The Case of the Truant Turkey

A Tabitha Cato Mystery

Tabitha Cato (pronounced Ca-toe, never say Cat-o unless you want to get scratched), is the world’s foremost feline detective.  She can squeeze into tight spaces, always lands on her feet, and has survived so many scrapes people say she has nine lives.  Yet with her deep green eyes and gentle purr, she can distract any Tom away from his catnip mouse.

She is the ultimate link between the human and animal world and often tackles problems human detectives won’t touch.  And Tabitha has just received another case.

Mrs. Gobbles became upset when her nephew, Thomas Turkey, disappeared a week ago on Thanksgiving Day.  After taking her case to several overweight and lethargic human detectives who were completely disinterested in her plight, she turned to Tabitha Cato.

As Tabitha investigated, she became aware of some disturbing evidence.  First, there was the unhealthy relationship between Farmer McGregor and young Thomas.  Mr. McGregor would invite Thomas to his house for weekly dinners and serve him lavish meals.  Since Thomas had no self-control, he ate robustly and frequently complained that he left the dinners feeling “stuffed.”

Then, on the Monday before Thanksgiving, Farmer McGregor suddenly unfriended Thomas on Facebook, with no explanation. 

After clawing her way through the internet, Tabitha uncovered a disturbing e-mail sent to Thomas the day before Thanksgiving.  The e-mail, from an anonymous source, discussed the pros and cons of grilling vs. roasting and warned Thomas to expect high temperatures the next day. 

After evaluating all the evidence, Tabitha came to an unfortunate conclusion that left a sour taste in her mouth.  She closed the case and reported to her client, Mrs. Gobbles, that her nephew, Thomas Turkey, had been the victim of fowl play.