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You are here: Home / Open Threads / Tunch is Shrill

Tunch is Shrill

by John Cole|  March 7, 201012:14 pm| 165 Comments

This post is in: Open Threads

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This is what I have been dealing with since 9 am this morning:

I have no idea what he wants. He has clean water and food. His litterbox is clean. He has been furminated and I have played with him all morning. Yet he will not leave me alone.

Also, Laura send along the great news that the Balloon Juice store has raised close to $915 bucks for Charlies Angels pet rescue. Make sure you get your swag today.

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Reader Interactions

165Comments

  1. 1.

    Scott de B.

    March 7, 2010 at 12:17 pm

    Perhaps he is simply annoyed at the slow progress of health-care reform.

  2. 2.

    Bort

    March 7, 2010 at 12:18 pm

    Wow, that sounds exactly like our late cat Charlotte. Near the end, she was senile and tended to walk around the house giving us the gift of her raspy meow all day long.

  3. 3.

    Ash Can

    March 7, 2010 at 12:19 pm

    If it’s cyber-snorgles he wants, he’s going to rake in a ton of them with that video. <3

  4. 4.

    JenJen

    March 7, 2010 at 12:19 pm

    I speak fluent cat, and I’m pretty sure he’s saying “PTFB.”

  5. 5.

    Uloborus

    March 7, 2010 at 12:22 pm

    That is one annoying meow. Also, isn’t he capable of ripping a man in twain with one sweep of his mighty claws? I suggest you do anything you can imagine to prevent that, up to and including ditching Lily so he won’t be jealous anymore.

  6. 6.

    WereBear

    March 7, 2010 at 12:23 pm

    Have you ever explained what is going on with your shoulder? I know it sounds crazy-cat-person, but half the time they are annoying me for an explanation. Getting one seems to make them happy.

  7. 7.

    Dead Ernest

    March 7, 2010 at 12:23 pm

    I’m no Senator so I don’t have the skills to diagnose from the video but; Tunch looks well – I don’t think he’s complaining.
    After an extreme Winter, it feels like Spring today here in Kansas City. Perhaps he is rousing to the change of season. My cat has spent more time outside over the last two days than she has over the last two months.

  8. 8.

    John Cole

    March 7, 2010 at 12:24 pm

    I swear he has some Siamese in him.

  9. 9.

    Elisabeth

    March 7, 2010 at 12:24 pm

    Heh. I’ve got one doing the same thing today. I even heard her while I was outside with her “brother.” I think it’s the mild weather.

  10. 10.

    Dan Robinson

    March 7, 2010 at 12:24 pm

    I have cats and I can understand catspeak. What he is saying is that he hasn’t had his daily ass-kicking and wonders when the fun will begin.

  11. 11.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 12:25 pm

    Just be grateful it didn’t start at 5:30 am.

  12. 12.

    stevie314159

    March 7, 2010 at 12:25 pm

    Google Translator says the sound at 0:08 is “Fire Rahm”.

  13. 13.

    Max

    March 7, 2010 at 12:26 pm

    So good. I put it on the stereo speakers and Max the wheaten freaked out. He hates cats and was running all over the house looking for the offender.

    Right now, he’s patrolling the perimeter of the yard looking for the screeching kitty.

    Thank you @JohnCole. Your pain has made my morning a pleasure.

  14. 14.

    wmsheppa

    March 7, 2010 at 12:26 pm

    My cat, in the meantime, managed to chase a dingly ball into a plastic bag, was unable to get it out, and has been walking around the apartment with a bag looped around her neck for the last three minutes as my girlfriend and I tried to get a shot of it.

    This all happened because she heard the Tunch video and so aborted ball removal mid-bag diving.

  15. 15.

    trollhattan

    March 7, 2010 at 12:27 pm

    ZOMG kitteh sounds really pissy. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Mittens is being interviewed on NPR as I played the vid. God, what a loathsome prick (Romney, not the Tunchinator, whom I revere from this safe distance). My takeaway: The preznit is well on his way to completing the ruination of Amerika.

  16. 16.

    asiangrrlMN

    March 7, 2010 at 12:27 pm

    I’m with the PTDB crowd. It’s clear that Tunch has his paw on the pulse of America. Aaaaaaw, Tunchie! He’s looking positively perky today. I love the sweet sounds of him crooning at you, Cole.

  17. 17.

    Jill

    March 7, 2010 at 12:29 pm

    Don’t look to me for sympathy. I’ve got a white cat who wants attention ALL THE TIME. I give my husband a hug, Maggie feels left out. I pet our other cat, Maggie is jealous. The screeching starts two hours before each mealtime and it goes nonstop. And I am not allowed to sleep past 5 AM. Ever.

  18. 18.

    John Cole

    March 7, 2010 at 12:29 pm

    BTW- included Kale in my smoothie this morning and it was surprisingly good.

  19. 19.

    Deb Tinsley

    March 7, 2010 at 12:29 pm

    Spring fever

  20. 20.

    demo woman

    March 7, 2010 at 12:31 pm

    Tunch is imitating Lindsay’s appearance on Face The Nation.

  21. 21.

    Martin

    March 7, 2010 at 12:33 pm

    I think he preferred when you were in excruciating pain. I suggest breaking your other shoulder.

    @John Cole:
    Good god, man. When you go DFH, you don’t fuck around.

