The Perfect Writer's Companion

          Why a cat is the perfect writer's companion:

·        They don't drag you out on a stormy morning, when you really should be getting on with some work. (or having a cup of tea)

·        They relieve the tension of listening out for the postman - as the cat flap sounds just like the letter box, so there's really no point or you'd be constantly rushing to the door.

·        They provide entertainment and inspiration (what was that? Distraction? No - definitely inspiration).

·        They are great examples of 'show not tell' - they can't literally tell you to feed them, but they will show you their dish, then show you what happens if you don't feed them - by tearing around the house like demons.

·        They're very independent, and if you don't feed them they may prove this to you by bringing in a mouse or two.

·         They are very agile, and can easily climb a ladder into the loft - if that's where you work, and keep your seat warm till you get there.

·         They teach you to be adaptable - as you try to reach around them to type, having managed to prise them off your chair, but not persuaded them to sit on the floor.

·        They keep you seated at your desk by gently inserting their claws into your knee if you try to move.

·        They can lend a helping paw and get you past writer's block, as they help to type a few letters, which quickly attract red squiggly lines to brighten up your work.

·        They can wake you up in the night when they forget how to use the cat flap, thus giving you more time to work on your plot lines.

·        They will perform tricks to brighten your day, such as trying to climb up the metal frame of a swing.

·        They might fetch a pen to play with, to remind you to get back to work.

·         They will organise you into using a pencil case for fear of them running off with all your pens.

·        They stop writing being a lonely occupation.

·        They will still love you when the publishing world is rejecting you.