When nanotech and material science get a lot better, we’re going to have awesome cat toys. I’m envisioning tiny robots that behave like butterflies with slower reflexes, made out of a substance that cats can ingest, possibly seeded with the scent of tuna and the psychoactive properties of catnip. Toss a handful into the air, let the bots wander according to their algorithms, and watch your kitty hunt.

At that point, will we still have biological cats? Maybe we’ll consider mammals more trouble than they’re worth — a sentimental anachronism. Are you familiar with the PARO therapeutic robot? “It allows the documented benefits of animal therapy to be administered to patients in environments such as hospitals and extended care facilities where live animals present treatment or logistical difficulties.” In other words, PARO is a cute interactive bot that looks and sounds like a baby seal. It’s commonly used in old folks’ homes to compensate for the lack of human touch and affection. All PARO needs to function is a freshly charged battery.

In addition to PARO and other medical bots, consumer robot pets with various levels of capability have already met the market. But I wonder if we’ll be able to bond to creatures that we know aren’t “alive” in the traditional sense. Some people consider their pets to be their children — I wouldn’t go that far, but I do adore my cats. Wouldn’t it feel weird to love a machine that much?

Eh, probably not. I’m a product of my place and time, but even so, I could probably adjust to a mechanical cat. Only after Polera and Grace have passed away!