Our Cats and All About Them

This is the definitive Victorian guide to cats, written by the man who essentially invented the modern cat show. Harrison Weir organized England's first cat exhibition in 1871 and founded the National Cat Club, and here he shares everything he knows about feline companions. The book ranges across breeds and their characteristics, what judges look for in championship cats, practical advice on keeping cats healthy, and the basics of raising kittens. But Weir's passion extends beyond mere husbandry: he collects cat folklore, superstitions, nursery rhymes, and stories, and includes a whole chapter on cats in Shakespeare's works. The result is a charming period piece that captures a pivotal moment when cats transitioned from working pest controllers to beloved show animals and family pets. For modern readers, it's a window into the origins of the cat fancy movement and a treasure trove of Victorian attitudes toward our most mysterious companion.