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A smiling older man in a cream cardigan sits in a backyard beside a calico cat, with a yellow ball at the edge of the frame. 23 / 39

Otis Got Down on the Grass for a Game of Fetch With Clementine

AI imagecalico catbackyardfetch

The backyard is in its late-day glow, with a wooden fence, potted plants, and a green watering can scattered around, and Otis is down on the ground with a big grin under his glasses. His cream cardigan is bunched at the elbows as he stretches one arm out, a bright tennis ball nearly visible at the edge. Clementine sits right beside him, calico face turned up and alert, whiskers fanned out and body ready to spring. Her white paws are planted in the dirt, and she looks like a cat who has decided that if a ball is going to be thrown, she will be the one to chase it.

Some cats do enjoy fetch, especially if they are trained with treats and short, playful sessions. Cats are natural hunters, so chasing, pouncing, and bringing back a toy can feel very satisfying. A lightweight toy that fits her mouth works better than a hard tennis ball, and play is best on soft ground rather than on a hard driveway. Keep sessions brief, let her stop whenever she wants, and always supervise in a fenced yard. Cats that are not used to being outside should wear a harness, and fresh water should be nearby. After play, a quiet rest and a snack are welcome. If she pants heavily or seems to struggle to breathe, call your vet.

Otis does not need a champion athlete, only a willing partner and a sunny afternoon. Clementine may or may not bring the ball back, but she will certainly think about it.

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An older man in a green cardigan sleeps on a porch swing with a calico cat curled up asleep across his chest.Otis and Clementine Fell Asleep on the Porch Swing TogetherA smiling older man in a cream cardigan holds a bowl of popcorn while a calico cat reaches a paw toward it on the sofa.The Popcorn Bowl Was Ready for Movie Night. So Was Clementine's Paw.
An older man in a knit cardigan and a calico cat sit side by side on a covered porch, watching rain fall at dusk.Otis and Clementine Watched the Rain From the Porch as the Sky Turned PinkAn older man in a green cardigan lies asleep on the grass with a calico cat curled up against his shoulder.Otis Lay Down on the Lawn for a Rest. Clementine Had the Same Idea.An older man in an olive cardigan smiles at a calico cat beside him on a weathered boardwalk bench.Otis Found a Bench on the Boardwalk. Clementine Hopped Up Beside Him.An older man in a cream cardigan drives an old pickup truck with a calico cat sitting upright on the passenger seat.Otis Took the Old Pickup Out for a Drive. Clementine Rode Up Front.