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A man kneels in a garden planting tomato seedlings while a fluffy Ragdoll cat digs in the soil beside him. 22 / 22

Grandpa Planted Tomatoes While Juniper Dug a Hole of Her Own

AI imageragdollgardentomatoes

Gus kneels in the garden bed with a young tomato seedling in his hand, tucking it into the dark, loose soil. Beside him, Juniper has decided to help in her own way, her front paws scratching at a patch of dirt and her fluffy tail waving behind her. The fence and shrubs frame the garden, and the soil is fresh and turned. A stake stands ready beside the row, a small trowel lies in the dirt, and the earth smells of spring, which Gus clearly enjoys.

Freshly turned soil is irresistible to many cats, who may treat it like a litter box. A few things can help: cover newly planted beds with chicken wire or mesh, offer a separate patch of loose dirt for her to enjoy, and keep fertilizers and other garden products away from pets. Tomato plants are a good thing to know about, because the leaves and stems of tomato plants can upset a pet's stomach, so it is wise to discourage nibbling. A sandbox or a pot of cat-safe soil can make a happy alternative, and it keeps your seedlings in one piece.

Gus is patient, and Juniper looks quite proud of her work. Somewhere between the seedlings and the soil there is room for both gardeners. The tomatoes will have a good start, with a little help from a very fluffy assistant. Gardening is better with company, even if the company is a bit messy.

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