  22. 22.

    cat48

    March 7, 2010 at 12:37 pm

    I think Tunch is bored with the coin. Don’t you have a catnip mouse for him?

  23. 23.

    bumblebums

    March 7, 2010 at 12:38 pm

    Dear Tunch,

    my sentiments exactly.

    yours in disgruntlement, bumblebums

  24. 24.

    JackieBinAZ

    March 7, 2010 at 12:38 pm

    The coin is too far away. He wants it moved closer.

  25. 25.

    MikeJ

    March 7, 2010 at 12:38 pm

    @JenJen:

    I speak fluent cat, and I’m pretty sure he’s saying “PTFB.”

    Pet The Fucking Blanco gato.

  26. 26.

    freelancer

    March 7, 2010 at 12:39 pm

    I’ve had a sinus infection since Friday, but last night it decided to go full retard.

    Not enough Sudafed in the world…

  27. 27.

    JackieBinAZ

    March 7, 2010 at 12:39 pm

    I speak fluent cat, and I’m pretty sure he’s saying “PTFB.”

    Put the food back

  28. 28.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 12:39 pm

    @cat48:

    That’s what I was thinking. ‘Here’s a quarter to play with.’

    What?

  29. 29.

    Billy K

    March 7, 2010 at 12:40 pm

    Awesome.

  30. 30.

    The Main Gauche of Mild Reason

    March 7, 2010 at 12:41 pm

    @John Cole:

    Next, John will start touting the virtues of year-round birkenstocks and patchouli hair oil. It’s only a matter of time.

  31. 31.

    toujoursdan

    March 7, 2010 at 12:41 pm

    So much like my cat “Baby”, only not quite as much in-your-face”.

    Yesterday mine wouldn’t leave me alone for 6 hours. I finally had enough and went to the gym.

    If I didn’t know he was fixed (and a guy-cat anyway), I’d swear my cat was in heat.

  32. 32.

    malraux

    March 7, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    I’m betting its spring fever. He probably thinks he want to go outside.

  33. 33.

    Mayken

    March 7, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    If the behavior continues, might have the vet check his thyroid levels. Our female kitty has hyperthyroid and one of the first symptoms was that she cried a lot, usually starting at 4 or 5am and not stopping till she got one of us up. Also have his blood pressure checked. Our vet tells us non-stop meowing can also be a sign of high blood pressure.

  34. 34.

    Comrade Jake

    March 7, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    Sounds like “GET OFF MY LAWN!” to me.

  35. 35.

    Comrade Darkness

    March 7, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    Excuse me, Stewardess, I speak “Tunch”.

    Okay, I played that for my grumpy fat cat. Twice. She was VERY interested. VERY. And now she is looking behind the monitor, and sniffing to find the cat in question. So, I’d say “in the spring the young buck’s heart turns to thought’s of love” or just wild s_x.

  36. 36.

    Meg

    March 7, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    Our cat G.G. did that too this morning.
    She stopped when we let her out to stroll around a bit.
    I think it is the good weather after days of rain and coldness.

  37. 37.

    WereBear

    March 7, 2010 at 12:45 pm

    @wmsheppa: When Reverend Jim, the Maine Coon mix, was about six months old, I walked into the hall as he was examining the contents of one of those plastic grocery bags.

    He acted guilty, though he hadn’t bothered anything yet. This made him take off through the living room, with one of the bag loops over his neck, which scared him into making sharp turns, each one whacking the bag against the furniture.

    I was using it to bring my lunch to work. By the time I got it back, only the Slim Jim was still edible. The grapes were hopeless.

  38. 38.

    Comrade Darkness

    March 7, 2010 at 12:46 pm

    @bumblebums(!) Wait, I think we know each other… Hm, lets see . . . does the number 1225 mean anything to you?

  39. 39.

    Wilson Heath

    March 7, 2010 at 12:48 pm

    That sounds like a demand for the dog’s head on a platter. There’s a difference in which of our pet overlords we welcome . . .

  40. 40.

    shortstop

    March 7, 2010 at 12:49 pm

    Well, I’ve finally managed to get the dog to stop running in circles barking her fool head off. I won’t be playing that vid again.

  41. 41.

    bemused

    March 7, 2010 at 12:50 pm

    John, I second spring fever & he wants you to do something about it. If you had a kitty leash, a walk outside might cure what ails him.

  42. 42.

    mutt

    March 7, 2010 at 12:50 pm

    he is tryig to tell you something. If he were mine, id bring him round to the vet. Check for abdominal tumors.
    Lux the Cat, RIP.

  43. 43.

    Carrie

    March 7, 2010 at 12:52 pm

    Because i’m pretty bored, i just googled cats and kale and apparently it’s good for them.
    Maybe that’s what he wants?

  44. 44.

    Comrade PhysioProf

    March 7, 2010 at 12:52 pm

    He’s saying, “Dude, this fucking quarter ain’t gonna cut it! This cat’s all about the motherfucking benjamins! Capisce?”

  45. 45.

    Annie

    March 7, 2010 at 12:54 pm

    @Scott de B.:

    LOL. Either that or Tom DeLay on the TV this Sunday morning….Clearly some new kitty toys also are in order…

  46. 46.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 12:54 pm

    @Comrade PhysioProf:

    He wants the glass of beer to go with it.

  47. 47.

    wmsheppa

    March 7, 2010 at 12:56 pm

    @WereBear: Wow… luckily this bag was empty, and my cat isn’t a Maine Coon. Was the slim jim in fact damaged at all? That would be a really impressive feat…

  48. 48.

