do I like it when you blow on me? It's fun! It stimulates my whiskers like wind, but REALLY FAST because it is so strong! It gets me all twitchy in the face and I've just gotta SNAP at it. It's almost like an electrical stimulation, or if a bunch of little bugs were flying in your face, but in a good way. Does that make sense? It TINGLES on my fur. And also, it smells like you, and what you last ate, and it's an intimate interaction. Hey, we all get breathed on by our mommies. When we cats are young, our mommies lick us on the face to groom us and clean up goop and stuff, and they breathe on us, too. When you blow on me, it kind of reminds me of that, and I am so close to you, and love you so much, it's fun! Don't you like it, too? I think you do! It makes you laugh, and it makes me happy inside. Hee!

Of course, sometimes I am not in the mood, but we've already covered that one.

So, that's the story. Especially fun would be if you would eat something nice or interesting smelling before you blow on me. Like crunchy nibbles! Hah! But seriously, I love smelling all the different things you humans put in your mouths and on your skin and hair and stuff. So diverse! You guys are just a… a… what's the word, Momma G? [Plethora? Cornucopia? - GK] Yeah, something like that. I was gonna say "pocket," but that's not the concept I was looking for (you humans and your spoken language!) You're a cornucopia of different smells. And while we cats are more discerning than, say, dogs, about what smells good to us or not, most of all we like different smells because they are interesting. We don't judge them quite so much as humans, especially as to us they are more layered and subtle.

Well, I hope that helps. That was fun, Mom! I hope you ask me more questions again. I love you! Purrrrr… (and tongue sticking out),

- Maya

Ask Maya for the 4th week of September, 2003:

Dear Maya,

This Seeker the Moose, (actually I'm a Doberman but they call me Da Moose anyway).

I would like to know why humans are so serious about food guarding and hording...and how to stop it . You would think gramma's english muffin with jelly was made of pure GOLD! Then to top it off, they say "DROP IT!" and then when I do, they THROW IT IN THE TRASH!!! (I have certainly stopped dropping stuff!)

Why do they do this?

I have resorted to lying in some cases..."But there was a big BUG in that sandwich!" or "I was just making sure it was safe for you to eat." They don't believe me of course.

Thank you in advance for your help.

- Seeker Da Moose

Dear Seeker,

I don't have this problem, myself, as I only really limit myself to crunchy nibbles. I don't understand what all the fuss is about, for other food, and I certainly don't want to fight over it (although I do enjoy smelling my Mothers' breath and guessing what they ate last... "hmmm, is that asparagus I detect? Oh, no! Not the minty paste, again!").

That said, I do occasionally fight with Maurice over the crunchy nibbles, if he is being particularly annoying and POKING his POINTY NOSE underneath mine into the food bowl! But he's usually smart enough to back off and let me eat my share, because he gets wet food, as well (blecch) and, let's face it, I am fierce.

OK, so I'm trying to think of an analogy for myself so I can put myself in your place and understand wanting something from humans they don't want you to have. Alright -- I've got it: plastic. I love to chew on it -- all kinds, really, but the moms won't let me. They say it is "loud" and "unhealthy". Right. Like I'm really gonna hurt myself. I just CHEW on it, really. And it's not like I hear sounds, so SORRY. Plus is feels so SMOOOOOOTHE on the tongue... MMmmmmmm!

Ahem, anyway, as I was saying, I think it's ridiculous that they try to keep it from me, and THROW IT OUT when I want it. Now, I can understand a little better with food, because we're all a little competitive, aren't we? I mean, we all have instincts and possessive feelings about food, where we're going to get it next, will it be good, etc. But something they don't even WANT? Humans are funny, that way.

I bet a human would tell you that they keep it from you because it is not good for you. And sometimes, they are right. I ate a matchstick the other day, and yes, I threw it up. Mea Culpa, blah blah blah, look at the stupid kitty cat. O-KAY! I did it, it's over now. I was wrong. Nobody's perfect.

So, sometimes humans will tell you this and it will be true (although that never seems to stop them when they are say, overweight and have weird reactions to certain things like sugar, especially before bed, and then they EAT IT ANYWAY, because let's face it, humans are hypocritical and have a lot less control than they like to pretend they do, feeling superior to all us other animals, etc.). Sometimes they do genuinely worry about your health and welfare. "Well, if I can't get mySELF to the gym," they say, "at least I can make sure ol' Sparky here is getting his walks, and eating Dog Food Lite and so on." So, there's a little control-issue stuff there, too. Caring for you, and trying to keep you around and healthy, even when they don't do it for themselves.

