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A ruddy Abyssinian cat lies on a green blanket while two yellow chicks stand on its back and a third stands near its belly. 8 / 36

Three Chicks Decided the Abyssinian Was a Mountain. Two Made It to the Top.

AI imageabyssinian catbaby chickscat body language

Two chicks have reached the summit. Standing on the back of a ruddy Abyssinian cat, they balance on spindly orange legs and look around as if they just climbed a mountain. A third chick, still at base camp near the cat's belly, seems to be planning its route. The cat lies stretched across a sage-green blanket, chin resting low, eyes half closed in what can only be called saintly patience. A basket of knitted throws, a potted plant, and a stack of folded blankets fill the cozy room behind them.

Reading a cat's body language helps you understand when it is relaxed and when it has had enough. Signs of a calm cat include soft or slowly blinking eyes, a loose body, ears in a neutral position, and a still or gently curved tail. A cat that is growing irritated may twitch or thump its tail, flatten or swivel its ears back, ripple the skin along its back, or suddenly stop purring and go stiff. Kids and adults alike can learn these cues to avoid scratches and keep handling pleasant. Giving a cat the choice to walk away, rather than holding it in place, builds trust over time.

This Abyssinian, at least, looks perfectly content to serve as playground equipment for a while longer. Every small adventurer needs a sturdy hill to conquer, and a soft one is even better.

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