    Danton

    March 7, 2010 at 12:58 pm

    Hmmm… after reviewing this clip three times, I’m guessing Tunch wants another cat in the house. Someone who understands him. Someone he can relate to.

    Then again, maybe he just wants yogurt.

  49. 49.

    gbear

    March 7, 2010 at 12:59 pm

    @Jill:

    I pet our other cat, Maggie is jealous.

    I’ve got two cats going thru that phase right now. I can’t pet one without the other one getting pissy or pouty about it. When they get pouty they run off into another room and then meow for attention. If you go to give them a pet the other cat follows and it starts all over again.

  50. 50.

    Comrade Mary

    March 7, 2010 at 1:01 pm

    Awwwww-dorable! That makes me miss my Maggie, who had the same “amusemepetmefeedmeadoreme” call.

    But that’s not shrill. If Tunch were shrill, it would sound more like “Phnglui mglwnafh Cthulhu Rlyeh wgahnagl Ftagn!”

    Remember, John, if he really loves you, he’ll eat you first.

  51. 51.

    Max Peck

    March 7, 2010 at 1:02 pm

    Maybe he’s upset about Rothlesberger.

  52. 52.

    Cain

    March 7, 2010 at 1:03 pm

    @The Main Gauche of Mild Reason:

    That would make a pretty good april 1st joke. The patchouli hair oil would be a good laugh and a subtle one at that.

    cain

  53. 53.

    Jim in Chicago

    March 7, 2010 at 1:06 pm

    A friend of mine is having similar trouble with her cat. A dog trainer who also knows about cats told her the trick is to ignore him when he yowls and give him lots of attention only when he’s quiet. It takes time, and there may be a few relapses along the way, but this should work (unless there’s something actually wrong with your kitty). A consequence, such as being put in the bathroom for a few minutes when he won’t shut up (not allowing him out until he’s quiet) may also be needed.

  54. 54.

    Silver Owl

    March 7, 2010 at 1:07 pm

    Change of seasons spring is coming. Both of my cats used to get more vocal and run like madwomen around the house.

  55. 55.

    licensed to kill time

    March 7, 2010 at 1:10 pm

    Tunch wants some catnip – give him some ‘nip, dude! Let him tear around the house, get the munchies and pass out.

  56. 56.

    Ming

    March 7, 2010 at 1:11 pm

    In cats, mating season begins after a sustained period of longer days (>12 hrs daylight). It stands to reason Tunch would also be activated by the change in season even if he’s a guy, and fixed — mating obviously involves guy cats as well, so it makes sense for them to respond to the same sunlight cues as the females, and the circadian “clock” is in the the hypothalamus (in the brain) — not the ‘nads.

    Hi Tunch!

  57. 57.

    Corner Stone

    March 7, 2010 at 1:11 pm

    I have no idea what he wants.

    Whatever it is, I’m sure in 8 or 9 hours of trying you will find it.

  58. 58.

    Cain

    March 7, 2010 at 1:14 pm

    @Jim in Chicago:

    A friend of mine is having similar trouble with her cat. A dog trainer who also knows about cats told her the trick is to ignore him when he yowls and give him lots of attention only when he’s quiet. It takes time, and there may be a few relapses along the way, but this should work (unless there’s something actually wrong with your kitty). A consequence, such as being put in the bathroom for a few minutes when he won’t shut up (not allowing him out until he’s quiet) may also be needed.

    I’ve done that with my cat, but then he’s clever he starts doing things that he knows are naughty like beating up on our other cat, or clawing a rug, running around the house at full tilt. It’s kind of amusing on how he tries to manipulate us. We do sometimes kick him out though when he’s being way too nutty.

    cain

  59. 59.

    Gretchen D

    March 7, 2010 at 1:14 pm

    My main concern ( I’m with #42 and might be a bit worried) would be a possible urinary tract infection. Is he peeing normally?

    If he is, then I guess he’s probably just giving you a piece of his mind. Loudly, too!

  60. 60.

    gizmo

    March 7, 2010 at 1:16 pm

    Don’t worry about his behavior. He’s just imitating the Republicans he sees on TV.

  61. 61.

    JK

    March 7, 2010 at 1:17 pm

    test

  62. 62.

    Comrade Kevin

    March 7, 2010 at 1:18 pm

    @wmsheppa:

    Pither: My rubber instep caught on the rear mudguard stanchion and…
    Gulliver: Really? And what happened to the corned beef rolls?
    Pither: The corned beef rolls squashed out of all…here, how did you know about the corned beef rolls?
    Gulliver: I noticed them – or what remained of them – in the road. I noticed also that the lemon curd tart had sustained some superficial damage.
    Pither: That’s right. The curd had become…
    Gulliver: Detached from the pastry base.
    Pither: (with some surprise) Absolutely right, yes.
    Gulliver: Otherwise the contents of the sandwich box were relatively unharmed, although I detected small particles of bitumen in the chocolate kup kakes.
    Pither: But they were wrapped in foil!
    Gulliver: Not the hard chocolate top, I’m afraid.
    Pither: Oh, that’s the bit I like.
    Gulliver: The sausage roll, the crisps and ginger bisquit were unscathed.

  63. 63.

    arguingwithsignposts

    March 7, 2010 at 1:22 pm

    Tunch!

