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An older woman in glasses and a floral apron has tea at a lace-covered table as a grey Sphynx cat sniffs a plate of cookies. 16 / 39

Abuela Rosa Brought Out the Good Teacups. Her Guest Arrived Without an Invitation.

AI imagesphynx catafternoon tealace tablecloth

The good teacups have come out today. A lace tablecloth covers the little table, and on it sit a porcelain teapot, a cup of milky tea, and a small plate of round golden cookies. Abuela Rosa, glasses on and hair pinned up, smiles fondly at her guest, who has climbed right up onto the table without waiting for an invitation. Chispa leans toward the cookie plate with her nose and whiskers forward, wrinkled body stretched, curious golden eyes fixed on the treats. Behind them, a basket of folded linens sits on a shelf, oranges rest in a bowl, and a potted plant soaks up window light.

Many cats can't resist investigating whatever their people are eating, but cookies and tea aren't cat food. Baked goods often contain sugar, butter, and sometimes chocolate or raisins, which can be harmful to cats. Black and green tea contain caffeine, which cats should avoid, and milk isn't the treat many people think; most adult cats are somewhat lactose intolerant and can get upset stomachs from dairy. A better way to include a cat in tea time is to offer a few of their own treats on a separate saucer, or a favorite toy nearby to redirect that curiosity.

Chispa may have to settle for sniffing, but she's clearly enjoying the occasion. Afternoon tea is always nicer with a guest who dresses so elegantly in her own wrinkles.

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