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A smiling older man in overalls sits on a pickup tailgate by a green field with a fluffy white cat sitting next to him. 12 / 35

Grandpa Took a Break on the Tailgate. His Farmhand Showed Up Right on Time.

AI imagewhite catfarm lifepickup truck

Grey clouds roll over a wide green field, and Hank has dropped the tailgate of his silver pickup for a break. He sits on its scuffed edge in overalls and a blue plaid shirt, one arm curled around Cotton, smiling down at her with obvious pride. The white cat sits tall and dignified on the dusty truck bed, chest fluffed, tail wrapped neatly and ears turned toward the breeze, looking every bit the farmhand on duty. A few dry leaves and bits of straw are scattered on the metal around her.

Farm cats have a long history of working alongside people, and many rural families still rely on them to help keep mice and rats away from barns and feed stores. Cats that spend time outdoors, though, need some extra care to stay healthy. Up-to-date vaccinations, regular parasite prevention for fleas, ticks and worms, and a dry, sheltered place to sleep all make a difference. Fresh water and food should be available every day, since a hunting cat still needs a balanced diet. Trucks and farm equipment are another concern, as cats sometimes nap in wheel wells or under vehicles, so a quick tap on the hood or a look underneath before starting the engine is a good habit.

Cotton may not have a job title, but sitting at Hank's side on the tailgate, she looks like she runs the whole farm.

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