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An elderly couple in green sweaters scatters grain for brown hens at dusk while a grey cat walks among the chickens. 16 / 37

Feeding Time for the Hens, and One Grey Cat Walked Right Into the Flock

AI imagerussian bluechickensbackyard

Golden grain spills through their fingers as the porch light flickers on. Frank and Dot, in matching sage green cable-knit sweaters, bend slightly to scatter feed across the packed dirt of their backyard, and a small flock of russet hens pecks eagerly at their feet. Dot smiles down at the birds, while Frank lets the seed trickle slowly so everyone gets a share. Right in the middle of the flock, Misha strolls along with her tail up, calm and unbothered, as if she's simply part of the evening crew. Stacked firewood, potted plants, and a coiled hose fill out the cozy dusk scene.

A cat and backyard chickens can coexist, but it depends heavily on the individual animals and on careful introductions. Adult hens are usually large enough that many cats leave them alone, and some hens will even chase a cat off. Chicks and young birds are a different story and should be kept securely away from cats. When introducing them, start with supervised visits through a fence, reward calm behavior, and separate them if the cat stalks or the hens seem stressed. Chickens can carry bacteria, so wash your hands after handling birds and before touching your cat's food. Also keep chicken feed out of a cat's reach, since it isn't designed for feline nutrition. Many owners find that a cat who is relaxed around the coop can actually help discourage rodents attracted to spilled grain.

The hens are busy with dinner, and Misha is busy keeping everyone company. On this little homestead, the evening routine runs smoothly.

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