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An older couple in cream sweaters share a sandwich on a wooden garden bench as a tortoiseshell cat crouches in front. 33 / 34

One Sandwich, Two People, and a Tortoiseshell Positioned Just Right

AI imagetortoiseshell catlunch outdoorsgarden bench

Lunch today is a single sandwich split between two, and Walt and June are sharing it the way they have shared everything for years. June offers him a bite as he smiles beneath his green knit beanie, both wrapped in their cream sweaters on a wooden bench surrounded by fall leaves, a watering can and potted plants. In the grass in front of them, Mabel the tortoiseshell crouches low with her paws tucked, golden-green eyes staring straight ahead, wearing the look of a cat who has positioned herself perfectly in case any crumbs happen to fall.

It is tempting to share a bite with a pet who sits so politely, but many common sandwich ingredients are not good for cats. Onions, garlic and chives are toxic to them, processed meats tend to be very salty and fatty, and many cheeses and mayonnaise can upset their stomachs. A tiny piece of plain, cooked chicken or turkey with no seasoning is a much safer occasional treat. Treats should make up only a small part of a cat's daily diet, so their regular food stays the main event. If you are ever unsure about a food, check with your vet first.

Some of life's best meals are the simplest ones, eaten outside with someone you love. Mabel may not get a sandwich of her own, but she does get a front-row seat, and that is almost as good.

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An older couple in cream sweaters sit on concrete steps, each brushing a tortoiseshell cat lying between them.Two Brushes, One Tortoiseshell, and a Very Clear Verdict From MabelAn older couple in cream sweaters bathe a wet tortoiseshell cat in a soapy galvanized tub in a backyard garden.Bath Day in the Backyard Washtub. Mabel Was Not Consulted.An older couple in cream sweaters doze head to head in a recliner while a tortoiseshell cat rests on the armrest.Walt and June Dozed Off in the Recliner. Mabel Stayed on Duty.An older couple in gray sweaters fix a wooden fence in the yard while a tortoiseshell cat holds a stick in its mouth.Walt Had the Hammer, June Had the Board. Mabel Brought Her Own Tool.