Cat Sense (Poetry)

What is it you can smell or taste
about someone that you’ve just met? —
It’s surely not their human face
or just the tone of voice — I bet
there’s something else you cats divine
that sorts the good man from the swine.

You make your mind up on the spot —
no hesitation — you just know
from some discerning sense you’ve got
no unsure swinging to and fro ...
What is this secret old and rare —
this innate gift you’re loathe to share?

Your calculation’s swift and true
a feline feat done in a trice
as though you simply see right through —
identify the men from mice
while I so seldom smell a rat —
I wish I had your nose, dear cat!