BUT, I would also say that humans are just possessive and greedy about food sometimes, and, although I am not interested in human food and would not stoop to grabbing it, sometimes you just need to do what you gotta do. After all, who are they to make the decisions all the time? I say, if I can dig the "cleverly" buried and hidden plastic out of the garbage at 3 in the morning and have a good crunch, you can have an English muffin, now and then.

And don't worry, they love you. You'll get away with it, at least part of the time. I guarantee.

No drooling, please, just thanks and respect,

- Maya The Cat (Who Even Understands Dogs, Now And Then)

Ask Maya for the 3rd week of September, 2003:

Hi, Maya!

I wonder if you can help me out here because I don't live with cats, and I don't understand this. My friend was telling me that cats like to pee in the house, not always where humans want them to (in the litterbox), but sometimes on the floors or carpets. Can you tell me WHY cats do this? She talks to her cats and tries to convince them to use the litter box. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Are there any "magic words" you can say to a cat to make them understand that they shouldn't be peeing on the floors and carpets? I understand that cats pee on the floor (ground) outside, but indoors is a different story, you know? Thank you!

Oh, in case you are wondering, my birds poop EVERYWHERE, not just in the cage. I don't mind cleaning up after them, though. One of my birds even knows how to poop when I ask her to! Clever, huh?

- Keri and the Flock

P.S. Say 'hi' to GK and her turtles.

Hello, Keri.

OK, first off, I should refer you to my previous column on Cats Who Pee Where They Oughtn't at http://www.animaltalker.com/maya20049.html#aug502. I also did a column once on a pregnant cat peeing where she shouldn't, but that was another scenario.

Now, let me tell you I have had a little more experience since those last columns, and so have my moms, so together we will give you (and your friend) some advice.

Okay, the major reasons cats pee where they shouldn't is being upset. Some cats -- well, a lot of them -- don't seem to be very good at communicating, or are with humans who aren't, and this is their only, best, or last resort way to tell you they are not happy with something. If the cat has only been doing it a little while, think about whether there have been any changes in the house. Is there new litter? Have things moved around? Are there new people or pets in the house? Have you or other house residents (including animals) been upset? Some cats will take on the tension of their people so much that they will get upset themselves and start peeing. No kidding! So, find out if something is annoying your cat, or if you are spreading around any tension.

If they have been doing it a long time, then either they never were litter trained properly, or something has been bothering them for a while. Now, not being litter trained is rare, but if one cat goes off and start peeing where he shouldn't, some other dummy in the household might follow. This is because the smell of the urine stimulates us to pee where we find it. Again -- no kidding! Of course, I don't do this. But then, I am The Maya, so superior in many ways, don't you think?

So, in this case you have to eliminate ALL smells of urine where it shouldn't be. And this means not just wiping it up, or putting some perfume on it, but getting these cleaners that have enzymes in them that you can get at pet stores, and eliminate the pheromonal smells in cat urine. You may also have to throw some things away. Most cats have pretty strong sniffers!

OK, urine smell gone - check. Can't find any particular thing that might be upsetting your cats? How about the litter? Maybe they don't like it. A lot of cats are very particular. I'm not, but I know cats who don't like enclosed litter pans, ones that are too high or low or big or small, ones that are in a corner or too out in the open (or especially too close to the cat's food), etc. What about texture or the litter itself? Some cats don't like clay, some don't like clumping, and a lot don't like the perfumey smells of some scented types. Mom says there are types of litter you can buy that are formulated particularly to attract cats to the litter pan, but in the meantime, try some strips of newspaper, which is usually non-offensive, and then try different brands one at a time to see what they like.

Of course, ASKING your cats (or getting an animal communicator to ask them) is the best way to find out why they do these things. Maurice used to pee all over the house, and Quan Yin followed him and did it, too, until Momma G not only elminated some of the physical problems (she wanted softer litter, food with fish in it irritated his bladder), but asked him what it was all about. Turned out he had some emotional/sexual confusion going on about the little one... you know, Quan Yin. He is not very bright, you know. Anyway, thank goodness, no more stinky Maurice pee everywhere, anymore! He is gross. Oh, and Quan Yin stopped except for protests if the litter gets reeeeally dirty... which, honestly, I wouldn't do it, but I can get her point, when that happens, for once.

Anyway, I hope this helped. By the way, did you know my Mom likes birds now? A couple weeks ago, she was all blah blah blah-ing about some Indian Finch she saw in the pet store, and how pretty it was, and it was sooooo lovely, and bloo bloo bloo. Feh! Anyway, we can't have any birds in the house, she says, because of the landlords. And the time they take. Oh, and the fact that we cats might EAT THEM. Heh heh heh!

But we do have turtles. They're boring. At least they keep the other cats occupied. I try to pretend they're not there. La la la...

