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An elderly Black woman kneels on a wooden floor scattering corn for two brown hens while a black cat watches nearby. 8 / 36

Grandma Odessa Scattered the Chicken Feed. The Hens Weren't the Only Ones Interested.

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Somehow the chickens have made it inside, and nobody seems especially surprised. Grandma Odessa kneels on the worn wooden floorboards in a green cardigan, sprinkling handfuls of dried corn while two russet hens peck eagerly at the golden pile. Right between them stands Licorice, black as a shadow, peering at the corn with his amber eyes as if he's trying to figure out what all the fuss is about. A basket of brown eggs rests by the doorway, a metal water bowl sits on the floor, and a lamp glows in the cozy room beyond.

Cats and backyard chickens can share a home peacefully, but it usually takes careful introductions. Adult hens are often big enough that most cats lose interest after a few curious looks, while chicks and small bantams are far more vulnerable and should always be kept separate. Supervise early meetings, give the chickens a secure coop or run, and let the cat observe from a distance first. Feed stations are worth watching too: chicken feed isn't meant for cats, and a cat's food can tempt hens. Good hygiene matters as well, since poultry can carry germs, so wash hands after handling birds and eggs.

Licorice looks less like a hunter here and more like a foreman checking that breakfast is going out on schedule. Odessa runs a busy household, and everybody, feathers or fur, seems to know their place in it.

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A smiling elderly Black woman in a cream cardigan eats breakfast on a patio as a black cat rests its paws on the table.Grandma Odessa Sat Down to Breakfast. Someone Had Already Pulled Up a Paw.An elderly Black woman in a gray hoodie stretches on a green yoga mat while a black cat stretches out in front of her.Grandma Rolled Out Her Yoga Mat. Licorice Decided to Join the Class.A fluffy black cat lies on a kitchen table in front of an elderly Black woman working on a crossword puzzle with a pencil.Grandma Odessa Was Halfway Through the Crossword When Licorice Took OverAn elderly Black woman in glasses hand-sews a patchwork quilt while a black cat sleeps curled on the pile of fabric.Grandma Odessa Spent Weeks Piecing This Quilt. Licorice Tested It First.