Anyone who has ever had a pet cat knows that they are attracted to string–yarn, cord, shoelaces, dental floss, anything of that sort. For some reason, cats (and dogs, too) love to eat the stuff, or at any rate, to swallow it. The result is usually bad for the animal, causing death, injury, or at least, an expensive trip to the vet.

I just saw a TV commercial for a new product, an enterprising firm has developed a cat toy which features pet friendly string-like protrusions. The animal can play with the toy and enjoy eating the material without any risk or danger. I presume the stuff breaks up and is safely processed by the animal’s digestive system.

Great idea, right? That’s a negatory, good buddy. This is a really stupid idea. Sure, the product is benign, but its widespread use is going to wind up killing and injuring more pets than ever. Cats will become fixated on finding more of that “Delicious String” and conditioned to swallow it. No string or cord in the house will be safe. And neither will the cats who eat them.

Another example of the Law of Unintended (but any fool could have foreseen) Consequences

And of course, no one will blame the product or sue the manufacturer because he is, technically, not at fault. But you and I know better, don’t we, which is why this post is on Flame.

obligatory cute kitty video