h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I'm reminded of an encounter between a cat I know and her owner. A strange cat had been hanging around during the day and though her owner wanted the cat to go out, the cat didn't want to though she was usually biddable and cooperative. Knowing the reason for the cats' distress I attempted to intercede with an explanation, but the cats' owner was adamant. The cat had to go out. Finally, the cat gave in and exited, but remarked as she was stepping through the door, "Rat Fink", which surprised me, since I'd only known a couple of cats before who could talk a little, though I've known rather more who were reponsive to the spoken word. Later, I stepped out to see how the cat was doing, making sure all was okay and found her exploring the branches of a ficus benjamina tree next to the door.

It’s hard to gain understanding.