How to Greet a Cat
If the cat’s a stranger
Begin by bowing low.
Extend a single paw,
Respectfully and slow.
Allow the cat a sniff
And a turn in the sun,
So she can be the judge
Of all that you have done.
If she lies before you,
You may stroke her fur.
But do not be confused.
She is still superior.
If she slips away,
Like a silent wisp of fog,
Do not try to follow.
Go and find a dog.
© 2012 Elizabeth Ehrenfest Steinglass, all rights reserved
I like this one!
“If the cat’s a stranger
Begin by bowing low.”
Just perfect. Cats really do need time to make a judgement. I like your poem.