← Language & communication Language & communication · Accessible English

I Love Little Pussy

Poem

1 min
estimated reading 4
complete sections 6.41
algorithmic grade estimate

Before you read

Use the article and the local dictionary together

The complexity label is calculated from sentence length and syllable estimates; it is guidance, not an assessment of you. Open any highlighted word below for its full local dictionary page.

Words
183
Native text
1248 characters
Dictionary match
87%
Revision
1345570923 · 2026-03-26T20:51:11Z
Key vocabulary

Words to check before reading

Pussy8 uses in this article Little3 uses in this article Kitty2 uses in this article alternatively1 uses in this article corroborative1 uses in this article Additional1 uses in this article attributed1 uses in this article displeased1 uses in this article published1 uses in this article evidence1 uses in this article kindness1 uses in this article language1 uses in this article recorded1 uses in this article Because1 uses in this article century1 uses in this article changed1 uses in this article English1 uses in this article However1 uses in this article include1 uses in this article nursery1 uses in this article

Overview

"I Love Little Pussy", alternatively called "I Love Little Kitty", is an English language nursery rhyme about a person who loves their pet cat. It has a Roud Folk Song Index number of 12824.

Lyrics and melody

The most common modern version is: I love little pussy, Her coat is so warm, And if I don't hurt her, She'll do me no harm. So I'll not pull her tail, Nor drive her away, But pussy and I, Very gently will play. Additional lines include: She shall sit by my side And I'll give her some food; And pussy will love me Because I am good. I'll pat pretty pussy, And then she will purr; And thus show her thanks For my kindness to her. I'll not pinch her ears, Nor tread on her paw, Lest I should provoke her To use her sharp claw. I never will vex her Nor make her displeased: For pussy can't bear To be worried and teased.

Origins

The poem is first recorded in The Child's Song Book published in 1830. It has been attributed to Jane Taylor (1783–1824), as it conforms to her style. However, there is no corroborative evidence to support this case.

Controversy

Usage of the word "pussy" as a vulgar slang term for the vagina is documented since the late 17th century. The rhyme's title and lyrics have been changed by some publications to replace the word "pussy" with the word "kitty",

Language & communication

Continue with related local reading

Be, and it isAccessible North Teke languageDeveloping De Zwaluw, BurdaardAccessible Jack and His Golden Snuff-BoxAccessible Root hog or dieAccessible Unearthly (manga)Accessible