Rules?!

You might think there’s no rhyme or reason for cat behavior,

but you’d be wrong.

There are rules, specifically, 50 Rules for Cats: The Kitty Commandments, a fun and irreverent look at the inner lives of cats from the feline perspective. It’s no accident, then, that cats bust a sweat only if it’s absolutely necessary, love to help you answer e-mails and realize when you’ve had a bad day. It’s all preordained. It’s the law!

This cleverly illustrated book, written by animal lovers Susan and Kevin McCourt, with original drawings from artist Andrea Coleman, captures cats in all their wily, independent, lovable glory and lets you know what’s on their minds. (Hint: Mostly napping. Close second: You.) It will remind you why you fell head over heels for that puff ball with an attitude and how much you depend on her as a therapist, confidante, bed warmer, alarm clock, bug catcher, entertainer, nursemaid and constant companion.

Insightful and breezy, 50 Rules for Cats is a heart-tugging must read for anyone owned by a cat.