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A bearded grandpa sleeps in a rope hammock tied between two tree trunks with a white cat napping on his chest. 21 / 22

Earl Climbed Into the Hammock for a Quiet Nap. He Woke Up With a Surprise on His Chest.

AI imagewhite cathammocknap time

A woven rope hammock hangs between two thick tree trunks that rise right up through a cozy, cluttered sunroom, and it holds a very contented pair. Earl is stretched out with his eyes closed and a soft gray pillow behind his head, his plaid shirt and suspenders creased from lying still. Sprawled across his chest is Pearl, curled into a fluffy white loaf with her chin tucked in and her eyes shut. Leafy branches peek in near the top, and around them are houseplants, a wicker basket, a stack of books, a pair of slippers, and a plaid throw waiting for cooler evenings.

Cats choose chests as napping spots for a few reasons. A person's chest is warm, rises and falls in a gentle rhythm, and is right next to the familiar sound of a heartbeat and breathing, which can be soothing. It also puts the cat close to her person's face and scent, both of which signal safety. Hammocks add a light swaying motion that many cats enjoy once they feel secure. If you share a hammock with a pet, make sure it is hung securely and low enough that a quick jump down will not cause injury, and keep an eye on claws snagging in rope or netting.

It is hard to tell whose idea this nap was, but neither one is about to complain. The hammock barely sways, the house is quiet, and Earl has the warmest, fluffiest blanket he could ever ask for.

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