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A ruddy Abyssinian cat bounds through a pile of autumn leaves on a patio as an elderly couple in jackets holds rakes. 25 / 38

Harold and Ruth Spent an Hour Raking the Perfect Leaf Pile

AI imageabyssinianautumn leavesbackyard

Twilight is falling, the porch light is on, and a tidy heap of red and orange leaves sits in the middle of the patio, for about two seconds. Saffron comes bounding straight through it, legs mid-stride, tail up, leaves scattering under her paws. Harold, in a knit beanie and green fleece, pauses with his rake and grins, while Ruth, in a navy coat and mustard sweater, leans on hers and laughs out loud. Rubber boots, a blue bucket, coiled hoses in wicker baskets, and potted mums add to the cozy autumn backyard.

Leaf piles are irresistible to many cats. They crunch, they move, they hide interesting smells, and they're perfect for pouncing. Before letting a pet play in one, it's worth giving it a quick check. Damp leaf piles can hide sticks, sharp debris, insects, and mold, and some cats will nibble on plant matter they shouldn't. Keep piles free of yard chemicals or fertilizer, and stay close by if your cat is outdoors, ideally in a fenced yard or on a harness. Afterward, a quick look through the fur for burrs or ticks is a smart habit, especially in wooded areas.

Harold and Ruth will probably be raking that pile all over again, but they don't seem to mind one bit. Some autumn chores are really just an excuse for a good laugh, and Saffron makes sure of it every year.

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