Grandpa Started Whittling a Stick. Jasper Watched Every Single Curl Fall.
Thin curls of pale wood drop one by one onto the weathered porch boards, piling up in a little drift by Grandpa's feet. He sits on the porch edge in a mossy green cardigan over a plaid shirt, carefully drawing a small blade along a stick with practiced, steady strokes. Out in the yard, the garden is green and full, with plants, a fence, and a scattering of tools. And down on the boards, nose nearly touching the fresh shavings, Jasper the Bengal tracks every falling curl with absolute concentration.
Cats are wired to notice small, sudden movements. Their eyes are especially sensitive to motion, which helps them spot prey in the wild, and that is why something as simple as a falling wood shaving can hold a cat's attention so completely. Bengals, with their strong hunting instincts and lively minds, are often particularly captivated by this kind of activity. It is a good reminder that cats need regular play that mimics hunting, such as chasing, stalking, and pouncing on toys. When working with sharp tools, keep the cat at a safe distance, store blades when not in use, and sweep up shavings afterward so splinters do not end up in paws or mouths.
Grandpa is carving something special from that stick. Whatever it turns out to be, it already has one very devoted admirer.
