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An older man in plaid and overalls sits on a weathered boardwalk bench by the beach with a Bengal cat beside him. 23 / 37

An Empty Boardwalk, a Windy Gray Day, and One Very Serious Conversation

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The beach is gray and windswept, the off-season kind of quiet where the boardwalk belongs to whoever shows up. Hank has settled onto a weathered wooden bench, his wind-tossed hair sticking up in every direction, plaid shirt tucked under the straps of his overalls. Ziggy sits pressed against his side, face turned up toward Hank's, and the two of them look as if they're in the middle of a very serious conversation. Hank's gentle, amused smile suggests Ziggy is making some excellent points. Driftwood and dune grass stretch off behind them.

A trip to a new place can be exciting for a confident cat, but it calls for a little preparation. Unfamiliar sounds like crashing waves, gulls, and passing bikes can spook even a bold cat, so a secure harness and leash are essential, as is up-to-date identification such as a microchip and tag. Hot sand and boardwalk planks in summer can burn paws, which is one more reason off-season or cooler days are better for outings. Bring fresh water, since cats shouldn't drink seawater, and watch for signs of stress like flattened ears or crouching. If your cat seems overwhelmed, a carrier makes a safe retreat.

Ziggy seems perfectly at ease, though, and Hank looks like there's nowhere else he'd rather be. Sometimes the best seat on the beach is the one right next to your friend.

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