Grandpa Wen Went Out to Pick a Pumpkin. Misty Insisted on Leading the Way.
Orange pumpkins dot the dry garden rows, and Misty is stepping between them with the careful, deliberate paws of an explorer. Her fluffy cream coat brushes against dried vines, her gray-blue tail sweeps behind her, and those clear blue eyes are fixed on something just ahead. Grandpa Wen follows at her side in a navy sweater vest and plaid shirt, bending slightly to watch her with an amused, gentle smile, as if he's letting her lead the tour of his fall harvest.
Ragdolls are among the most mellow cat breeds, but they're still curious, and a garden full of new textures and smells is fascinating to them. Because they tend to be trusting rather than street-smart, outdoor time is safest when it's supervised, whether in a fenced yard, on a harness and leash, or inside a cat enclosure. Harness training works best when started slowly indoors, with treats and short sessions until the cat is comfortable. In a fall garden, watch for things a cat might chew, such as certain plants, fertilizers, and slug or rodent baits, which can be very dangerous. Plain cooked pumpkin is sometimes offered to cats in tiny amounts for fiber, but raw rinds, stems, and moldy pumpkins should be avoided. Talk to your vet before adding anything new to your cat's diet.
For older adults, a slow wander through the garden with a calm cat is a lovely way to stay active and enjoy the season without any hurry.
Misty seems to be inspecting each pumpkin for quality. If one of them earns her approval, it might just become this year's jack-o'-lantern.