  64. 64.

    cat48

    March 7, 2010 at 1:23 pm

    Are there other cats outside roaming around? My kittehs are always upset when another cat comes on their property. They take turns running around and shrieking about it. Maybe Tunch smells other kitties outside.

  65. 65.

    Morbo

    March 7, 2010 at 1:25 pm

    @Comrade PhysioProf: “Everything except ‘Capisce.'”

  66. 66.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 1:27 pm

    Adam Gadahn, American Al Qaeda, Captured

    I don’t know what the Obama admin did to get the cooperation of Pakistan, but I sure hope they keep it up.

  67. 67.

    CaseyL

    March 7, 2010 at 1:30 pm

    My guess: You haven’t been able to play with him for a very long time because of your injury; you finally were able to again; and he’s got 2(?) months of back-play coming.

    IOW, this is Tunch’s way of saying he’s glad you’re getting better: by demanding more of you.

  68. 68.

    cmorenc

    March 7, 2010 at 1:31 pm

    @John Cole

    I have no idea what he [Tunch] wants.

    Those YEOW!lings are cat-speak for:
    “Open me a can of Tuna, willya John?” “What are you waiting for John, Tuna please!”

  69. 69.

    Dead Ernest

    March 7, 2010 at 1:31 pm

    @MikeJ:

    Pet The Fucking Blanco gato.

    Mike, excellent.
    I bet you’re right.

  70. 70.

    Cain

    March 7, 2010 at 1:32 pm

    @mr. whipple:

    Wow, nothing like a little competence and a lot less saber rattling. What’s awesome is how quietly it is being done. The administration is not using this to milk the headlines. The administration rightly understands that crowing about this will make it easier to recruit people into al-qaida. Smart thinking.

    cain

  71. 71.

    4tehlulz

    March 7, 2010 at 1:33 pm

    he’s either looking to score or is sick. has he been using the litter box?

  72. 72.

    Svensker

    March 7, 2010 at 1:34 pm

    He doesn’t sound or look unhappy or in pain, just full of ructions. My guess is spring fever and sap rising. I’m feeling a bit that way myself. Heard the first woodpecker making his god-awful mating squawk this morning. All the critters are doing it.

  73. 73.

    Dave C

    March 7, 2010 at 1:35 pm

    Sign of the impending apocalypse, # eleventy-three:

    Bill Kristol referred to as an “expert” on Iraq. Granted, it was on Fox News.

  74. 74.

    asiangrrlMN

    March 7, 2010 at 1:38 pm

    @Dave C: It’s probably in Kristol’s contract–required fluffing by Wallace before he (Kristol) will perform on camera.

    @mr. whipple: No shit. Not bad for someone who is skeered of terrorists and soft on terror, eh?

    And, TUUUUUNCH! I love that cat.

  75. 75.

    robertdsc

    March 7, 2010 at 1:41 pm

    I could watch that all day. Thanks, John.

  76. 76.

    suzanne

    March 7, 2010 at 1:44 pm

    My Nico used to yowl like that about once every six weeks. I’d take her outside for a walk (well, I would walk, she would laze in my arms and look about) and she’d calm right down.

    She was an indoor cat, though, so this might not help if he’s used to going outside.

  77. 77.

    Bill E Pilgrim

    March 7, 2010 at 1:44 pm

    Whatever you do don’t play that audio backwards. It’s a secret too terrible for any of us to know.

  78. 78.

    jeffreyw

    March 7, 2010 at 1:44 pm

    Tunch Time! Er..wait, I mean Lunch Time!

  79. 79.

    Maude

    March 7, 2010 at 1:46 pm

    I had a cat that did that. He’s talking.

  80. 80.

    asiangrrlMN

    March 7, 2010 at 1:47 pm

    @jeffreyw: Now that’s more like it! I didn’t care for the fuzzy oatmeal in the last pic.

  81. 81.

    cat48

    March 7, 2010 at 1:48 pm

    Ok, O, you got Gadahn and you’re scheduled to spk at 3 about Iraqi elections; couldn’t you crow about catching the ‘merican wanted for Treason, too?? Just once? Bush/Cheney would be chest bumping on the front lawn today…you betcha.

  82. 82.

    Mike E

    March 7, 2010 at 1:52 pm

    Holler at yer boy!

  83. 83.

    Short Bus Bully

    March 7, 2010 at 1:53 pm

    He doesn’t “want” something, he is sending out roars of triumph!

    “I got this shaved monkey to bring me food!”
    “He cleans up my shit!”
    “He brushed me and played with me all morning!”

    “It’s true, I RULE!”

  84. 84.

    Bill E Pilgrim

    March 7, 2010 at 1:53 pm

    My favorite Sunday posting is up. I don’t even bother streaming the actual shows anymore.

    The best parts this week:

    **

    Gregory: so you maintain he’s just an idiot

    Sebelius : yes – you’d like him

    **

    Hatch: reconciliation has never been used to pass this bill before

    Gregory: oh noe!

    **

    Hatch: see this proves invading Iraq was a great idea because there’s a chance this country can survive the Bush reign of terror

    Gregory: so you think Iraq can survive?

    Hatch: I was talking about the U.S.

  85. 85.

    The Moar You Know

    March 7, 2010 at 1:56 pm

    Good lord, Tunch has a more annoying meow than my kitty. Didn’t think it was possible.

  86. 86.

    J.

