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Elderly man plays an upright piano as his wife smiles beside him and a fluffy white cat sits on the piano bench. 7 / 27

Frank Sat Down at the Old Piano to Play for Ruth. Someone Took the Middle of the Bench.

AI imagenorwegian forest catpianoliving room

Sheet music is propped open on the old upright piano, its wood glowing warm in the afternoon light from the window. Frank, in a faded denim shirt and glasses, rests one hand on the keys and turns to share a grin with Ruth, who sits close by in her cream cardigan, laughing. The reason for the giggles has taken the center of the bench. Snowdrop sits squarely between them, her plush white tail draping over the edge and her golden eyes looking out with the composed, slightly superior air of a seasoned performer. Bookshelves, houseplants and framed botanical prints fill the cozy room behind them.

Many cats are curious about pianos. The sounds come from inside a big wooden box, the keys move, and the bench is a warm spot right next to their people. Some cats even walk across the keys on purpose, perhaps because the noise gets an immediate reaction. Sudden loud notes can startle a cat, though, so it's kindest to play gently when they're close by and let them leave whenever they like. Keep the lid closed when the piano isn't in use to protect both the keys and curious paws. A calm, social breed like the Norwegian Forest Cat often enjoys simply being part of the family activity, whatever it is.

Snowdrop may not play a single note, but she has clearly mastered the art of stage presence. With an audience of two adoring fans, every song in this house is a sold-out show.

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