This popular e-tale was first forwarded to me by Franny Syufy, About's Guide to Cats, who rightly felt it had the makings of an urban legend. In Franny's estimation (and mine) the photographs are likely authentic but the accompanying story in which a groomer confuses a "line cut" with a "lion cut" was invented for comic effect.

Which doesn't necessarily mean the cat in these photographs wasn't royally "pissed off," as the email asserts. As any cat owner knows, members of the feline species are easily embarrassed and don't take kindly to ridicule.

"I have no doubt that that cat was doubly embarrassed," Franny says, "first by the ridiculous haircut and then by the photographer laughing at him. I've seen that look before."

Lion cuts are given to both cats and dogs, though in the former case it's usually for practical reasons, not aesthetics. Longhaired cats tend to suffer in hot weather and their hair matts easily. One remedy of choice for both conditions — for frustrated owners if not for the beasts themselves — is a nice, close shave.

Last updated: 02/20/03