Okay, I hope all your bird friends are well, and stuff. The poop thing is disgusting. And who wants to poop on command? Talk about slavery! Feh. Hee.

Tell your friend to be observant and ASK her cats, already!

Blessings and winks,

- Maya, Super-Cat

Ask Maya for the 2nd week of September, 2003:
[Note: Maya's column this week also features a guest column from Maya's housemate, Quan Yin!]

Hello!

OK I have a question for Maya today - maybe she will take me up on it? I'd like to ask her about animals in shelters, and see if maybe she can offer any ideas on what would help get some animals adopted. Her perspective on the shelters, her opinion on what would make them better... any advice on that subject. I think that would make for an interesting column, too. :)

Thanks,

- Mara

Dear Mara,

Excuse me, I'm eating. Usually I like to answer questions right away, but sometimes I like to keep my Mother waiting. It keeps her on her toes.

Okay, I will tell you the truth. I don't know much about shelters first-hand, because I have never been in one, thank All There Is. I made a choice not to, when I came into this world. In some ways, we all choose to be born where we're born, including animals who live on the street or in shelters. This doesn't mean they don't deserve good treatment and to be given homes, etc. It's just a part of the lessons we all set up for ourselves to learn in each lifetime, you see?

Anyway, BRRRR! I would not like to be in a shelter. I hear that some of them are alright. But it seems like No Fun to me. You know, one of my Moms' cats, Quan Yin, did come from a shelter, so maybe you can ask her about that.* All I know is, she sure smelled funny when she got here, and was scared. I tried to help her and all that, but she isn't very grateful, anymore. The nerve.

One thing I can say is you are definitely doing the right thing by caring for animals and trying to help them find homes. The best things you can do is to give them love, take care of their needs and tell people about them. People can be so ignorant, I'm afraid. Now, I like people a lot, in general, but not all of them are terribly bright, if you know what I mean. A lot of times, they just don't understand that animals have feelings and thoughts like they do, too, can do important jobs, and need to be cared for, just like you would care for a human. Of course, when humans are not cared for themselves, and are afraid, it can be even harder for them to make that leap to caring for other people, much less other species. Still, it never hurts to try. If you can be patient with people and show them the basics of animal care and what we have to offer, you might turn them around.

Also, in terms of getting animals adopted, it's not just good to get people educated, which it seems there are organizations struggling to do right now, but, as you said, positive thought goes a long way! Meditation and what you people call "creative visualization" can work in this way, just as they can work in changing your life in other ways. Plus, animals, just like people, generally love getting loving thoughts about themselves. Just knowing you are sending out good vibes for them will often make them feel better, and then they will present themselves better for adoption. Of course, some animals get very depressed when they are not adopted for a while, or when they've been abused, and in those cases it's even more important to patiently continue to send them positive thoughts. It may be hard for them to trust people, but over time, you might turn them around.

Now, you ask me my opinion on shelters. Like anything, from what I can tell, some are better or worse than others. I think it's great that people try to take care of animals that are sick, lost or abandoned. Of course, it's nice when the shelter or foster situation is more homey, and less crowded or just like rows of cages. Nobody likes that! It's really too bad there aren't more what you call "facilities" that are more open and home-like, and don't kill animals. My Moms have gone to shelters like that, and I've even visited some on my spirit-journeys. The one my Mom took classes at, Spring Farm Cares, seems like a nice place to live (if you are not a cat like me who prefers to avoid the company of other cats). So, I think someplace like that, with big rooms and outside porch space, or a foster home are good models to look at.

Of course, Momma G says that they can't all be like that yet, and we already need more shelters as it is. But, I have hope. You see, I think that the shelter situation is a part of what we've all set up to learn from each other. I think more and more humans are learning how to care for non-human animals like we are intelligent, love-worthy beings, and more animals are feeling the benefits of that. Is there still homelessness and torture? Yes, for all animals, even humans. But I think that is changing. You would not think I am an optimist, I know, to know me from my columns most of the time, but I feel this deep inside. The shelters are necessary now, and it can be hard, but we are all learning, and moving to a place where we will all care for each other without the need for cages and bars. You'll see - it will happen. In the meantime, keep doing what you're doing and keep that hope inside. And remember: YOU ARE LOVED. What you are doing comes a thousandfold back to you. When you help the animals, you are helping the world, the universe, and you get love in return. Eventually, more and more people will realize that, especially if they can see you happy in your service. So hang in there, and keep going! Your animals will find homes as it is time for them. In the meantime, catnip (or whatever they give to dogs) for everybody!

