Grandpa Raked the Leaves Into a Pile and Pebble Pounced
Grandpa grips a long wooden rake with a bright, delighted smile as Pebble leaps into the pile of crisp brown leaves, her front paws reaching and her round face alight. The yard behind them is full of fall color, with a porch, a watering can, a basket, and a pair of shoes on the steps. His cardigan and plaid shirt suit the cool autumn air.
Orange leaves fly in every direction, and Pebble's plush coat is dusted with bits of them. For a cat with such a serious expression, she looks wonderfully playful.
Leaf piles can be a blast for cats, but check a few things first. Wet leaves may hide mold or sharp sticks, and some wild plants and seeds mixed in could upset a cat that nibbles them. Keep her in a fenced area, since fall is a busy time for other wildlife and traffic. Afterward, check her coat for burrs, thorns, and fleas, and brush her gently. Exotic Shorthairs have dense, plush fur that can trap debris. If you are concerned about parasites, ask your vet about prevention.
The rake will make another pass and the pile will grow again. Pebble will leap once more, because autumn is only here for a little while. The yard will need another round of raking before supper, and nobody is going to complain. Fall is short, and this pair is clearly making the most of it.






