In praise of the cat

"For I will consider my cat Jeoffrey,
For he is the servant of the Living God, duly and daily serving him.
For at the first glance of the glory of God in the east, he worships in this way.
For this is done by wreathing his whole body seven times round, with elegant quickness.
For he knows that God is his Savior.
For God has blessed him in the variety of his movements.
For there is nothing sweeter than his peace when at rest.
For I am possessed of a cat, surpassing in beauty.
For which I take occasion to bless Almighty God."

--excerpts from "Jubilate Agno," by Christopher Smart, c. 1756 - 1763