    March 7, 2010 at 1:59 pm

    Tunch!

    What Tunch is saying:

    a) “Get that effing camera out of my face.”

    b) “Get that effing dog out of my house. It’s spring, so why is she still here?!”

    c) “When’s football season? I miss the Steelers’ blanket.”

    d) “Why are you always on that stupid computer?”

  87. 87.

    ruemara

    March 7, 2010 at 2:03 pm

    Oh how I wish my Smudge was so quiet and polite. 7:30 am-Loud bellow outside the bedroom door. Chased by spouse. 8:am thru 8:30 am-lowing in living room that sounds like it’s right outside the door. This is near every morning.

    To put it in perspective. My tuxedo cat can be heard behind a steel clad door, up to 60 feet away. He can wake you from a sound sleep. In fact, after years in his company, you will hear him in your dreams. When he’s outside, he sits by the door and cries to be in. Last time clocked, he went for 3 hrs-straight. When inside, he cries to go out. If he doesn’t want to go out, he just wanders around crying. EVERY. DAMN. DAY.

    He’s 17, so this may be the end. As bad as this sounds, I will probably not go for any loud kitties after him, this was enough. Where’d my little dust ball who used to play hide and go pounce with me go? I’ll be devastated when he passes, no matter how annoying he is.

  88. 88.

    Comrade Kevin

    March 7, 2010 at 2:11 pm

    @Bill E Pilgrim: The Bobblespeak Translations really are quite awesome.

  89. 89.

    Allan

    March 7, 2010 at 2:11 pm

    I concur with the diagnosis of spring fever/horniness.

  90. 90.

    Pennypacker

    March 7, 2010 at 2:15 pm

    John, I think you’re well-advised to have Tunch’s thyroid levels checked.

  91. 91.

    Joshua Norton

    March 7, 2010 at 2:18 pm

    Um, get used to it for a while. Judging from my past kitteh experiences, if you’re routine is being disturbed by moving preparations, it’s probably going to be non-stop until a new routine is established. As the day draws closer you’ll probably have to get him off the ceiling with tranquilizing darts.

  92. 92.

    MoeLarryAndJesus

    March 7, 2010 at 2:18 pm

    @Max Peck:

    I think you’ve got it.

    It may be time to neuter Big Ben to keep him from further “allegations.”

  93. 93.

    General Egali Tarian Stuck

    March 7, 2010 at 2:18 pm

    Glenn Harlan Reynolds sees dead people, and revolution on the horizon based on the Constitution and apparently Rasmussen Polls that highlight our governments lack of consent of the governed. Which could be our undoing as a republic.

    But now things are looking a bit dicey. According to a recent Rasmussen Poll , only 21 percent of American voters believe that the federal government enjoys the consent of the governed. On the other hand, Rasmussen notes, a full 63 percent of the “political class” believe that the government enjoys the consent of the governed.

    And in defense of his argument, the rascal plays the beer card.

    In fact, when I think of the federal government’s brand now, I think of Schlitz beer. Schlitz was once a top national brew. But, in search of short-term gains, it began gradually reducing its quality in tiny increments to save money, substituting cheaper malt, fewer hops and “accelerated” brewing for its traditional approach.

    I am personally offended he smears Schlitz since I was weened on that brand of brewskie from many sojourns to our turn around bootleggers in a preacher approved dry county in Eastern Kentucky. Shame on Glenn for such blasphemy.

    All else being equal however, Reynolds brings some pretty choice wingnuttery this Sunday morn.

  94. 94.

    ellaesther

    March 7, 2010 at 2:21 pm

    I think it’s clear he wants opposable thumbs so that he can pick up that quarter and play the slots. So that he can win you a million bucks.

    Or maybe you should clip his nails — it looks like he’s having a little trouble retracting them, and that could mean a touch of the ar-ther-itis.

    But I’m sure it’s the million bucks thing.

  95. 95.

    General Egali Tarian Stuck

    March 7, 2010 at 2:24 pm

    And you folks leave Tunch alone. He can be shrill if he wants. Pay no never mind to the harping Tunchster.

  96. 96.

    jeffreyw

    March 7, 2010 at 2:31 pm

    Good thread to relink to this Toby classic.

  97. 97.

    kommrade reproductive vigor

    March 7, 2010 at 2:31 pm

    Until you’re being woken from a sound sleep at 4 a.m. because a furry maniac has gotten bored and turned it up to 11, I don’t want to hear about it.

    My big fat cat has lungs like Pavarotti, an impressive range of yowls, howls, grumbles, gurgles, squawks and shrieks and the only time he shuts up is when he is asleep, eating or one of his human slaves is carrying him around.

    Wanna trade?

  98. 98.

    Mike E

    March 7, 2010 at 2:33 pm

    @Comrade Kevin: Culture of Truth, the Pundit Whisperer.

  99. 99.

    jeffreyw

    March 7, 2010 at 2:34 pm

    And Bea wanted back in, too.

  100. 100.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 2:37 pm

    @Bill E Pilgrim:

    Thank you for that. Freaking genius. Much better than suffering through the real thing.

  101. 101.

    BGK

    March 7, 2010 at 2:41 pm

    Has he been able to urinate? A co-worker of mine asked me about why his cat was “complaining” like that for two days. I asked him if there was any evidence in the litterboxes that the cat had urinated. He couldn’t think of any. A vet visit showed a plugged urethra and a bladder dangerously close to bursting.

