Please enjoy the foreword from PETA President Ingrid Newkirk’s new book, 250 Vital Things Your Cat Wants You to Know, written by longtime PETA friend Kim Basinger. Get your copy on Amazon today!

Ingrid Newkirk is a pioneer in the animal protection world. I have known her for years and consider her not only a great friend to all animals but also a great teacher and partner, as we’ve worked together on crucial issues that continue to challenge the fight for animal rights today more than ever. At this moment in time, the focus is on our feline friends: cats! And I am delighted to have been asked to write the foreword to her new book, 250 Vital Things Your Cat Wants You to Know. When Ingrid decides to write a book, it will be not just practical but also lots of fun, as she has a wealth of experience and a cool way of presenting new ideas. Light bulbs go on!

I have worked for the protection of wild animals, marine life, farmed animals, and domesticated animals all my life. My mom taught me how to care for and respect all animals, just as I have raised my daughter, Ireland, to do. There were many cats who came through my family when I was young—Bubbles and Black Kitty amongst others—and then in my adult life, Big Boy, Dude, and Pretty Girl. I found Dude in a New York deli by the name of Freedom when he was a kitten. The rats were bigger than him, and he was about to get eaten, so I made the deli owner an offer he couldn’t refuse just to get Dude out of there and bring him home. He was the greatest cat who ever lived, but I know everyone thinks that about their cat. J Pretty Girl was a feral cat found in a plastic bag in Agoura Hills. The vet called and asked, “She probably won’t make it, but would you take her home if she does?” She was a great friend to me but never let me get any work done as she slept right on top of my computer. And SHE was the sweetest cat who ever lived J!! Our feline friends come to us in all kinds of ways, but they always make our lives better. Ingrid’s book teaches us how we can make their lives better, too.

Along with her playful language and fun pictures that will resonate with any “cat person,” it is also delightful the way she gently nudges readers to go beyond the basics. That means to go beyond just throwing some kibble in a bowl and sticking a scratching post in the corner.

She encourages us to become real caretakers and friends who are truly worthy of a cat’s affection, as cats are very, very special, unique, and magical creatures in so many ways. In other words, when we choose to bring cats into our homes, we have a responsibility to bond with them and to show them that we are worthy of their trust. There are so many fun ways to do this, and this is the guide that will show you how.

All the important cat care topics are covered and much more. If your cat ever goes missing, you will feel very lucky that you bought this book. When you see your cat squinting at you, you will smile knowingly, having learned what that means. And wherever you live, you will most likely make a few modifications for your cat’s enjoyment, even after reading just the first chapter.

In no way could you read 250 Vital Things Your Cat Wants You to Know and not be inspired to make some positive changes to deepen the bond, the trust, and the love you have for and with your feline companions. You will help them lead a truly fulfilling life, just the way cats are meant to live.

Oh, yeah, and share it with a friend or two, or—better yet—surprise them with a copy!