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A silver-haired grandma in a knitted cardigan plays an old upright piano while a white cat sits beside her on the bench. 17 / 34

Grandma Dottie Sat Down at the Old Family Piano. She Wasn't Alone for Long.

AI imagewhite catpianomusic

The piano has clearly been in the family a long time, its dark wood scratched and its ivory keys worn to a soft cream. Dottie sits before it in her chunky oatmeal cardigan, silver hair loosely pinned, fingers resting lightly on the keys, a wistful little smile on her face as she plays. A basket and a folded plaid blanket rest in the corner, and a potted plant catches the window light. On the bench beside her sits Pearl, upright and elegant, fluffy white chest out, gazing off into the room with half-lidded golden eyes as though she's savoring every note.

Cats can hear a broader range of high-pitched sounds than people, so music sounds different to them, and loud or sudden notes can be startling. Many cats, though, are perfectly comfortable around soft, steady playing, especially from someone they trust. A cat that chooses to sit close while you play is usually relaxed and content. If your cat gets curious about the keys, that's generally harmless, but it's wise to keep the fallboard from snapping shut on paws. Playing an instrument is also a wonderful way for older adults to stay engaged and keep favorite songs close.

Pearl doesn't request any particular tune. She seems happy with whatever Dottie chooses, as long as she gets to stay right there on the bench.

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