    I know there’s lots of jokes about ferocious Tunch, but maybe you could feel for his bladder and see if it’s distended?

  102. 102.

    You Don't Say

    March 7, 2010 at 2:42 pm

    I think Tunch is bored. Have a laser light he could chase?

    How old is Tunch, btw?

  103. 103.

    John O

    March 7, 2010 at 2:44 pm

    I believe that constitutes aerobics for my main man Tunch, no?

  104. 104.

    harlana peppper

    March 7, 2010 at 2:48 pm

    Shrill? Now the shocking truth is out! Tunch is a liberal! Also, I think he may be pissed that he can’t eat that coin, there.

    Get in mah belleh!

  105. 105.

    HRA

    March 7, 2010 at 2:53 pm

    @mr. whipple: #64

    Respect and understanding goes a long way.

  106. 106.

    CT Voter

    March 7, 2010 at 2:54 pm

    He knows he owns you, and he’s reveling in that knowledge on this nice springy day.

  107. 107.

    harlana peppper

    March 7, 2010 at 2:54 pm

    @jeffreyw: I can see kitteh tonsils!

  108. 108.

    Bill E Pilgrim

    March 7, 2010 at 2:55 pm

    @kommrade reproductive vigor:

    Until you’re being woken from a sound sleep at 4 a.m. …My big fat cat has lungs like Pavarotti

    Doing Nessun Dorma then, I presume?

  109. 109.

    CynDee

    March 7, 2010 at 2:56 pm

    Maybe he hurts or is sick.

    Other cats doing this, around the country . . . hmmm. Earthquake coming?

  110. 110.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 3:00 pm

    /Bot alert.

    Obama to speak live at 3pm EST, Cspan, on the Iraq election.

  111. 111.

    joe in oklahoma

    March 7, 2010 at 3:06 pm

    on MTP: Orrin Hatch and Rich Lowery openly endorse Harold Ford…saying the Democrats need more pols like Harold

    but, of course.

  112. 112.

    Betsy

    March 7, 2010 at 3:08 pm

    TUNCHIE!!!!

    :D yay. Seeing him always makes my day. This video also makes me grateful that I have the quietest cat I’ve ever met in my life. Chompers will make little trills and murmurs, but even on the rare occasion when she tries to meow, it comes out as either totally silent (to human ears, anyway) or as a tiny, super-high-pitched squeak. I’ve never heard her meow like a cat. It’s weird. Not that I’m complaining.

  113. 113.

    sloan

    March 7, 2010 at 3:10 pm

    @mr. whipple:

    The wingnuts are having a helluva time reporting this without mentioning a certain U.S. President by name or his strategy shift from Iraq to Afghanistan. It is killing them.

    I’m just waiting for Dick Cheney’s unemployed daughter to complain about Gadahn’s legal representation. I’m sure this got her hot and bothered.

  114. 114.

    General Egali Tarian Stuck

    March 7, 2010 at 3:10 pm

    @CynDee: Prolly just Sarah Palin planning to run for president.

  115. 115.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 3:10 pm

    Seems like a lot of people are worried about Tunch. I worry about mine when they are quiet and well-behaved.

  116. 116.

    AhabTRuler

    March 7, 2010 at 3:11 pm

    @4tehlulz:

    he’s either looking to score

    First thing you learn is you always gotta wait…

  117. 117.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 3:12 pm

    @sloan:

    The last few weeks have really been amazing. If it didn’t hurt the effort, I think Obama should crow about this. You know darn well if this happened under the chimp, he’d be out in his flight suit every freaking day, and the press would be all gaga.

  118. 118.

    Martin

    March 7, 2010 at 3:14 pm

    @mr. whipple: Barry Soeto Obama, Muslim soc!alist, has now allied himself with the terrorist-bent, Muslim government of Pakistan and arranged to have a US Christian-born citizen arrested and detained by Muslim security forces. What more will this terrorist sympathizing president do to destroy America?

    (See, that wasn’t so hard)

  119. 119.

    Arachnae

    March 7, 2010 at 3:16 pm

    I’m pretty sure he was saying, “We have to go back, Kate… we have to GO BACK!”

  120. 120.

    licensed to kill time

    March 7, 2010 at 3:16 pm

    Steve Benen on “Updating Our Political Dictionaries” and soliciting submissions.

  121. 121.

    cat48

    March 7, 2010 at 3:19 pm

    Gadahn’s daddy was a goat farmer, not to be confused with a millworker. heh Wasn’t Barack’s dad a goat herder, hmm?

  122. 122.

    Corner Stone

    March 7, 2010 at 3:21 pm

    @AhabTRuler:

    First thing you learn is you always gotta wait…

    When, Lord, when? When’s gonna be my time?

  123. 123.

    R-Jud

    March 7, 2010 at 3:23 pm

    Played the clip; our female cat came up to the monitor and started sniffing around. Our male cat sat down and started licking his bum. Inconclusive results.

    Oscars: we will not watch because a) we’re not all that interested; b) things don’t start until about 1 am or so here. But Armando Iannucci’s twitter feed has been fun (he’s nominated for screenwriting In The Loop):

    In LA. Done interviews with Sky, ITV and Richard Bacon. Off now to get ridiculous gift bags. Scooters, liquid houses, gold cornflakes, etc.

    and

    At the airport. Got my Oscar tickets in my pocket, my girl by my side, and 3 packets of heroin hidden up my anus. What could possibly go wrong?

