Abuela Rosa Bought Herself a Vanilla Cone. She Never Got the First Lick.
It's a warm day, and Abuela Rosa has treated herself to a waffle cone piled with soft vanilla ice cream. She hasn't even had her first proper bite yet. Chispa has stretched her long, wrinkled neck across the table edge and is giving the top of the scoop a careful lick, eyes half closed in concentration. Rosa, in a light blue shirt and her pink-flowered apron, watches with an amused, indulgent smile, holding the cone steady. The sunny kitchen table behind them holds a bowl of fruit, a glass of water, a set of keys, and a potted aloe by the bright window.
Despite the classic image of cats and cream, dairy isn't a great treat for most cats. Many adult cats have trouble digesting lactose, so ice cream and milk can lead to upset stomachs. Ice cream is also high in sugar and fat, and some flavors contain chocolate or artificial sweeteners that are harmful to pets. A tiny accidental lick is unlikely to cause big problems for a healthy cat, but it's best not to make it a habit. On hot days, cats are better off with cool water, shade, and perhaps a few treats made for cats.
Rosa may need to get herself a fresh cone after this. Still, from the look on her face, she doesn't mind sharing one sweet summer moment with her shameless little friend.






