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An older man in a tan cardigan hammers at a wooden fence frame while a calico cat holds a small stick in her mouth. 35 / 39

Otis Went to Fix the Fence. Clementine Brought a Stick.

AI imagecalico catfence repairbackyard

Otis is crouched beside a wooden fence frame with a small tool in hand, glasses on, and a plaid collar peeking from his tan cardigan. He is concentrating on a stubborn joint in the old boards. Next to him, Clementine sits tall with a thin twig held crosswise in her mouth, ears pricked, amber eyes alert. She seems to have decided that the job needs a stick, and she is the one to supply it. Behind them, a gray house, a basket of laundry, and a silver watering can fill the yard, and the afternoon light has gone soft and low.

Carrying sticks and small objects in the mouth is something many cats do, because it is part of how they play and practice hunting. A twig is usually harmless, but splinters can scratch her mouth or gums, so it is best to swap it for a safe toy when she is done. Around a project like this one, tools, nails, screws, and bits of wire are worth picking up right away, since a curious cat could step on them or try to chew them. Keep her away from paint and wood treatments too, because many are harmful if licked. If she is drooling or pawing at her mouth after playing with something, talk to your vet.

Otis works at the fence while Clementine stands guard with her trophy. The job may take a bit longer with an assistant, but the company is worth every minute.

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