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An elderly man in a cardigan rakes autumn leaves as a ruddy Abyssinian cat leaps upright out of the leaf pile beside him. 22 / 31

Grandpa Otis Finally Got the Leaves in One Pile. Then Something Jumped Out.

AI imageabyssinian catfall leavesplaytime

Golden late-afternoon light spills across the yard, and Grandpa Otis is busy raking a carpet of crunchy brown and orange leaves. He's dressed in a cozy oatmeal cardigan, smiling broadly as he looks down at the commotion beside him. Saffron has launched herself straight up out of the pile, standing tall on her hind legs with her front paws flung out and her eyes wide, as if she's just ambushed an invisible opponent. Pots of mums, a pair of boots, and a plaid blanket on the porch rail set the autumn scene.

Abyssinians are often described as among the most energetic and playful cat breeds, and they keep that kitten-like playfulness well into adulthood. They love to leap, climb, and pounce, and a pile of rustling leaves is basically an invitation. Play like this is great exercise and mental stimulation. When cats play outdoors, though, supervision is important. Leaf piles can hide sticks, thorny branches, insects, or wild mushrooms, and a quick, curious cat may dash off after a squirrel. A secure yard or a harness makes outdoor fun safer. Indoors, crinkly toys, paper bags with the handles removed, and wand teasers can recreate the excitement of a leaf pile year-round.

Watching a cat play with complete abandon is one of the simplest pleasures there is. Grandpa Otis's grin says he's enjoying the show just as much as Saffron.

The leaves may need raking twice, but nobody seems to mind. Some fall afternoons are made for slowing down and letting the cat win.

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