Posted: June 16, 2010, 3 a.m. EST
Judging from the e-mails I get, people seem to know very little about the cat race. They ask me where it’s held and, since cats run every which way, how do you know who won? It’s not that kind of race. I’m talking about who’s the biggest breed or the smartest. What’s your Cat IQ? Here are some questions. See how you score.
HOW LONG DO CATS SLEEP?
The average cat sleeps 12 to14 hours a day. And, sadly, six to seven minutes a night, which is why they have all that free time to perform Gershwin songs all evening. Don’t get tired and nod off, though. The second show is completely different.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST BREED?
The Maine Coon is the biggest cat, sometimes weighing 30 pounds. If you mean big as in decent, the calico will often catch a mouse and let it go. Not permanently. Just long enough so that it can get its affairs in order.
WHAT’S A CAT’S VISION LIKE?
A human’s field of vision is 180 degrees. Cats have 220 degrees. Most cats will smirk when they notice you squinting. Except that decent calico, who will fetch your glasses.
HOW MANY TEETH DOES A CAT HAVE?
Cats have 30 teeth, as opposed to a human’s 32. Sometimes, a cat will bring along a few teeth borrowed from that mouse. Remind her that this means permanent teeth. Loaners don’t count.
WHAT IS THE TYPICAL LIFESPAN OF A CAT?
It’s between 15 and 20 years. If your cat seems upset by this concept, just tell her that’s about the length of an average NASCAR race. That puts things in perspective, and will make your lovely cat feel almost immortal.
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