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An older man scatters grain for brown hens on a garden path while a grey Sphynx cat walks among the chickens beside him. 28 / 29

Grandpa Scattered Grain for the Hens. One Member of the Flock Wasn't a Chicken.

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A shower of golden grain pours from Clarence's hand onto the stone path, and the brown hens are already pecking eagerly at every kernel. He stands in a speckled oatmeal cardigan and navy shirt, glasses on and a soft smile hidden in his white beard. Right in the middle of the flock, Moonpie trots along with her tail curled high, nose down to sniff the scattered seed as though she is one of the hens. Green rubber boots by the fence, a watering can, wicker baskets and pots of marigolds give the yard a busy, homestead feel.

Cats and backyard chickens can often share space peacefully, especially when the chickens are full-grown. Adult hens are fairly large and can stand up for themselves, and many will chase off a cat that gets too pushy. Chicks and young birds are a different story, since they are small enough to trigger a cat's hunting instincts, so they should be kept safely enclosed. Introductions go best slowly, with the cat supervised and the chickens given plenty of room to retreat. It is also wise to keep cats out of the coop itself, since poultry feed, droppings and bedding can carry germs, and to wash hands after handling birds. Every animal is an individual, so watch the body language on both sides.

Clarence has the grain, the hens have their breakfast, and Moonpie has somehow convinced the whole flock she belongs.

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