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A white-haired man in red plaid rakes autumn leaves while a silver Maine Coon leaps across the leaf-covered ground. 20 / 36

Grandpa Raked the Leaves Into Rows. The Cat Had a Better Idea

AI imagemaine coonautumn leavesbackyard

The leaves are every shade of orange and brown, spread thick across the yard, and Harold bends forward with his rake and a delighted laugh. Smoky is caught mid-leap with her front paws reaching and her fluffy tail high, silver stripes bright against the fall colors. The house behind them has an open door with a plaid blanket on a chair, a basket, boots, and a pair of work gloves on the step. It is a golden afternoon, and the rake is just a prop for the real game.

Many cats love pouncing on leaves, since the crunch and the movement trigger their hunting instincts. Maine Coons are playful, athletic cats, and many keep their kitten-like energy well into adulthood. A leaf pile can hide sharp sticks, thorns, and sometimes insects or damp, moldy patches, so take a quick look before play begins. Keep an eye out for chemicals used on lawns, and make sure the yard is secure so she cannot chase a leaf too far. After outdoor play, check her long fur for burrs and brush them out gently, and ask your vet about flea and tick protection. A harness and leash is a safe way to let a cat explore a yard if you are not sure of the fencing.

Harold's neat piles are no match for a cat on a mission. The raking will have to be done again, but that seems like a small price for such a joyful chase.

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