Total Cat Mojo

October 1, 2017

Galaxy knows cats: anyone who has ever seen his popular Animal Planet show My Cat from Hell or his web series "Cat Mojo" can attest to this. Here, he dispenses more of his feline wisdom in an accessible, in-depth guide to all things feline. Opening with an overview of thousands of years of cat evolution, Galaxy explains that the source of instinctive feline behaviors is an inner "raw cat." Finding and expressing this "rawness" is essential to the well-being of every pet cat. Galaxy combines science, psychology, and spot-on anecdotes to guide readers through every stage of life with their cat, from setting up the house to maximize cat-friendly spaces to addressing common problem behaviors. Throughout, the author emphasizes relationship-building between cat and guardian, encouraging readers to think of this experience as cat "parenting" rather than ownership. VERDICT This is a treasure trove of strategies for understanding and living in harmony with cats; Galaxy's many fans will be clamoring to get their hands on it.--Kelsy Peterson, Forest Hill Coll., Melbourne, Australia

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from October 1, 2017
Dedicated cat trainer, host of the hit TV show My Cat from Hell, and author of two previous books (Cat Daddy, 2012; Catification, 2014; Catify to Satisfy, 2015) Galaxy is here to explain and help overcome the behaviors of companion animals that meow and purr. Filled with arcane facts, humorous stories, good black-and-white illustrations, and downright excellent advice, this manual begins with an in-depth look at what mojo means to our pets, and how owners of cats can help them achieve their confident lives. Those who believe cats are self-sufficient and easy to care for (read: ignore) will get a thorough education in all things catifiedthat is, ensuring a comfortable environment and mutually affectionate relationship. He delves into cat-personality archetypes ( Mojito, Napoleon, and Wallflower ), talks about best methods of parenting (forget Kitty Jail and punishment), and gives step-by-step instruction for introducing another animal, a baby, or additional human into the mix. Readers will enjoy Cat Nerd Corners and giggle at Galaxy's cat-entertainment creations like Cat TV, sundials, and jackpots. This will get two paws up from anyone living with a feline friend.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)