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An elderly couple in cream sweaters crouch and scatter grain for brown hens while a white Persian cat walks among them. 31 / 34

Grandma and Grandpa Scattered Feed for the Hens. One Fluffy Bird Didn't Belong.

AI imagepersian catchickensbackyard

Handfuls of grain are falling from Edna's and Frank's fingers, scattering across the patio stones, and the brown hens have come running. The couple crouch side by side in their cream cable-knit sweaters, both beaming, with Frank's glasses pushed up on his head. Right in the middle of the flock, strolling along as calmly as if she were one of them, is Duchess. Her long white coat stands out against the russet feathers, and her squashed face and golden eyes show complete indifference to the chickens pecking around her paws. A watering can and potted plants sit along the fence in the background.

Cats and backyard chickens can share space peacefully, but it takes supervision and some knowledge of both animals. Adult hens are often big enough to hold their own, and many will peck at a curious cat, while chicks and young birds can be at real risk from a cat's hunting instincts. Introduce them slowly and watch body language on both sides. Keep in mind that chickens can carry parasites and bacteria, so wash hands after handling birds or feed and check your cat for fleas and mites. Chicken feed is not meant for cats, so discourage snacking on spilled grain.

Duchess seems to have decided the hens are beneath her notice, which may be the most peaceful arrangement possible. In this yard, everyone gets fed and nobody has to share a plate.

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