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A white-haired woman sips steaming coffee on porch steps at dawn while a ruddy Abyssinian cat sits looking up at her. 32 / 34

Grandma Ruth's First Sip of Coffee Comes With a Very Patient Audience

AI imageabyssinian catmorning coffeefront porch

The porch light is still on, the sky is just beginning to brighten, and a ribbon of steam curls up from Grandma Ruth's white mug. She sits on the concrete front steps in her olive quilted vest and dark slacks, eyes half closed as she takes that first, essential sip of the day. Saffron sits a step below, tail curled close, head tipped up toward her with an expectant look that suggests breakfast is on his mind. A small potted succulent rests at the foot of the steps, and a garden hose and a few bins line the side of the house in the cool morning shadows.

Morning routines can be grounding, and for many older adults, a pet is part of what gets the day started on time. Cats are creatures of habit and often learn exactly when their people wake up, sometimes arriving with gentle reminders that it is mealtime. Feeding at consistent times can help a cat feel secure. One thing to keep in mind with that mug: coffee and other caffeinated drinks are not safe for pets, and even small amounts can cause problems. Keep cups out of reach, especially if your cat likes to dip a paw into anything on a table. If you think a pet has gotten into caffeine, talk to your vet.

In a few minutes the street will wake up and the day will begin in earnest. For now, it is just Ruth, her coffee, and one patient cat, sharing the quiet before the world gets busy.

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