Grandpa Cast His Line Off the Old Dock. Misty Thinks Dinner Is Hers.
Golden autumn trees line the far shore, and the lake is calm and glassy as the afternoon light fades. On a weathered wooden dock, Grandpa in a knit beanie and canvas jacket holds his rod with an easy grin, while Grandma, in a mustard cardigan and red glasses, leans close with a delighted smile. An open tackle box full of lures sits at the edge, and a small red bucket waits for the catch. Front and center, Misty the Russian Blue sits tall on the boards, gazing out with luminous green eyes as if she is the one waiting for dinner.
Fishing is a relaxing hobby that gets people outdoors, and many cats are understandably interested in the results. A few precautions make it safer for a curious pet. Fishhooks, lures, and fishing line are dangerous if a cat paws at them or tries to eat them, since hooks can pierce skin or get swallowed, and line can tangle. Keep tackle boxes closed and never leave baited hooks lying around. Docks can also be slippery, and most cats are not keen swimmers. If a cat comes along on an outing, a harness and leash and close supervision are a must. As for fish, plain cooked fish in small amounts is fine for many cats, but raw fish and bones are best avoided.
Whether or not anything bites today, this outing is already a success. Good company, a quiet lake, and a cat who clearly believes she is the head of the fishing crew.






