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An older couple laughs in a backyard garden as a cinnamon Abyssinian cat bounds toward a tennis ball on the grass. 2 / 26

Harold Tossed a Tennis Ball Across the Yard. Saffron Took It Personally.

AI imageabyssinian catfetchbackyard

Who says fetch is only for dogs? Ruth and Harold are sitting low in the backyard garden, surrounded by flower pots, a bucket of trowels, and a rack of hanging laundry, and both of them are grinning from ear to ear. Ruth wears a lilac cardigan and round glasses, and Harold has on a green ball cap and a navy short-sleeved shirt. Between them, Saffron has sprung into action, legs mid-stride and tail held high, golden eyes locked on a fuzzy tennis ball that has just rolled across the grass in front of her. Her ticked cinnamon coat glows in the daylight as she goes after it with total commitment.

Abyssinians are famous for their energy and playfulness, and some genuinely enjoy games of fetch, chasing balls or toys and even bringing them back. They are curious, athletic cats that love to climb, explore, and investigate, so they usually thrive with plenty of interactive play. Wand toys, balls, puzzle feeders, and cat trees can all help burn off energy and keep their sharp minds busy. If an Aby goes outside, as many families prefer, a secure enclosed yard, a harness and leash, or close supervision helps protect them from traffic, other animals, and wandering too far.

Saffron clearly thinks this is the best game ever, and judging by the laughter, so do Ruth and Harold. A cat who plays fetch is a reliable source of entertainment.

One more throw, then another, and soon it will be time for a well-deserved nap in a sunny spot.

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