We'll Prescribe You a Cat - Shō Ishida
“I’ll prescribe you a cat. And then we’ll observe.”
In one of Kyoto’s old districts hides a mysterious clinic — Kokoro. You can only find it through word of mouth, from a friend or a friend of a friend. A little like in Murakami’s stories, it appears when you need it most. The doctor working there uses unconventional methods: instead of pills or IV drips, he prescribes… the companionship of a cat.
“Animals really do make the heart feel lighter.”
We are introduced to five stories of people struggling with everyday life and their own shortcomings. Each of them is given a cat to care for — and this small act of responsibility sets change in motion. Slowly, their lives begin to shift, and they themselves find a new sense of balance.
The story that stayed with me most was about a man who was failing in his corporate job but, through a chain of unfortunate events, found himself on a completely new path. To his surprise, he discovered not only a new profession but also true friends in a field he would never have considered. Another one I loved was about a designer who finally dared to add something personal to the product she was working on. That small, authentic touch captured people’s attention and turned into a success. I love these moments — when someone risks showing a piece of themselves and realizes that this is exactly what was missing.
These stories are heartwarming and inspiring. They show how animals bring us warmth and comfort, but also how they can help us put our lives back in order and open doors we didn’t even know existed.
I myself have a dog, and I know how much richer my life is because of him. No one loves me the way he does — especially when I’m eating 😉. Thanks to him, I’ve met wonderful people during walks, and those playful, affectionate moments always brighten even the gloomiest days.
Who is this book for?
This book is for readers who enjoy calm, soothing stories with a touch of everyday magic. For animal lovers, of course, but also for anyone who seeks reflective literature — light in form, yet carrying an important message.
Final thoughts
Prescribing a Cat is a warm, empathetic read that reminds us how even the smallest gestures can transform our lives.