    Also, he’s posted some pictures of teeny-tiny week-old puppies.

  124. 124.

    licensed to kill time

    March 7, 2010 at 3:25 pm

    @AhabTRuler: yeah, but does Tunch got twenty-six dollars in his paw?

  125. 125.

    WereBear

    March 7, 2010 at 3:33 pm

    @Betsy: Likewise, Reverend Jim chirps, trills, squeaks, and purrs, but never meows. In his case, it’s the usual Maine Coon voice.

    While The Princess, (a year old this week!) only complains if something has gone wrong.

  126. 126.

    mr. whipple

    March 7, 2010 at 3:34 pm

    I’m Waiting For My Can(of Tuna), by Tunch

    I’m waiting for my can
    Got 25 cent in my hand
    Up on couch, 9 to 5
    Feel hungry always, more dead than alive
    I’m waiting for my can

    Here he comes, he got that stupid dog
    Spending hours on the stupid blog
    He’s never early, he’s always late
    First thing you learn is I always gotta wait
    I’m waiting for my can

    I’m gonna holler, gonna bawl and shout
    I’m feeling hungry, wanna see that new can opener out
    I’m feeling hungry, I’m gonna whine and pout
    Until I get my tuna, get that can opener out!
    I’m waiting for my can

  127. 127.

    R-Jud

    March 7, 2010 at 3:36 pm

    @mr. whipple: I don’t know whether to applaud you, or feel pity. Either way, I was moved, man.

  128. 128.

    licensed to kill time

    March 7, 2010 at 3:39 pm

    @mr. whipple:

    VERY nice, mr whipple! I bet Tunch sounds just like Lou Reed when he sings it, too. In his own mind at least.

    Tuuuuna Ca-an
    Be the death of me
    It’s my life and it’s my wife

  129. 129.

    Annie

    March 7, 2010 at 3:40 pm

    @mr. whipple:

    Just awesome…

  130. 130.

    John Cole

    March 7, 2010 at 3:42 pm

    @Martin: Just tweeted something similar.

  131. 131.

    Chuck Butcher

    March 7, 2010 at 3:45 pm

    “You bastard, I don’t want to diet.”

  132. 132.

    burnspbesq

    March 7, 2010 at 3:46 pm

    Shrill? He’s obviously auditioning to be the vacation replacement for Greenwald.

  133. 133.

    Ann

    March 7, 2010 at 3:46 pm

    If it keeps up, I agree with the take-Tunch-to-the-vet folks. When Theo, a rambunctious 2-year-old DC street kitty who lives with me, did this once, he has having a severe allergic reaction.

  134. 134.

    Blue Shark

    March 7, 2010 at 3:48 pm

    John…

    …He is telling you to quit pointing that vid cam at him that is giving him brain cancer.

  135. 135.

    Betsy

    March 7, 2010 at 3:49 pm

    @WereBear:
    That is a great name for a cat.

  136. 136.

    debit

    March 7, 2010 at 3:50 pm

    @mr. whipple: The only thing that would make that song better would be if it were sung by Mississippi Gary. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Em2icoJfLu4

  137. 137.

    moe99

    March 7, 2010 at 3:51 pm

    I think Tunch is telling you he wants to run away and join the circus:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlKYtLlvRlU

  138. 138.

    sloan

    March 7, 2010 at 3:54 pm

    @Martin:

    A sampling of the nutter reaction scraped from the bottom of the memeorandum barrel:

    Reliapundit: WHO DESERVES CREDIT FOR THIS CAPTURE? PETRAEUS AND BUSH! NONE TO OBAMA OR PAKISTAN.

    Jim Hoft: So, do you suppose Obama has him lawyered up yet?

    Melissa Clouthier: You know, it’s a crying shame we’ve outlawed cruel and unusual punishment.

    Scared Monkeys: Now please, please can we bring back waterboarding and make this treasonous bastard talk and give up everything he knows. A note to President Barack Hussein Obama, this would be what we in the real world call a victory in the WAR ON TERROR not an overseas contingency plan.

    Nice Deb: Has he been read his Miranda rights?

    Ace of Spades: If it is true, I wonder if any of the al-Qaida Seven will resign their DoJ positions to defend him. Nah, they can do more to help him where they are.

    And so on. This is just more proof that Bush was right all along and B. Hussein Obama is a failure!

  139. 139.

    Bad Horse's Filly

    March 7, 2010 at 3:56 pm

    I vote spring fever. And whatever it was it made my big ole male Berman spring into action. The rest, not so much.

    Meanwhile, my pretty calico seems to have a boyfriend. He’s a big old yellow long-haired tabby who has taken to showing up at our door and sitting outside it. My calico then sits at the door and mews to go out.

    Nevermind that everyone is neutered and my cats are only allowed to sit on the porch.

    It’s spring, even if your nuts are cut off I guess.

  140. 140.

    Skepticat

    March 7, 2010 at 4:00 pm

    One of my cats has been wandering around muttering a lot. The other–a Maine coon–is always vocal. Perhaps it is indeed spring fever.
    Tunch’s body language seems pretty relaxed. Perhaps he thinks you’re relaxing too much and is trying to keep you off balance.
    Yowling–and you’d know the difference between a yowl and a “comment”–at night is a warning sign of health problems, but he seems to simply be missing with you.

  141. 141.

