Grandma and Grandpa Split One Sandwich on the Garden Bench. Misty Wanted a Third Half.

Lunch is simple today: one sandwich, cut down the middle, stuffed with lettuce and tomato, and shared between two people who have been splitting meals for a very long time. Grandma, in a green cardigan with her hair in a bun, holds her half up with a pleased little smile, while Grandpa, in a plaid shirt and glasses, leans close with his own half. Seated squarely on the wooden garden bench in front of them, Misty the Russian Blue gazes up with bright green eyes, very politely suggesting that a third half would not be unreasonable.

Begging at mealtimes is a learned habit, and cats are quick learners. If a cat is rewarded with bites from the table, even occasionally, it will usually keep asking. Some sandwich ingredients can also be risky. Onion and garlic, which are common in spreads and deli fillings, are toxic to cats, and processed meats are salty. A better approach is to feed your cat its own meal at a regular time, ideally just before or while you eat, so it is less tempted to beg. Offering a bit of attention, a scratch under the chin, or a toy can also satisfy that desire to be included without adding unhealthy extras.

Some love stories are told through grand gestures. Others are told through half a sandwich on a garden bench. Misty may not get a bite today, but she certainly gets a front row seat to something sweet.