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An older man pins white sheets to a backyard clothesline as a white cat leaps out from between the hanging laundry. 28 / 35

Grandpa Hung Fresh White Sheets on the Line. Then One of Them Started Moving.

AI imagewhite catlaundry daybackyard

A row of crisp white sheets is flapping on the backyard clothesline, held up by wooden clothespins, and Hank is reaching up to clip one more corner in place. He wears overalls and an olive work shirt, glasses perched on his nose, with a small, knowing smile. He has probably heard the rustling already. Bursting out from between two sheets, Cotton is mid-leap, front paws stretched forward and fluffy body nearly blending into the laundry, so that only her golden eyes and pink ears give her away. A blue laundry basket, a pair of gloves and a potted plant sit in the grass below.

Sudden bursts of energy like this are a normal part of cat life. Often called zoomies, these quick sprints, pounces and leaps help cats burn off pent-up energy, and they are especially common in younger cats or in cats that have been resting for a while. Hanging sheets are irresistible, since they move, rustle and create hidden tunnels perfect for stalking. Laundry areas do have a few hazards worth watching. Detergent pods and liquid detergents can be harmful if a pet chews or licks them, so store them up high, and always check the washer and dryer before closing the door, because cats like warm, enclosed spaces. Clothespins are also small enough for a playful cat to bat away or chew.

Hank's sheets may need a second wash, but Cotton has turned an ordinary chore into the best game of the day.

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