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A black cat with green eyes and a white and brown spotted goat with horns lie together under an apple tree in a backyard. 9 / 21

Under the Apple Tree, a Black Cat and a Spotted Goat Found the Perfect Shade

AI imageblack catgoatapple tree

Low branches heavy with small red apples hang over a quiet corner of the backyard, and beneath them two friends have settled into the dry grass. A sleek black cat sits upright with his green eyes glowing in the shade, while a white goat freckled with brown spots lies curled in front of him, horns curving back, chin resting on the ground and eyes nearly closed. A few fallen apples dot the grass around them. Behind, a basket of fruit, a blue watering can, a pot of rosemary, and a pair of garden boots wait near the house in the warm afternoon light.

Fallen apples might look like a goat's dream buffet, but moderation matters. Goats are ruminants, with a complex stomach designed mostly for hay, browse, and forage. A few slices of apple make a fine treat, but gorging on large amounts of fruit, grain, or other sugary or starchy foods can upset the balance of the rumen and lead to serious digestive problems, including bloat. That is why keepers often fence off orchards in fruit season or pick up windfalls regularly. Fresh hay, clean water, and appropriate minerals should make up the bulk of a goat's diet. Your livestock vet can help with the details.

These two, at least, seem far more interested in the shade than the apples. A cool spot, a calm friend, and a lazy afternoon look like all they need.

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