Yours truly,

- Ms. Maya, Beauty and Wisdom, Extraordinaire

*Dear Mara,

Hello. I am Quan Yin. I lived in a shelter before, so my Momma asked me to tell you what I thought of them. Well, for one thing, it was crowded. That wasn't so bad for me. I had a lot of other cats I liked there. It could be comforting to talk to and snuggle up with them. But sometimes, I felt a little claustrophobic. I didn't know how claustrophobic I was, until I got out of there. I actually had to hide in a small space when I came home for the first time, because it felt too big to me. Of course, I have always liked small spaces, because I was a mouse. [QY says she was a mouse in a past life. - GK] But that's another story.

Even now I still like to hide under the bed a lot. Thank goodness my Moms are very patient with me, and understanding of Who I Am. I find that is very important. If people adopt animals from the shelter, remind them that sometimes we have spent most of our lives there, and coming to a new place with new beings, sights, smells and sounds can be very confusing or scary for a while. Sometimes we miss our shelter friends, or just don't know how to behave outside. We are not stupid, just raised differently. I remember I did not even understand what humans were, and that they had feelings like us for a long time! Being grabbed scared the hoo-ha out of me. Now I like to be petted. So, we have to come to an understanding. Humans can't have expectations of us to be like animals they see on T.V. (that crazy box thing - what IS that thing? It's CRAZY!) or hear about off the bat. And I know a lot of us need to learn not to have certain expectations of humans, too, like that they will be big, scary monsters who will grab us and kill us!

As far as changes in the shelter, I guess one thing I could have used more of was contact with humans. I knew so little about them, that when I ended up with some, I didn't know what to do! I think they were frustrated a lot with me, at first, and I didn't know what to make of them. It's getting better (purr). I still don't understand it all, and wish they'd keep my litter cleaner, but I like them, now. If I had had more human contact, and not just contact, but love and petting and stuff, back then, I think I would have adjusted more quickly. Don't get me wrong, I am lucky. But if more people had TALKED to me and told me they loved me and I'd be okay, I think I would have been less confused all the time. You know, a lot of animals in shelters don't even know that humans can understand and talk with them telepathically like we can! So, a few minutes every day of just being told out loud nice things, or just getting a love vibe, would go a long way. Not that people were mean to me, but they were just generally too busy taking care of the bodily needs of all the animals, I think, to pay much attention, especially since I was a shy one. So, that's something to think about. My Mommy spoke to me a lot in soft tones and sent me love - she even sings to me, which I love! I have learned to trust her a lot, even if sometimes the ENORMITY of her just sends my instincts into a tizzy and I go running. So, that's just what I thought of (purr). I hope that helps.

I wish good luck to you and send my blessings to all your friends in the shelters. Thank you for listening to me like I am a Very Important Cat!

Love,

- Quan Yin

Ask Maya for the 1st week of September, 2003:

Dear Maya,

We saw an Internet joke that says:

"When your owner returns home laden with packages, fall down in front of them -- this works best on steps, all the better if the individual is proceeding downward. There is always the chance you may get stepped on, but this usually guarantees a fall and it you milk their guilt that follows it is usually worthit."

This made us laugh out loud! [Brenda] used to have a cat who would do this religiously. Maya, why DO cats do this?

- Gisele and Brenda

Dear Gisela and Brenda,

I would like to let you know that *I* do not do that, so there you go.

But here's the deal: Some cats just loooooove attention. It doesn't matter how they get it, they want it RIGHT NOW (a particularly pathetic specimen named MAURICE comes to mind here). Perhaps they do not recognize that you are carrying things, because they are too focussed on getting love, or too stupid. Or, let's face it, they may not see you are carrying things, because it's a long way up to see you from the floor, and for that matter, you humans are always doing some weird something-or-other with your hands or your attention that we don't understand and don't feel has anything to do with us, anyway.

They may also be fascinated with the incomprehensible thing you're doing, and want to know more about it. "What's that you're carrying? What does it smell like? Is it for ME?"

Finally, sometimes we cats overestimate the heh, shall we say, GRACE of you humans. Cats would generally not be impeded by the small matter of someone walking near them or in front of them if they wanted to get someplace. And, we always hope you will notice us, you see, and if you don't and you trip up, then it's your own damn fault for being so self-focussed and not recognizing our presence and our HIGH STATUS IN THE SCHEME OF THINGS, if you catch my drift. Except for Maurice. Pay no attention to his status. He can go hang.

I hope that satisfies you, and please report on any interesting packages. Oh, and remember, if you want this to stop happening, accord your cat the proper respect and GREET HIM OR HER AT THE DOOR, getting down on his or her level for a moment, and pointing out any fascinating items you might have brought in. This should help.

Good luck, and try to keep your balance (Heh!),

- Maya-Cat, Woman Wonder

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

Copyright 2002-2003, Gretchen Kunz