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A white-haired grandma in a puffy jacket sits in a camp chair at sunset beside an empty chair, an orange tabby in front. 12 / 29

There Were Two Chairs Set Up for the Sunset. The Cat Wanted Neither.

AI imageorange tabbysunsetbackyard

The sun is dipping behind the rooftops, throwing golden light across the yard and the side of the house. Grandma Hazel sits in a green camp chair, bundled in a tan puffer jacket over a blue plaid shirt, her white hair in a loose bun and glasses catching the glow. The second chair beside her holds only a folded towel, because Marmalade has chosen to sit on the ground right in front, gazing off toward the sunset with golden eyes. A watering can, a pile of laundry, a water bottle and garden gloves are scattered around the patio.

Evening is a busy time for many cats. They are naturally most active around dawn and dusk, which is when their wild relatives tend to hunt. That is why an otherwise sleepy cat might suddenly perk up in the late afternoon. Spending time outside together can be a nice ritual, but outdoor cats face risks from traffic, wildlife and other animals, especially after dark. A safe compromise is supervised time in a secure yard, a harness and leash, or a fully enclosed outdoor space. Bringing your cat inside at dusk helps keep it safe while still letting it enjoy a little fresh air.

Watching the day fade is calming at any age, and having a companion who is just as content to sit and watch makes it even better.

That empty chair may have been meant for a guest, but Marmalade clearly prefers his own front row view.

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