Book excerpt: A different cat book. "May this book help you to always be a guardian, one who guards, protects, cares for, and defends your feline companion." Author Tilly Anger approaches the guardian concept with stories, examples, and resources that provide the reader with insights, knowledge, humor, and valuable tips on caring for your feline companion. Visit Wintergreen, a private forest. You'll meet "the masked companions," the Tonkinese cat-children who live at Wintergreen. The first cat-child, Harley, steals hearts and never met a stranger. Colonel A.J. Ramsey is the author's lovable Tonkinese shadow; the shy cat child, the timid love bug who hides his extensive fears with extraordinary bravado. The cat-children who taught their guardians about optimism, and unconditional love, will enchant you, and capture your heart. You'll learn the importance and joy of clawed paws. "Think of clawed paws as providing your feline companion with four wheel drive or independent suspension." DO NOT declaw, as you can teach where to scratch. Stories, examples, and case studies will show you teaching "where to scratch" is easy and fun. You'll learn how to keep your kitten or cat safe, how to prepare for, and manage a feline emergency, and how to be a loving, caring guardian for your feline companion. The author also includes a sensitive and thoughtful chapter on euthanasia. "As a guardian, euthanasia will be one of the most difficult decisions you ever encounter." This chapter will help those who face the difficult decision of euthanasia. It is also appropriate for individuals who would like to console a friend who has lost a pet. The chapter contains frequently asked questions, and sensitive answers, regarding the euthanasia process, burial or cremation, memorials, and etiquette. Note from the author Author's royalties will go towards rescuing unwanted cats, spaying and neutering them, and finding guardians who will provide loving, caring, homes.