    LiberalTarian

    March 7, 2010 at 4:00 pm

    Gas. Clearly.

  142. 142.

    rootless-e

    March 7, 2010 at 4:04 pm

    If’ we’re going to get into the lou reed lyrics, nothing good will come of it.

    I’ll tell you something
    Glen, he is a blogger
    And Jane, she is one too
    Both of them slam Obama, ha
    And tell us that he’s through

    Sweet ….

  143. 143.

    Linkmeister

    March 7, 2010 at 4:22 pm

    @Arachnae: But then where are Tunch’s tattoos? (Stupidest episode in all six seasons, I thought.)

  144. 144.

    Barry

    March 7, 2010 at 4:45 pm

    My translation:

    “I’m hungry; the dog looks good, and should fit nicely into the oven. Get cracking, you lazy cat servant!”

  145. 145.

    Tonal Crow

    March 7, 2010 at 4:46 pm

    He knew you would post a story about him being pissy just before a story about how head-over-heels in love you are with Lily.

    You really like to play with fire, don’t you?

  146. 146.

    morzer

    March 7, 2010 at 5:18 pm

    Isn’t Tunch just protesting the imminent Sarah Palin Trailer Trash Live reality show? Frankly, the thought makes me want to miaow, vomit and buy an UZI, all at the same time.

  147. 147.

    Kobie

    March 7, 2010 at 5:23 pm

    Sounds like Michelle Malkin.

    Kobie +0

  148. 148.

    Trinity

    March 7, 2010 at 5:27 pm

    As someone with a degree in vocal performance, I say that your cat has a lovely voice! I intend to commence composition of a new opera, La Tunchiata!

    Soon the phrase will be “It ain’t over until the Tunch sings!”

  149. 149.

    IanY77

    March 7, 2010 at 5:29 pm

    “Midnight
    Not a sound from the pavement
    Has the moon lost her memory?
    She is smiling alone
    In the lamplight
    The withered leaves collect at my feet
    And the wind begins to moan”

  150. 150.

    Lesley

    March 7, 2010 at 5:57 pm

    Heads up to Tunch: It’s hard to take your complaints seriously when they’re accompanied by purring.

  151. 151.

    2th&nayle

    March 7, 2010 at 6:24 pm

    Just be sweet to him, John. My cat Junior got killed in the road in front of the house last night. I found him at daybreak this morning. I already miss him so bad I want to cry.

  152. 152.

    SIA

    March 7, 2010 at 7:03 pm

    @ 2th&nayle, I am so, so sorry to hear that.

  153. 153.

    Dave Ruddell

    March 7, 2010 at 7:11 pm

    Don’t know if this will work for you (or anyone else) but when my cat gets all whiney, I toss a blanket over a chair to make a ‘tent’. He almost always goes into said tent and will often stay for hours.

    Alternatively, I just throw the blanket over him (it’s not very heavy). After about thirty seconds, he’ll usually curl up and shut up. YMMV

  154. 154.

    WereBear

    March 7, 2010 at 7:16 pm

    @2th&nayle: Oh, that’s awful. I’m so sorry.

  155. 155.

    Comrade E.B. Misfit

    March 7, 2010 at 7:19 pm

    2th & Nayle, my condolences.

    As for the matter at hand, Tunch is telling you to put down the damn camera and pet him.

  156. 156.

    Ash Can

    March 7, 2010 at 7:21 pm

    @2th&nayle: I’m so sorry to hear that. That’s tragic. Condolences on your loss.

  157. 157.

    gravie

    March 7, 2010 at 7:43 pm

    My cat has been on a tear this week, too. Maybe there’s something in the air.

  158. 158.

    gsp

    March 7, 2010 at 11:16 pm

    Tunch is thinking I wish I had my balls back so I could get me some lady kitties.

  159. 159.

    Darkrose

    March 8, 2010 at 12:48 am

    Joxur makes noises like that when he feels insufficient attention is being paid to the most important being in the universe, namely, His Great Grey Furriness. The amount of attention paid to him throughout the day is irrelevant–what matters is whether or not you’re petting him RIGHT NOW.

  160. 160.

    asiangrrlMN

    March 8, 2010 at 2:15 am

    @2th&nayle: Oh no! 2th&nayle, my deepest condolences to you and your loved ones. May Junior run swiftly to the other side and peek in on you from time to time to make sure you are doing all right. I am so sorry.

  161. 161.

    Nazgul35

    March 8, 2010 at 12:41 pm

    Clearly…Tunch’s plan to have Lily incapacitate you so he could eat you have gone awry…so he has moved on to psychological warfare.

  162. 162.

    2th&nayle

    March 8, 2010 at 2:16 pm

    @asiangrrlMN: @Ash Can: @Comrade E.B. Misfit: @WereBear: Thanks for everyones kind words. Hope I didn’t leave anyone out. Things a little better today. Thanks again.

  163. 163.

    2th&nayle

    March 8, 2010 at 2:31 pm

    @2th&nayle: Thanks to everyone for your kind comments. Today’s not so sad as yesterday. He was a good cat and as short as it was, he had a good life. He certainly got whatever he wanted around this house! Thanks again.

  164. 164.

    2th&nayle

    March 8, 2010 at 2:33 pm

    FYWP! Or whatever. Geeze!

  165. 165.

    funluvn

    March 8, 2010 at 3:53 pm

    Shrill, but funny!

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