Clarence Had a Driveway Full of Snow to Clear. Sapphire Had Other Plans for the Shovel.
A gray winter sky hangs over the neighborhood, and a fresh layer of snow has buried the driveway and the edge of the yard. Clarence, bundled in a green knit cardigan over a hoodie, work boots planted firmly, is pushing a black snow shovel along the pavement. He is not getting far, though, because Sapphire has decided the shovel is her new favorite toy. She is crouched low in the snowbank right in front of the blade, one paw raised, ears forward, blue eyes wide with mischief, ready to bat at every clump that tumbles off the edge. Clarence peers down at her with patient amusement over his glasses.
Some cats are surprisingly fond of snow, at least for a few minutes, and it is fun to watch them pounce at falling flakes and clumps. Short-coated breeds like the Siamese do get cold quickly, though, so outdoor snow play should be brief and supervised. Ice-melting salts and chemicals can irritate paw pads and be harmful if licked off, so wipe paws gently with a warm cloth afterward. Antifreeze is especially dangerous to cats because of its sweet taste; clean up any spills immediately and store it securely. If your cat seems unusually cold, lethargic, or unwell after time outside, call your vet.
The driveway will get cleared eventually, maybe at half speed. Then it will be time to go inside, dry off a pair of chilly paws, and warm up together by the heater. Snow days have their own sweet rhythm.






