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An elderly man in a cardigan sits on a lake dock with bare feet in the water while a seal point Birman sits next to him. 26 / 32

Otis Cooled His Bare Feet in the Lake With Mocha Right Behind

AI imagebirmanlake docksummer

The water is calm and green beside the old wooden dock, and Otis has rolled up his shorts and let his bare feet sink into the lake. He wears a cream cable-knit cardigan over a blue chambray shirt, glasses perched low, and a satisfied, sleepy smile that suggests no one is in a hurry. Mocha sits at the edge of the boards next to him, her cream coat fluffed out, her dark face turned toward the water, her striped tail draped over the planks. A blue watering can, a basket of gardening gloves, and a scatter of autumn leaves rest behind them, giving the scene a lived-in look.

Water holds a special fascination for many cats, even those who want nothing to do with a bath. Moving ripples, darting fish, and dragonflies are all irresistible to watch. If your cat joins you at a lake or pond, a harness and leash keep her from tumbling in, and a shaded spot helps her stay cool in summer. Cats can swim in a pinch but generally do not enjoy it, and lake water can carry germs, so you should keep her from drinking it and bring fresh water from home. Dry her off if she gets splashed. Time at the water is also a lovely way for people to slow down.

Mocha is staying well back from the wet edge, which seems to suit everyone. Otis kicks one foot lazily, and the two of them watch the ripples spread.

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