Cat Detective

My 12-year-old female cat had a sudden bout of cystitis just after Christmas - necessitating an emergency visit to the vet - and we have, of course, been concerned that it would recur. However, this book gives CLEAR, REASSURING, PRACTICAL pointers on how to (hopefully) prevent cystitis - and also explains why it can often be caused by stress. (It also covers several other problem areas too.)

I now feel, since reading this book, that I have a much better idea of what actually causes stress in cats - not just the obvious things, but things that we would probably never consider. (I've also found that I play more with my cat now, not just when she starts playing on her own. I actually initiate play and she seems to have learned the times when I might play now and is ready and waiting!)

Do read this book. It's WELL worth it, and I'm sure your cat(s) will thank you!


A "Must Read" for all Cat Owners   October 17, 2005
 20 out of 21 found this review helpful

"Cat Detective" along with its predecessor "Cat Confidential" are an absolute must for everyone who loves, owns or has anything to do with caring for cats. Vicky Halls has a real insight to the feline world, and she makes the psychological perspective very easy to understand.

Now that cats have become the most popular pet in the UK, it won't be long before these books will have pride of place in virtually every household. You never know when you will need them, and I guarantee you will refer back to them time and time again - brilliant!


A must for any cat owner.   October 7, 2005
 33 out of 33 found this review helpful

Too often we think of our furry feline friends as simple creatures (especially when they fall out of trees or run into walls. Don't laugh, they meant to do that!) whose lives are laid-back and as carefree as their food bowl is full.

This, as this book so skillfully points out, is usually not the case.

This book covers many common unpleasant issues that cat owners run into (house soiling, for example) and provides stories of cats that the author Vicky Halls has treated over the years for these problems. The strategy employed to try and rectify the problem is detailed in a bullet-point list so that readers of the book can take note in case they are dealing with similiar issues.

The chapters are dedicated to different issues and there is excellent and clear advice within, such as how to keep an indoor cat from going berserk from lack of environmental stimulation and how to save your feet from the five pointy ends of a rambunctious kitten. There is also a personality guide so you can see what your cat's personality type is.

Although this book is indeed wonderful and a must-read for everyone who owns or has ever considered owning a cat, it must not be used as an alternative for veterinary treatment. There is no feline first aid included within, as the book almost solely deals with behavioural issues and how to tackle them (although the symptoms of medical problems that can often be behind beahvioural problems are listed). If your cat is suffering, don't raid the bookshelf. See to it that your cat recieves professional medical care.

Whether your cat's a tried and true Heinz 57 moggie or a pedigree Bengal whose beauty is known far and wide, you cannot miss out on this book!