Story and photograph by Linda Ann Miller
Prissy, our curious black cat, loves to learn new recipes. I would say her
interest in cooking began about two years ago when she discovered she could sit quite comfortably and watch two of her favorite chefs at work. Sitting in her elevated position gives her a bird’s-eye view. Her green eyes open wide with enthusiasm as she takes in the chopping, slicing, dicing, and mashing necessary for a great meal.
So far, Prissy, also known as Priscilla, has learned how to make salads, herbal bases for sauces, stir-fry, stews, cakes, and even pizza. At this point, I would say she has lots of yummy recipes in her head. But I’m not sure she’ll ever use them. It’s not that she isn’t smart enough or doesn’t have a good memory. She is smart. She does have a good memory too. Why else does she come around exactly when her favorite chefs begin to cook? Prissy loves to watch the process.
Well, you might ask, “Why do you think Prissy will never use these delicious recipes?” If she loves watching other cooks, why won’t she take the plunge and cook something for herself? Is she afraid her food will be rejected or turn out too bland or too spicy? What is the problem?
Prissy just doesn’t have the dexterity or natural body mechanics to carry out the tasks of cooking, although we think she would love it. Could it be she vicariously cooks by watching others cook? Can’t she adapt? Couldn’t her favorite chefs figure out ways for her to use adaptive cooking utensils so she could join in the fun?
The truth is, we are her favorite chefs! We really wish we could bring her on board as a third chef in the house. Instead, Prissy will have to remain content to sit on the upper ledge of our counter, her head turning this way and that, watching us chop, mix, and stir.
