I was outside with Frankie in our backyard a couple of weeks ago. We were at the south end of our property while the man who lives two houses south of us stood outside at the north end of his property. I don’t remember all that was said, but he did tell me he was allergic to cat pee. It was his subtle way of telling me to keep my cat off his property.

I wanted to ask him, “How do you know that? Did a cat pee on you?” Instead, I took the high road and told him Frankie has a litterbox and just likes to come outside sometimes. The truth is, Frankie does feel the need to “mark” some of the bushes he comes across, including the ones in front of the man’s house. Since then, I encourage Frankie to move along when we pass his house. “C’mon, Frankie. A cat hater lives here.”

We have other haters in the neighborhood too. These two signs are from houses across the street from each other.

I understand not wanting poop in your yard, but people here are very good about picking up after their dogs. I’m sure these people are just miserable, and I feel a bit sorry for them.

The problem is there are many miserable people in this world, and that is one of the reasons I am reluctant to just let Frankie come and go as he pleases. Many years ago my sister-in-law cared for some stray cats near her home and someone poisoned one of them. It cost her over $500 to have a vet treat the cat. Fortunately, he survived.

Most people are good, but the bad sure do keep us on our toes.