Given some time constraints we weren't able to get in a proper "how to play" screen. But I love that you were able to figure it out with little direction.
As for the lives, the player has 3 hits per life, the UI would indicate that in the future (the three print on each paw). A loss of life will reset your multiplier. Also, the number of life you have determine how how the multiplier can be.
Also something easy to miss is there is technically no lose condition in the game. Something I wish I had time to really show off better, but is functional.
And yes, we totally aggree with you on the specials. It's something we did want to include, but alas time was not on our side. I'm really glad you enjoyed what was implemented and we look forward to creating improved releases of the game over time.