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An older man in a vest walks past farmers market stalls of fresh vegetables with a tuxedo cat wearing a collar in front. 25 / 37

A Saturday Stroll Past the Farm Stand, and Grandpa Wasn't the One in Front

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Wooden crates overflow with zucchini, squash, tomatoes, and fresh greens, and baskets of lemons sit stacked beneath a blue canopy. Grandpa ambles down the row with his hands loose at his sides and a pleased little smile, taking his time over every table. Out in front, Domino strides along in a slim dark collar, tail low and yellow eyes scanning the scene with polite interest. He has the air of a regular who knows exactly which stall gives out the best compliments.

Most cats prefer the comfort of home, and busy public places like markets can be stressful for them, with crowds, dogs, unfamiliar smells, and sudden noises. If you do bring a cat on an outing, a secure harness and leash or a well-ventilated carrier is much safer than letting it roam free, since even a calm cat can bolt when startled. For collars, many vets recommend breakaway styles, which unclip if they snag on something. An ID tag plus a microchip with current contact details gives the best chance of a happy reunion if a cat ever slips away. Watch for signs of stress, such as a crouched posture, flattened ears, or hiding, and head home if your cat seems overwhelmed.

Domino looks surprisingly at ease here, though it may help that Grandpa is moving at a perfectly cat-friendly pace.

Fresh produce, a slow stroll, and a loyal shopping buddy make for a very good Saturday.

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