CAT FANCY and CatChannel Editor Susan Logan encourages the president-elect to adopt a cat as well as a dog.

If President-elect Barack Obama’s mention of a new puppy for his daughters in his historic presidential acceptance speech isn’t a testament to the human-animal bond, I don’t know what is. It’s also a testament to the graciousness and humility of the soon-to-be world leader. And in the spirit of his endeavor to heal bipartisan division, I think the first family will need a cat as well as a dog in the White House.

While reconciling Democrats and Republicans, why not try to unite cat people and dog people? Our bond with our beloved pets is where those of us with different political views can find common ground. Caring for a dog is a great way to teach children compassion, loyalty and responsibility. Yet the president and first lady need a pet, too, and with their busy schedules a cat would be more suitable.

Cats have inspired and captured the hearts of U.S. presidents from both major political parties. Abraham Lincoln rescued kittens from a Civil War battlefield. Theodore Roosevelt rerouted a group of diplomats around a White House cat so the feline wouldn’t be disturbed. Amy Carter’s cat had full run of the White House during Jimmy Carter’s administration. And Bill Clinton cherished his cat Socks so much that world leaders brought cat-themed gifts to the White House while he was president. You can read many more fascinating stories about presidential cats in the January issue of CAT FANCY (on newsstands Nov. 25).

Clearly, cats are cool and ailurophilia (love of cats) is a sign of intelligence and strength. It’s only natural that great world leaders would welcome their companionship. I’m no world leader by any means, but at the beginning of my day when I’m contemplating the world’s problems and the decisions I might have to make, my cats are great company. One sits on my lap, the other snuggles next to me. They look as if they are contemplating, too, and seem to cherish this meditative time with me.

If you have additional compelling reasons why the new first family should adopt a cat as well as a dog, share them with cat lovers nationwide at CatChannel’s forum.