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THE YARD — Perpetuating stereotypes is virtually never the right thing to do. (This writer’s opinion; please don’t yell at me.)
But sometimes a single example of a cliche or stereotype is so perfect, it’s hard not to dwell on it and revel in it. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get a good laugh out of it too.
So let’s talk about the phrase “They’re fighting like cats and dogs.” Hissing, growling, scratching and biting all come into play, (and that’s just the human version), and often it seems as if there is no reason for the fight when animals are concerned.
However, in this featured video, there is a reason some cats are upset at the neighbor’s dog. This dog, heaven help him, wants to come over to play, and the cats are clearly offended.
The dramatic scene opens with the springy, playful dog trying to cross the steps that mark the property line that would allow the pup to “infiltrate” cat territory. But a sassy calico cat is like, “Nah, bruh,” and chases the dog away repeatedly.
Despite the cat’s repeated success at telling the dog to “get off my property,” the pooch takes it in optimistic stride. In fact, it’s almost immediately clear that the carefree canine thinks this is the best game ever, and she’s having the best time ever.
But this is no game for the cats. And they have what seems like a layered and thorough strategy to keep happiness out of their yard. If the calico fails, then an even angrier tuxedo cat is in place as a second line of defense.
The story that unfolds is cinematic and dramatic, but the constant, wheezy laugh of the man behind the camera makes the video an even more delightful comedy as well.
The video has a wee surprise ending, which I won’t spoil. But ultimately, the petulant childhood phrase of “Get off my property” doesn’t just work for kids who are mad at other kids when playing; it works for cats, too.
