Browse ›
A grandma in a cardigan flips a golden pancake in a skillet while a ruddy Abyssinian cat sits on the counter watching her. 4 / 29

Grandma Ruth Was Flipping Pancakes. Copper Was Waiting With Perfect Manners.

AI imageabyssinian catpancakeskitchen

A golden pancake sizzles in the dark skillet, and a small stack of finished ones waits on a plate nearby. Grandma Ruth leans over the stove in her oatmeal cable-knit cardigan, spatula in hand, her grey hair piled up on top of her head. On the counter beside her, Copper sits very upright, tail curled neatly around his paws, gazing up at her with patient, hopeful eyes. He isn't pawing or meowing; he's simply waiting, like the most polite customer at a diner. The small kitchen is homey and well used, with white tiles, jars of supplies, and a dish towel tossed over the counter.

Cats and stovetops are a risky combination. Curious cats can be burned by hot burners, pans, or splattering oil, and they may not realize a surface is hot until it's too late. Training a cat to stay off the counters, using a perch or chair nearby, and never leaving a hot stove unattended all help prevent accidents. As for pancakes, a tiny nibble of plain pancake isn't toxic, but it isn't nutritious either, and syrups, butter, and chocolate chips are best kept away from cats. A few of their regular treats are a better reward for good manners.

Copper's patience is impressive for such a lively breed. Ruth may be tempted to reward him with something special once breakfast is done.

Some mornings start with pancakes and coffee. The best ones also come with a polite little audience.

More from this collection

All 29 →