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Laughing elderly couple crouches in a backyard as a big fluffy white cat lunges forward toward a blue ball in the grass. 27 / 27

The Blue Ball Landed in the Grass. Nobody Expected the Cat to Go After It.

AI imagenorwegian forest catplaying fetchbackyard

Game on in the backyard. Ruth, in her gray cardigan, and Frank, in his navy jacket and plaid shirt, crouch together in the grass, both laughing with delight as Snowdrop springs into action in front of them. The big white cat is mid-lunge, one front paw reaching forward and her fluffy tail flowing out behind her, eyes locked on her target. A bright blue ball sits in the grass just ahead, about to be caught. Garden pots, a coiled hose and a weathered fence frame the scene, and a pair of garden gloves hangs on the potting bench behind them.

Some cats really do play fetch, bringing back a toy again and again, and others simply enjoy chasing and pouncing. Either way, play is important for a cat's physical and mental health. It burns energy, keeps muscles strong and satisfies natural hunting instincts. Norwegian Forest Cats are often playful well into adulthood and can be quite athletic despite their size. Lightweight balls, crinkle toys and wand toys are good choices; avoid tiny toys that could be swallowed. A couple of short play sessions each day suits most cats, and ending with a 'catch' helps them feel satisfied. Indoor cats playing outside should always be supervised or on a harness.

Whether Snowdrop brings that ball back or claims it forever is still unknown. Either way, Frank and Ruth are getting a great show, and nobody is keeping score.

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