Do You and Your Cat Have a Special Song? My Kitten’s Unique Musical Bond
Unique Musical Interactions with Bud
Bud and I live a harmonious life, but one of our unique interactions revolves around music. I enjoy playing funk and disco tunes, often punctuated by my karaoke rendition of the lyrics. My feline companion, Bud, witnesses this routine with a combination of bewilderment and amusement. He often chimes in with his high-pitched, catchy sounds, much like a kitten singing in falsetto. His participation in the song is a delightful quirk that adds a special touch to our daily routine. Occasionally, he inserts "MRRRRP!" or "RRRRRRUPPP!" which fit perfectly with the melody.
Replacing Words with His Names
A part of my musical repertoire includes replacing lyrics with his name. This habit stems from a fun way to engage him and to personalize the songs we enjoy together. Take, for example, the O'Jays' classic funk song "For the Love of Money," which I often bellow as “Buddy Buddy Buddy Buddy… BUDDY!” Instead of the lines about money, I substitute "Buddy" every time, creating a whimsical rendition that always brings a smile to Bud’s whiskers. Our rendition of McFadden Whitehead's "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now, We Got the Groove!" would actually be "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now, We Got the Chooch!" And the Earth, Wind Fire song "September" becomes a charming tune about Buddy dancing in September: "Buddy ya say do you remember Buddy ah dancing in September! Buddy ya never was a cloudy day!"
Playing with Music Alongside James Dalby’s Acoustic Version
We particularly enjoy the funky and contagious vibe of James Dalby's acoustic version of classic funk tunes. It’s the perfect backdrop for Bud’s spontaneous musical contributions, making for a delightful and often unexpected performance. Every time we play these songs, Bud joins in, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Special Relationship with Mango
Mango, another member of my household, has a unique bond with music as well. He loves the upbeat and encouraging message of "Help Somebody" by Van Zant. The line "Never let a cowboy make the coffee" resonates with Mango, who proudly declares himself the Chief Barista at home. He often sits on the counter and diligently watches over my coffee-making process, earning his place in our shared kitchen victories. In the morning, the kitchen resonates with the perfect harmony of Van Zant's message and Mango's chief involvement in the coffee ritual. Additionally, Mango enjoys the sophisticated sounds of classical music during his play dates, making him the ultimate connoisseur of music in the household.
Evolving Musical Bond with Tootie
It's not just the melody that creates a connection, but the melodies of our past. Tootie, born to a feral mother, found refuge in my home due to his small size and vulnerability. Our musical bond started with me rocking him and singing "Rock a Bye Baby." Eight years later, Tootie still seeks comfort and solace in that familiar lullaby. His response to music has evolved over the years, showing how songs, no matter how old or new, can leave an indelible imprint on a cat's memory. Music is a unifying force that transcends time and circumstances, bringing us closer every day.
These musical moments with Bud, Mango, and Tootie are not just songs; they're unique connections that add depth and joy to our lives as cat owners. The shared experience of harmonizing with our feline friends enriches the bond between us, creating moments that are purely magical.