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Elderly couple sleeps in a canvas hammock between two trees with a fluffy white cat curled asleep between them. 21 / 27

The Hammock Was Built for Two, but Three of Them Fell Asleep in It

AI imagenorwegian forest cathammockafternoon nap

Strung between two oak trunks just outside the back door, the canvas hammock is sagging comfortably under a full load. Frank, in his green sweatshirt and glasses, and Ruth, in her cream cardigan, have dozed off shoulder to shoulder, propped on plaid and gray pillows. Curled in the hollow between them is Snowdrop, a big white ball of fur with her eyes peacefully closed and her tail tucked around her. A few brown oak leaves have drifted onto the hammock, and the patio behind them holds a stack of books, a thermos and a basket of laundry waiting for later.

A shared afternoon nap can be a lovely thing, and many cats love to sleep sandwiched between their people for warmth and security. Hammocks can be tricky for pets, though. Rope and mesh styles can catch claws, so a solid fabric hammock like this one is a safer choice. A cat that jumps out suddenly can tip things off balance, so getting settled slowly helps. For older adults, a hammock hung low to the ground with sturdy supports nearby makes climbing in and out easier and safer. Outdoor naps are best in the shade, and indoor cats should be supervised while outside.

With a gentle breeze in the oak leaves and three sets of eyes closed, the afternoon has slipped into perfect stillness. Some days are simply made for napping together.

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