Dora and the Evil Fireplace

 The living room was chilly this morning, so I headed for the fireplace. Dora ran ahead of me and flopped down on the hearth, demanding to be petted. I told her what was going to happen, but she ignored me. I flipped the switch to ignite the fireplace. It came on behind her with a BOOF!

It was like watching a cartoon character. She shot to her feet to bolt away, but her claws got no joy on the stone, so she scrabbled in place for several seconds. Finally she got some purchase and rushed away, all outraged terror.

Cats earn their keep through entertainment value.