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An elderly couple in cream sweaters play checkers at a porch table while a white Persian cat rests its chin on the edge. 21 / 34

Frank Thought He Was Winning at Checkers. The Referee Seemed to Disagree.

AI imagepersian catcheckersporch

The checkerboard is set out on the weathered porch table, red and black pieces mid-battle, and Frank looks quietly confident behind his glasses. Edna leans in with a sly grin, as if she knows something he does not. Both are wrapped in their cozy matching cream cable-knit sweaters against the cool afternoon. In front of the board, Duchess has climbed up and planted her fluffy front paws on the table edge, chin resting on top. Her flat face and narrowed golden eyes give her the look of a stern referee who disapproves of everyone's strategy. Potted plants and a garden fence fill the yard behind them.

That famously grumpy expression is just the way a Persian's face is built. The breed's flat face, short nose, and round eyes can make them look displeased even when they are perfectly content. Their personalities usually tell a different story: Persians tend to be sweet, quiet, and affectionate, preferring calm company over rough play. That flat face does come with some care needs, though. Persians can be prone to eye discharge, so many owners gently wipe around the eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth. Watch for noisy breathing or difficulty in warm weather and mention it to your vet.

Whoever wins this game, the referee is not going anywhere. Duchess has clearly decided that checkers is a spectator sport, and she has the best seat on the porch.

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