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A fluffy orange longhaired cat dozes with eyes closed while seven yellow ducklings nestle between its front paws. 9 / 34

A Big Orange Cat Lay Down for a Nap and Accidentally Built a Duckling Corral

AI imageorange catducklingscuddles

Eyes closed, whiskers relaxed, the big orange cat has fully surrendered to the moment. His thick, flame-colored coat spills over his shoulders like a lion's mane as he lies on a woven mat, front legs stretched out to form a perfect little corral. Inside that furry circle sit seven yellow ducklings, snuggled into his chest and between his paws. A few look around with bright eyes, while others nestle in deeper, soaking up his warmth. The plain concrete floor and pale wall behind them keep all the attention right where it belongs: on this impossibly cozy pile.

Orange cats come with a reputation for being friendly and laid back, though personality really varies from cat to cat. Most orange cats are male, which is linked to how the orange color gene is inherited. Longhaired cats like this one need a bit more grooming than shorthairs. Brushing several times a week helps prevent mats, especially behind the ears and under the legs, and reduces hairballs. If you ever do have cats around small birds, keep in mind that birds are fragile and that bacteria from a cat's mouth or claws can be harmful to them, so supervision and careful hand washing matter.

None of those concerns seem to cross this orange giant's mind. He's warm, the ducklings are warm, and for one sleepy afternoon, the world is exactly the right temperature.

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