Thinking about that last story (just below) I wonder what SOME people think when they can't find their pet. I go crazy! And I don't allow my cats outdoors anymore. But I'll come home from work and if I don't see all three cats lounging about, greeting me, etc., I go nuts. I call out, search all over, issue APB's until I find them.
Crispy is the best and worst. Huh? Usually (being rather like a Golden Retriever) usually sits on the stairs to greet me (or anyone else entering the apartment.) But sometimes he goes off by himself. He is -- truly -- the smartest cat I've ever had. He can open doors and drawers. I had to put "child-guard" latches on all the cabinet doors because he would hideout in them. He would open drawers in the kitchen and sleep in them, usually finally breaking the drawer bottom. He turns on the sink faucet (it's one of those single-stem types that you push up and over to get water out.)
He easily prys open the refrigerator door and sprawls out on the empty bottom shelf. I've searched for and finally found him three times there. And when I do open the refrigerator door and the light goes on, he shows absolutely (in true cat fashion) NO interest in leaving. I suppose that being a long-haired cat helps...
Why do we put up with these nut-case cats? And here's another question for you: It's easy to defend loving dogs since they're smart, protective, loyal, wonderful, etc. I think cats are -- well, sort-of -- too. But when you tell friends you have cats and you get that look, how do you defend yourself (and your cats)? Talk amongst yourselves...