Because he likes cats,
he doesn’t realize how like a dog

he pets her—with the patience
bordering on impatience

one allots a too affectionate dog;
petting and worrying

she might do something distasteful
or inappropriate—lick his legs, drool,

or show an unwelcome interest
in his crotch, when all he wants

is to leave with his conscience clear:
she wants affection; he grants it.

She, like any dog, knows the rules
of this game: gratitude

for any stick thrown,
however feebly.